One Quick Tip: Cleaning Hard Surfaces

Dear Lissy,

Spring cleaning time is here.  It's tempting to use elbow grease, but that's counterproductive.

Let the cleaner do the work!

1.  Remove any loose debris with a brush, rag, or vacuum attachment.
2.  Saturate the item with an appropriate cleaner. 
   
3. Let stand 3-5 minutes.  The cleaner will do the work chemically so that you don't have to use elbow grease.
4. Use a nylon scrubby, toothbrush, or nylon scraper to remove any stuck on areas.  Use a deck brush on non-wood floors.
5. Rinse well.
6. Wipe dry.   
7. Restore finish protectors if desired.

 This method works equally well to clean a trash can or the pancake batter spattered kitchen counter.  I've done baking dishes this way since I was a newlywed.  I draw a sink of hot, soapy water and drop each dish, cup, or utensil into the water as soon as I'm done using it.  More often than not I can simply rinse in hot water and place on the drainboard without even using the sponge.

Don't use this method on:

• Fabric or carpets
• Wood
• Electronics
• Appliances
• Vintage or delicate glass and china
• Delicate stone surfaces like marble

Happy cleaning, my little energizer bunny!
Momma