The Beauty of the Dryer SheetDryer sheets are relatively cheap items (think bargain stores and generic boxes) which can be used in a variety of ways. Stock up when you find a great bargain on these scented, or unscented, boxes of versatile sheets.
How to Remove Tree Sap from Just About...Spring and late summer are the prime seasons for sticky, gooey, tree sap. The stuff seems to ooze onto everything with ease. Getting it off, however, can be a whole different matter. Here are some sure fire methods for removing tree sap from just about anything.
Make Your Own Cleaning ProductsCleaning products are easy to make at home, and manufacturers charge exorbitant prices for basic ingredients. On cleaning day whip up a batch of homemade cleaners and enjoy a healthy, clean home and a fat wallet.
All-Purpose Cleaner RecipesWhen you make your own cleaning products, you avoid exposing yourself and your family to hundreds of harsh chemicals. You also protect the environment, and save money, too!
How to Clean Artists' BrushesQuality artists' paint brushes are an investment. It is important to wash them thoroughly at the end of every studio session or they can become permanently damaged. A proper cleaning will help maintain the shape of the tip, and extend the life of the ferrule and hairs as long as possible.
Laundry Soap OverloadIt's laundry day, and the clothes are separated, the newest energy efficient washer is on, and the water temperature is set to cold. It's a financially efficient laundry load, right?
Homemade Dishwasher DetergentThis is like Cascade and Sun Light. This homemade natural formula will safely cut through grease and sanitize your dishes as well.
My Frugal Life: Cleaning for LessI have always been one of those people that cannot manage money, I would get it and spend it as fast as I could. Being a single mom with five kids and running a licensed day care at home, I learned a lot of things!
Keep Your Home Clean and GreenAlthough house dust is comprised of harmless particles of natural materials, it can also be contaminated by a wide variety of pollutants. Here are some tips for keeping your home as dust-free and healthy as possible.
Tips for Cleaning FloorsWhen I wash my floors, I fill a bucket with clean water for rinsing my microfiber mop. In a spray bottle, I add a cleaning mixture. I spray the floor and damp mop.
Polishing Metal: Trash To TreasureAfter scouring flea markets and yard sales, I've found some fabulous treasures. Metals are often unrealized treasures. Tarnished silver and brass look drab and worthless, but there's treasure to be found under there. Avoid the expensive store-bought polishes and create your own.
My Cleaning Made SimpleInstead of keeping specific cleaning things for specific jobs, I have learned to "generalize" my supplies. So now, I keep on hand the following things for cleaning any room in the house.
Organizing Housework for the New YearLooking back on last year and housework. Don't you wish you could make a new plan to keep things organized and the washing caught up? Trust me, it is possible! I'd like to suggest a few tips to frustrated and overwhelmed homemakers that I've used for many years.
Kitchen Cleaning TipsThe kitchen is a special challenge because of the variety of cleaning needs. Grease can be absorbed while still fresh by throwing a bit of cornstarch or baking soda right on the grease then wiping away when cleaning the rest of the kitchen.
Time for Spring CleaningSpring is here and it's time for spring cleaning. Nature does it with spring storms that clear dead branches, and her animals clear their winter bedding from their dens as the days get longer.
Step By Step Spring Cleaning"Spring Cleaning" conjures up a mental picture of a warm, sunny day spent airing out bedrooms, washing windows, and thoroughly vacuuming carpets. It signals the passing of winter gray outside and the freshness of a spring transformation inside your heart and home.
Saving Money on Laundry SoapIt got really expensive buying good laundry soap for my clothes and the dogs' blankets. I now use my favorite laundry detergent for my linens and clothes.
Spring Cleaning at its FinestThe mood to clean up and refresh seems to be an annual idea. Perhaps it's the freshness of the outdoors, the signs of new life, or just the need to make changes after months of being cooped indoors.
Saving Money on Dryer SheetsDip a washcloth in liquid fabric softener, then hang it on a towel rack until dry. When you dry clothes, pop this washcloth in with the load. It can be reused a couple dozen times, then repeat the procedure. A bottle of liquid softener will last almost forever!
Stain Removal Guide - Out Spot Out!How many times have you found a stain, whether it be on your favorite shirt or on your brand new carpet or on your favorite easy chair, and wondered "How am I going to get this out?" Well, I have put together a chart that you will be able to print out and laminate and put next to your washer for the next time you need instructions.
Preventing MildewKeep closets, dresser drawers, basements--any place where mildew is likely to grow--as clean as possible. Soil on dirty articles can supply enough food for mildew to start growing when moisture and temperature are right. Greasy films, such as those that form on kitchen walls, also contain many nutrients for mildew-causing molds.
Cleaning Carpets After A FireWet carpets should be quickly separated from padding to prevent padding dyes from wicking up and causing permanent stains. A professional would next use a water-lift vacuum, but a good substitute is to provide good air circulation as an aid to speedy drying.
Cleaning Flood-Soiled CarpetsIt is very important to dry rugs and carpets as soon as possible to prevent mildew, a spreading gray-white mold that stains and rots fabrics. Pull up waterlogged rugs immediately to prevent further damage to the floor.
Hand Stripping FurnitureDirections for HAND Stripping.
Work with plenty of ventilation, safety goggles or glases, and skin protection. Stay out of the direct sun and stay protected from wind or strong drafts if working outside.
Caring for Suede and Leather FootwearSuede footwear is expensive and difficult to care for. Suede is one of the few materials which cannot be cleaned successfully with water.
Basic Cleaning EquipmentWe have many recipes in this book for make-at-home cleaners, but equipment is also important. What is basic cleaning equipment, what is necessary to buy and what can you do without? What are the replacements for common cleaning equipment?
