Much like a refrigerator, pantry shelves are prone to residue rings from sticky, syrupy ingredients. No matter how well you wipe them down after use, jars of honey, corn syrup, maple syrup, and molasses often leave behind a trail of sweetness. Unlike a refrigerator, however, pantry shelves are notoriously difficult to scrub, so doing what…
Keep Pantry Surfaces Spotless
In addition to inspecting ingredients and wiping down jars and bottles before putting them back on the shelf, try placing a basket coffee filter under the base and securing it around the container with a rubber band. For smaller jars and bottles, a cupcake liner works perfectly — and even makes for a great makeshift lid if you happen to misplace the original.
Coffee filters and cupcake liners act as a barrier between the bottle and shelf, catching drips before they collect in a ring shape. Just remember to remove the filter before using the ingredient to keep it from getting covered in sticky residue itself. This hack works just as well for leaky cooking oils, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and chili crisp. You can even use it in your fridge for greasy salad dressings or sticky jam jars.
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Get a Grip on Stubborn Lids
Securing the filter with a rubber band also comes in handy if the jar is glued shut by sticky residue. The rubber material helps create a firm grip, similar to a gripper pad. Simply wrap the rubber band around the lid a couple of times and twist it open. Running the jar under hot water for 30 to 60 seconds can also help melt the crystallized sugar, making it easier to open.
