You have probably tried various commercial cleaners and homemade solutions to keep your kitchen spick and span. But did you know the humble curry leaves in your spice box can be a game changer in your cleaning routine? Yes, the same leaves that add flavour to your curries and chutneys can double up as a natural cleaning agent.
As per the study published in Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021, curry leaves are packed with antibacterial and antifungal properties; they have been used for centuries in Indian households for cooking and cleaning. Whether you want to remove tough stains, repel pests, or freshen up your kitchen, these green leaves are saviours.
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Using curry leaves in your kitchen cleaning routine is eco-friendly and budget-friendly. You do not have to worry about chemical residues or harsh smells, making it a safer option, especially for households with kids or pets. These leaves can do everything from cleaning greasy stovetops to deodorising your fridge.
So why not take a fresh approach and use the natural power of curry leaves for a spick and span kitchen? Here is how you can use them effectively.
8 Ways To Use Curry Leaves For Cleaning Kitchen
Curry Leaf Paste For Greasy Stovetops
Grease stains on your stovetop can be a real pain to get rid of. Try making a paste with fresh curry leaves, a few drops of lemon juice and some baking soda. Crush the curry leaves to release the oils and mix with the other ingredients. Apply this paste to the greasy areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping off with a damp cloth. The acidity of the lemon and the grease cutting properties of the curry leaves will leave your stovetop shining.
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Curry Leaf And Vinegar Solution For Countertops
For a quick countertop cleaner, steep a handful of curry leaves in white vinegar for a few days to make a natural disinfectant solution. Strain and pour into a spray bottle. Use this scented solution to wipe down kitchen surfaces. Vinegar cuts through grime and disinfects, and the curry leaves leave a fresh herbal scent, making your kitchen feel clean and cosy.
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Curry Leaf And Salt Scrub For Sink And Faucets
If your sink and faucets are dull, a curry leaf and salt scrub will do the trick. Blend a handful of curry leaves with a tablespoon of coarse salt. Rub this mixture onto your sink and faucets with a soft sponge. The salt will remove any mineral deposits and the curry leaves will kill bacteria and odours.
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Curry Leaf Pest Repellent Spray
Curry leaves can also be used to repel ants and cockroaches. Boil a few curry leaves in water and let it cool. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray around kitchen entry points, cracks and corners. The smell of curry leaves is a natural deterrent for pests and keeps your kitchen pest-free without using harsh chemicals.
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Deodorise The Fridge With Dried Curry Leaves
Is your fridge smelling foul? Dried curry leaves can neutralise unwanted odours. Place a few dried curry leaves in a small muslin pouch or simply scatter them on a plate and keep it inside your fridge. The leaves will absorb the strong smells and keep your fridge fresh. Replace the leaves every two weeks for best results.
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Curry Leaf And Lemon Peels For Microwave Cleaning
Microwaves tend to accumulate food splatters and odours over time. To clean it naturally, add a few fresh curry leaves and lemon peels to a bowl of water and microwave it on high for 3-4 minutes. The steam will loosen any dried food particles and make it easy to wipe away, while the curry leaves and lemon will deodorise the appliance.
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Curry Leaf Sachets For Cupboard Freshness
Prevent your cupboards and pantry from smelling musty by placing small sachets filled with dried curry leaves inside. The natural aroma of curry leaves will keep your shelves fresh and even deter insects from nesting. It is a great way to keep your storage space for groceries and spices pleasant and pest-free.
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Curry Leaf Infused Water For Mopping Floors
Make a natural floor cleaner by adding a handful of curry leaves to a bucket of hot water and letting it steep for a few hours. Use this infusion to mop your kitchen floors. The antibacterial properties of curry leaves will disinfect your floor and the mild fragrance will linger making your kitchen feel fresher. This is especially useful for households with pets or children as it is a non-toxic and chemical-free alternative to regular floor cleaners.
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Add curry leaves to your cleaning routine and not only will it be cleaner but also healthier. Their antibacterial, antifungal and deodorising properties make them an effective and eco-friendly alternative to commercial cleaners. From cleaning grease on stovetops to repelling pests and freshening your fridge, these leaves can help clean all your kitchen problems.