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Cleaning Dos and Don'ts

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-736 -- More Projects »
TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham hits the road to share some of her favorite tips on cleaning dos and don'ts.

  • Cleaning products don't always work properly if not used properly. Always read the labels and wear gloves.
PHOTO

Figure A
  • Don't leave a mess when cleaning. Use efficient cleaning tools such as a dustpan and hand broom to sweep crumbs off a counter rather than a damp cloth (figure A).

  • Use a cordless hand vacuum to pick up crumbs. These are especially great for bathrooms.
    • PHOTO

    Figure B
    PHOTO

    Figure C
  • Be sure to clean lamb's wool dusters. Swish them in warm sudsy water, then twirl the duster to remove as much water as possible (figure B). Hang the duster up to dry.

  • Remove vacuum bags when they are only half full for the best vacuuming results (figure C).

  • Don't stick to those old products--try out new ones. There are some great new microfiber dustcloths on the market, for example. These can be laundered, or you can also purchase disposable dusting cloths.

  • Spray away cobwebs with bug spray.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-736
    •Reducing Waste
    •Cleaning Dos and Don'ts
    •Leftover-Chicken Recipes
    •Tip of the Day
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