This page contains advice on cleaning the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and cars, as well as, cleaning recipes for stain removal, dishes, laundry, and more.
Removing 'White Out' From A Check?I got a check in the mail. My son wrote his name on the back. I then used White Out, which made it look worse. What do I do now? Can someone help me?
Uses for Awesome Cleaner from Dollar GeneralAwesome cleaner is a good inexpensive multipurpose cleaner that you can get at most dollar stores. This is a page about uses for Awesome cleaner from Dollar General.
Adding Vinegar to Your HumidifierAdding a bit of vinegar to your home humidifier can help freshen the air. This is a page about adding vinegar to your humidifier.
Can I Use Baking Powder Instead of Baking Soda for Cleaning?Since baking powder contains baking soda, it could be substituted when cleaning. It is however more expensive, so not a good regular alternative. This is a page about, "Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda for cleaning?".
Removing Adhesive Residue on SkinThis is a page about removing adhesive residue on skin. Medicated patches, adhesive tape, etc. can leave sticky, hard to remove, residue on your skin.
Making Fabric Less Shiny?This is a page about making fabric less shiny. Fabric can be shiny as a result of wear or because of its fiber content. Trying to reduce the shine may be possible.
Life Without a Garbage Disposal?Life Without a Garbage Disposal. My new home does not have a garbage disposal in it. I thought all homes came with garbage disposals. I am used to putting everything down the garbage disposal. . .
How to Clean a Sink P-TrapThis is a page about how to clean a sink p-trap. The p-trap of your sink can collect a lot of gunk, causing the drain to back up and odors to occur. Here is a tip about cleaning it periodically to avoid these issues.
Removing Printer Ink from Walls and Ceiling?This is a page about removing printer ink from the ceiling. While it is worth trying to remove the ink, you may find that the only resolution is to cover it up. Here are some helpful suggestions.
Removing Adhesive from Plexiglass?This is a page about removing adhesive from Plexiglas. With the proper products and care you can remove stubborn adhesive from Plexiglass without damaging the surface.
Removing Glue Residue Left By Contact Paper?This is a page about removing glue residue left by contact paper. If you have ever removed contact paper, there is sometimes a sticky residue remaining.
Cleaning Florescent Light Covers?The plastic covers on most florescent light fixtures are removable. Once taken down they can be cleaned with mild dish soap and water or other cleaners suitable for plastics. This is a page about cleaning florescent light covers.
Making Yellowed Plastic White Again?Plastics can yellow over time and exposure to light. You may be able to whiten or paint it to restore a pleasing look. This is a page about making yellowed plastic white again.
Can I Machine Wash Dry Clean Only Draperies?Dry cleaning drapes can be quite expensive tempting you to consider machine washing them. This is a page about, "Can I machine wash dry clean only draperies?".
Cleaning Up Spilled Bleach?This is a page about cleaning up spilled bleach. How you clean up a bleach spill will depend in large part on where it was spilled.
Removing Sap from ConcreteTrees overhanging your driveway, sidewalk, or patio can drip sap on to the concrete surface leaving you with a sticky mess to clean up. This is a page about removing sap from concrete.
White Purse Has Yellowed?I have a Dooney and Bourke bag with multicolored hearts all over it and it is made out of vinyl I think. It has turned a yellowish color since I got it a couple years ago. Does anyone have this problem and does anyone know how to clean it so it looks white again?
Hard Water Stains in Plastic Water Jug?I have a plastic water jug that I keep filled in the refrigerator. I have noticed that it has a white hard water stains in it. I tried filling it with vinegar and baking soda and rice and shaking it, but that didn't do the trick. How can I remove this white film from the inside of the jug. It has a small neck.
Cleaning Stains on Crocheted Items?This is a page about cleaning stains on crocheted items. Care needs to be taken when cleaning crochet items, especially the more delicate lace style ones.
Fur on Winter Coat No Longer Fluffy?My son has a eskimo coat with fur trim around the hood. He got it wet and the fur is not fluffy anymore and he will not wear it. It is a new coat perfectly good condition but I can't get the fur fluffy. How can I fluff the fur out again. kate
Cleaning With Hydrogen PeroxideThis is a page about cleaning with hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is a less noxious alternative to bleach for many of your cleaning jobs.
Grease Stain on Teak Serving Tray?My favorite teak wood serving tray now has a huge grease stain on it. Does anyone know what might remove the grease?
Removing Permanent Marker From VinylThis is a page about removing permanent marker from vinyl. Permanent marker can be difficult, but not impossible to remove from many surfaces.
Removing Dried Paint from Roller Blinds?If your blinds are left in place when painting it is possible to accidentally drip paint on them. This is a page about removing dried paint from roller blinds.
Cleaning Nicotine from Painted Wood?This is a page about cleaning nicotine from painted wood. Cigarette smoke, which contains nicotine and tar, and leave yellow stains on your painted wood trim or furniture.
Getting Rid of Skunk Smell?Getting rid of skunk smell?
Cleaning Diesel Fuel on Concrete?This is a page about cleaning diesel fuel on concrete. Diesel fuel spills on concrete are common in garages, workshops, and driveways.
Cleaning a Textured (Popcorn) CeilingWhen cleaning a popcorn ceiling, it is important to determine what the texture is composed of. This page is about cleaning a textured (popcorn) ceiling.
Other Uses for Liquid Dishwasher DetergentThis is a page about other uses for liquid dishwasher detergent. Many cleaners and soaps can be used for jobs other than those for which they were intended.
Removing Ink From PaperThis is a page about removing ink from paper. Once ink has been applied to paper, it can be a challenge to remove with no trace or without damaging the paper.
Cleaning Smelly DrainsThis is a page about cleaning smelly drains. Bacteria growing in your drain can produce odors that waft throughout the house.
Cleaning Coffee Stain Off Plastic Carafe LidRemoving stubborn coffee stains on cups and carafes can be done in one of the several ways found in this page, including using denture tablets, baking soda, or lemon juice mixed with salt or sugar. This is a page about cleaning a coffee stain off of a plastic carafe lid.
Cleaning Smoke Residue From Ceramic and...This is a page about cleaning smoke residue from ceramic and porcelain figurines. A house fire or smokey fireplace can wreak havoc on your treasured figurines.
Cleaning a Stainless Steel ThermosThis is a page about cleaning a stainless steel thermos. Tea and coffee are common beverages kept in a thermos. Both can leave stains inside.
Spray Paint On Acrylic Nails?I was wondering how you clean spray paint off of acrylic nails and hands! I have the solar acrylic nails and it just doesn't seem to come off!
Cleaning an Old DollBefore you try to clean your old doll you will want to first determine the doll's composition. That information will help determine the best cleaners to use to prevent damage. This is a page about cleaning an old doll.
Removing Grease from a Laminate Tabletop?Removing grease can be a stubborn cleaning job. To clean it from laminate table tops you will just need to try a variety of products until you find one the works. This is a page about removing grease from a laminate tabletop.
Removing Paint from HandsThis is a page about removing paint from hands. Home improvement and craft projects can leave you with paint stained hands.
Flatten Shirt Lapel Without an IronWith some folded cardboard and clothespins you can flatten your shirt lapel without needing to use an iron. This is a page about flatten shirt lapel without an iron.
Candle Wax on Wood Burning Stove?A candle was melted on my wood burning stove by accident. I wiped all the hard wax off, but it still keeps smoking when we light the stove. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. The whole house fills with the odor of candle wax.
Cleaning Products You Already HaveThis is a page about cleaning products you already have. You probably already have many products in your home that are perfect for your cleaning jobs, without having to buy expensive commercial cleaners.
Can I Soak an Embroidered Pillow Case in White Vinegar?I am embroidering a pillow case for my friend Nancy, that has cancer. She can't tolerate fabric softener. I can't either with allergies. Anyway, can I soak the pillow case in white vinegar with the embroidery thread done? I don't want to hurt the work I have done.
Using Bleach in a Humidifier?Humidifiers can grow mold over time; using bleach to periodically clean them is common. However, adding bleach to the unit and allowing it to be dispensed is not recommended. This is a page about using bleach in a humidifier.
Cleaning a Coach PurseYou spent a lot of money on your purse and want to keep it looking good. This is a page about cleaning a Coach purse.
Cleaning Tree Sap From HairThis is a page about cleaning tree sap from hair. Sticky tree sap seems like it might be impossible to clean out of your hair. It is in fact easy if you use the right products.
The Beauty of the Dryer SheetDryer sheets are relatively cheap items (think bargain stores and generic boxes) which can be used in a variety of ways. Stock up when you find a great bargain on these scented, or unscented, boxes of versatile sheets.
Preventing Dust Build-Up on Ceiling Fans?Ceiling fan blades are notorious for collecting dust. This is a page about preventing dust build-up on ceiling fans.
Is a Moldy Towel Safe to Use?
I went to a summer camp in early August and when I was packing my stuff back up I put my cotton beach towel in a black bag and forgot about it until now (early november). I washed it and the smell is gone, but is it ok to use? Is there any fungus in it?
Removing Super GlueWhen crafting or repairing an item it is possible to accidentally get the glue on clothing, the work surface, and elsewhere. Depending on where the glue is there are a number of safe methods for trying to remove it. This is a page about removing super glue.
Getting Rid of Moss and Algae on ConcreteMoss growth can be a problem in shady areas. This page is about getting rid of moss and algae on concrete.
Cleaning With AmmoniaAmmonia is a common cleaning agent found in many cleaners you buy at the store. It can also be purchased as a stand-alone cleaner. Caution should be used when mixing ammonia with other chemicals as dangerous fumes can be created. This page talks about the benefits and dangers of cleaning with ammonia.
Removing Sharpie from SkinSharpies are great to have around for many reasons but it can be easy to get on yourself. Whether it was from a broken pen or a child got a hold of your Sharpie, it can tough to get Sharpie ink off of skin. This is a page about removing Sharpie from skin.
Cleaning Porcelain DollsThis is a page about cleaning porcelain dolls. Porcelain dolls need special care to keep them clean.
Removing Hard Water Stains in an Aquarium?The inside of your aquarium can become covered with hard water marks. Removing them can be done in number of ways, using a scraper, vinegar, and other household cleaners. This page contains various suggestions for removing hard water stains in an aquarium.
Cleaning WD-40 Residue?Dish soaps such as Dawn are the perfect cleaner to remove the residue left by WD-40. This is a page about cleaning WD-40 residue.
Bleaching Colored ClothingThis is a page about bleaching colored clothing. Trying to bleach the color out of clothing can have mixed results.
Removing Sharpie Marker from Cement?Okay, this may sound lame but does anybody know how to get sharpie off cement? We had a few vandilizers and need help!
Removing Silicone Spray?This is a page about removing silicone spray. Removing silicone spray from surfaces is easy enough if you use the right products.
Cleaning Heavy, Lined Drapes?I have not one, but five sliding glass doors in my house! They are everywhere! I have hung on them heavy, lined drapes that I bought on sale from J.C. Penney's. They each also have a valance on top. What I would like to know is can I clean them any way other than dry cleaning which is what the tags say?
Mildew Smell on a Stroller?How do you get mildew off of a stroller?
Cleaning a Rice Filled Pillow?I have one of those pillows with rice in it that you can use for sore muscles, etc. I bought it second hand and it smells like cigarette smoke. I can't wash it because of the rice, and can't use Febreze or anything because it is heated in the microwave and I don't want skin rashes.
Fiberglass Tub Has Yellowed?How do you make a yellowed fiberglass shower look white again? Mine is 22 yrs. old. At one time I used Gel Gloss for boats. Nothing seems to work now.
Cheap White Washcloths for EverydayIf you have young children or teenagers who wear make-up, purchasing a bulk package of plain white washcloths can be very economical! I used to have nice, thick washcloths with pretty designs until I began to have kids.
How to Clean Mouse Pee From Clothing Storage Dresser?We had a really bad mice infestation and they got into these dressers. They are fabric clothing storage dressers. They have those storage cubes which feel like they have cardboard inside. I wiped them down with Clorox wipes and sprayed them with Dreft. Some were used for clothing and some were used for holding snacks and stuff. Can I clean and reuse or should I toss. Thanks
House Is Humid and Musty?I live with my family in a rented house that is very damp, and it smells really strong and musty. Does anyone know how I can get rid of the smell? I live in England, so I wouldn't be able to get any American products if you recommended them. Thanks.
Stop Smudges Before They StartA newlywed asked the question, "How do I keep my house clean with as little maintenance as possible?" on one of the Facebook groups I belong to.
Removing a Spot on a Chanel Satin Purse?I had an old spot on my Chanel satin bag. It looked like maybe lipstick or something oil based. I put on a little bit of cornstarch and blotted. Now I can't fully get the white from the cornstarch out and as you can see from the photo, the spot has lost its shine and doesn't blend fully. I tried blotting with a little water and Woolite on a microfiber cloth and then using a hairdryer on low.
Cleaning Plastic Dish Strainer?I need something to help me clean my plastic dish strainer. It has a build up of soap, I do not have the money to buy another one. I know its only a couple dollars for one, but money is tight.
Keeping Your Toothbrush CleanIn addition to changing out your toothbrush on a regular schedule there may be times when you want to clean your current one. This page offers some varying suggestions for cleaning a toothbrush, including soaking and running through the dishwasher.
Cleaning Acetone Residue Off Remote Control?Acetone or nail polish remover can be used to clean off many materials, but some plastics can be damaged when this chemical is applied. Depending on how badly the item is damaged, sometimes it can be removed.
Removing Sharpie from Hair?How do I get blue Sharpie out of light brown hair?
Cleaning Nail Glue From CountertopNail glue is often a cyano-acrylic glue like Crazy Glue and similar products. Try a remover made especially made for this adhesive. Test to make sure it does not damage your countertop. Other options are mentioned below.
Cleaning Out a Deceased Person's HomeDealing with the loss of a friend or family member is hard. There is also the need sometimes to clean out their home. This page contains some tips for cleaning out a deceased person's home.
Preserving an Autographed T-ShirtIf you do not wish to frame the t-shirt and never wear it, there are some ways to try and preserve the autograph. This page offers some helpful suggestions.
Using BleachBleach has been a longtime standard product for use in a wide variety of cleaning tasks. Although it has been replaced by a plethora of other cleaners, it is still the go to choice for many people. This page contains information for using bleach.
Removing Mould from Inside Face of Watch?How do you remove mould from behind the glass face of a watch? I have a very old mechanical wind up watch. The glass is not air tight. There is a tiny bit of loose mould inside, on the dial. Is there a way to remove the loose mould without opening the watch?
How to Care for Your SwimwearHandwashing with mild soap preceded by a good soak in vinegar and water is one way to help extend the life of your swimwear. Tossing them in the washer and dryer are sure to negatively affect the elastic and fade the dyes.
Cleaning Faux FurIf the item made with faux fur is washable, toss it in the machine on gentle cycle and use cold water. For articles that are not washable you will need to spot clean with cold water and mild detergent or other household products. Dry cleaning is also a possibility. This page contains information on cleaning faux fur.
Removing Tree Sap from a Driveway?It can be difficult to remove sap from a driveway. Petroleum based cleaners can be very useful in removing the sap, especially if pressure washing has failed to remove it.
Eliminating Clutter in Your HouseholdClutter is a noticeable concern for many of us. It can be overwhelming and an impossible seeming task to reduce it. This page offers several ideas for eliminating clutter in your household.
Cleaning Neglected Spots in Your HomeMost of us have a general cleaning routine for our homes. But there are a lot of places that are typically overlooked. This page includes a list of neglected spots in your home that could use a routine cleaning.
Cleaning Coffee Stains on Thermos Travel Mug Silicone Gaskets?How does one go about cleaning coffee stains off the silicone gaskets in the Thermos 16 ounce King tumbler?
Cleaning Sticky Painted Wood Carvings?I need to clean my native carvings that are painted and have a stain that went all sticky.
Removing Candle Wax from Textured Ceiling?I had a candle warmer and somehow it got on the ceiling and wall. I was able to get it off my wall, but do not know how to get it off my textured ceiling. Any ideas?
Oven Cleaner Left Marks on Wood Deck?I sprayed oven spray gel on oven racks. It has gone thru the papers to the timber deck. Now the deck has stains from the oven cleaner gel. I am not sure if the decking has been burnt? Any ideas to remove the marks on the deck?
Removing Yellowing on Bathroom Wallpaper?What will get rid of the yellowing on the wallpaper in the bathroom around the sinks? I have tried CLR, Dawn, Lysol, Grandma's Keeper, and soap and water. What would you suggest?
Removing Crayon on a College Diploma?My son drew in my college diploma with a crayon. Is there anything that will remove it?
Removing Odors From Coffee ContainersA new, unused coffee filter can be used to absorb the coffee smell from inside plastic coffee containers. This is a page about removing odors from coffee containers.
Stain Remover Formula Using Dawn, Peroxide, and Baking SodaCommon household products can be combined to make a powerful stain lifter. Use it with a brush for good results. This is a page about a stain remover formula using Dawn, peroxide, and baking soda.
Reactivating Dried Out Pledge Wipes?How do you reactivate Pledge Wipes that have dried out?
Removing Sticky or Greasy Substances from SurfacesDeciding on the best product or method to use for removing a sticky or greasy material from different surfaces can be confusing. This is a page about removing sticky or greasy substances from surfaces.
Cleaning a Porcelain and Stuffed Body Doll?I have a vintage doll I just acquired, but it smells really bad. It has porcelain hands, feet, and a porcelain head leaving its body as soft and stuffed. I can remove the clothes as well, it's mainly the stuffed body that stinks. How should I go about cleaning this doll?
Removing Mildew from a Composition Doll?I have a doll that is 70 years old. It is a composition doll that had quite a lot of mildew. I did my best to remove the mildew, but there is a residual odor. What is the best, safest method of removing mildew and odor from a 40s composition doll?
Removing Dry Erase Marker on WoodIt is easy to accidentally get dry erase marker on a wood surface such as a table. Try one of the solutions found on this page about removing dry erase marker on wood.
Cleaning a Cotton Sachet Pillow?How do I clean a cotton pillow with lavendar inside. Obviously, I can't wash it.
How Do I Clean a Chamois Nail Buffer?I use a cuticle oil daily and a chamois nail buffer when I want to skip polish. The buffer is looking rather dirty, but I can not find instructions on how to clean it.
Use a Timer When CleaningOne easy way to not get overwhelmed or discouraged when trying to clean is to set a timer for a reasonable amount of time. Do as much as you can and be persistent and consistent with this approach. This is a page about using a timer when cleaning.
Removing Bird Poo Stain on Canvas Wall Art?My lovely canvas wall art as been left with a poo stain thanks to my baby budgie. I was told to lightly rub it with a soft rag with warm water, but this has left a white smudge mark on a black background printed canvas.
Cleaning In Tight SpacesUsing small brushes such as nail or art brushes might be just the solution to cleaning in some small spaces. Other atypical or repurposed tools can also work well. This is a page about cleaning in tight spaces.
Removing Pine Sap on Artificial Grass?Removing pine tree sap from artificial grass will probably require some research to find a product that will not damage the turf. Try testing a small area with something like Goo Gone. This is a page about removing pine sap on artificial grass.
Removing Very Hard Jelly from Canning Jars?When my jelly was being made, it smelled great! After I put it in my jars and waited 2 days, I opened it and it was hard as a rock. Can I save my jars? How do I get the jelly out of my jars?
Removing Nicotine Stains from Knick Knacks?Knick knacks displayed in a smoker's home or other public environment can become stained with ugly brown nicotine residue. This is a page about removing nicotine stains from knick knacks.
Removing a Spot on a Chanel Satin Purse?I had an old spot on my Chanel satin bag. It looked like maybe lipstick or something oil based. I put on a little bit of cornstarch and blotted. Now I can't fully get the white from the cornstarch out and as you can see from the photo, the spot has lost its shine and doesn't blend fully. I tried blotting with a little water and Woolite on a microfiber cloth and then using a hairdryer on low.
Cleaning an Aroma Cushion?I have an aroma cushion that my cat threw up on. How would you wash it?
Removing Green Water Stains on House Siding?How do I remove dark green stains on siding from a dripping faucet? The same thing I would use for tubs and sinks? It's so bad I'm thinking of painting this small area with white primer.
Cleaning Stains on Beaded Crochet Items?I have these 3 beaded crochet works with seed beads. They look very old and one has a large stain. Optimally, I would like to clean all three for uniform white background, no stains, without damaging the beading. Any good tips?
Source of Black Soot Sticking to All Plastic Items in Apartment?I have black soot in my apartment that is sticking to mostly plastic items, cups, plates, trash cans, even in my bathroom sink and toilet seat. The maintenance department is stumped and my property manager keeps blaming it on candles. (I burn maybe one candle once in a while).
Cleaning a Permanent Display of Artificial Plants?How do you clean a permanent display of artificial plants? The plants cannot be removed from the display. There are a variety of artificial plants. We have flowers, ivy, and small grasses.
