Clean Everything

Turn “Oops” Into Spotless


 

Even the neatest, most organized home can have germs lurking about, and you need to clean everything properly to help prevent getting a sickness you never saw coming.

There are certain areas that are especially vulnerable to looking clean, but actually are infested with germs and bacteria.

Sink drains can be extremely infected, and should be regularly sprayed or cleaned with an antibacterial cleaner. Regular household bleach can also be used, but be careful not to spill it on clothing or cleaning rags or sponges.

Speaking of rags and sponges, those and other cleaning implements can become infected with germs if they are not washed thoroughly with hot, soapy water, then rinsed completely after using.

You can make double use of keeping everything clean by using the soapy rag to clean counters, then rinse with hot water after using. These rags should be placed in the washer frequently, and sponges and brushes can be run through the dishwasher.

One size does not fit all.

There is not one product that can clean everything, but some come pretty close.

If you understand the chemical and physical nature of various stains and materials that need cleaning, you can make smart choices of what type of cleaners to start with.

In general, “like cleans like.” What that means is that oily or greasy substances which are organic in nature can often be cleaned by an organic type of solvent. For instance, an oil-based paint can be cleaned by gasoline or other organically based product.

Similarly, an inorganic solvent such as vinegar (acetic acid) can frequently be use to clean things such as tarnish on metals. Baking soda can be used in many situations ranging from cleansing a sink to brushing your teeth.