glass is scratched, it tends to look dull even when it is clean. I’m also careful with strong chemical cleaners that are not meant for food-contact surfaces.

Lemon juice can help in a pinch because it is acidic, but it is usually less practical than white vinegar when you need 1 or 2 cups of liquid for a soak. Vinegar is inexpensive, widely available, and predictable. Around me, a 1-gallon jug often costs between $3 and $5, which makes it one of the cheapest cleaning staples in the pantry.

14.