Solutions to the 6 Most-Common Homekeeping Fails

Chlorine bleach may help lighten a stain, but it can also further full and discolor the surface, so test first in an inconspicuous spot, and use sparingly. Also, chlorine can oxidize the iron in porcelain and you run the risk of getting rusty red spots if your tub is porous.

Use a sponge or cloth and a mild abrasive, such as Bon Ami. (Never use a brush inside the tub; it can damage the surface.)

To combat soap scum, use an acidic cleaner –– like white vinegar or Lime-a-Way. Wear gloves when cleaning with acid, and be sure to rinse well, since the residue can etch surfaces if left on too long.

You wash them as you see them, don't you?

Think about it: How gross is that sponge after you clean the bottom of a saucepan? Do you really want to use it to wash a barely-used glass?

Wash dishes in this order: crystal, glassware, clear glass plates, other plates, flatware, serving ware, then the greasiest serving dishes and finally pots and pans.

Just suck up all the dust, right? Wrong! A conventional vacuum can create more static, causing more harm than good. 

Keep in mind that repeatedly washing or dry-cleaning down can remove some of its natural oils and reduce loft.

You should not need to launder a comforter if you keep it covered, unless it has been saturated by a spill or an accident. The cover, however, should be washed once a week!

Do you get home from the supermarket and just toss everything in the fridge?