Best of all, these hacks are inexpensive and easy to adapt overnight.

Better yet, she adds, unlike ammonia and bleach, vinegar is non-toxic.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips?

Overhead view of dirty sponges preparing to be cleaned

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

Microwave Your Sponge

Most people will throw away their sponges every week or two.

It’s also a sustainable way to reduce waste, Brown says.

“This small effort adds up over time, keeping your home consistently tidy.”

Person pouring white vinegar into a bowl on the top shelf of a dishwasher

The Spruce / Adelyn Duchala

Soaking sponges in a microwave safe bowl

The Spruce / Ana Cadena

White throw pillow and blanket organized in wicker basket in living room

The Spruce / Ana Maria Stanciu

Cutting dryer sheets in half

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly