UPFRONT/LIVE
That Cleans What?
Skip the industrial products. In some cases, household items can do the trick
TO CLEAN: A COFFEE MAKER
USE: DENTURE TABLETS
Fill the tank with warm water, then drop in and dissolve two tablets, says Leanne Stapf of the Cleaning Authority. Run through a regular cycle, then again using only warm water.
TO DEEP CLEAN: A TOILET
USE: VINEGAR
Pour a cup or two of white vinegar in the bowl and let it sit overnight, says Michael Green of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. In the morning, use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl.
TO CLEAN: SOAP SCUM
USE: GRAPEFRUIT (AND SALT)
Pour a layer of salt over half a grapefruit. “Then rub the grapefruit on the affected areas, and you’ll see the soap scum start to lift,” says Kathy Cohoon of Two Maids & A Mop.
TO CLEAN: RED WINE STAINS
USE: WHITE WINE
As soon as possible, blot white wine onto the fabric to dilute the stain, then follow up with a clean, wet cloth to get out the rest. Be sure not to rub the stain into the fabric.
BEFORE CLEANING: A MICROWAVE
PUT: DAMP SPONGES INSIDE
Run the microwave on high for one minute with a few sponges inside, Cohoon says. The moisture makes it easier to wipe down food spatters. Use the warmed sponges to wipe.
TO CLEAN: A GARBAGE DISPOSAL
USE: ICE CUBES
“These will remove any food scraps that are stuck under the disposal blades or impellers, as well as the grind chamber,” Green says. You should use just a handful; too many ice cubes can clog the drain.
TO CLEAN: CRAYON ON WALLS
USE: MAYONNAISE
“Mayonnaise consists of oils that help break down the wax in crayons,” says Stapf. “Apply a small amount to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away with a damp microfiber cloth.”
TO CLEAN: PASTA SAUCE STAINS
USE: LEMON
“Soak a cloth in cold water and blot,” Stapf says. “Then grab a slice of lemon and rub it into the stain. Once the splatter seems mostly gone, pour on water to cover the area and blot again with a clean cloth.” —Samantha Lande