69 household cleaning tips every housewife should know

 

　　Households often struggle with dealing with used frying oil. Dumping it directly down the sink raises concerns about water pollution, while pouring it into a plastic bag raises concerns about leaks.

　　In fact, you can use an empty milk carton, stuff it with newspaper, and then pour the waste oil in. Since the newspaper will absorb the oil, and the inside of the milk carton has been processed to prevent the liquid from leaking out, you can safely throw it in the trash.

　　2. Newspaper helps keep trash cans clean

　　Kitchen trash cans are often filled with wet garbage. If the garbage bag has a hole, it will not only drip all over the trash can, but also fill the trash can with a foul smell.

　　Before putting the garbage bag in, you can put a few layers of thick newspapers at the bottom of the trash can. This can not only absorb water and keep the inside of the can dry, but also prevent the trash can from emitting bad odors.

　　3. Do not discard the desiccant at will

　　Desiccant is a common item in our daily lives. Its main component is quicklime. Before use, it is in granular form. After absorbing moisture from the air, it slowly turns into powdered slaked lime. Slaked lime has a characteristic that when it absorbs moisture rapidly, it will generate high heat.

　　Therefore, if desiccant is accidentally placed in the same bag with wet trash when discarding, the moisture contained in it can pose a risk. Therefore, it's best to avoid discarding large quantities of desiccant at once or completely isolate it from moisture. If large quantities must be discarded, they must be sealed in plastic bags before being placed in the trash.

　　4. Treatment methods for hazardous waste

　　Broken glass, old kitchen knives, needles, and sharp bamboo chopsticks from barbecues are common hazardous waste. Before disposal, they need to be processed and packaged . Broken glass and old kitchen knives can be wrapped in newspaper and placed in an empty cardboard box. Mark the box with the word "hazard" in marker. Sharp bamboo chopsticks should be broken off and then wrapped in newspaper or placed in an empty can and sealed. This also applies to needles.

　　5. Treatment methods for garbage odor

　　Unpleasant odors are the biggest problem with garbage. If you want to trace the source, it's often food, especially fresh produce. Therefore, when cooking these foods, pay special attention to moisture management.

　　Prepare a stack of thick newspapers in advance, and then put the bone residue, fish bones, etc. to be discarded on the newspapers. This can not only absorb the fishy blood, but also prevent the danger of being pricked by sharp thorns.

　　When peeling fruit or picking vegetable leaves, if you can make good use of the water absorbency of newspaper, put the peels and residues directly on the newspaper and then roll them up, it will be convenient, clean and avoid breeding mosquitoes and flies.

　　Fresh produce, fruit peels and other food scraps at home should be placed together as much as possible to avoid mixing with other non-perishable paper waste. It is also best to cover them or keep the bags tightly sealed at all times to prevent odors from spreading.

　　Before putting the garbage bag into the trash can, you might as well put a thick layer of newspaper at the bottom of the trash can. When the juice of the vegetable residue leaks out, it will be quickly absorbed and there will be no residual juice accumulated. Naturally, the trash can will not easily have a fishy smell.

　　6. Remove dust from the bed

　　Beds often collect dust, and brushing them will cause it to fly everywhere, moving the dust everywhere. This not only pollutes the indoor air but is also harmful to human health. Wash and dry an old acrylic garment. When you need to remove dust, quickly wipe it across the bed in one direction. The strong static electricity generated will attract the dust, just like a dry cleaning, with excellent results and saving time and effort. After several uses, wash and dry it, then reuse it economically.

　　7. Remove dust from velvet sofas

　　If you do it indoors, you can soak a towel or sofa cover, wring it out, spread it on the sofa, and then gently whip it with a wooden stick. The dust will be adsorbed on the wet towel or sofa cover.

　　If it doesn't work once, you can wash the towel or sofa cover and beat it repeatedly. Alternatively, you can move the sofa outdoors and gently tap the velvet surface with a wooden stick to remove the dust on the sofa and let the wind blow it away.

　　8. Tips for cleaning duvet covers

　　Washing a quilt cover is laborious. Soak it thoroughly in water, pour out the remaining water, smear it with soap ( apply more soap to heavily soiled areas ) , and gently rub it a few times. Place it in a clear plastic bag, tie the bag, and leave it in the sun for three hours. Then, wash it and it will come out perfectly clean.

　　This method is only suitable for plain white duvet covers and is not suitable for washing patterned or colored duvet covers to prevent discoloration.

　　9. Tips for cleaning pillowcases

　　Because hair oil or hair dye adheres to the pillowcase as the head contacts the pillow, it can cause noticeable greasy stains. To wash the pillowcase, add an appropriate amount of detergent to warm or hot water, place the pillowcase in the water, and soak for 2 to 3 hours to remove all dirt.

　　10. Tips for cleaning velvet curtains

　　First wash away the dust with clean water, squeeze out the water, put it into a warm detergent solution, and gently rub it. You can also put it in the washing machine and wash it with a weak wash mode for no more than 3 minutes.

　　Rinse with clean water, place the fabric with the reverse side facing outward in a cool place. After drying, lay it flat on the floor, cover it with a damp and well-wrung cloth, and gently iron it with an iron. Remove the damp cloth immediately after ironing and use a soft brush to smooth the velvet while it is still hot to restore the velvet surface.

　　11. Tips for cleaning gauze curtains

　　1. Milk washing method

　　When washing gauze curtains, add a little milk to the detergent solution, and the washed gauze curtains will be like new.

　　2. Baking soda water soaking method

　　First remove the floating dust, then put it into warm water with detergent and rub it slowly. After washing, rinse it with clean water several times. Finally, soak the gauze curtains in water with 500 grams of baking soda and rinse them. This can keep the gauze curtains white.

　　3. Tea-dyed curtain method

　　If the gauze curtains have turned yellow and are difficult to clean, you can soak them in tea overnight to turn them into light brown.

　　12. Tips for removing mirror frame marks on the wall

　　1. Detergent method

　　It can be wiped with a cloth dampened with detergent.

　　2. Eraser method

　　You can use an eraser to erase it. If it cannot be erased, gently grind it off with sandpaper.

　　13. Tips for removing wall stickers

　　1. Ironing method

　　You can first cover the old paper with a wet cloth, then iron it with an iron, and the paper stuck on the wall will be easily removed.

　　2. Drying out the moisture

　　If you want to remove wallpaper, you can use a sponge dipped in water to dry the wallpaper thoroughly, then you can remove it.

　　14. Tips for removing damp smell in indoor area

　　1. Intermittent ventilation

　　When the indoor humidity is high, close the doors and windows facing the wind ( usually south ) , or only open the air vents to reduce the amount of moisture from the outside entering the room. When the weather is clear, open all the doors and windows to allow the room to be ventilated and well-lit, allowing air to circulate and accelerate the evaporation of moisture.

　　2. Quicklime absorbs moisture

　　Buy some quicklime, wrap it in newspaper, and place it under the bed, next to cabinets, tables and chairs, and around the room. This will make the air in the house drier.

　　3. Sawdust absorbs water

　　The corridors and aisles in public places are very damp, so you can sprinkle some wood chips or rice husks on them. This will absorb moisture and prevent pedestrians from slipping.

　　4. Wet storage room

　　Try not to leave raincoats, umbrellas, or washed clothes indoors that have been soaked by the rain. Also, it's best to put a mat at the door and wipe the soles of your shoes dry when you enter or leave to reduce moisture indoors.

　　15. How to clean a kitchen knife

　　After using the kitchen knife, be sure to wash it clean and wipe off the moisture to prevent it from rusting. In addition, after using and washing the kitchen knife, it is best to scald it with hot water or apply some salad oil to prevent it from rusting.

　　If the surface of the kitchen knife has rusted, you can use a cork dipped in some detergent to gently wipe it to remove the rust. Taking advantage of sunny days to expose the kitchen knife to the sun can also allow the knife to be naturally sterilized and disinfected.

　　16. How to clean a cutting board

　　According to tests, there are more than 2 million Staphylococci and more than 1 million E. coli per square centimeter of cutting board, as well as other bacteria. Cross-contamination between raw and cooked food is one of the main causes of food poisoning, so attention to cutting board hygiene cannot be ignored.

　　To ensure a clean cutting board for cooking, simply bleach it twice a month. Place a chlorine bleach solution in a large, sturdy plastic bag, place the cutting board in it, seal it tightly with a rubber band, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry to keep it clean anytime.

　　After each use, scrub the cutting board with a hard brush and clean water to remove any dirt and sawdust. If there is any fishy smell left, scrub it with detergent, then rinse it with warm water and scald it with boiling water.

　　After washing, stand it upright to dry. After using the cutting board for a period of time, you can use a kitchen knife to scrape off the sawdust on the cutting board, or use a woodworking plane to plane it to completely remove the dirt on the cutting board.

　　17. Tips for disinfecting cutting boards

　　After placing raw food, bacteria will stay in these places and multiply. When you place other food on them, the bacteria will take this opportunity to enter the human body and cause disease.

　　The solution is: after putting away raw food, wash it with detergent and then blanch it in boiling water. After each chopping of vegetables (especially after mincing meat), rinse it with clean water, preferably scraping off any food residue on the surface. After cleaning, wipe it dry with a cloth.

　　After a week of use, it is best to wash it with boiling water, then soak it in concentrated salt water for a few hours, and then take it out to dry in the shade. This will not only kill bacteria, but also prevent the cutting board from drying out and cracking, extending its service life.

　　18. How to clean the burner

　　After a household gas stove has been used for a long time, the flame will turn red or change color when burning, and the bottom of the stove will often turn black. This is because oil and dust fall into the small holes of the stove burner.

　　At this time, you can remove the burner, brush around the small holes of the burner with an old toothbrush, then poke the small holes one by one with a thin wire, tap them on the table a few times to remove the dirt. If you have a bicycle pump, it will be better to blow at the small holes one by one.

　　If the flame of the burner is still red after cleaning, it means that the nozzle is stuck with dirt. You can remove the burner to expose the nozzle and poke it a few times with a hard plastic wire or wool. Do not use copper, iron or other metal wires to avoid fuzzing the nozzle pores and affecting the nozzle's performance. Then install the burner. If the flame is blue, it indicates that the stove is operating normally.

　　19. Cleaning the back and sides of the refrigerator

　　Dust easily accumulates on the back and sides of the refrigerator. Clean them every six months with a feather duster or vacuum cleaner. Failure to remove dust can lead to poor heat dissipation, resulting in poor cooling and wasted energy. When cleaning the back of the refrigerator, be careful not to get burned by the hot areas of the radiator or compressor.

　　Also, be careful around the back of the refrigerator to prevent cockroaches from nesting there. Never use chemicals like toluene, abrasives, brushes, or chemical wipes to clean the refrigerator, as this may damage the finish or internal components. When cleaning around electrical components, unplug the power cord and check for damage.

　　20. How to keep the refrigerator clean?

　　Cleaning the refrigerator should start from daily practice. Remove the dirt as soon as you see it. Don't wait until the dirt accumulates for a long time and becomes stubborn dirt that is difficult to clean before you think about cleaning it, because then you will have to spend some time.

　　First, neutralize alcohol and water in a ratio of 7 : 3 to form a dilute solution and pour it into a sprayer. Then, wipe the inside of the refrigerator clean while spraying. Then, use an old toothbrush to remove dirt in dead corners. As for the caulking areas of the refrigerator door that are prone to mold, they should be cleaned once every two weeks. In addition, check the refrigerator once a week to remove unnecessary items or dispose of food that is about to expire as soon as possible.

　　21. Tips for cleaning food containers

　　The bottom of the fruit and vegetable storage box is a hotbed for bacteria to grow, as vegetable scraps or rotten leaves produce a suffocating stench. If you have to pull out the entire cabinet every time to clean it, it will be very troublesome and difficult to clean.

　　You may want to use single-sided printed flyers to lay on the bottom with the blank part on the back facing up. Due to the characteristics of flyers, any dirt will be obvious at a glance. Once it gets dirty, you can replace it immediately and it can be kept clean without brushing.

　　22. Tips for cleaning rice cookers

　　The inner pot can be washed with water, but the outer surface must be wiped dry before placing it in the rice cooker. The outer shell and heating plate must not be submerged in water. The area between the heating plate and the inner pot must be kept clean and can only be cleaned with a damp cloth after disconnecting the power. Avoid dropping rice grains into the inner pot, as this can affect thermal efficiency and even damage the heating plate.

　　23. Tips for cleaning summer mats

　　The mat can easily hide invisible dust, so pay attention to the following when cleaning:

　　1. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the mat regularly, but be gentle when vacuuming to avoid damaging the mat.

　　2. Dip a rag in diluted vinegar, wring it out as much as possible, and wipe the mat. This will make the mat shiny and prevent yellowing.

　　3. If the mat is moldy, you can wipe it with a dry cloth dipped in phenol solution to remove the mold.

　　4. If the stain is yellowed by cigarette butts, you can wipe it with a cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide.

　　5. If you spill powdery items on a straw mat, sprinkle some coarse salt on it, pat the mat vigorously to mix the dirt and salt, and then vacuum it up.

　　6. After wiping, the mat should be ventilated and dried in the shade to prevent it from getting moldy.

　　7. Avoid direct sunlight on the mat to prevent fading.

　　24. Cleaning tips for synthetic fiber quilts

　　For synthetic quilts, carefully determine how to handle them and then clean them at home in their entirety ( without disassembling them ) . Prepare the cleaning solution and place it in the tub and wash it with your feet. Make sure the quilt is thoroughly cleaned and that all dirt is removed, so it's important to evenly massage every corner.

　　If dirty water remains in the tub, it will absorb dirt, so use the showerhead to flush it away. After washing, add a little softener, making sure the entire quilt is soaked in the softener. Then hang it over the edge of the tub and pat it with a brush to remove any excess water.

25. Tips for keeping blankets clean

　　The edges of blankets are particularly prone to staining, so sewing a towel along the edge will quickly clean any stains. A large sports towel is particularly practical, but if sewing a towel along is too much of a hassle, using safety pins like those used for bedding and sheets will also work.

　　26. Tips for making a hard quilt soft

　　Untie some of the threads of the hardened quilt and take out the cotton. Beat off the dust on the cotton and hang it on a bamboo pole for four days and three nights to remove moisture. The cotton absorbs dew at night and evaporates it during the day. After repeating this process over and over again, the cotton becomes fluffy and the quilt looks brand new. You will feel soft and comfortable when you sleep at night.

　　27. Common knowledge on bedding disinfection

　　The main method of disinfecting pure cotton bedding is sun exposure. Sunlight can heat and dry pure cotton bedding, and the ultraviolet rays in sunlight have a strong killing effect on bacteria.

　　The bactericidal ability of sunlight is related to the intensity of the light and the exposure time. Generally speaking, 3 to 6 hours of exposure to direct sunlight can kill most pathogenic bacteria with weak resistance, such as typhoid Salmonella, Pneumococcus, diphtheria Corynebacterium, and hemolytic Streptococcus.

　　However, for pathogens with strong resistance, such as the hepatitis virus, continuous exposure to the sun for several days is necessary to kill them. For home patients (especially those with hepatitis), bedding should be frequently removed and washed, with the cotton inside exposed to the sun for several days. Removed covers and sheets should be soaked in disinfectant, or the entire bedding can be fumigated with ethylene oxide.

　　28. Pillow cleaning tips

　　The pillow is often soaked with sweat from the head and neck, exhaled matter from the mouth and nose, or saliva.

　　Pillows can harbor pathogens, mites, dust, and other allergens. Failure to clean pillows regularly can lead to respiratory and skin infections and trigger allergic asthma. Wash and clean pillowcases frequently. The best way to disinfect and clean pillow cores is to expose them to sunlight for at least an hour.

　　29. Mattress maintenance and cleaning

　　1. Flip the mattress once a month for the first six months, and every three months thereafter. This will evenly distribute the force on the mattress and prevent some springs from prematurely tiring due to excessive use.

　　2. Vacuum your mattress several times a year to keep it clean. Air your mattress regularly to keep it fresh and comfortable for sleeping.

　　3. When the mattress is accidentally stained with dirt, it can be cleaned with soapy water. Do not use strong acid or alkaline detergents to avoid fading the mattress.

　　4. Using sheets and bedspreads not only absorbs sweat and changes the color and ambiance of the room, but most importantly, they are easy to remove and wash, ensuring a clean sleep.

　　5. Avoid sitting on the edge of the mattress frequently to prevent uneven stress on the springs, which can cause deformation. Also, avoid letting children jump on the mattress to avoid direct damage to the springs.

　　6. Rotate the mattress head to tail from time to time to increase sleeping comfort and distribute the stress more evenly.

　　7. Do not smoke or use electrical appliances in bed to avoid accidentally burning the bedding and mattress.

　　30. Seat cushion maintenance tips

　　1. The mat can be turned over for use and should be turned over once a week to evenly distribute the wear.

　　2. All covers and linings should be dry cleaned, not washed or bleached.

　　3. Avoid sitting on the mat with sweat, water stains, mud and dust on it to ensure the service life of the mat.

4. If you find any loose threads, do not tear them off by hand. Instead, use scissors to cut them neatly.

　　31. Carpet maintenance tips

　　It is best to wash frequently trampled carpets once a month to ensure their maintenance effect; carpets that are not frequently trampled can be washed once every few months, but it is best not to wash the carpet when it is obviously blackened, because the stains may have penetrated into the inner layer of the fiber, reducing the washing effect.

　　1. Dry Cleaning: Vacuum away dirt and dust, or brush with a brush. Alternatively, you can use a foam spray for a simple dry cleaning. Spray the spray evenly and allow the foam to adhere to the dirt and dust for a few moments, forming a powder. Sweep away immediately. If the carpet is stained from heavy foot traffic, wet cleaning is recommended.

　　2. Wet Cleaning: Carpets should not be wet cleaned like laundry, as moisture can easily seep into the underlay, causing mold and odor. For general stains, use " Special Effect Cleaning Cream . " Place a pea-sized amount of the cream on a slightly damp towel and rub evenly until lathering. Then wipe clean with a damp towel.

　　3. If the carpet has an odor, you can use a disinfectant cleaner; dilute it 150 times and wipe it once without rinsing with water. It has the effect of sterilization, disinfection, odor removal and cleaning.

　　4. Lint and other small debris on the carpet can be easily removed with kitchen rubber gloves. Rubber has the characteristic of absorbing small lint and debris. When cleaning the carpet, apply force in the direction of the hair. If the fibers lean in one direction, wipe in the opposite direction.

　　32. How to Remove Special Carpet Stains

　　1. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

　　Apply diluted detergent and blot dry, or apply a white vinegar and water solution ( 1 : 1 ratio of white vinegar to water ) and then blot dry.

　　2. Coffee and black tea

　　First, spray the stain with baking soda, rinse, and blot. Then, clean with a dry foam carpet cleaner.

　　3. Coffee with milk or cream

　　Spray baking soda onto the stain and clean it with a dry foam carpet cleaner. Then, use a dry cleaning agent to remove any remaining milk stains. If the stain isn't completely removed, clean it again with a carpet cleaner.

　　4. Cream, ice cream and milk

　　Apply a little detergent and wash with cold water. Then use dry cleaning agent to deal with residual grease stains, and then wash with foam detergent.

　　5. Juice

　　Use a cloth dipped in diluted neutral detergent to absorb the stain, then scrub with warm water and a little vinegar solution, or clean with carpet cleaner.

　　6. Animal and vegetable oils

　　You can wipe it with cotton dipped in high-purity gasoline.

　　7. Ink

　　For new stains, sprinkle fine salt on the stain and then use warm soapy water to brush it off. For old stains, soak it in milk for a while and then use a brush dipped in milk to brush it off.

　　33. How to remove old dirt from carpets

　　To deal with old carpet stains, first wet the area about 20 cm around the stain with water. Then, spray a special carpet detergent on the stain and slowly scrape it off with a shoe horn.

　　Finally, use a towel dampened with detergent or apply it directly to the carpet. Rub repeatedly to dissolve the dirt. Be careful with your application, as excessive force can damage the carpet. Once dry, use a nylon brush to comb the carpet neatly.

　　34. Using fine salt to remove carpet wastewater

　　To deal with dirty water on the carpet, you can sprinkle fine salt on the dirty parts of the carpet, then use a clean wet broom to sweep the salt evenly. After 10 minutes, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the salt and dust, and the carpet will be clean and shiny.

　　35. How to remove chewing gum from carpet

　　Chewing gum stuck on carpet is difficult to remove. You can put ice cubes in a plastic bag and cover the chewing gum. After about 30 minutes, when it feels hard when you press it with your hand, remove the ice cubes and brush it off with a brush.

　　For liquid chocolate stains on carpet, blot them with a dry cloth, then gently wipe them with a sponge dipped in a little baking soda, then scrub them again with a sponge dipped in clean water and let them dry completely. For dry, hard chocolate stains that have been walked on, first use a dull knife to gently scrape off the thick flakes, then wipe the remaining stains with carbon tetrachloride.

　　36. How to remove hair and lint from carpets

　　Usually, to clean carpets, you can just use a vacuum cleaner, but sometimes some small dirt is difficult to be absorbed by the vacuum cleaner, such as hair, small threads, etc.

　　You can use a brown-bristle brush to brush it back and forth, or prepare a bundle of tape, wrap the sticky part of the tape around your hand, and gently tap the carpet to effectively pick up the fiber balls, hair or particles in the carpet, which can solve the problems that a vacuum cleaner cannot do.

　　37. Tips for removing carpet mites

　　Most carpets in homes are infested with mites. These mites are extremely tiny and can reproduce at an incredible rate in moist air. They also release a large amount of substances that can cause allergies, causing nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and sore throats. Carpet mites are generally flour mites and dust mites. The specific removal methods are:

　　1. Powder cleaning method

　　Sprinkle powder on the carpet, then brush it with a brush and vacuum it. This method does not require water and can be used on the carpet quickly after cleaning, but its cleaning power is poor.

　　2. Spray cleaning method

　　Spray the detergent onto the carpet and rub it with a foam pad to absorb the stain. This method uses less water and can be used in a short time after cleaning. It is not suitable for wool carpets.

　　3. Warm and wet wiping method

　　In addition to vacuuming the carpet every day, you should also wipe it with a warm and wet towel. It is worth reminding that the bottom and back of the carpet should also be cleaned.

　　38. Rice water is good for cleaning wooden floors

　　If a wooden floor is dirty, it will look like it is covered with a layer of fog. If you try to wipe it carefully with a rag, it will not only make you tired but also not be very effective. You can use rice water or water and alcohol to mop the floor, which will be more effective and the floor will soon become shiny and bright.

　　However, be careful not to use gasoline and turpentine to clean wooden floors, as these two volatile solvents can easily damage the paint on the surface. If it is a laminate floor, do not use a mop that is too wet to prevent the floor from deforming after being damp.

　　39. Tips for cleaning wooden floors

　　Never wipe it directly with a wet mop. Use a special cleaner for wooden floors to clean it, so that the floor can maintain its original warm texture and natural color, and prevent the wood boards from drying out and cracking.

　　Note that in order to avoid excessive moisture penetrating into the inner layer of the wooden floor and causing mold and rot, you should try to wring the mop dry when using floor cleaner.

　　If the surface is not polished, it is best to test it in an inconspicuous area because it will not come into direct contact with water. After confirming that there are no problems, use it on a large area. Do not soak the wooden floor with water, and do not wash it with very hot water, as this will soften the wood and cause it to crack.

　　40. Wood floor waxing tips

　　If you want to avoid long-term wear and tear on wooden floors and keep them shiny and bright, you can apply a layer of wood floor wax maintainer after cleaning the floor.

　　However, be careful to wait until the floor is completely clean and dry before waxing, otherwise the wax layer will not fully adhere to the wooden floor, causing white spots on the floor. It is also best to use a flat sponge mop to avoid the cotton wool from the regular mop and the wax residue on the floor.

　　Waxed wooden floors do not need to be cleaned. They only need to be swept regularly and polished with wax occasionally. Using liquid wax is easier.

　　41/How to deal with mold on wooden floors

　　The best way to clean and maintain wooden floors is to wipe them with a slightly damp cloth or vacuum them. If the floors are painted, you can use a mop to remove any dirt. If you accidentally let mold grow on your floors, you can use a sander to polish the affected areas, then repaint them with a similar color finish and finish with a coat of clear lacquer.

　　But this only applies to solid wood floors. If it is other synthetic fiber floors, it is best to wipe it clean with a rag and let it air dry before applying a layer of transparent paint.

　　42/Teak Floor Cleaning Tips

　　Once teak floors are soaked in water, they will expand, crack, and warp. To clean them, simply wipe them with a damp cloth and then immediately dry them with a dry cloth. To maintain the glossiness of the floors, wax them regularly.

　　43/Tiles floor cleaning tips

　　Ceramic tiles are easy to clean and there are no taboos; however, once light-colored tiles are dirty, they will appear dirty, while dark-colored tiles will appear foggy when dirty.

　　The solution is: when light white floor tiles are contaminated, mix them into a paste with white cement, dip a cleaning ball in it and rub it, then rinse it, it will be as white as new; when cleaning dark floor tiles, wipe them with newspaper soaked in waste oil from the range hood, and their deep color will soon be revealed.

　　44/Common sense of door cleaning

　　Normally, just use a brush or vacuum cleaner's suction brush to remove dust, and dry-mop frequently. For stubborn dirt, you can use regular detergent to remove it.

　　If the door is made of special materials such as white wood or varnished, it is best not to use detergent to scrub it frequently, otherwise it will cause great damage to the door. Therefore, the simplest way to deal with it is to dry wipe it and then wax it.

　　As for metal doors, you can apply soft car wax to keep them shiny and clean. Especially the metal door handles, you can use a cloth dipped in metal cleaner or toothpaste to wipe them. After dry wiping, the metal door handles will shine golden.

　　45/Tips for cleaning wooden furniture

　　1. Scrub with rice water

　　Using thick, clean, white rice water to scrub painted furniture can make it clean and bright.

　　2. Scrub with strong tea water

　　Make a pot of strong tea, remove the residue after it cools down, and use a soft cloth dipped in tea juice to wipe the paint surface of the furniture several times. This will restore the luster of faded furniture. If there is oil stain on the surface of the furniture, use hot tea juice to remove it.

　　3. Salt water scrub

　　If the kitchen furniture becomes dirty, in addition to using some detergent, you can also wipe it with salt water to restore its original color.

　　4. Scrub with camphor oil

　　When there are white burn marks on the furniture, you can wipe them off with camphor oil.

　　5. Cleaning with sewing machine oil

　　Take a small amount of sewing machine oil and drop it on a soft cloth, wipe it repeatedly on the furniture, and then wipe it dry with a clean soft cloth. The paint surface will be bright and smooth.

　　46/How to Remove White Stains from Wooden Tables

　　When coffee or hot tea spills on a wooden table, white spots are likely to form. To remove them, sprinkle some sodium bicarbonate on the spots and wipe them with a cloth dampened with a little water.

　　47/Using milk to clean furniture is effective

　　Take a clean rag, soak it in expired milk, and then use this rag to wipe tables, cabinets and other wooden furniture. The decontamination effect is very good. Finally, wipe it again with clean water.

　　If painted furniture is stained with dust, you can wipe it with gauze wrapped in wet tea leaves, or scrub it with cold tea water, which will make it smoother and brighter.

　　48/Key points for cleaning white wooden furniture

　　White wood furniture is easily soiled and damaged, so try to avoid removing the transparent resin on the surface and wipe it with a dry cloth. Chemical rags have an oily smell, and strong detergents are too strong and should not be used on white furniture.

　　To remove dirt, apply ordinary detergent to a cloth and rub. If yellow spots appear on white furniture, whiten it with toothpaste. Be careful to use a soft cloth and avoid rubbing vigorously.

　　49/Main points for cleaning rattan furniture

　　Because rattan furniture is porous and various insects breed rampantly in spring, it should be cleaned regularly, and the cleaning should be " pervasive " . If there is dust in the seams of rattan furniture, brush it out with a brush and then use a vacuum cleaner with a brush nozzle to clean it.

　　Once finished, wipe clean with a rag. To avoid damaging rattan furniture, use a soft-bristled brush. The trick is to move the brush along the cracks. Find an unused soft brush and scrub dirt out of the cracks. Then vacuum it up. This method is particularly effective. If any paint is flaking, repaint after cleaning.

　　50/Cleaning tips for rattan chairs

　　To remove dust from rattan chairs, use a soft-bristled brush to brush from the mesh, working your way outward. If the stain is particularly severe, wipe it with detergent and then dry-rub it again. For white rattan chairs, apply a little vinegar to neutralize the detergent and prevent discoloration. Gently scrubbing the chair with a brush dipped in baking soda and water can also remove stubborn stains.

　　51/Light salt water can be used to clean rattan furniture

　　After a period of use, rattan furniture in your home will accumulate dirt on its surface, which not only affects its appearance but is also unhygienic. To restore it to its original appearance, avoid using ordinary detergents to avoid damaging the rattan. The best cleaning method is to first scrub it with light salt water and then wipe it with clean water. This not only removes dirt but also makes the rattan soft and flexible.

　　52/Metal Home Furnishing Maintenance Tips

　　Metal furniture must be placed in a dry environment, away from corrosive gases and humid places, to prevent collisions from damaging the electroplating or paint surface.

　　Normally, you only need to use a dry cloth, soft cotton cloth or paper cloth that does not generate static electricity to remove dust. For maintenance, you must choose a suitable maintenance cleaner according to the characteristics of the material.

　　Metal folding chairs and sofas covered with artificial leather should not be exposed to the sun to prevent the artificial leather from aging. If the leather surface is dirty, scrub it with detergent. Do not wet the metal parts during the scrubbing process to avoid peeling of the electroplating layer and paint.

　　If a yellowish-brown web appears on the surface of the electroplated part, it means that the electroplating protective layer has begun to degrade. In this case, it is necessary to wipe it frequently with neutral motor oil or sewing machine oil to prevent the web from expanding. It is important to note that you should not use hard objects such as knives and iron tools to scrape it, nor should you use sandpaper to polish it, otherwise the chromium and copper layers will be damaged.

　　To add a protective film to metal furniture, first wipe off the grease and rust spots on the galvanized surface, then mix the varnish with rosin water or No. 200 water-soluble gasoline, apply it to the galvanized surface, and let it dry naturally on a sunny day to form a solid paint film, maintain the original gloss, and prevent rust.

　　53/Leather furniture cleaning and maintenance tips

　　Leather furniture is suitable for most households and is easy to maintain, but it is most afraid of scratches, so be careful of naughty children at home who may scratch the surface of the sofa with pointed objects or toys; if you have cats or dogs at home, you should also pay attention to the sharp claws of the small animals to avoid scratching the leather surface.

　　Different leathers require slightly different treatment methods, so it's best to ask the leather merchant about the type and instructions for maintaining the leather. Basically, just keep it clean regularly with a dusting cloth or soft cloth. If it gets dirty, immediately blot it with a paper towel and then clean it with the manufacturer's specified detergent.

　　Regularly apply a special maintenance oil (or liquid) to the surface with a soft cloth, applying small amounts repeatedly. Once dry, buff with a dry, soft cloth. Leather, like human skin, is full of pores and develops a natural luster through touch and aging. When applying maintenance oil (or liquid), remember to apply a thin layer to avoid clogging the pores and having a counterproductive effect.

　　54/Cleaning tips for fabric furniture

　　To clean and maintain fabric furniture, you first need to understand the characteristics of the fabric. Before cleaning, check the type of fabric. Generally speaking, decorative items like gauze curtains and silk tassels should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to prevent deformation.

　　As for flannel and blackout fabrics, it's best to have them dry-cleaned to keep the fabric in good condition. If you want to clean fabric furniture at home, spray it directly with fabric spot remover. Once the foam turns yellow, wipe it off with a sponge dipped in water.

　　55/Cleaning tips for fabric sofas

　　For fabric sofas, wet mopping may leave stains, so use a vacuum cleaner to remove the surface dust. For plush sofas, spray a commercially available carpet cleaner and then vacuum it to easily remove the dust.

　　Even so, if there is still hair, pet hair, and dust, use your hands to draw circles to gather the garbage together, so that it is easier to remove. Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle to carefully vacuum the gaps between the armrests and the seat where dust tends to accumulate and is difficult to remove.

　　For sofas made of plush fabrics, you can brush them with a brush dipped in a little diluted alcohol, and then blow-dry them with a hair dryer. In case of juice stains, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with water, and then wipe it with a cloth, the stains will fade.

　　56/Maintenance tips for ordinary sofas

　　Whether it is a fabric sofa or a leather sofa, it should be avoided from direct sunlight, because ultraviolet rays will cause the sofa to lose its elasticity, become brittle or fade; avoid sitting in the same position on the sofa frequently, you can try changing seats or changing the position of the cushions to maintain a balanced lifespan of the sofa; clean it regularly with a feather duster, and use a vacuum cleaner to clean the surface of the sofa every one or two months.

　　If dirt gets on it, clean it immediately to avoid leaving it untreated for too long. When the rainy season arrives and the humidity is high, you can stuff several sheets of newspaper under the sofa and change them at least once a week to keep it dry and prevent mold from growing.

　　57/Maintenance tips for leather sofas

　　1. Excessively dry or humid air will accelerate the aging of leather, so ensure that the room is well ventilated.

　　2. Direct sunlight on leather will cause the colored leather surface to fade, while air conditioning will make the leather surface hard. Therefore, leather sofas should not be placed in places where they are exposed to direct sunlight or where they are directly blown by air conditioning.

　　3. In the summer, people sweat a lot, and the pores of the leather will absorb the sweat. Coupled with the high temperature and humidity in summer, the organic matter in the sweat will react chemically with the leather, producing an unpleasant odor. To deal with this, wipe it frequently with a dry cloth.

　　4. Do not use alkaline cleaning liquid when cleaning the sofa, because the leather is treated with acid during the leather making process, and alkaline will reduce the softness of the leather, and wrinkles and cracks will occur after long-term use.

　　58/Cleaning tips for velvet sofas

　　Dust easily settles on velvet sofas. If cleaning a velvet sofa indoors, soak a large, clean towel in water diluted with vinegar ( 1 tablespoon of vinegar per liter of water ). Wet the towel, wring it out, and lay it on the sofa. Gently tap it with a wooden stick. The dust will be absorbed by the damp towel. If it doesn't work the first time, wash the towel and tap it again.

　　Alternatively, you can move the sofa outdoors, gently tap the velvet surface with a wooden stick to remove the dust on the sofa, and let the wind blow it away.

　　Note: If you use a vacuum cleaner, small broom or brush to remove dust, it will easily cause the pile to fall off. It is best to wipe along the fur with a soft cloth and wipe the oily areas with gasoline.

　　59/How to clean a lampshade that cannot be washed

For lampshades that cannot be washed, such as those made of cloth, paper, or wrinkled cloth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the lampshade. Alternatively, use a synthetic duster to remove dust. If you're worried about dirt, wipe it with a clean cloth soaked in alcohol.

60/Lighting cleaning tips

　　Dust on lamps can reduce indoor brightness by 20 % to 30 %, so be sure to frequently dust them with a feather duster. Lamps with water-safe surfaces can be cleaned three to four times a year using a diluted, specialized cleaning agent, followed by a wet and dry wipe .

　　Don't forget to turn off the power before cleaning. Dry wiping generates static electricity and attracts dust, so it's best to avoid it. Wipe fluorescent tubes and light bulbs with a well-wrung cloth soaked in detergent, avoiding the metal parts. Once the cloth is completely dry, install it and turn it back on. Ordinary light bulbs can be cleaned with salt water.

　　61/Cleaning tips for porcelain bathtubs

　　The porcelain bathtub can be wiped with a sponge or towel dipped in detergent or laundry detergent solution. After wiping off the grease and dirt, flush it again.

　　If the dirt is difficult to remove, dilute 50 times the amount of caustic soda with hot water, dip a cloth in it and wipe it. Wear gloves when using it. Then use a glass bottle filled with safe bleach, pour it in and soak it for a while, then rinse it with water.

　　If it is a fine crack in the tile, you can scrub it with a brush and then rinse it with water. It should be noted that using detergent powder to scrub the bathtub will scratch the porcelain surface, making the bathtub lose its luster and making dirt easier to accumulate.

　　62/Enamel bathtub cleaning tips

　　If it is a resin or enamel bathtub, do not let the detergent stay on the surface for too long, otherwise it will easily cause stains. Also, please note that enamel bathtubs should avoid using strong alkaline or strong acid detergents, and it is best to use a neutral detergent.

　　If there are scratches on the enamel bathtub, mold is likely to form in the scratched areas. You may want to use sandpaper to gently wipe off the dirt, wipe off the moisture, and then apply clear nail polish.

　　63/Cleaning tips for wooden bathtubs

　　To clean a wooden bathtub, you usually just need to gently scrub it with a bristle brush. If it is heavily dirty, you can dip the brush in a bathroom-specific acidic cleaner and scrub it vigorously, then rinse it with clean water or use a shower head.

　　64/Taboo for cleaning the bathtub

　　Because bathtubs are easily damaged, they should generally be cleaned with a soft sponge. If bathroom detergent doesn't get it clean enough, use a sponge dipped in scouring powder and gently scrub in circular motions.

　　When cleaning a bathtub, never use abrasive sandpaper, as this will wear away the surface and allow dirt to accumulate more easily. Do not use toilet cleaners or bleach to clean bathtubs and shower fixtures, as this will damage the surface.

　　Do not clean items like Venetian blinds in the bathtub, and do not use a scouring pad. Also, do not use acidic water ( strong acid ) to soak the bathtub, as this will roughen the surface and lose its luster.

　　In addition, you can regularly apply a paste polishing agent with a soft cloth and then gently wipe it with a dry cloth to restore the bathtub to its smooth and bright state.

　　65/How to clean a lightly soiled toilet

　　For a toilet that is not too dirty, you can lay sheets of toilet paper on the inner wall of the toilet, then spray it with detergent or leftover cola, let it sit for an hour, then rinse it with water, and finally scrub it gently with a brush. This method not only does not require much scrubbing, but also has excellent cleaning effects.

　　66/Mirror dust removal techniques

　　Mirrors often become murky and dirty due to dust, making them difficult to clean simply by wiping with a cloth. The best way to clean them is to wipe the mirror surface with newspaper. This not only removes dust but also saves time and effort, killing two birds with one stone.

　　67/Tips for restoring the luster of gold plating

　　Gold-plated frames and mirror frames will lose their luster and slightly discolor after being used for a long time. You can use a cloth dipped in beer to clean them, and the luster of the gold-plated items will be restored.

　　68/Handling tips for wooden bathroom products

　　While wooden bathroom fixtures offer a unique charm, they require careful attention to these delicate guests. While wooden cabinets and shelves are moisture-resistant, they cannot withstand direct or prolonged exposure to moisture. Before choosing, consider waterproofing measures. Separating wet and dry areas in the bathroom and providing good ventilation are essential.

　　In addition, you should develop the habit of wiping with a dry cloth regularly, especially dirty areas, which can be wiped lightly with a slightly damp cloth. Never scrub directly with water.

　　69/How to store books

　　Since books stored for a long time in a humid environment often become moldy and infested with termites, books that have been read by many people are often contaminated with a large number of microorganisms, even highly pathogenic microorganisms such as hepatitis B virus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

　　Therefore, books that have been stored for a long time or used by many people should be disinfected. The following methods can be used to disinfect books:

　　1. Sun exposure method

　　Exposure of books to sunlight for more than 8 hours can kill most microorganisms and also most bookworms. During the exposure process, books should be turned frequently.

　　2. Ozone disinfection

　　Use a household ozone disinfection cabinet for disinfection. Place the books in the disinfection cabinet, turn on the power, and disinfect for more than 1 hour.

　　3. Ultraviolet disinfection

　　Use a portable high-efficiency ultraviolet lamp for disinfection. Irradiate at close range, turn each page over, and irradiate for more than 30 seconds per unit area.

　　If you have a hard, well-sealed container at home, you can also use formaldehyde ( formalin ) fumigation disinfection. Pour the formaldehyde into a porcelain bowl and place it at the bottom of the container. Place the books on the top of the container. Do not tie the books tightly to facilitate the formaldehyde to penetrate into the books.

　　The dosage is 10 ml of formaldehyde per liter of volume. After sealing the container, place it at room temperature of approximately 20 °C for 24 hours. If conditions permit, the formaldehyde can be heated to enhance the effect.

　　After disinfection, the books should be taken out and aired to remove any residual formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is corrosive and toxic, and has a strong pungent odor. Safety precautions must be taken when using it, and any residual formaldehyde must be thoroughly removed.