Investing in high-quality appliances is a smart choice, but it’s important to maintain them properly to ensure they last longer. While handling them with care is a good start, there are additional steps you can take to keep your appliances running smoothly. You might not be aware of specialized products available to deep clean and protect your appliances, so get ready to discover some useful solutions.
To help you prolong the lifespan of your household appliances, here are eight recommended products to consider purchasing. Additionally, learn about the appliances that frugal homeowners tend to avoid buying.
1. Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner ($11.29 at Target)
Designed to eliminate odor-causing residue and grime, the septic-safe Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner is recommended for monthly use or every 30 cycles. Each box contains five EPA-safe, time-release tablets that effectively clean all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency models.
2. Everbilt Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit ($26.40 at Home Depot)
Remove hazardous lint build-up with the Everbilt Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit, which can help extend your dryer’s lifespan and improve its efficiency. The kit includes a 4-inch diameter brush head and six 2-foot flexible rods that can extend up to 12 feet for thorough cleaning.
3. Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Cleaner ($5.49 at Target)
Keep your dishwasher fresh and clean with the Cascade Platinum Dishwasher Cleaner, designed to eliminate odors, limestone buildup, and grease. Each box contains three single-use tablets for monthly cleaning without any scrubbing required.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar for Oven Cleaning ($0.99 for baking soda and $0.95 for vinegar at Target)
Instead of relying on the self-cleaning function of your oven, you can manually clean it using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Create a thick paste with half a cup of baking soda and water, apply it evenly inside the oven, and let it sit for a few hours. Then, use white vinegar in a spray bottle to create a foaming reaction, followed by gentle scrubbing with a sponge or brush and wiping the oven with a damp cloth.
5. Air Filters ($12.96 to $13.97 at Home Depot)
Regularly changing the air filter in your HVAC unit every three months is crucial to maintain proper air filtration and prevent early unit failure. Ensure you choose the right filter size and type (pleated or non-pleated) for your home’s needs.
6. Surge Protector ($14.88 at Home Depot)
Protect your electronic devices like TVs, computers, home theater systems, and more from power surges and electrical fluctuations by using a surge protector. This simple device can safeguard the internal components of your appliances and prevent damage.
Display screen—such as microwaves, dishwashers, and refrigerators.
Endust Duster
Price: $13.80 on Amazon
A messy keyboard is not only unsightly but can also impede the proper functioning of your computer. Crumbs or other debris can cause keys to stick or become lodged beneath the surface, resulting in total keyboard failure.
Convenient and effective, the Endust Duster delivers a potent blast of air to clear your keyboard of dust, dirt, and grime. This moisture-free, compressed-gas duster includes an extension straw for reaching even the smallest crevices.
Editor’s note: Prices are accurate as of December 27, 2024. Prices and availability may vary by location.
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