Using the right products is necessary in order to complete cleaning duties around the home effectively and efficiently. This lessens the overall time it takes to clean, and cleaning is usually accomplished with less effort. It’s also important to use the right cleaning products so surfaces do not become damaged.
It’s very important to read labels on cleaning products. They generally list product uses as well as precautions and solutions. Following the directions will help you decide the proper uses for your household cleaning products. If you are unsure about using a product on a particular surface, name-brand items usually list toll-free numbers in which to call the company for assistance. Trained professionals can usually answer any questions you have about the product, and they can provide you with helpful tips and ideas on using them to their fullest potential. They may even send you cents-off manufacturer coupons and samples of other products they manufacture.
If you want to remove rust from a non-porous surface, chances are you won’t be able to remove it with basic cleanser. The cleanser must contain chemicals that effectively remove rust. The most commonly used chemical for rust removal is oxalic acid.
Rust stains on porous surfaces such as material will actually become intensified if the wrong cleaning products are used. Straight bleach and cleaning products containing bleach will worsen rust stains. The stains will become darker and much more apparent. If you have well water, do not use bleach to clean and brighten white material. Instead, use a product especially for material that contains oxalic acid. It will remove and prevent rust stains from permanently discoloring and ruining clothing and other material.
If your water is basically soft, and if mineral deposits are not a problem, you can use mild non-abrasive products to clean kitchen and bathroom fixtures. If you clean on a regular basis, these products will generally remove soap scum and grime.
If your water is hard, you will need something to keep mineral deposits under control. Calcium, rust, and lime deposits can build up very quickly. Go over bathroom and kitchen fixtures at least once a week to prevent permanent damage from mineral build-up. Rinse fixtures thoroughly to prevent discoloration and pitting caused by strong mineral-removing chemicals.
Products labeled as being “all-purpose” cleaners are not necessarily good for every surface. This is why reading the entire label is very important. Products containing strong chemicals such as ammonia may permanently damage laminates and other plastic surfaces. Strong cleaners are not always necessary to get the job done. The best solution for shiny plastic surfaces is mild soap and warm water. Allowing the surface to remain wet for several minutes before wiping is usually enough to loosen stubborn grease and food particles. Dry the clean surface with a soft towel, and it will sparkle and shine like it did when it was new.
Appliances and fixtures can actually be cleaned too much. Using strong commercial cleaners day after day and week after week is damaging. Sometimes the best cleaners are natural cleaners such as baking soda and vinegar. These natural products are cheap and effective. Use them wherever possible to save money as well as prevent chemical damage to the surfaces of appliances, fixtures, and other items in and around your home.
When in doubt, avoid using commercial cleaners. Instead, contact the maker of the item in question. They will be able to advise you on proper cleaning and maintenance of their product. It’s better to be safe and take the time to find out which cleaner is best, rather than hastily use a product that could very cause permanent damage.
