Are you cleaning as efficiently as possible? Professional cleaners share their top secrets to tackle the toughest cleaning problems. These experts reveal which pantry staples to reach for when removing fingerprints from a fridge or dealing with grease stains on clothing. Here are 12 top cleaning tips from the pros:
To remove fingerprints from stainless steel appliances, Melissa Maker suggests using a drop of olive or baby oil on a paper towel to shine the surface. Buff it in with the grain and wipe away excess for a lasting shine.
For grease stains, Becky Rapinchuk recommends rubbing the stain with white chalk before laundering. If you don’t have chalk, cornstarch or baby powder also work well to absorb the oil.
To vacuum effectively, pull slowly on the return pass to ensure dirt is lifted from carpets, advises Donna Smallin Kuper.
For residue-free cleaning, use steam. Debra Johnson notes that a steam cleaner uses hot vapor to remove dirt without leaving behind any sticky residue.
For streak-free windows, Melissa Maker swears by adding cornstarch to a vinegar and water mix, creating a solution that cleans away grime for a clear finish.
To clear mineral deposits on faucets, soak a cloth in vinegar and place it over the deposits, suggests Becky Rapinchuk. For showerheads, fill a bag with vinegar, tie it around, and let it soak overnight.
Clean glass shower doors efficiently with a wet Brillo pad, says Donna Smallin Kuper. Additionally, applying Rain-X prevents future buildup.
Debra Johnson advises cleaning a room from top to bottom, starting from the corner farthest from the entrance and working outwards, ensuring no surface is cleaned twice.
Melissa Maker’s tip to keep a toilet brush hygienic is to allow it to drip-dry by closing the toilet seat over the handle.
To eliminate bacteria and odors from sports gear, Becky Rapinchuk recommends storing items in a freezer overnight, which kills bacteria.
Remove coffee stains from mugs with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, easily wiping them away with water, suggests Donna Smallin Kuper.
A damp pumice stone works well to lift toilet rings, advises Debra Johnson. Enhance cleaning by first using baking soda.
