'It's surprisingly effective' – How to clean with white bread, and why this pantry staple might be just what your cleaning routine is missing

A bright seating area filled with natural light from large windows, with light wooden flooring, a cream corner sofa, and a cream table with glass pendant lights hanging above.

We've probably all got some tucked away in the pantry, fridge, or freezer for eating, but have you ever thought about cleaning with your white bread?

While the answer is likely a resounding no, you may be surprised by the power of this seemingly unassuming staple baked good.

Here, our professional cleaner shares her cleaning tips for exactly what to clean with it, and why it works.

Why does cleaning with white bread work?

It may seem unlikely, but Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, says, 'White bread is surprisingly effective as a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner for delicate surfaces.'

'The soft, porous texture is great at picking up fine particles and light moisture without the risk of damage. I’ve personally tried this for picture frames and light wall marks – it’s low-effort and oddly satisfying.'

1. For cleaning glass surfaces

Use a slice of bread to lift dust and light grime without the risk of scratching. (Image credit: Future)

For cleaning a mirror without streaks or cleaning a window, you probably usually reach for a microfiber cloth and cleaning spray, such as the Method Glass Cleaner + Surface Cleaner available at Walmart. But, says Karina, a piece of bread might be all you need.

'Press a slice of white bread gently against smudges on mirrors or framed pictures,' she says. 'It removes dust and light grime without scratching.'

I've also tried cleaning my mirror with shaving foam and genuinely had great results, so sometimes, it really is the method you least suspect to be successful that makes a surprising difference.

2. For removing marks from walls

Buff away scuffs with a slice of bread to remove fingerprints and smudges. (Image credit: Future)

There's no doubt that a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser available at Amazon is a brilliant and effective way to remove scuff marks from walls, but what about a slice of white bread?

Karina says, 'Dab at scuff marks or fingerprints with the soft side of the bread – it works a bit like an eraser and is perfect for matte paint where traditional cleaners may leave streaks.'

So, while your breakfast toast probably won't be suitable for anything heavy-duty, like cleaning mud off walls or cleaning mold off walls, for light marks and scuffs, why not give it a try?

3. To absorb grease spills

The absorbent nature of bread makes soaking up grease and oil a breeze. (Image credit: Future)

Finally, just like using a slice to mop up olive oil over dinner, you can also use white bread to clean kitchen grease, says Karina.

'White bread can blot small oil spills on counters or fabrics – just press and lift to soak it up,' she advises.

What to shop

Don't fancy relying on bread alone for the household chores you should be doing weekly? These essentials can bridge the gap.

Durable and reusable

Scrub Daddy Damp Duster

This Damp Duster is approved by Solved content editor Chiana Dickson, who says it has 'changed her life for the better' when it comes to removing dust without any harsh chemicals – all you need is water.

Machine washable

HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

When bread isn't enough for really tough marks, grime, and large spills, these machine washable microfiber cloths are super soft, absorbent, and lint-free.

Plant-based cleaner

Aunt Fannie's All-Purpose Cleaning Vinegar Spray

For another pantry staple, you can clean with vinegar with this all-natural, plant-based cleaner, made with essential oils.

Meet our expert

FAQs

Can you clean wallpaper with bread?

Bread is an effective way to absorb grease stains from wallpaper. Simply cut the crusts of a slice of white bread and roll it into a ball, before blotting at the stain for gentle removal.

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I've also tried cleaning my shower with a potato, but was, perhaps unsurprisingly, left unimpressed, as the shower was left streaky, smudged, and stained, which goes to show that pantry cleaning hacks should be used with a little caution at times.