Your fridge and pantry are full of ingredients that can be used for a number of things other than cooking. In fact, using a few of some of the most common household staples, you can easily remove dirt and odors from a number of items. Here are four kitchen ingredients that can be used to clean and freshen up the kitchen:

Salt

There aren't many people out there who enjoy cleaning their greasy oven. Unfortunately, it's something that must be done. Most degreasers and oven cleaners simply don't do the trick, though. Luckily, you have a very common kitchen staple that can be used. As long as the grease stain is fresh, you can sprinkle some salt on it. Once the oven has cooled down, you can use a soft cloth to wipe away the grease and left-behind residue.

Lemons

It can be hard to keep your wooden cutting boards sanitized, especially if you don't want to use any harmful chemicals. All you need to do it grab a lemon, cut it in half and rub it onto the cutting board. To kill two birds with one stone, toss your lemon rinds into your kitchen garbage disposal to keep it from stinking up the place.

Vanilla Extract

Do you have a refrigerator that you simply can't get the foul odor out of? Many will tell you to try baking soda, but vanilla extract works much better. Pour a couple of ounces of vanilla extract into a shallow bowl and place it on the lowest shelf. Leave it for a few days for best results. You can do this every so often to maintain a nice-smelling fridge.

Cream of Tartar

If you bake a lot, then it's likely you're going to have some cream of tartar in your pantry. However, it has more uses than just baking. In fact, it can help you get rid of that nasty stain in your dining room tablecloth. Use a couple of tablespoons and mix it with a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lemon, eucalyptus or peppermint). Add a touch of water to create a paste and apply it to the stain. Let it dry and then throw it into the washer.

Ketchup

Not many people still have copper fixtures in their homes, but those that do know that it isn't the easiest to clean. Luckily, ketchup can make it a lot easier. To remove tarnish and clean copper, use about half of a cup of ketchup and mix it with a couple of tablespoons of cream of tartar. Apply it to the copper and allow it to sit for about an hour or so. Use warm, soapy water to remove the mixture, then rinse it in warm, clean water. Use a soft cloth to dry the copper thoroughly.

If you simply don't have the time to clean your own kitchen or would like a little help, don't hesitate to contact a cleaning service. If you absolutely despise chemicals, there are some cleaning companies out there that use only all-natural cleaning products.