Cleaning Products 101

Mild Is Best

Mild dishwashing liquid is excellent for removing spills that water won't budge. Make a simple all-purpose cleaner by mixing 2 cups water with 2 tablespoons dishwashing liquid in a spray bottle. Use it on countertops and other hard surfaces.

Cleaning Products 101

The Power of Baking Soda

Baking soda has scrubbing power but won't scratch surfaces. Mix a paste of 3 parts warm water to 1 part baking soda to scrub kitchen stains or clean the oven. Make a bathroom cleanser by mixing dishwashing liquid with baking soda until you have a thick paste.

Cleaning Products 101

Natural Cleaners

Distilled white vinegar and lemon juice are both excellent for cleaning, deodorizing, and mild bleaching. They are acidic and can eliminate soap scum. Make a window- and mirror-cleaner by mixing equal parts vinegar and water, which also works well on most polyurethane-finished wood floors.

Cleaning Products 101

Less Is More

For routine cleaning, less is more. You actually need very few products to clean any given room. Although there will certainly be instances where specialized cleaners are necessary, the following list of products will suffice for most tasks. Gather them in a caddy so you can transport them from room to room as you work.

Cleaning Products 101

A Kit to Keep on Hand

Your universal cleaning kit should include:

• An all-purpose cleaner, or a solution of 2 tablespoons mild dishwashing liquid, such as Ivory, and 2 cups water in a spray bottle
• A mildly abrasive cleanser, such as Bon Ami
• A glass cleaner, or a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water in a spray bottle
• Rubber gloves; lint-free white cloths; medium-bristled scrub brush

Cleaning Products 101

Cleaning the Kitchen

Cleanliness isn't merely a virtue in the kitchen, the busiest room in your house: It is essential to the health and safety of your family. Corral your supplies in a bin or bucket stored in a cupboard under or near the sink. To protect the floor of the cupboard, line it with parchment paper or rubber matting.

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Cleaning Products 101

Cleaning the Bathroom

Cleaning a bathroom well does not mean using harsh chemicals. Start with the gentlest cleaning solutions first before moving on to anything stronger. Adequate ventilation via a ceiling fan or open window will help prevent moisture buildup and go a long way toward keeping the bathroom fresh.

Cleaning Products 101

New Cleaning Products from Martha Stewart

Finally, green equals clean. Natural products from Martha Stewart Clean are effective at removing dirt, stains, and streaks while protecting surfaces and fibers, and they're priced for your budget. Effective. Responsible. Safe.

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