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How to Clean Stainless Steel Surfaces and Appliances Without Chemicals

After restoring your stainless steel refrigerator to its former glory, you'll want to tackle every other stainless surface in your kitchen to match.

Durable and shiny, it's the ideal material for kitchens and bathrooms, but do you know how to clean stainless steel? "Stainless" was originally used to describe steel's ability to withstand heat and humidity without corroding, but, as anyone who's owned stainless steel kitchen appliances knows, the term is somewhat of a misnomer. While stainless steel is tough, it's also prone to fingerprints, streaks, and water stains.

It's important to learn how to clean stainless steel with the appropriate cleaners because harsh abrasives can scratch and contribute to rust. Fortunately, you can go the natural route and mix an effective stainless steel cleaner with ingredients you probably already have. Follow these DIY chemical-free tips to get your stainless steel cookware and appliances clean and shiny—so they live up to their name.

How Often to Clean Stainless Steel

The best time to clean your stainless steel is when it's dirty. This seems far too simplistic but, as you know, kitchen use varies widely from one family to another.

The goal is to restore your appliances' original appearance, so an appropriate cleaning schedule may be as infrequent as one to four times a year. In a heavily used kitchen or where hygienic concerns are paramount, daily cleaning may be required for certain items.

Considerations Before You Get Started

Before you clean a stainless steel appliance, it's smart to check the manufacturer's recommendations. There are numerous grades of stainless steel out there, some more durable than others. Some appliances are treated with a clear-coat finish, which can be stripped by certain cleaning products. Lost the manual? Don't worry, you may be able to find it online.

If you're not the DIY type, there are plenty of effective stainless steel cleaners on the market. A stovetop cleaner such as TriNova is also effective in cleaning grimy stainless steel range hoods as well as oven and dishwasher doors.

More great options for cleaning stainless steel are a grill cleaner or even a silver polish like Wright's. Whatever you use, be sure to read the label and carefully follow instructions.

What You Need:

How to Clean Stainless Steel Without Chemicals

The adage "there's more than one way to skin a cat" applies to cleaning stainless steel. Go with the method that matches your stainless steel item, its condition, and what you have on hand.

Step 1: Wipe With a Damp Cloth

In most cases, wiping down your stainless steel with a clean cloth or microfiber towel dipped in hot water does the trick. Just like wood, stainless steel has a grain. Determine the striations on the surface of your appliance and wipe in that direction, beginning at the top and working your way down. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Steam-clean

To sterilize and disinfect stainless steel, use a steam cleaner with a nozzle attachment and then wipe dry with a soft cloth. Because stainless steel scratches easily, avoid using a brush attachment or any stiff cleaning tools.

Step 3: Try Vinegar

For stubborn grease spots or water scaling, wet a soft cloth with a diluted solution of 2 parts water to 1 part vinegar. Wipe the entire surface from top to bottom, and never let vinegar sit on the surface. Follow with a complete rinse and dry.

How to Remove Stains on Stainless Steel with Baking Soda

Typically, you need to pay a bit more attention to burned or caked-on messes on stainless steel pots and pans, sinks, or countertops. This method also works as a way to clean stainless steel compost bins.

To start, make a soft paste of baking soda and water and then apply it to the stain, allowing it to sit for about 20 minutes. Next, scrub the area with a soft cloth dampened in a solution of water and dish soap, working parallel to the grain to avoid scratches. Be sure to fully rinse with warm water and dry.

How to Keep Your Stainless Steel Clean Longer

Proper upkeep is an essential part of making the most of your kitchen's stainless steel appliances and equipment. Failure to maintain your investment can lead to unsightly staining, discoloration, or even long-term damage.

Fortunately, the upkeep of stainless is simple. By developing routine maintenance procedures, you can extend the life of your kitchen's stainless steel items and keep them looking like new.

  • Add some shine, naturally. To make the surface of your stainless steel appliance shiny and protect it from fingerprints, add a small drop of olive oil to a cloth and buff it on the surface, working in the direction of the grain, and then wipe away excess with a dry cloth. The surface shouldn't feel oily, but it'll look shiny and fingerprint-free for longer.
  • Use a polishing paste. Commercially sold pastes are another way to keep stainless steel appliances sparkling. They create a microscopic wax layer on the surface that lasts up to several months, making the surface easy to clean. Polishing paste is for decorative surfaces only, and not appropriate for cookware.
  • Avoid abrasives like sandpaper, steel wool, metal brushes, and harsh abrasive cleaners. Soft abrasives may work in specific scenarios, but first spot-test in an inconspicuous place. When using abrasives, wipe in the same direction as the grain or polish on the surface of the steel to ensure an optimal appearance.
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cleaning blog

How to Clean an Oven

When the baking gets tough, here are four genius ways to help you learn how to clean an oven. Grab your rubber gloves!
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Wiping down countertops and scrubbing dirty dishes may feel like second nature, but it’s easy to forget to clean kitchen appliances like your oven. It’s OK; it happens to us, too. But because a dirty oven takes longer to preheat and can cause dangerous grease fires, it’s important to get into the habit of regularly cleaning yours. Check out the methods below to learn how to clean an oven. All it takes are some household items to getting it looking like new.

Wondering how to clean a microwave or how to clean an air fryer? What about the dishwasher? We have cleaning guides for those areas, too.

How to Clean an Oven

Tools and Supplies

  • Oven cleaner. This Test Kitchen-approved oven cleaner practically cleans the oven for you. It doubles as a spot cleaner and overnight treatment for ovens that need some serious cleaning. Just spray and wipe away with a dish sponge!
  • Sponges. When scrubbing away food stains, opt for a non-scratch sponge. This 12-pack of non-abrasive sponges cover the oven, range and other areas of the kitchen. Mix with warm soapy water (or oven cleaner) for a superior clean.
  • Microfiber cloth. This one’s for the outside of the oven and other kitchen appliances. Combine with your favorite multipurpose spray to leave a streak-free shine on the exterior.

Directions

Method 1: Use oven cleaner

For tough stains and residue, turn to oven cleaner. It’s safe for self-cleaning ovens and can be used to spot clean or as an overnight treatment. Simply spray the interior of the oven and wipe away with a sponge. Just make sure you protect your hands with a pair of dishwashing gloves!

Method 2: Clean your oven with citrus

When life gives you lemons, use them to clean the oven.

Let us explain. Lemons and other citrus oils are natural degreasers, so they loosen up baked-on food particles. For a quick (and virtually effortless) way to clean your oven, add the juice of two lemons and 1/3 cup water to a baking dish, place it in the oven and bake at 250-degrees for 30 minutes. When heated, the lemons emit vapors that loosen up stubborn food stains. Once the oven has cooled down, remove any additional remnants with a scrub pad or firm spatula. (We love Scrub Daddy products for this task).

Method 3: Use soap and water

Your oven isn’t filthy, but it’s by no means as spotless as you’d like. To get rid of small splotches and stains, wipe down the interior with a scrub pad soaked in warm water and dish soap. Once you’re done, pat the inside dry with a paper towel or Swedish dishcloth. It requires some elbow grease, but it’s well worth it once you’re chowing down on one of these amazing casseroles.

Method 4: Enlist some baking soda and vinegar

Baking soda does a lot more than give cookies a lift. In fact, the household staple is ideal for removing stains from grout, cleaning grit from the slow cooker and tackling oven stains. For best results, mix a thin paste of 3/4 cup baking soda and 1/4 cup warm water. Remove oven racks, then coat the inside with the paste and leave it on overnight. In the morning, scrape off the paste, wipe out the oven with a damp towel and voila—a pristine oven.

Pro tip: If the baking soda method doesn’t get the job done, spritz some vinegar on the paste before wiping it off. When baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) are combined, the mixture fizzes up and works wonders on tough stains.

How to Clean the Range

The inside of your oven isn’t the only place that needs some TLC. Here’s how to clean the whole range.

  • Stovetop: Wiping down your stovetop with a damp paper towel or sponge will get rid of fresh grease splatters and sauce spills, but if you want to tackle those stubborn, burnt food particles, place a hot, wet towel on the area for a few minutes, then scrape off stuck-on food with a firm spatula.
  • Burner grates: While you’re cleaning the stovetop, submerge the knobs and burner grates in a sink full of warm, soapy water. For a heavy-duty clean, throw in some kosher salt and baking soda, too.
  • Hood filters: The purpose of your oven’s hood filters is to collect grease, so it’s likely they’re in need of a good clean. Luckily, washing them is a total breeze. Once you pop ’em out of the hood, place the filters in a sink full of scalding hot water, a few drops of dish soap and 1/4 cup of baking soda, and leave them for 10 minutes. Next, use a non-abrasive scrub brush on those hard-to-clean stains. After rinsing the suds away, wait until the filters are completely dry before reinserting them (or else you’ll risk getting electrocuted!). For the outside of the hood, simply wipe it down with an all-purpose cleaner.

FAQs

When should I use the oven self-clean feature?

The oven’s self-clean feature should be used as little as possible. Not only does it produce smelly fumes and take a few hours, but it also can break many of your oven’s components. (Learn more in our guide written by an expert appliance repair technician.)

If you must use the oven’s self-clean feature, there are a few tips to follow for the best results. Try only running it once (maybe two times) a year after it’s endured heavy, heavy usage.

Can you clean oven with racks in?

If using the self-clean method, it’s best to remove the oven racks as they can lose their sheen if left inside. For best results, soak them in a sink filled with warm soapy water and baking soda while you clean the oven (or when using the self-clean method).

How often should I clean my oven?

The oven should be cleaned once every three months. If there’s burnt-on food stains before then, spot clean when necessary.

Can you use the oven right after cleaning it with oven cleaner?

If you’re using eco-friendly solutions like lemon juice, baking soda or vinegar, it’s safe to use the oven right away. For Easy-Off oven cleaner, you’ll want to preheat the oven at 300-degrees for 15-30 minutes.

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How To Get Hair Dye Out Of Your Carpet – Fast! [5 Easy Methods]

Hair dye stains are a nightmare. You pour the whole bottle on your head and before you know it, you’ve created a big ol’ mess in your bathroom!

If this has ever happened to you (or someone you know), don’t panic – we’re going to let you into our little secret of how to get hair dye out of your carpet fast!

If you’ve ever spilled a bottle of hair dye onto the carpet, you know how hard it is to clean up.

It’s not just about the colour that gets spilled on the floor, walls or countertop. The real problem is when that colour runs down onto other surfaces like carpets, rugs, towels and clothing.

That’s where things can really go wrong because getting hair dye out of these items can be very difficult indeed, but there is hope for us all! This article will show you how to remove hair dye from almost any surface quickly and easily so that no one will even notice what happened!

By following these tips, and using products you’ll already have a home, anyone can save themselves hours upon hours of scrubbing at stubborn stains.

Contents
  1. Can hair dye be removed from a carpet?
  2. Things you can try
  3. How to get hair dye out of your carpet – 5 easy ways.
  4. How do you get semi-permanent hair dye out of a carpet?
  5. How do you get permanent hair dye out of the carpet?
  6. Will acetone remove hair dye from your carpet?
  7. How does baking soda remove hair dye from the carpet?
  8. Does vinegar discolour carpets?
  9. How to prevent getting hair dye on the carpet!
  10.  Parting words.

Can hair dye be removed from a carpet?

Do you have a pesky stain on your carpet that won’t go away?
Fortunately, it can be removed by using products you already have at home in your kitchen cupboards.

Hair dye can stain your carpet if not removed quickly. While it is difficult to remove the colour of dark hair dye, there are ways to get lighter colours out of your carpet, fast.

The key is to get as much of it off before it sets in.

  • Things you can try
  • Hairspray
  • Soap and shampoo
  • Dish washing soap
  • White vinegar and washing up liquid
  • Baking soda and water.

How to get hair dye out of your carpet – 5 easy ways.

The first step is to try and blot up as much of the dye as possible with paper towels or a cloth.

You want to be careful not to rub too hard as this could spread the stain further and make matters worse!

Once you have done this, there are several solutions that can help remove the rest of the stain depending on what type of fabric your carpet is made out of.

Method #1 Hairspray

If the stain is fresh, hairspray is a real quick and easy way to remove hair dye stains fast.

What to do:
  • Just spray the hairspray straight onto the hair dye from a few inches away and blot it with a white paper towel.
  • Repeat this until the hair dye is removed and give the area a rinse with cold water afterwards.

Method #2 Soap and shampoo together.

Soap and shampoo make the dye more water soluble so that you can use a wet vacuum cleaner or blot up as much of the dye as possible with paper towels before washing it away with warm water and detergent.

What to do:
  • The first step is to apply a generous amount of dish soap and elbow grease, scrubbing with a brush or cloth until the stain starts coming up.
  • Next, rinse everything off with water and dry the area as best as possible before applying more soap and repeating this process again if needed.
  • Finally, use an old toothbrush to scrub at any remaining stubborn spots, then spray it with hairspray or another type of fixative. You can now enjoy your newly clean carpet!

Method #3 Dish washing soap

Another way to tackle stubborn hair dye stains on carpets is by using good old dish soap.

What to do:
  • Mix one tablespoon of dish washing soap with two cups of warm water and pour the solution onto the stained area.
  • Gently scrub away the stain using a soft bristled brush before blotting up any excess liquid with paper towels or an old rag.

Method #4 White vinegar and washing up liquid.

If dish soap on its own hasn’t done the trick, this simple combination is super effective when it comes to removing stubborn dye stains from carpets.

What to do:
  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and washing up liquid together and apply it directly to the stained area using a brush or sponge.
  • Once applied, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before blotting away with a damp cloth or towel.

Method #5 Baking soda and water

Last but not least, baking soda and water are very effective in removing stubborn hair dye stains from carpets!

What to do:
  • Simply mix together equal parts baking soda and warm water in a bowl.
  • Pour the mixture over the stained area and let it sit for several minutes.
  • Gently scrub away at the stain using a soft bristled brush until no more remains visible!
  • Blot up any remaining moisture with paper towels or an old rag until dry.
How do you get semi-permanent hair dye out of a carpet?

If your stain is more stubborn or made by a semi-permanent hair dye spillage, you can try to remove it with white vinegar and washing up liquid.

  • For this, you’ll need to mix 2 cups of lukewarm water with 1 tablespoon liquid dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of white vinegar.
  • Using a clean cloth, sponge and blot the hair dye stain with the solution.
  • Then with cold water, rinse the area and soak up the liquid with a dry sponge.

If the stain is still there, you can dab on some neat rubbing alcohol with a cloth. This method should remove the hair dye without changing the colour of your carpet!

If the stain is still there, move on to the next solution!

How do you get permanent hair dye out of the carpet?

It’s not an easy task to get permanent hair dye out of carpet, but luckily we’ve got you covered.
If white vinegar and washing up liquid doesn’t do the job. You can try using

ammonia and dishwashing soap.

  • Mix 1 tablespoon of ammonia and 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap in 2 cups warm water to make your magic formula.
  • Apply this solution to the stained area with a clean cloth. Mae sure it’s saturated in the solution.
  • Leave it for 30 mins to sink and work its magic.
  • After 30 mins, take a new sponge and dab the hair dye stain with extra solution. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes more.
  • You can keep repeating this process until the stains are totally gone.

For synthetic carpets, try using hairspray or a mixture of soap and shampoo with warm water. You should let it sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting it up with a cloth or paper towels until all the solution has been removed.

For synthetic carpets, try using hairspray or a mixture of soap and shampoo with warm water. You should let it sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting it up with a cloth or paper towels until all the solution has been removed.

For cotton carpets, mix together some ammonia and dishwashing soap and apply liberally to the affected area, again letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting it up with a cloth or paper towels until all the solution has been removed.

Finally, for carpets made from other fabrics such as jute or sisal, mix together baking soda and water and spread evenly across the affected area then allow to dry before vacuuming off any residue.

Will acetone remove hair dye from your carpet?

Acetone is an organic compound that has a number of uses such as removing nail polish and cleaning up spills like ink or blood, but it also happens to remove dye from carpets too.

BE CAREFUL. The problem with this solution is that it can change the color of your carpet. Acetone eats colour, but if you have a light carpet, it could work for you.

  • Use a white cloth or white paper towel to dab the area with acetone.
  • You need a white cloth as any other colour may end up transferring the colour to the carpet and making the whole thing worse!
  • Dab it gently and wait in between to see how much of the colour fades. You don’t want to use any more acetone than you need to.
  • When all the colour has been removed, rinse the area with cold water and dab it dry with a sponge.

How does baking soda remove hair dye from the carpet?

Baking soda is great at absorbing moisture; this includes water-based substances such as fruit juice, coffee and even hair dye spills.

  • Start by sprinkling baking soda over the stain and giving it time to absorb some of the wetness – this will make it easier for later steps if needed.
  • Then mix up hot water and salt/baking soda together until it forms a soluble paste.
  • Apply this mixture to the affected area and leave it to sink in for at least one hour. You can leave it longer or even overnight for really stubborn stains.
  • When the colour has vanished, simply vacuum up the solution and wipe any excess with a damp cloth.

Does vinegar discolour carpets?

Carpets are not immune to the effects of cleaning products, and vinegar is no exception.

The acidity in vinegar can cause discolouration over time. White vinegar when diluted is an effective stain remover. The clear liquid won’t discolour your carpets like other vinegars will.

We recommend using a different type of cleaner on your carpets if you want to avoid any potential damage or staining that could result from using this product.

How to prevent getting hair dye on the carpet!

Let’s take a look at how to keep your carpet safe from hair dye mishaps and keep your carpets looking pristine!

Tip #1 Cover Up!

The first step is to make sure that you’ve covered up any areas where dye might potentially land.

This includes laying down plastic sheeting, old towels, or even newspaper on your floor before you start applying the dye.

If you have any furniture in the area that could come into contact with stray dye particles, it’s best to cover those pieces as well.

If you’re concerned about staining your furniture, consider putting a protective coating of wax over it before starting.

Tip #2 Wear protective gear

Of course, you need to protect yourself too! Wearing the right protective gear will also help to prevent hair dye from landing on your carpet.

This means investing in things like gloves, aprons, and eyewear so that none of the dye gets onto your skin or clothing and transfers onto your carpets later on.

Although these items may seem a little extra for an at-home job, they are essential for professionals who work with dyes every day. Go figure!

Tip #3 Clean up quickly!

If some of the hair dye does manage to get onto your carpets or furniture, one of the best ways to minimize staining is to act quickly and clean up as soon as possible.

Different types of fabric require different cleaning methods, so make sure you know what kind of material you’re dealing with and use the appropriate cleaner for that surface type (or better yet—just call in a professional!).

Parting words.

When it comes to hair dye stains on carpets, time is of the essence. As soon as you spot the hair dye on your carpet, stop what you’re doing and get to work.

Make sure not to rub it in or pour more product onto an already stained area because this will only make things worse!

The best way is still a sponge with some dish soap and water- just scrub gently until all of the dye has been removed from your flooring.

You’ll be able to breathe easy knowing that your room isn’t going to look a mess anymore, too!

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Tips for properly cleaning your elevators

Tips for properly cleaning your elevator

1. Elevator finishes and maintenance

Elevator cab entrances and fixtures are finished in a wide variety of designs and materials that are selected not only for their attractive appearance, but also for their easy maintenance.

Finishes must receive proper upkeep to retain their appearance, stand up under the heavy wear inflicted by the riding public, and provide the aesthetic expected by passengers.

2. Stainless steel care and maintenance

The stainless steel-coated cab panels and its mirror finish contribute to the elevator's elegance and refinement. This finish, however, demands constant attention and care. The key to effective cleaning and maintenance is to use the right materials and processes, as well as to apply them with care.

The best methods for protecting stainless steel include:

CLEANING
Dust frequently and wash with mild soap and warm water. Blemishes caused by oil, tar, or grime can be removed with a cleaner, using a soft cloth to avoid scratches.

POLISHING
Buff using a soft, clean cloth with a vertical movement only, not circular.

SCRATCH REMOVAL
Scratches should be removed by professionals only.

ON-SITE PROTECTION: WAXING AND OILING
On non-lacquered, stainless-steel finishes, a light coat of silicone or furniture wax may be used to prevent fingerprints.

3. Importance of elevator cleaning orientation

Pay attention to the direction when cleaning your elevator. Never move circularly or horizontally; always move from the top down.

Many elevator car panels are manufactured with a vertical finish pattern. Stainless steel should be cleaned in the same direction as the original sanding to avoid undesirable stains and scratches.

4. Wall fabric cleaning

Weekly cleaning of wall fabric with a soft cloth, and periodic cleaning with warm water and a mild soap is usually sufficient to remove superficial dust and dirt. For stubborn areas, such as fingerprints, smudges, etc., the use of a soft bristle brush is recommended.

Most liquid cleaners and detergents available on the market today, when used according to their labels, are safe and effective. However, rinsing with a clean, damp cloth is recommended to ensure no residue remains in the fabric. Since abrasive cleaners could mark or dull fabrics, these should not be used. Use of a flammable cleaner may void the flame tests required for A17.1 code compliance.

5. Read the product label

There are a variety of cleaning products on the market. For the best outcome, you must use the correct cleaning chemicals for the surface you need to clean. Read the label to understand whether it is optimal for the surface in question. Finally, always remember to keep your hands and eyes protected when using cleaning chemicals.

A clean elevator is usually a sign of an elevator taken care of. While the external parts of the elevator are the way in which the users can see how the equipment is cleaned and checked, maintenance goes way beyond.

For maintenance issues, our team at Otis is committed to providing the best possible service and maintenance procedures, with highly trained technicians, technological tools and strict protocols. We have always kept safety as one of our top priorities, whether it’s for our users, owners or employee

If you want to be prepared for your next elevator safety test, we invite you to download our latest eBook: Elevator Safety Test Guide.

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How to Get Rid of Mold in Every Corner of Your Home

From tile grout to fabric, these tips will help you remove — and prevent! — mold spots.

JUMP TO:

Mildew vs. mold
How to get rid of mold on shower tile and grout
How to remove mold from plastic shower curtains and liners
How to remove mold from walls and ceilings
How to get rid of mold on fabric
How to remove mold from wood
FAQs
If you think black spots of mold only pop up in dark, dank basements, think again!

Any room in your home can be susceptible to these unsightly spores if there’s uncontrolled moisture. And while a small amount generally won’t make you sick, it’s important to get rid of mold quickly. “If it is left untreated, it can spread to other household items and cause health problems for family members.

The best thing you can do in your home is stop mold before it starts. The key to prevention is keeping the rooms in your house dry and cool. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, we find ourselves staring at those stubborn spots. When you’ve got a mold situation at home, here’s everything you need to know to handle it yourself quickly and easily.

Mildew vs. mold

Mildew is typically more visible during early stages and pops up as white or gray powdery dots. It may turn yellow or brown, but generally remains pretty flat. Mold appears darker, often in shades of red, green or black and can have a fuzzy texture. While mildew is typically less dangerous than certain types of mold (think black mold), both microscopic fungi can cause health problems and damage to your home. While the mold and mildew can be treated in similar ways, read our guide to getting rid of mildew if you suspect that's the issue at hand.

Expert Tip: Mold spores can travel through the air when cleaning. Always wear long rubber gloves, protective eyewear and a face covering to limit your exposure when you’re treating mold yourself. If the moldy area is larger than approximately 2 square feet, call in a pro to have it removed safely.

How to get rid of mold on shower tile and grout

Mold breeds in warm, wet conditions, which can make it difficult to keep the shower tile and grout free of these stubborn spots. If they appear, you can erase them quickly and easily with the right cleaner.

1. Take safety precautions. Wear protection on your eyes and hands and if you are particularly sensitive to fumes, consider also wearing a mask. Open the window and flip on the bathroom fan for proper ventilation before you start.
2. Spray cleaner on mold spots. Apply a grout cleaner or mold remover according to the manufacturer's directions.
3. Watch and wait before you scrub. In some cases you may not need to scrub at all: In our tests, Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover spray cleaned away stains after working for only a few minutes. And it kills 99.9% of mold and bacteria from non-porous tile in only five minutes. If spots persist, use a non-scratch scrub sponge or grout brush to scrub the spots away.
4. Rinse the area with hot water. Wipe dry or let it air dry with the shower curtain or door open to allow any built-up steam and moisture to escape.

How to remove mold from plastic shower curtains and liners

When mold strikes your shower curtain, it can be tempting to just toss it and start fresh. But there’s another way. Actually, there are two easy ways to save your plastic shower curtain or liner from these unsightly spots. (If your curtain is fabric, follow the steps for removing mold from fabric, below.)

Expert Tip: If you don’t have a handheld sprayer or the time, you can wash a plastic shower curtain or liner in your washing machine. Choose the delicate cycle with warm or hot water, then add laundry detergent and fabric-safe bleach. Wash it with some old towels to help with scrubbing and to keep it moving in the machine. Place it in the dryer on low heat for only a few minutes (Be sure to watch it!) to remove excess moisture, then re-hang it to finish drying.

1. Spray with cleaner from inside your shower. Put on your protective gear, ventilate the area, then apply a mold cleaner that’s safe for plastic, like Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover, while the curtain or liner is hung up. This allows you to easily see and spray spots, and excess cleaner will drip into the tub where you can more easily wash it away.
2. Wait up to five minutes for the stains to disappear. Mold spots should start to fade quickly. Make sure to move to a well-ventilated area while the magic happens and never let the cleaner dry on. Rinse it promptly.
3. Use a handheld showerhead to rinse completely. It’s best to do this from outside the shower since you’ll want to use the hottest water possible. If you don’t have a handheld sprayer, fill a cup with water and pour it on the curtain to rinse.
4. Leave it halfway open to dry. Position the curtain or liner so there are loose folds, which allows the surface and the shower itself to air dry completely.

How to remove mold from walls and ceilings

If you spot mold on walls or ceilings made of sheetrock or plaster, you can make them disappear without replacing any materials. But if mold appears on a very porous surface, such as a ceiling tile, it's best to replace it right away.

Expert Tip: It’s important to wear eye protection to prevent cleaners from splashing in your eyes when removing mold from ceilings or overhead areas.

1.Clean the surface. Apply your protective gear and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Mix a little dish detergent, like Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid, and water. Use a sponge or brush to apply the solution in small circular motions.

2. Rinse and let dry. Clean the sponge thoroughly, then dip it into clean water and wring it out well before wiping the surface clean. Let it air dry completely.
3. Follow with a solution of water and bleach: Mix ¾ of a cup of chlorine bleach with a gallon of warm water, or 3 tablespoons of bleach in 1 quart of water for smaller spots. Wearing rubber gloves, apply the water-bleach mixture to the stains with a sponge or cleaning brush.
4. Let sit for five minutes, then scrub. Give the water bleach solution time to penetrate the moldy spots, then move the sponge or brush in small circles to gently agitate the area.
5. Rinse completely and air dry. Use warm water to wash the area clean and blot dry with a clean cloth before letting it air dry.

How to get rid of mold on fabric

When clothing, towels or stored fabrics are exposed to humidity or dampness for a prolonged period, mold can appear and flourish. Follow these steps when you find mold on fabric items that are machine washable.

Expert Tip: If you find mold on fabric that is not machine washable, take it to your dry cleaner for help removing these stubborn spots.

1. Brush off the excess mold. First, bring the item outside to prevent excess mold spores from getting inside your home. Apply your protective gear, then gently move a dry cloth, brush or paper towel back and forth a few times over the area to loosen and free any mold from the surface.

2. Treat spots with liquid laundry detergent. Rub a drop or two in with your gloved fingers. Wash it in the washing machine on the hottest setting safe for the fabric, adding chlorine bleach or non-chlorine bleach, as specified by your item's care instructions. (Check the care label to be sure.)
3. Air dry. Avoid tumble drying the item until you are certain the mold spots are removed.

How to remove mold from wood

In areas where there's higher humidity and poor ventilation — such as the kitchen, bathroom or basement — you may discover mold on cabinets, vanities, furniture or paneling made of wood, especially if the surface is losing its finish or seal.

1. Vacuum up any loose spores. Apply your protective gear and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, go over the spots a few times with the soft brush attachment.

2. Sponge on a soapy solution. Mix a few drops of dish detergent with some water and dab the solution onto the surface with a sponge, being careful not to saturate the wood. Rub gently to remove mold spots.

3. Rinse with a clean, damp cloth. Dip a cleaning cloth into clear water and wring it out well before wiping the surface clean.

4. Follow with a clean, dry cloth. You don’t want the wood to stay wet for long, which could damage the finish, so work quickly and wipe dry any remaining moisture.

FAQs

How to prevent mold growth in the first place

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.” Even if you clean the mold, it will come back if the room is humid and poorly ventilated or if there is excess moisture from a leak — even a small one.

That means prevention is the only permanent remedy for mold. After you've repaired the leaks and gotten rid of any moisture problems, you can create an environment where mold can’t grow with these tips:

  • Add a dehumidifier or two to your home. To prevent mold growth, humidity levels should not exceed 50%. Make sure you’re running a dehumidifier that’s right for the area you’re treating. A dehumidifier with a 10-pint removal capacity is ideal for a 500-square-foot room. You’ll need an additional 4 pints for every additional 500 square feet after that.
  • Vent moisture-generating sources to the outside. Bathroom fans and clothes dryers should have vents to the outside.
  • Open doors and windows during showers. This will aid your bathroom exhaust fan during and after showers by allowing moisture to escape.
  • Dry or squeegee the shower after use to remove as much excess moisture as possible.
  • Leave your shower open after showering. When your curtain or door is closed, moisture takes longer to evaporate and dry.
  • Stretch out the shower curtain after showering so it dries quickly.
  • Reseal bathroom tile grout lines. Repeat the sealing process every year to help waterproof your walls and floors.
  • Avoid storing items in damp places. This may mean keeping linens, books and furniture out of your basement or attic if air-tight storage containers aren’t an option.

What are natural remedies for removing mold?

If you're looking for a natural solution to remove mold, hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are two options to try. Keep in mind, though, that they may take more time to work than bleach and may not remove stains or be as effective on all types of mold or on all surfaces:

  • Hydrogen peroxide: Pour a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub the mold away.
  • Vinegar: Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and apply to the moldy area. Let it sit for an hour, then wipe the area clean with water and allow it to dry.

When do I need a mold removal company?

If the moldy area is widespread and larger than approximately a 2-foot by 2-foot area, call in a pro to have it removed safely. When you’re contending with more than a few mold spots, it could be a sign of a bigger moisture problem. Call a contractor who specializes in water damage restoration or waterproofing to assess and address the issue.

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cleaning blog

Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Oven

No one looks forward to oven cleaning. You put your oven out of commission for hours and heat up your house with the “self-clean” cycle or wear a Haz-Mat suit to use a heavy-duty oven cleaner. Instead, make a DIY oven cleaner using ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda to dissolve grease and get a clean-oven shine.

A Natural Oven Cleaner Without Harsh Chemicals

If you’ve ever looked at the ingredients on the label of a commercial oven cleaner, you know it’s a laundry list of chemicals. Conventional oven cleaners contain a range of chemicals such as potassium hydroxide, monoethanolamine, sodium hydroxide, and butoxydiglycol. These and other chemicals can irritate your respiratory system and burn your skin, lungs, and eyes. Directions for using a commercial oven cleaner recommend wearing long gloves and avoiding inhaling the fumes. Understandably, many people are concerned about using these chemicals around their families and pets or in an appliance used to cook your food.

Fortunately, there is a natural alternative to commercial oven cleaners, and you don’t have to worry about wearing gloves to use it. As a bonus, it costs a fraction of the price of spray-on oven cleaners and it doesn’t leave a chemical residue that can cause odors the next time you use your oven.

Basic Oven Cleaning with Baking Soda

Baking soda is non-toxic, inexpensive, easy-to-use, and remarkably effective on cleaning oven grease. Baking soda is alkaline, and oven grease made of food particles is typically acidic. Baking soda neutralizes acids and breaks down the grease, allowing you to wipe it up without a lot of elbow grease. It’s also a mild abrasive, so it works well at removing dried, stuck-on foods. You don’t have to turn your oven on, and you can use it immediately after cleaning with baking soda.

In most cases, baking soda works its magic in just 15 minutes, making oven cleaning less of an arduous chore and more something you can do in the span of a single episode of your favorite sitcom.

The basic baking soda oven cleaner recipe for regularly cleaned or lightly soiled ovens is as follows:

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda
  • 3 tablespoons water

Instructions:

  • In a small bowl, combine the ingredients to make a paste roughly the consistency of pancake batter.
  • Remove the racks from the oven.
  • Using a rubber spatula or a gloved hand, smear the paste over the dirty parts, whether metal or glass. Avoid the heating elements.
  • Let the paste sit for 15-20 minutes.
  • Wipe up the paste and loosened dirt and grease with wet paper towels.
  • Wipe the oven’s interior with a wet paper towel, using water or a 3:1 mixture of water and distilled vinegar.
  • Repeat if necessary for tougher stains, or try the heavy-duty method below.

Repeat if necessary for tougher stains, or try the heavy-duty method below.

Heavy Duty Oven Cleaning with Baking Soda

Let’s face it. Sometimes we don’t always make cleaning the oven a priority. Sometimes months, even years, can go by between oven cleanings. It happens. If your oven is in the heavily soiled category, you can still use baking soda to get it back to sparkling. Try this alternate recipe instead:

  • 1 pound ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda
  • 1 tablespoon salt (regular table salt is fine)
  • 2 tablespoons water

Mix together in a bowl to make a thick, sandy paste, along the consistency of cake icing, adding additional water 1/2 tablespoon at a time if needed. This recipe will make enough to deep clean an oven floor. Triple the recipe if you are doing the back, sides, ceiling, and oven floor.

Remove the racks from your oven. Using a spatula, cover the entire metal or glass surfaces with the paste. Shut the oven door and leave it overnight in the cold oven. The paste will harden by morning.

Once the paste is hardened, use the rubber spatula and warm, wet paper towels to loosen and wipe up the baking soda and dirt. You’ll reveal the oven’s original, stain-free surface underneath and your oven will have gone through an extreme makeover.

Cleaning Your Oven with Baking Soda and Vinegar

You can also use vinegar in a spray bottle to help baking soda get the job done and to be sure you’ve removed all baking soda after cleaning. Here’s a quick oven-cleaning with baking soda shortcut you can use immediately after you have a spill in your oven.

  • Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the stain.
  • Spritz with water, or a 3:1 water to white vinegar solution. If you use vinegar, baking soda will bubble.
  • Let sit for 15-20 minutes, after your oven has cooled.
  • Wipe up baking soda and dissolved food with wet paper towels.
  • Wipe the entire oven interior with a 3:1 water to vinegar solution.
  • Be satisfied at a job well done.

“Self-Clean” Your Oven with Baking Soda

The next time your oven needs cleaning and you feel the urge to turn on its self-clean cycle, resist! Self-clean cycles often produce horrendous odors and in many cases set off your fire alarm. They work by turning up the oven’s temperature so high that the food will burn off, but that isn’t always effective – and in some cases bakes the food on even further.

Instead, reach for your orange box of ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda and know that the power of science is at your fingertips. Without harsh fumes that can make you dizzy, without caustic chemicals, and without smelling up your home or putting your oven out of commission for hours, you can have a clean oven in as little as 15 minutes. Let baking soda break down your food stains for you, and all you have to do is wipe it away.

With ARM & HAMMER™ Baking Soda on your side, oven cleaning isn’t the turn-up-your-nose chore it used to be.

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How to Get Red Wine Out of Carpet

When red wine spills on carpet, what are you to do? Red wine can leave a permanent stain on carpet fibers if it sinks in too long, and scrubbing the stain only makes it worse. If you act quickly, think fast and spring into action, you can save your carpet.

Read this guide for the tips and tricks on how to get red wine out of carpet.

1. Take Quick Action on the Stain

A quick response to a red wine spill on a carpet is key. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove the stain. 

  • As soon as the wine hits the carpet, act fast. Blot – do not rub – the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Blot as much of the red wine residue as possible.
  • Add a small amount of cold water to the stained area, then blot again.
  • Once you've cleaned up most of the spilled wine and slowed the seepage, it's time to remove the stain entirely.

2. Remove a Wine Stain with Club Soda

Regular club soda is an effective option for removing a red wine stain from your carpet. The carbonation of the club soda acts to dissolve the red pigments of the wine.

  • After you’ve blotted the stain, pour a small amount of club soda onto the stain. Blot again and leave it overnight. 
  • If the stain remains, repeat the process of adding club soda and blotting until the stain is gone.

3. Remove a Wine Stain with Dish Soap and Vinegar

White vinegar is a staple of most household cleaning jobs. The vinegar neutralizes the red pigment left behind by a red wine stain. Follow these steps in how to get red wine out of carpet using vinegar and dish soap:

  • Again, blot the stain with a rag, cloth or paper towel.
  • Mix a tablespoon of dishwashing soap and a tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of water. Stir the mixture together. 
  • Pour a small amount of the solution on the stain. Blot frequently with a cloth until the stain is gone. 

Tip: A small amount of lemon juice and dish soap poured directly on the carpet stain is also effective.

4. Remove a Wine Stain with Dish Soap and Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent so you might want to test it on a small section of your carpet first to make sure it doesn’t leave behind lasting damage. Follow these steps in how to get red wine out of carpet with hydrogen peroxide and dish soap:

  • Blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part dishwashing soap.
  • Apply the solution to your carpet stain. Blot and repeat until the stain is gone. 
  • Let it sit for about 20 minutes to hour, then blot again if necessary.
  • You can also try hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. 
  • Pour hydrogen peroxide on the stain and sprinkle in a hefty amount of baking soda. Make sure the stain is fully covered. 
  • Let the solution sit for two to three minutes before rinsing with water.

5. Remove a Wine Stain with Baking Soda

Baking soda is another household product with cleaning and stain removal qualities. Baking soda is slightly alkaline and abrasive, making it effective for lifting stains.

  • Blot the stain first with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Mix one part water and three parts baking soda to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the stain. 
  • Wait for the mixture to dry on the stain and then vacuum. 

6. Remove a Wine Stain with Salt

If the stain has already dried, no need to panic! This method works for dried stains as well.  Salt absorbs the wine that blotting fails to pick up.

  • Apply a small amount of water to get the dry stain wet. Add a liberal amount of salt to the stain. Do not scrub or blot the salt. 
  • Leave overnight and return in the morning. The salt should be crystalized and have a pinkish hue. 
  • Vacuum the crystalized salt.

7. Remove a Red Wine Stain with Stain Removal Products

If DIY solutions don't do the trick, there are stain removal and cleaning products to pick up tough red wine stains from your carpet. When using these products, test them first on a small part of the carpet to make sure the carpet’s color does not run or fade. Determine what one is best for your situation and follow the directions on the product. 

End of lease cleaning service Auckland

8. Other Wine Stain Removal Tips

If the red wine stain on your carpet resists all your efforts to blot it clean, turn to something more heavy duty for the task. Rent or buy a carpet cleaner built for deep cleaning. Follow the directions of use on the products. 

There’s no reason to panic if a glass of red wine hits the carpet. Act quickly with cleaning solutions you might have in your home to remove the stain and restore your carpet’s look. Download The Home Depot Mobile App to place online orders for supplies when and where you need them. If you encounter a persistent stain, consider a carpet cleaner rental to get the job done. Use it once then bring it back, no maintenance required, and you won’t need to store it either.

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Green Commercial Cleaning Services: How to Keep Your Business Environmentally-Friendly

Running a business takes a lot of work. From keeping track of inventory to managing employees, there are a million things to think about daily. One thing you might not have thought about, however, is the environmental impact of your business. You may not realize it, but how you clean your office or store can significantly impact the environment. If you’re not careful, the chemicals you use for cleaning can pollute the air and water.
Following these steps can help you keep your business environmentally friendly:
• Offer remote work
• Provide public transit commuter benefits
• Use sustainable products
• Make use of second-hand finds
• Reduce, reuse, recycle
• Compost
• Use sustainable packaging
• Make energy-efficient upgrades
• Use green web hosting services
• Do business with green businesses

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Tips for keeping Easter Egg Dye off Your Carpet / Upholstery.

A classic Easter celebration includes brunch, followed up by an egg hunt – as well as the family tradition of dyeing eggs. The issue lies in the Easter egg dye – it’ll get everywhere, no matter if it’s commercial or a more natural dye batch you made at home. Whether dyes are from natural or chemical sources, if spilled, it’s possible to expect to be handling some challenging stains.
If you see blotches, drips, or handprints in blue, red, or green, the most important thing to do is attack the area immediately with a mixture of (uncolored) dishwashing liquid and warm water. Only use a white cloth or paper towels to blot at the stain – don’t rub as it will push the dye deeper into the carpet fibers. Keep blotting until no more color appears on the cloth or paper towels. Start at the outer edges and move inward to keep the dye from spreading.
Rinse with a clean white cloth and plain water and allow it to air dry.
Still see color? Time to try non-sudsing ammonia mixed with water (you only need one tablespoon per cup of water). Test your carpet first! You don’t want to remove the carpet color!
Some spot remover sprays can work, but these sprays or solutions should be tested first so you are not left with areas of your valuable carpet looking bleached.

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How to Remove Stains from Carpet: A Guide To Keep Your Carpets Spotless

Carpet is often one of the first places that stains show up. And it’s very difficult to keep them clean, especially if you have kids or pets. But there are some ways that you can remove carpet stains and keep it looking new. There are a few different ways that you can remove stains from your carpet. You can use home remedies, such as vinegar or baking soda add the mixture to the stained area and gently work it in with your fingers. Pour or spray a small amount of water onto the stain and then dab it dry.
Or you can use commercial carpet cleaning equipment, such as carpet shampoo machine.