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Solving Stubborn Surface Stains

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-1107 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Clean a chopping block by first sprinkling salt over the surface, then rubbing with a half lemon. The lemon disinfects the surface, and the salt acts as an abrasive.
TIPical Mary Ellen host Mary Ellen Pinkham shares her favorite tips for solving stubborn surface stains.

  • To clean tough stains on ceramic tile, scrape off any debris with a putty knife.

  • Scrub grout stains with a nylon scrubbing pad and dishwashing liquid soap. Apply grout sealer twice a year thereafter as a preventative measure.
PHOTO

Figure A
  • Clean enamel and porcelain stains first with baking soda. If that doesn't work, rub gently with turpentine in a well- ventilated room (figure A). Rinse with a liquid dishwashing-soap solution and hot water.

  • For any type of china, rub with baking soda to remove stains.

  • Use caution when cleaning laminate. Never use a product designed to remove lime or mineral deposits because it contains an acid that can ruin your surface.
    • PHOTO

    Figure B
  • Clean your toaster surface by spraying on an all-purpose cleaner and very gently scraping with a safety razor (figure B). It will not ruin the finish if it stays wet. Dry with a paper towel.

  • Remove stains from marble with a mixture of one part hydrogen peroxide (3 percent) to four parts water. Rub the stain with this, cover with plastic wrap, then wipe off. Repeat if necessary.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-1107
    •Get Thrifty
    •Solving Stubborn Surface Stains
    •Fruit Chutneys
    •Tip of the Day
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