How to clean tile and grout: Let the product do the work for you. It’s always a good idea to test a new product on an inconspicuous spot to ensure that it doesn’t cause discoloration. The instructions will tell you how best to apply a product, and for how long to let it work before wiping or scrubbing away. Many products designed for cleaning the shower and/or tub, sink and toilet do much of the work for you, provided you let them. Give the exterior a once-over with all-purpose cleaner using tools like cotton swabs or an old toothbrush to get into tight corners and other hard-to-reach spots. For deeper cleaning, take off all removable parts and wash it by hand or in the dishwasher. How to clean small appliances: The exterior of small appliances like toasters, coffeemakers and blenders that sit out on countertops should be wiped frequently using all-purpose cleaners to prevent the buildup of splatters and greasy film from cooking. When cleaning stainless steel, scrub with the grain, rather than in a circular motion, to avoid scratching, and use a gentle touch, allowing the product, rather than force, to do the bulk of the cleaning work.
A Dobie Pad, which is a nonscratch scrubbing sponge, combined with a gentle powder cleanser will make short work of stubborn messes. How to clean a stovetop: Something tough will be required to scour away baked-on splatters and greasy film. Stovetops in particular benefit from this type of regular, quick cleaning, as splatters, drips and grease become baked on when left too long. Wipe your counter and stovetops with an all-purpose cleaner after use.
The Dishwasher Debate: While there isn’t an absolutely correct way to load a dishwasher (and what would couples bicker over if such a directive were carved in stone?), there is one universal rule: It is much easier to load from back to front. Dump the solution and wash the pot with hot, soapy water. When the water is cool enough to touch, head in with your sponge and use the baking soda solution to scrub away the scorch. How to Clean a Burned Pot: To clean a badly scorched pot without scrubbing, cover the burned area with a liberal amount of baking soda and pour in enough boiling water to fill the pot a third to halfway up. If you know the task will take just minutes to complete, it will be less difficult to convince yourself to take care of those dishes now. If you’re a person who tends to let dishes pile up in the sink to avoid washing them, try this simple trick to put the effort involved into perspective: For a few days, as you think of it, set a timer before you begin washing the dishes, and make note of how long it took to clean up.