How to disinfect your home to stay comfy and safe during lockdown

Your home is your safe space, especially in lockdown, so let's make sure it stays that way!

How to disinfect your home to stay comfy and safe during lockdown

So there’s this pesky virus floating around, and it’s the reason why we’re stuck inside. Since we are confined to our homes, multiple games of Uno, the darkest corners of Netflix, and the same damn pair of sweatpants every day, it’s important to learn how to disinfect the right way. To help, we’ve turned to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because, as their name suggests, they know a thing or two about disease prevention!

The good news is, it’s pretty simple. A standard household soap or detergent reduces the number of germs on a surface and decreases the risk of infection. This alone can be enough to remove most virus particles in the home.

Disinfecting your home is a crucial way to reduce transmission of COVID-19. Read on to find out how to keep your space sparkling clean and virus-free!

When and how to disinfect homes the right way

  • High-touch surfaces (doorknobs, tables, handles, light switches, and countertops) should be cleaned daily and after you have visitors (when that is allowed again).
  • Other surfaces should be cleaned when they are visibly dirty or more frequently if you have high-risk family members.
  • Clean with a suitable product for each surface, and always follow the label instructions. 

Reducing the contamination of surfaces

Limiting the contamination of surfaces in your home from airborne particles or contaminated hands is also a good idea. This can lessen the amount of cleaning you have to do whilst also ensuring things are as safe as possible. Consider these tips:

  • Ask visitors to wear masks.
  • Isolate people who may be ill.
  • Wash your hands regularly, especially when coming home from outside activities.
man washing his hands thoroughly
Source: Sean Horsburgh via Unsplash

How to disinfect your home safely

It is important to disinfect your home regularly because it kills any remaining germs that may be hanging out on surfaces while also reducing the spread of germs. Follow these steps to disinfect your home, and always remember to keep disinfectants out of the reach of children:

  1. Read the directions on the label.
  2. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, glasses, or goggles.
  3. Start with visibly dirty surfaces and opt for household cleaners containing soap or detergent before disinfecting (some disinfectant products have a cleaning agent – the label will verify).
  4. Keep the surface wet with disinfectant for whatever period the label recommends.
  5. Always make sure you have some ventilation while using disinfectants. Open doors and windows or use fans to improve airflow.
  6. Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after disinfecting.

How to use chemical disinfectants safely

  • The directions on the label are important. Follow these carefully to ensure you are practising safe and effective cleaning methods.
  • Wear PPEs, especially if the directions on the product label recommend it.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation. 
  • Extra disinfectant doesn’t mean you are extra clean. Stick to the amount recommended on the label.
  • If you need to dilute the water, stick to room temperature (unless the label says otherwise); germs aren’t like the Wicked Witch of the West, so boiling water isn’t always effective.
  • If you are diluting cleaning or disinfectant solutions and putting them in a DIY container, make sure you label them. We don’t want anyone thinking it’s your freshly squeezed orange juice by mistake!
  • Store chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
  • Never mix chemicals to try and create your own super chemical. It doesn’t work and is very unsafe.
  • Do not eat, drink, breathe, or inject disinfection products, as this will cause serious harm.
  • Your pets are probably particularly filthy as we (and they!) know mud is fun BUT you must never try and clean them with surface cleaning or disinfection products. To be clear, the dog is not a table.
  • People with asthma may have it triggered by specific cleaning and disinfection products. You can learn about reducing your chance of an asthma attack while disinfecting here.

How to disinfect home surfaces and gadgets

Various areas of the home and certain gadgets require different disinfecting processes. For example, the method for how to disinfect iPads is different to how to disinfect sofas. Here are some of the key ones:

Soft surfaces (carpet, rugs, and drapes)

  • Clean with soap and water or with cleaners specifically made for these surfaces.
  • Launder whichever items are possible with the warmest appropriate water setting (ensure they dry completely before popping them back to their spot).
  • Disinfect if needed.
  • Vacuum regularly.

Laundry items

  • Use the warmest setting allowed.
  • Dry all items completely.
  • Clean the clothes hamper as well.
  • Wash your hands after touching dirty laundry.

Electronic items

  • Consider using a wipeable cover on any electronic items (phones, tablets, touchscreens, remotes, keyboards) to make cleaning easier.
  • Always check the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to cleaning electronic devices.
  • Be aware that many cleaning products for electronic items contain alcohol which dries quickly.
cleaning work table
Source: Towfiqu barbhuiya via Unsplash

How to disinfect your iPhone or iPad

Your iPhone or iPad (or other similar devices) are handled regularly, so it is important to clean them regularly (you’ll need some lint-free cloths). 

  1. Power down the device.
  2. Wipe with a dry lint-free cloth.
  3. Avoid any liquids or moisture getting into the openings.
  4. Avoid compressed air or incorrect cleaning products.
  5. Use specific electronic disinfectant products and follow the steps on the packaging.
  6. Allow the device to dry properly before using (this will be quick).

Frequently asked questions

What is the best household disinfectant for surfaces during COVID-19?

Standard household cleaning and disinfection products will effectively eradicate the virus from surfaces. Cleaning and disinfecting households during COVID-19 involves surface virucidal disinfectants that include 0.05% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) and other cleaning products that feature ethanol (at least 70%).

What is the recommended bleach concentration to disinfect surfaces from COVID-19 in non-healthcare settings?

In non-healthcare settings, sodium hypochlorite (bleach/chlorine) can be used at a concentration of 0.1% (1 part of 5% strength household bleach with 49 parts water). Alcohol at 70-90% is also effective for surface disinfection.

Is fumigation effective against COVID-19?

In indoor spaces, the routine application of disinfectants to surfaces by spraying or fumigation (misting) is not recommended to combat COVID- 19.

How do you properly wash your hands to avoid getting COVID-19?

It is important to wash your hands often and thoroughly using soap and water for roughly 20 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitiser is also effective if your hands are not visibly dirty. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth if your hands are unwashed. If putting on or taking off gloves and masks, it is essential to wash your hands.

A cleaner lockdown is a more pleasant lockdown

While lockdowns are about keeping us safe in our homes and away from the virus, you must ensure your home itself is also safe. The instructions above are simple and a great way to fill all this extra time at home!

If allowed based on your state’s lockdown rules, plenty of Taskers are available to help with cleaning around the home. You can also get other forms of assistance during this trying time with grocery delivery and fresh food delivery.

Make sure to check the lockdown restrictions in your state or area before booking home or mobile services.

If you are reading this article because cleaning has become your new lockdown hobby, we have some more helpful reading for you! One of the trickier places to clean is the oven, so learn the best way to get in there for a clean with this helpful article.

Stay safe during lockdown and keep a clean home so we can all do our part and say “bye, Felicia” to this virus once and for all!

Make them shine: How to clean coins without losing their value

If there's one thing that definitely needs cleaning, it’s coins. Read on to learn how to clean coins the right way and maintain the quality of your coin collection.

Make them shine: How to clean coins without losing their value

We’ve all heard about dirty money. While the saying isn’t always meant literally, there are situations where it most certainly could and should be. Learning how to clean coins is a handy skill for collectors who happen upon rare pieces that, when cleaned, can be worth a lot more than the number etched into them!

In this article, we’ll explore different ways how to clean old pennies without devaluing them. You’ll learn how to keep the unique colour of your coin collection, learn about homemade cleaning solutions, and explore the do’s and don’ts of coin cleaning.

But first, let’s address a question that may be on your mind: Do you really need to clean your coins?

Should you even bother cleaning your coins?

It’s important to note that many professional cleaners recommend that you simply do not clean old coins that may hold some value.

Generally speaking, an antique metal currency should be left alone to preserve it, but if there is an unbearable amount of grime and grit on the coins, and you planning on displaying them, give them a clean. The same goes for cleaning your precious silver.

Is it necessary to clean coins

Just keep in mind that cleaning or polishing rare coins will often devalue them. If you’re planning on selling them, we recommend that you get an appraisal before attempting a clean. Or book an expert to clean your rare coins and jewellery collections.

But, if you happen to be in possession of some coins that have sentimental value to you and you do not have any plans to sell them, then there’s no harm in cleaning the coins and make them a little nicer to look at.

Another reason why you may need to clean your coins is if you have normal everyday coins that are simply extremely dirty. These days, in particular, cleanliness is very important. Coins get passed around and can collect all kinds of bacteria.

So, if you are planning on keeping your coins for a while, possibly in the piggy bank or jar, give them a clean first. It’s always better to be safe than sorry by keeping everything nice and clean! Follow the steps below and make those coins shine to look their best.

How to clean coins without damaging them: A step-by-step guide

Coins can get very dirty and easily corroded. There are a number of ways to clean change using different cleaning solutions and homemade methods that will return excellent results.

Step 1: Determine your coin’s value

When it comes to cleaning old coins to preserve the coins’ patina, it is essential to determine the coin’s value. If you are worried about ruining the coin, speak to a coin dealer first for a cleaning recommendation.

Determining the value of your coins

Step 2: Prepare your homemade cleaning solution

Before you clean your coins, make sure to prepare first your cleaning agents. A simple homemade solution for older coins is as follows:

  • 4 cups of divided distilled water
  • 1 tablespoon of mild hand soap
  • 2 plastic containers
  •  A clean, soft cloth
  • An old, soft-bristled toothbrush

Step 3: Soak the coins in the soapy mixture

Fill a plastic container with two cups of the distilled water and stir in the mild hand soap. This will create a soapy mixture that will work wonders on your dirty coins.

Once the soapy mixture is ready, carefully place the coins into the container, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak in the solution for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gentle soaking will help loosen any grime or dirt clinging to the surface of the coins.

Step 4: Gently scrub and rinse the coins

Take the coins out and lay them on a clean, soft cloth. From here, use the old, soft toothbrush to gently scrub each coin, then place them in the second container with the other two cups of clean distilled water.

Step 5: Dry your coins

Let your coins sit for five to ten minutes, then allow them to dry naturally on a clean cloth.

Euro coins stacked on each other in different positions
Source: Shutterstock

How to clean corroded coins for everyday use

If you want to clean your everyday change, you can opt for a more abrasive technique. Ensure that you are dealing with coins that have no collectible value first as there is a chance that this method will damage the patina, and as a result, the value of the coin (over and above its standard value).

How to clean corroded coins

Here’s how to clean corroded coins for everyday use:

  • Prepare a solution of warm, soapy water in a watertight jar and add a small amount of sand.
  • Seal the coins in the jar with a tight lid and shake it as if you were making James Bond a cocktail.
  • Remove the coins and rinse them under warm water, then use a clean, soft cloth to dry them.
  • Refrain from rubbing the coins as the remaining sand may damage their surface.

How to clean coins with a soaking method

Another great way on how to clean coins without damaging them is by soaking them in isopropyl alcohol and salt. These two ingredients are coarse and acidic, which is an effective way to target built-up dirt.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Combine one cup of isopropyl alcohol and two tablespoons of salt in a medium bowl.
  • Mix the solution, then add the coins to the dish, allowing them to soak for at least two hours or longer if they are particularly grimey.
  • When ready, rinse the coins in distilled water. It is important that you do that and avoid the use of tap water as there are chemicals in it that will erode the coins.
  • Finish off by letting the coins dry on a clean, soft cloth, gently dabbing them and turning them over to ensure both sides dry properly.

How to clean copper coins with olive oil

Olive oil can clean your coins as the oil is an effective way to penetrate and loosen the dirt on the surface. However, be warned, this is not a quick method by any means.

If you’re already set on cleaning your coins with olive oil, here’s how:

  • Grab a plastic container, place the coin inside and cover it completely with olive oil.
  • Let it sit like this for at least a month or more, changing the olive oil if it becomes discoloured.
  • When ready, remove the coin from the bowl and clean it with soap and distilled water. You can gently scour the coin with an old toothbrush to target any last remaining grit.

Did you know? Olive oil is also an effective way to clean brass. Just dab it on a clean cloth after you have removed the tarnish and rub the oil gently over the surface to enhance the shine and reduce the risk of tarnish over time.

How to clean coins with baking soda

Another popular option that you likely have laying around the house is baking soda. This is a popular homemade metal polishing solution or option for cleaning jewellery.

Euro coins
Source: Shutterstock

Here’s how to clean your coins with baking soda:

  • Take two tablespoons of baking soda and add water until you have a thick paste.
  • Massage the pass around the coin with your fingers in small circular motions.
  • Rinse the coin with distilled water when done and dry it with a clean, soft cloth.

Key takeaway

Restore your coins with the cleaning tips we’ve mentioned above and get that spare change looking shiny and new. This is particularly important for collectible, high-grade, uncirculated coins, but it is vital that you exercise caution. The incorrect cleaning of valuable and collectible coins may reduce their value, so if in doubt, leave these to cleaning professionals.


Frequently asked questions

How do professionals clean coins?

In professional coin collecting circles, the general rule for cleaning coins is not to clean them at all. Coins that look dirty or worn out are often still more valuable than those that are newly cleaned. Coins undergo a natural process over time, known as toning. This is where oxygen or sulphur reacts with the coin’s metal causing a reflective quality known as mint lustre.

Cleaning products remove the lustre and add tiny scratches that can render the coin worthless. For these reasons, many professional coin dealers steer people away from cleaning. Play it safe and have your coins assessed and valued if you think they are worth something before cleaning them.

How do you clean coins without damaging them?

There is a simple homemade solution that is a great way to clean older coins without damaging them. The process involves distilled water, a tablespoon of mild hand soap, clean cloths, and an old, soft-bristled toothbrush.

Fill a plastic container with distilled water and stir in the mild hand soap in which you will soak the dirty coins for 10 to 15 minutes. After this, take the coins out, lay them on a clean, soft cloth, and use the old, soft toothbrush to scrub each coin gently. Place them in the second container with clean distilled water, let them sit for five to ten minutes, then allow them to dry naturally on a clean cloth.

What liquid cleans coins the best?

A simple solution of warm, soapy water in a watertight jar with a small amount of sand is a great way to clean coins that you don’t mind might get damaged. Seal the coins in the jar with a tight lid, shake it, remove the coins, and rinse them under warm water then allow to air dry.

Another effective liquid option is soaking the coins in isopropyl alcohol and salt. These two ingredients are coarse and acidic, which is an effective way to target built-up dirt. Once again, you’ll want to leave these coins to air dry on a clean cloth once you have soaked them in the mixture.

Buzz off! How to make a DIY fly trap and rid your home of pests

Buzzing with frustration over pesky flies? Learn how to rid your home of pests with an effective DIY fly trap.

Buzz off! How to make a DIY fly trap and rid your home of pests

Flies can be a bit of a nuisance when they are in your home. How come they can find their way in so easily, but always have trouble leaving? Sometimes, you need to take action, and our DIY fly trap is the key to a pesticide-free solution.

It is also important to note that flies multiply, so you won’t want them hanging around for too long. You can prevent them by making sure you take out the trash and keep your food locked up.

If you do find yourself with a fly issue, however, we have some simple solutions on how to make your DIY fly trap and send these flies on their way.

How to make a DIY fly trap with a bottle

Making a DIY fly trap is easy. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

Step 1: Prepare your materials

For this DIY fly trap, you first need to prepare all the materials you’ll need. This will include:

  • An empty plastic bottle
  • Scissors or a sharp knife
  • Duct or packaging tape
  • Some DIY fly trap bait (we’ll break down the options below)

Step 2: Choose your fly bait

Flies are attracted to decaying organic materials, but the type of fly you are dealing with will often dictate the best form of bait. There are two primary fly types that will likely be paying you an unwanted visit:

  1. House flies/blowflies: The most common fly types are attracted to fruits and vegetables. They love sweet things, so rotting fruit is a great bait option. The more rotten, the better. They also love poop, but we understand if you don’t want to use that as bait.
  2. Fruit flies: Funnily enough, fruit flies also love fruit – go figure. They prefer things that fermented, but anything sugary, like juice, wine, beer, and cider, will attract them on in. That’s right; fruit flies love to party. They’ll even drink vinegar!
Flies on fruit
Source: Shutterstock

We recommend experimenting with a few different kinds of bait to find out which option works best in your trap. You may like to try a combination of things. Basically, any old food scraps, the older, the better, should work fine. The key thing that attracts the flies is the smell, so the smellier the bait, the more effective it will be.

For fruit fly trap, the riper, the better, and you can use apple cider vinegar for your trap. Or try fruit juice, wine, beer, or any combination of these things to trap fruit flies and sucker them in.

Pro-tip: You want to keep bees out of your trap (we need them healthy, out and about doing their thing), so add a splash of vinegar to whatever bait formulation you create, as that will help to attract flies but keep the bees away. Additionally, to help ensure that the flies don’t get out, add a little soap to the top of your bottle.

Step 3: Assemble the trap

Assembling the trap is easy, just follow these steps:

  1. Cut the top off the bottle at the widest section
  2. Fill the bottom half of the bottle with your chosen bait mixed with some water
  3. Invert the top half of the bottle, then rest it on the bottom half
  4. Tape the outer edge to hold it in place

Step 4: Use the DIY fly trap

That’s it! Simply place this DIY fly trap wherever you see the most flies hanging out.

Usually, this might be next to a garbage can or by the sink. The flies will be attracted to the bait and will fly down into the bottle. From here, they will be unable to find their way back out, so you can release them back into the wild then re-set the trap.

How to make a vinegar DIY fly trap (indoor materials)

Another kind of DIY fly trap that you can make from things around the home involves vinegar. This is particularly effective if you are dealing with fruit flies. Simply follow these steps to create one:

  1. Use a shallow dish or bowl
  2. Fill it with an inch of apple cider vinegar
  3. Mix in some sugar
  4. Trap made!

This trap is very effective as flies can’t resist the smell. It may be a good idea to cover the bowl with cling wrap and poke a few holes that large enough for the flies to get through (don’t worry, the trapped can’t get out).

How to make a DIY wine bottle fly trap

Fruit flies have one thing in common with most of us – they love a delicious drop of wine! In particular, reds! (However, they also enjoy a white).

This means it can be very easy to make a wine bottle fly trap after you have finished the contents. All you need to do is:

  1. Take an almost empty bottle that has roughly an inch of wine left in it
  2. Wrap a large piece of paper into a cone shape that has a hole just big enough for flies to fit through in it
  3. Pop the paper cone in the opening of the bottle, then tape it in place

This trap will work in a similar way to our first plastic bottle trap suggestion. The fly will find its way in to get to the wine but not out, thanks to the tiny hole.

This method essentially works with any cup or jar if you don’t have a wine bottle. Fill it with some sweet bait, place the paper cone on top and you are all set. Once again, we recommend placing the trap wherever you notice the most flies.

Domestic fly on window against sky
Source: Shutterstock

Takeaway

Flies can be a bothersome presence in our homes, but there are effective DIY solutions to deal with them without resorting to pesticides. You can create a DIY fly trap using a plastic bottle, vinegar, or a wine bottle. And the best thing is that the process is simple and requires basic household items.

By selecting the right bait and assembling the trap correctly, you can attract flies and prevent them from escaping. Remember to place the traps in areas where flies are commonly found, such as near garbage cans or sinks.


Frequently asked questions

How do you make a good homemade fly trap?

A simple way to make a DIY fly trap at home is with vinegar and dish soap. Simply grab a shallow dish or bowl and fill it with roughly an inch of apple cider vinegar. Add a tablespoon of sugar and mix the two together. From here, you can add some fruit-scented dish soap, then leave the dish uncovered or cover it with plastic wrap that has holes punched in it.

This vinegar and dish soap fly trap will attract the flies that have invaded your home. Try to position it somewhere where you see a lot of the insects hanging out for full effect.

Which bait works best in a homemade fly trap?

There is a variety of liquids that will work well in a homemade fly trap, and we recommend trying a few different options to see which is most effective in your home. Fruit juice, vinegar and red wine are often the best options, and you can also use solid bait like rotting vegetables and fruit.

No matter which option you go with, be sure to add some water and a drop of soap to keep the flies in your homemade trap.

What liquid do you put in a fly trap?

Flies, like most of us, have a penchant for sweet foods, which luckily makes them very easy to trap. An effective DIY fly trap simply needs a plastic container with a lid, old fruit or vegetable scraps (old bananas and apple cores are effective).

For the liquid, any type of vinegar, sugary option (fruit juice, for example), water, and dish soap is all you need for a homemade trap that will do the job.

Keeping your home pest-free for good

Now you have some helpful tips for capturing those flies that just don’t know when to leave the party with some stuff from around the home. The best DIY fly trap is one that you can use right away with supplies you already have. This is an effective method for a few pesky flies; if however, the problem is getting a little bigger, you may need some expert help.

This goes for a range of other pest infestations as well. We have a selection of expert pest control Taskers who can help you deal with whichever pest you have in the home. We certainly recommend attempting a DIY solution if it’s easy, but sometimes the problem requires more drastic action. It is also vital to put a stop to infestations before they grow, as they can get out of hand quite quickly.

We also have a very helpful article that can give you a bit more information about pests in Autumn, to help you prepare and prevent. When it comes to keeping your home pest-free, a big part of the process comes down to prevention.

There are some things that you can do around the home before there even is an issue to prevent one. Make time to clean your home periodically (or book a house cleaner!) especially wherever there’s food around. This is obviously much more preferable than having to get rid of pests after the fact. Have a read, learn some helpful tips and make sure your home remains the comfortable spot it should be!

How to clean your bathroom so it sparkles

From mould and bleach, to shower scum and window cleaner - here's the best way to clean your bathroom

How to clean your bathroom so it sparkles

There is one area of the house that no one likes to clean, and it also happens to be the area that really needs to be spotless to ensure it does its job; the bathroom! Knowing how to clean bathroom areas correctly ensures you have a healthy space in which to clean yourself!

We know, it’s annoying, but we can all agree that a sparkling clean bathroom is much more enjoyable than a dirty one. Sorting out the showers, bathtubs, toilets and spaces takes a little bit of time, but read on to see our bathroom cleaning checklist of sorts which can help! 

Make the task a little easier and learn how to clean both effectively and efficiently, ensuring you don’t miss anything. Once you know what you are doing and get into the habit of regular cleaning, the task becomes a lot easier!

How to clean bathroom areas to look like new

1. Remove all of the items

An effective clean is certainly not a lazy clean. Make things easier for yourself by emptying the entire bathroom instead of as you go. Shampoos, soaps, toothbrushes, towels and rugs all have to go so you can clean all areas properly. Use this as the point to empty the bathroom trash bin as well.

2. Dusting and sweeping

Use a duster to give an overall clean to begin and focus on corners, light fixtures, vents, and other areas that often get neglected. When you have performed an initial dusting, sweep or vacuum the floors to get the dust balls, hair and other debris. These will only create a bigger mess later when they get wet.

3. Use an all-purpose cleaner on the shower and bathtub

Use an all-purpose cleaner (or dedicated shower cleaner if you prefer) on the shower and bathtub, ensuring you clean the shower track and inside of the door. Allow the cleaner to soak for a little while, and if it has been some time since your last clean, use a harsher acidic cleaner for stubborn grime build-up.

A clean bathroom look
Sidekix Media

4. Clean other surfaces

If using an all-purpose cleaner, you can spray it on to a microfiber cloth and wipe down the other remaining surfaces which may include:

  • Towel racks
  • Shelving and baseboards
  • Doors
  • Blinds and windowsills

Always work in sections and start from the top of the room, left to right, all the way to the floor.

5. Clean the floor

Use a mix of warm water mixed with your all-purpose cleaner or a dedicated floor cleaner to wipe or mop your tiles or concrete. 

6. Go back to the shower and bathtub

The cleaner that you sprayed on your shower and bathtub earlier should have done its job by now. All that is required from you is a light scrub to get rid of the loose dirt and build-up. From here you can wipe the walls, floors and other surfaces one final time if any missed spots reveal themselves.

7. Put your bathroom back together

Pop all of the removed items back into their spots and give them a wipe if necessary. Dust can build up on shampoo bottles and the like very easily, so you don’t want to bring that back into your now clean bathroom. If you have a shower door, wipe it with a little glass cleaner for a streak-free finish.

8. Clean the vanity

It’s good to leave the sink until later in the process as you have likely been washing your microfibre cloth as you go. Spray the all-purpose cleaner on the faucets and surrounding countertops, let it sit, then wipe with a clean cloth. You may find some build-up in your soap dish/area which requires a scrub sponge to loosen. Wipe the mirror with glass cleaner to ensure no streaks.

9. Clean the toilet

The step everyone hates! Squeeze a toilet-specific cleaner under the lip of the bowl then scrub with a toilet brush. Spray the outside of the toilet, including the back parts that no one ever sees with the all-purpose cleaner. Wipe it all down with a clean cloth.

10. Set yourself up for future spot cleans

The above steps tell you how to clean bathroom areas efficiently and effectively, but life will be much easier for you if you keep it tidy between cleans as well. Set yourself up with a few ket things to help ensure this happens:

  • Keep a hand-held vacuum for a daily pick up of hair and other dirt in the bathroom
  • Ensure your drain has a hair catcher to avoid build-up (this can save you serious plumbing issues down the track as well)
  • Squeegee shower walls and glass after each shower
  • Wipe the vanity area regularly

Extra considerations and tips

Here are some extra cleaning points to consider to ensure you get the absolute best result possible from your clean.

Tile grout cleaning

With a tile-lined shower, the grout will benefit considerably from a good weekly scrub:

  • Mix a 3/4 cup of household chlorine bleach with water
  • Use rubber gloves and scrub the mixture on the grout with a stiff brush (avoiding the surrounding surfaces)
  • Let sit for a few minutes, scrub again and rinse

Keep in mind that over time, your grout will wear away and eventually need replacement.

Other bathroom cleaning tips:

Use a disinfectant bathroom cleaner on the bathroom sink and wipe faucet handles with a disinfectant spray or wipe, letting the solution sit on the surface for a little while to kill all of the germs

  • Let the toilet bowl cleaner sit for up to five minutes before scrubbing and use a stiff-bristled toilet brush
  • Remember that the toilet brushes need cleaning as well so spray them with a disinfectant after use
  • Be sure to open the bathroom windows and door while cleaning and turn on the fan if you have one, to avoid cleaning fumes and hurry the drying process
  • For a tougher scrub, look for a cleaning product which contains micro-scrubbers and foaming cleansers that dissolve

Finally, always remember to vacuum the dust that sits on and inside the grill of the bathroom fan. Give the detachable parts of the fan a clean with a soap and water solution, just ensure that you do not wet any of the internal parts. Soak the removable grill in sudsy water for a little while then rinse and dry.

A clean bathroom vanity
Christian Mackie

Frequently asked questions

Where do I start to clean the bathroom?

The best way to start an effective bathroom clean is by emptying the entire bathroom before you begin. Shampoos, soaps, toothbrushes, towels and rugs should go so you can clean all areas properly. Next, use a duster to give an overall clean and focus on corners, light fixtures, vents, and other areas that often get neglected. 

When you have performed an initial dusting, sweep or vacuum the floors to get the dust balls, hair and other debris, then you can move onto cleaning the individual sections of the bathroom. Always start at the top of the room and work your way down, moving left to right.

What household items can I use to clean my bathroom?

An easy and effective bathroom cleaner is a mixture of 1 ½ cups of baking soda with ½ cup of warm water and ½ cup of liquid soap. You can also create a mixture of 2 tablespoons of white distilled vinegar, or apple cider vinegar with water. These are natural ways to clean that avoid the use of harsh chemicals.

What is the easiest way to clean a bathroom wall?

If you have painted walls in your bathroom, vacuum them with a soft brush attachment then wipe them down with a dusting agent and electrostatic dusting wipe. If you have walls made of tile you can use the same cleaning solution you are using on the rest fo the bathroom with a clean, microfibre cloth. Always start at the top of the wall and clean downwards.

Your hard work will pay off with a shining clean bathroom!

Once you have used the steps above to create a system that works for your particular bathroom layout, you’ll find each clean even easier. As mentioned, it’s a great idea to perform spot cleans to minimise the intensity of your deeper cleans.

If time is not on your side, your deep cleaning jobs can be handled by a range of skilled taskers who specialise in things like tile grout cleaningmould removalmoppingshower cleaning and more. Save yourself the hassle while ensuring the job is done right!

If you are looking for some other ways to improve your bathroom, we have a selection of blogs that will provide some very helpful information. Read about bathroom tile ideasvarious colour scheme options, and how to achieve the look of a modern or Hamptons-style bathroom. We also have a range of ideas for your shower or bath and a fun little piece that helps you design an outdoor shower for something different! Make the most of your bathroom by giving it a little spruce, and thoroughly enjoy the time you spend within it.

How to unclog a sink the easy way

There is nothing worse than the panic-inducing feeling of a clogged sink...

How to unclog a sink the easy way

An unavoidable fact about life is that sinks will get clogged. Be it the kitchen or the bathroom, your sink will likely give you trouble one day, and it will require more than just the old school plunger to fix. For this reason, learning how to unclog a sink can be a helpful skill.

In some cases, a bathroom clog will be a little harder to deal with when compared to the kitchen. This can be due to soap scum, hair and other grime that goes down the bathroom drain.

There are plenty of methods that you can discover when learning how to unclog a sink. Some are easier than others, and some will handle the more severe bathroom clog better than others. To help, let’s look at our selections for the best most effective methods, so you never find yourself with an overflowing sink again!

How to unclog a sink with natural methods

The following drain unclogging techniques avoid abrasive, poisonous chemicals and use things you likely already have around the home. You can always opt for a supermarket drain cleaner, but if you want to avoid anything too extreme going down the drain, here are the top five ways to unclog a sink naturally:

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

This classic method is tried and proven when it comes to unclogging drains. Just mix 1/3 of a cup of baking soda in with 1/3 cup of vinegar and wait for it to fizz (which should be immediate). Promptly pour it down the drain and let the fizzing action remove whatever is causing the blockage. Allow the mixture to sit for about an hour, then give it a flush with hot water.

2. Baking Soda and Salt

A slight tweak on the previous combination but just as effective; baking soda and salt. For this method, you just mix 1/2 cup of baking soda and salt then pour it down the drain. Let it do its thing for roughly fifteen minutes then follow it with boiling water. This causes a chemical reaction that should be able to unblock some of the toughest stoppages.

3. Just Boiling Water

Believe it or not, some clogs just need boiling water. This can particularly be the case in bathroom sinks that have a blockage caused by soap scum. If you find that there is still a slow amount of drainage in your sink, this will likely rectify the issue. Fill a kettle with boiling water and pour it into the drain about three or four times over. This will solve this issue if your blockage isn’t too severe.

4. Wet and Dry Vacuum

If you have access to a wet and dry shop vacuum, it will be very effective against stubborn clogs. Create a seal for the hose so you can suction out the blockage. To do this, use the top of a plastic soda bottle or the head of your plunger. Set the vacuum to the highest setting and flick the on the switch. The powerful suction should dislodge the plumbing issue relatively quickly.

5. A Wire Hanger

The least preferable natural option involves a wire hanger. Useful in cases where the previous suggestions above have not worked, sending a wire hanger down the drain should eliminate the clog if it isn’t too far down your pipe. Just be careful not to damage your piping with the hanger as this can cause a bigger, more expensive to rectify the problem.

A cat staring at a tap
Kazuky Akayashi

What to do if the clog remains?

If the natural unclogging methods above do not work, you may have to remove the piping under the sink to clear out the blockage. It’s not as hard as it may seem, however; simply follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the water and position a bucket under the sink to capture any excess water
  2. Get under the sink and locate the stopper. Squeeze the spring clip so you can remove the pivot rod which should allow the stopper to pop up and out of your sink
  3. Once you have loosened the stopper, you should be able to pull it out of the drain. Clean the dirt, hair, and debris with a different sink or water source
  4. At this point, you can use a wire hanger and to hook into the drain and feel for the blockage. twist and move the hanger to get rid of as much of the gunk as you can
  5. You can also use an old toothbrush to clean the interior of the pipe; you may see a fair bit of gunk coming out of the opening where the pivot rod was removed
  6. If the clog seems like it might be located in the P-bend of the pipe, you can unscrew the P-bend section to target the clog
  7. Put everything back together and run hot water down the drain to see if everything is fixed. 

Once you have reassembled the pipe, make sure there are no leaks and that you have tightened everything correctly. This activity is also a good opportunity to keep an eye out for any corrosion on your pipes. If you spot some, you may need some replacement parts to avoid costly problems down the track.

Cleaning the trap

The u-shaped pipe underneath your sink is called “the trap,” and it can often be the section that gets clogged. You can minimise the risk of a clog with some preventative cleaning with a bucket and a plumber’s wrench.

Just place the bucket underneath the trap to catch the water, then loosen the slip nuts which sit at both ends of the pipe. Take the pipe out and empty the water and gunk within it into the bucket.

Much like above, use a wire or old toothbrush to clean the pipe to remove the debris. Run some water through it and then put it back together. By doing this every now and then, you’ll avoid a more severe blockage that may strike at a very inconvenient time.

Woman standing with sink
Evopure CBD

Frequently asked questions

How do you fix a slow draining bathroom sink?

One of the simplest ways to fix a slow leaking sink in a bathroom is with boiling hot water. This easy method is often quite effective in cases where some liquid is still working its way through the clog. Fill a kettle with boiling water and pour it into the drain about three or four times over. 

If this does not work, try mixing 1/3 of a cup of baking soda in with 1/3 cup of vinegar and pouring it down the drain. Let it sit for about an hour, then give it a flush with hot water to see if this rectifies the issue.

How do you unclog a sink naturally?

A natural way to get rid of a clog in your sink is with baking soda and salt. Just mix 1/2 cup of baking soda and salt then pour it down the drain. Allow it to sit for roughly fifteen minutes, then follow it with boiling water. This should be able to unblock some most stoppages. If it does not work, repeat the process with mix 1/3 of a cup of baking soda in with 1/3 cup of vinegar. 

How do you unclog a double kitchen sink?

If you are trying to unclog a double sink drain, you’ll need to target the one drain that both sinks flow into. Each sink has it’s own drain and a shared draining pipe system. If clogged, the drain prevents water from leaving one or both sinks. 

Plug one sink then use a plunger on the other which should cause enough pressure into the one drain to and unclog the sink. If that does not work, mix 1/3 of a cup of baking soda in with 1/3 cup of vinegar and let it sit in the drain for an hour then flush it with boiling hot water. 

Avoiding an uncomfortable situation with a sink that doesn’t drain

Learning how to unclog a drain means you have a quick number of solutions to solve a stressful problem – particularly when you need to get ready to go somewhere and can’t use your bathroom, or your kitchen sink is clogged preventing you from preparing dinner!

If you have tried the simple steps above and you are still facing a sink that won’t drain, it may be time to call in an expert. There are plenty of Taskers who are highly skilled in fixing all kinds of plumbing issues. You can contact an overall general tradesperson, or find someone who specialises in kitchen renovations. You can also find a range of skilled cleaners to help you with whatever mess your plumbing issues may have caused.

If fixing your drain has you wondering what other kitchen or bathroom improvements you can handle yourself, read some of our other helpful articles. We can give you a range of white-design kitchen ideas, some ways to achieve a black kitchen look, and a selection of modern bathroom vanity ideas.

Time spent learning new skills and improving your home is never wasted, so get reading and get to work!

How to clean vertical blinds at home

Ever wondered what the best way to clean your specific style of verticle blind is?

How to clean vertical blinds at home

There is a reason why vertical blinds exist in most homes; they are functional, look great, and work well on large windows and patio doors due to their durability in high traffic areas. However, when it comes to maintenance, most people are a little unsure about how to clean vertical blinds to ensure they do a sufficient job without damaging the materials.

When deciding how to clean vertical blinds at home, regular upkeep will have them looking their best. The following step-by-step instructions for standard vertical blinds (not cellular vertical blinds) will make sure your home is one step closer to looking fabulous all the time while getting total longevity out of your vertical blinds.

How often should you perform the clean?

Usually, an annual thorough clean is enough, but this can change and be required a little more regularly if the usage and location of your blinds is a little more high-traffic. The easiest way to determine this is quite simply with their appearance. If your vertical blinds are beginning to look a little dirty, or it’s coming up to a year since you cleaned them, it’s time to initiate the following steps.

With this being said, the more often you perform a clean of your vertical blinds, the less time it will take you to complete the task. Once you understand how to clean vertical blinds, and know which cleaning materials are best for your specific blind type, you’ll be able to complete the task faster each time.

How to clean vertical blinds without taking them down

While you can remove your vertical blinds to clean them if you would prefer, it is not a necessity and will likely save you a significant amount of time if you don’t. If you do want to remove them, you’ll need to ensure you have enough space and take a fair bit of care to ensure you don’t damage the blinds. It is important to note that removing them for a clean may not produce the best results.

If you want to know how to clean vertical blinds fast, follow these steps:

  1. Go with the ‘as needed’ approach and vacuum the blinds with an upholstery wand attachment
  2. Give them a quick dust
  3. If still dirty you’ll want to spot clean the areas of concern

When it comes to dusting and washing, the method will depend on whether or not your blinds are vinyl, PVC, plastic, or fabric.

The best way to vacuum vertical blinds

When it comes to vacuuming your vertical blinds, you’ll just need your regular household vacuum with a brush or blind-cleaning attachment. Vacuum slowly with blinds closed (side to side) to avoid bunching slats on one end, then:

  1. Ensure blinds are full to one side
  2. Vacuum the slats individually top to bottom
  3. Move wide slats side to side if needed
  4. Turn blinds to the other side and repeat

Ensure that you always vacuum from top to bottom so that you do not accidentally lift the slat off the hooks. Follow the length of the vanes, as opposed to going across the blind.

If possible, avoid using a vacuum that is too powerful as it will grab the blinds and increase the risk of damage. The same thing can happen if you use a vacuum that doesn’t have an attachment.

What’s the best way to dust blinds?

No matter what sort of material your vertical blinds are made out of, sometimes vacuuming isn’t enough. This does not mean you need to wash the blinds! After you vacuum, feather dusting is a great way to get rid of that remaining dust. You can also use a white glove or paintbrush to achieve the same result.

If you do opt for the popular method of a feather duster, however, follow these steps:

  1. Completely close the blinds (side to side)
  2. Open and close blinds (rotation of vanes)
  3. Use up and down strokes to dust one vane at a time
  4. Reverse the blinds and repeat

For white glove cleaning of vinyl, PVC, or plastic blinds:

  1. Close blinds (side to side)
  2. Open blinds fully (rotation of vanes)
  3. Put on the white cloth gloves and glide your hands over the vanes carefully
  4. If this begins to be ineffective, be sure to brush the dust off the gloves or wash between uses

If you decide to use a paintbrush for your  cleaning, follow these steps:

  1. Close blinds entirely (side to side)
  2. Open and close (rotation of vanes)
  3. Give the blinds a wipe with a paintbrush, preferably one that has natural fibers as opposed to plastic (wide, high-quality paintbrush is preferable) Tap the brush periodically
  4. Reverse blinds and repeat
Pro tip: Use a high-quality feather duster that pulls dust as opposed to rags or cloths, which will not clean as effectively.

What is the best way to wash vertical blinds?

For vinyl, PVC, plastic, and painted wood blinds that require a wash, first, you will need:

  • High-quality sponges
  • A mild cleanser
  • Some clean towels
  • A bucket of water
  • A microfiber cloth (optional)

Once you have all of this, follow these steps:

  1. Close all windows and doors to prevent wind and dust while cleaning
  2. Place the clean towels under the vanes to collect any drips
  3. Wet the sponges in a mild solution of soap and warm water (avoid hot water)
  4. Wash one side of the blind at a time if you are only using one sponge, use two to wash both sides simultaneously
  5. Squeeze the excess water from the sponge
  6. Squeeze the sponge gently and slide down the blind slowly

You can wipe a single vane in sections, intermittently cleaning the sponge to avoid a build-up of dust. If you want to avoid leaving water spots, use an almost-dry sponge to do a light drying pass at the end. You can also dry the blinds with a microfiber cloth. Ensure that you refresh your bucket of water when required to avoid washing with a dirty sponge.

Once again, during this process, it is a good idea to use minimum pressure on the vanes to avoid pulling them out of their clip or damaging the blinds. Always make sure you are using quality sponges to avoid leaving sponge particles on the blinds, making them dirtier than before you started! Always avoid using abrasive soaps, and if you like, while the vanes are dry, you can wipe them with a dryer sheet to reduce any static build-up.

Pro tip: Lemon oil or wood preservative is a great way to protect wood blinds with a stained finish.

How to clean fabric vertical blinds

If your vertical blind and inserts are made of fabric, you will need some slight tweaks on the way you perform a clean to ensure they last and look amazing for as long as possible.

When it comes to spot cleaning fabric vertical blinds, blot the area in question with a mild cleansing solution. It would be best if you first tested the solution in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage. From here, use a soft cloth or sponge and softly blot the stain, allowing it to dry thoroughly. Use a fair amount of care while doing this not to harm the material.

If you need to perform a more in-depth clean other than dusting or spot cleaning, refer to the blind manufacturer cleaning instructions, as they will vary quite significantly across the many product lines. Many people make the mistake of washing their blinds via immersion, heat, or chemicals, which can damage some blinds but be great for others.

Keep in mind, however, that these more aggressive methods should only be used if the general instructions of the manufacturer allow it. Most manufacturers will strongly advise against putting any fabric blinds into a dryer.

Frequently asked questions

Can you machine wash vertical blinds?

You can; however, it would be best if you were to put the blinds in a pillowcase before putting them into the machine. You should also always check the label to see if they are safe to wash in a machine.

How do you machine wash vertical blinds?

To wash your vertical blinds in a machine, first, you must remove the blinds from their hooks and follow these steps:

  1. Fold the blinds in half
  2. Place inside of a large pillowcase
  3. Tie it shut
  4. Place inside the washing machine
  5. Add detergent and run on a gentle cycle

What’s the easiest way to clean blinds?

This is dependent on the type of blinds you have; however, a wet sponge method that follows a decent vacuum and dust is appropriate for most blinds. The more regular the clean, the easier each clean will be!

Need a little help with your vertical blinds?

If you are a little time poor and the task of getting your vertical blinds cleaned is being pushed down the to-do list, get a little help! There are plenty of people who can help with blind cleaning, saving you time while ensuring your blinds look their best.

 

Remove permanent marker stains in your home

Never live with unwanted "artwork" again thanks to these handy tips.

Remove permanent marker stains in your home

We’ll assume that if you are looking up how to remove permanent marker, there’s been an incident that possibly involves a misplaced sharpie lid or some avant-garde art from your toddler?

Luckily for all of us, permanent marker is not as permanent as the name may suggest! No matter where the unwanted marker has appeared, be it carpet, walls, or furniture, you’ll find some of the best methods for how to remove permanent marker around your home in this handy guide.

Read on for a list of ways to remove that unfortunate marker stain from almost anything. Rest assured, no matter what sort of material you need to clean, there is a way to rescue it!

How to remove permanent marker from fabric

We’ll begin with the most common victim of an unwarranted marker attack, fabric. There many different options to save your clothing or upholstery, including the following:

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • White vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Regular toothpaste (not gel)
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Aerosol hairspray
  • Nail polish remover
  • WD-40

To clean, use an old washcloth and dab your stain remover of choice from the list above onto the marker stain. The key here is dabbing, not rubbing, as that action can force the stain deeper into the fibers. Use as much stain remover as necessary, and dabbing until the marker disappears.

This, of course, applies for how to remove permanent marker from clothes, but, if you are dealing with a more delicate fabric like satin, opt for a dry cleaner and specify where the stain is when you give the item to the cleaner.

How to remove permanent marker from wood

If a little permanent marker has wound up on your wood furniture or floorboards, your best options are rubbing alcohol, regular toothpaste, or strangely peanut butter! Blot your treatment of choice directly onto the stain then allow sit for a few minutes.

After this, dab it with a damp washcloth, and repeat until the stain is gone. We recommend testing your cleaning method or choice in an inconspicuous spot first just to ensure you don’t cause damage to the stain, varnish, or seal of your wood.

How to remove permanent marker from walls

Another regular area for the accidental marker treatment is the walls. To be fair, they do look like a lovely blank canvas on which children everywhere look to begin their budding art careers.

Rubbing alcohol, aerosol hairspray, and regular toothpaste (not gel) are great ways to clean the marker from your walls, but you can also buy a magic eraser or lemon essential oil as an effective solution.

When rubbing your walls, you need to ensure you do not rub too hard to avoid removing the paint, especially if using the magic eraser or anything abrasive.

How to remove permanent marker from plastic

If the unwanted marker has found its way around the bin, furniture, or most likely, your child’s toys and more, you can use a pencil eraser, sunscreen, a dry erase marker, or rubbing alcohol to make it disappear.

Luckily, this is one the easier surface to clean with minimal risk of damage! Don’t be deterred if the process isn’t effective straight away. In most cases, you may have to repeat the cleaning steps to whittle away the stain, but push through as it will be gone eventually.

How to remove permanent marker from whiteboard

Possibly more of an issue in the office, but we’ve all seen (or experienced first hand) the old permanent marker instead of dry erase marker on the whiteboard trick. It’s an easy mistake to make, and just as easy to fix!

Trace over the permanent marker with a dry erase marker and then wipe with a wet cloth, and hey presto, company secrets are safe once again!

How to remove permanent marker from skin

At some point as kids, we all gave ourselves our fist “tattoos.” Unlike real tattoos, the permanent marker versions can be removed from the skin relatively easily. Simply use nail polish remover, sunscreen, rubbing alcohol lotion, shaving cream, or hand sanitizer.

Attempt to do this as gently as possible to avoid scratching the skin, if you see blood you may have removed too much…

How to remove permanent marker from leather

If you happen to get permanent markers on a leather item, the key is to treat it as soon as possible. The best options for this are aerosol hairspray, white vinegar, or sunscreen.

Dab or spray your choice onto the stain, then blot with a damp cloth until it no longer exists!

Removing stains from the carpet

The most efficient option for how to remove permanent marker from carpet is rubbing alcohol. Ensure you blot the stain as any kind of rubbing motion will push it further into the carpet fibers.

Use a clean, damp rag that will absorb and lift the alcohol and stain out of the carpet.

How to remove permanent marker from metal

If the marker has ended up on any metal items, inclusive of your stainless steel appliances, rubbing alcohol, dry erase marker, or regular toothpaste are the best options.

If you are dealing with a black marker stain, it should wipe off straight away after the application of the above options.

Saving paper and books

Believe it or not, you can actually remove permanent marker from paper, meaning you don’t have to return books to the library that your children have added some content to.

A little bit of nail polish remover placed carefully onto the stain will do the trick, just make sure you don’t saturate the paper. Soak the nail polish remover with a clean cloth and repeat until the marks are gone.

Cleaning marker off glass

If the permanent marker has ended up on glass items like windows, cups, or dishes, there are several methods that should prove useful in its removal, including:

  • Regular toothpaste mixed with baking soda
  • Dry erase marker
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • WD-40
  • Nail polish remover

Soak the stain remover into a paper towel, then easily wipe the stains off the glass.

A woman cleaning glass
CDC

Removing Sharpie stains from television or computer screens

This particular mishap is a stressful one, indeed. We all know the drop in the stomach that occurs when a permanent marker ends up on the delicate screen of some expensive tech, but it’s not time to get that credit card extension just yet!

marker can be removed from a screen; it is, however, a delicate process and immensely vital that you use the correct cleaning solution. First, try using a baby wipe and very carefully wipe the screen. If that doesn’t work, regular toothpaste should be your next option. Dab toothpaste onto the stain, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then use a clean cloth to wipe. If you repeat this several times, the stain should disappear.

Ensuring your tiles are stain-free

If the permanent marker has made its way onto your tiled flooring or walls in the kitchen or bathroom, you can clean it off with regular toothpaste, aerosol hairspray, or a magic eraser.

If you are dealing with smooth tiles, you should be in for a relatively easy task, textured tile, on the other hand, may require a little more work. In this situation, we recommend using an old toothbrush or a cotton swab to get in amongst the nooks and crannies to really get rid of that stain for good.

Frequently asked questions

Will a Magic Eraser remove Sharpie?

Yes! However, it is not always the best option for all surfaces. A magic eraser is a great way to remove permanent marker from walls, plastic, metal, and whiteboards. Just remember to be careful as too much pressure may damage the surface you are cleaning due to the abrasive nature of the eraser.

Does vinegar remove permanent marker?

Absolutely, vinegar is an efficacious method of stain removal that is also natural, meaning it is less harmful than some chemical solutions. As a stain remover, vinegar works on both fabric and hard surfaces and will quickly remove permanent marker stains. The reason being the acidic nature of vinegar, which makes it an effective way to break up stains.

You can even add it to the washing machine to remove stains from clothing. Make a small mixture with water or your cleaning detergent for a robust stain remover.

Does acetone remove permanent marker?

Yes, this falls under the category of organic solvents. Acetone is a very effective way to remove a permanent marker stain from just about any surface. Primarily found in nail polish remover, a small amount of a solution that features a percentage of acetone should provide a powerful method of stain removal.

Need a little extra help with the cleaning?

If the task is a little bigger than a simple clean, or far more involved than you first may have thought, enlist the help of a stain removal expert! You can also find Taskers for a range of general cleaning duties that will save you the time and hassle of having to handle it yourself.

How to hand wash clothes: Simple steps for effective laundry

It can be annoying, but a necessary when caring for your more precious items. Learn how to hand wash your clothes effectively and extend the lifespan of your favourite garments.

How to hand wash clothes: Simple steps for effective laundry

Learning how to hand wash clothes seems a little strange as it’s a process that takes a lot more work. Use a machine and save time, right? Well, washing clothes by hand offers some significant benefits like extra life for those special items in your collection.

If you want to extend the life of your garments, the delicate setting option on your washing machine is a good option, but it won’t necessarily give you the best clean. Going the manual route is far more effective, and there are a few different techniques you can try when learning how to hand wash clothes, all of which work better for different fabrics.

How to hand wash clothes - the manual route

It’s always a good idea to check the care label for directions and don’t try any of the following methods for items that say “dry-clean only.” Delicate lingerie, silk blouses and wool may retain colour and shape a little better when washed by hand.

This article will give you some step-by-step directions for how to hand wash clothes and extend their life while making sure they’re kept in their best conditions.

How do you hand wash clothes by hand?

Step 1: Check the label

Always read the garment label to make sure there are no specific product recommendations you should be aware of in relation to handwashing clothes. This may also help you choose the best detergent for that particular item. If no specific care label instruction exists, a standard dishwashing liquid will be fine.

How to hand wash clothes - check labels

Step 2: Fill the sink or bathtub with water

We do not recommend you go super old school and head down to the local river to handwash your clothes. Just fill the laundry sink or bathtub with water at whichever temperature the care label recommends. If the label doesn’t state one, go with cool to lukewarm water. Add a teaspoon of detergent to the water (more if you are washing multiple items).

Step 3: Immerse and soak

Submerge the clothing into the soapy water and allow it to soak. Swish the item gently through the water and make sure you don’t do any scrubbing or twisting as that may stretch or damage the fabric. 

Step 4: Rinse and repeat

Drain the water and refill with cold water for a rinse. Push the garment up and down until all the soap is gone.

How do you hand wash clothes without detergent?

It is possible to do your laundry without using detergent by making use of some household alternatives when you run out of the regular stuff. There are some detergent alternatives that are entirely safe to be used on your clothes, including:

  • Baking soda – An effective alternative to detergent, all it takes is three-quarters of a cup for an entire load of laundry.
  • A bar of soap – Grate a bar of soap, pop it in a saucepan and add a little water. Add it to some water with two cups of baking soda and stir.
  • Vinegar – The acid found in vinegar prevents the growth of mould and bacteria. Add 1/4 cup of vinegar into your final wash stage to remove excess soap, brighten colours, and to soften the fabric.
  • Dish Soap – Just a squirt of dish soap with 1/4 cup of white distilled vinegar.
  • Vodka – one part water and part of vodka into a spray bottle sprayed on clothes will remove any bad odour while disinfecting your clothes.
  • Shampoo – Perfect for cleaning clothes by hand, just make sure the kind you use doesn’t contain any conditioner.

Some detergents used for washing clothes contain harmful chemicals that are bad for your skin and the environment as well. Some of the above options are more friendly, so those with skin issues may significantly benefit from switching things up now and then.

White laundry basket
Andy Fitzsimon

How to hand-wash a sweater

Step 1: Prep 

Fill a tub with tepid water with just a few drops of mild detergent or dishwashing liquid mixed through the water. It can also be a good idea to get rid of perspiration odour by adding 3/4 cups of white vinegar into the mix. 

How to hand wash sweaters

Step 2: Soak and rinse 

Turn your sweater inside-out and dunk it into the water, swishing it around gently, ensuring you do not stretch it. Allow it to soak for 10 minutes then run cold water through it until there is no more soapy residue runs out. 

Step 3: Remove excess water 

Press the sweater against the wall or side of the tub to remove any excess water and lay it out on a towel on a flat surface. It is always best to use a white towel as this will prevents any dye transfer from a coloured towel to the sweater. Gently roll the towel with the sweater inside of it to remove extra water. 

Step 4: Flat dry 

Lay the sweater on a flat that lets air circulate and do not let it sit directly in the sun. Help it to find its shape by squaring the shoulders and placing the sleeves parallel to the body, squaring the hem.

Hanging your sweater when it comes for it to dry as opposed to putting it in the dryer will prevent shrinking, fading, and other issues.

How to hand-wash bras

Step 1: Soak 

Fill your sink with lukewarm water and add a mild washing detergent micing a little before carefully placing the bra in the solution. Let it soak for 15 minutes, working the suds into the bra with your fingers.

How to hand wash bras

Step 2: Rinse 

Remove from the water and hold under the faucet to allow water to run over the bra, flushing out any soapy water. Continue this step until you no longer see any suds.

Step 3: Dry

Get rid of any excess water and lay the bra out to dry flat on a towel. Lay another towel over the top, pressing down to remove extra water then hang to dry.

How to hand-wash tights

Step 1: Prep 

Fill a sink with lukewarm water and put half a cup of mild laundry detergent in (preferably a detergent specially made for delicates). Do not use hot water as this can shrink your tights and affect their fit.

Step 2: Submerge 

Turn the tights inside-out and submerge them in the water mixture, beginning to gently scrub without any rubbing or pulling. Scrub the feet and crotch areas, as they get the dirtiest, and allow the tights to soak for around 10 minutes.

Step 3: Rinse and dry

Remove the tights from the water and rinse them under the tap with cold water. Do this until there are no more soap suds and tighten the tights into a ball, squeezing out any excess water. Pop your tights onto a towel and roll it up. 

Clothes folded in pile
Sarah Brown

How best to dry your hand-washed clothing

Step 1: Squeeze out the remaining water

It is always a lot harder to dry a pile of dripping laundry so always gently squeeze out the excess water first to help the drying process along. Never twist or wring out the clothing as this can stretch the fibres, ruining the fabric.

Step 2: Lay flat over a towel

Find a flat surface and lay out a clean, dry white bath towel that is not covered in any lint. Lay the clean garment on the towel, and pat it into shape. Roll the clothing and towel up together, gently pressing down as you go to encourage water absorption. If the towel becomes too saturated, repeat the process with another dry one.

Step 3: Air drying

Most clothing has label directions to let you know what it needs for reshaping and drying. If yours doesn’t, just lay the hand-washed item on a clean, dry white towel, on a flat surface that is moisture-resistant. Every now and then, flip it over. 

Finally, you can air-dry on a drying rack or clothesline. Once dry, your garment may be wrinkled, so be sure to check the care label to understand the appropriate ironing temperature before ironing. If there is no care label, test your iron in an inconspicuous area before continuing. You can help to avoid wrinkles by hanging or folding the garment.

How to hand wash clothes and air dry them

Frequently asked questions

What kind of soap do you use to hand wash clothes?

It is completely fine to use your standard laundry detergent while hand-washing your clothes. You can also utilise some alternative, more natural cleaners such as baking soda, soap bars, vinegar, dish soap and even vodka!

How long do you soak hand-washed clothes?

This really depends on how dirty your clothes are! In most cases, letting your clothes soak for five to ten minutes is enough. If you are dealing with some particularly tough stains; however, you may want to leave your clothes to soak for up to thirty minutes.

Ready to get washing?!

Now you can see how easy it is how to hand wash dresses and clothing; you can give it a try when you are looking for an in-depth clean for your clothes. This will ensure you get longevity out of your much-loved items.

If, however, your schedule is a little too packed to handle the laundry piles, there are plenty of skilled taskers offering laundry services which will save you a heap of time, crossing the chore of your to-do list!

How to get oil out of clothes easily

Fear not, those clothes don't need to be thrown away!

How to get oil out of clothes easily

Stains are always annoying and often thought of as the end of garments that fall victim to a spill. What many people do not realise, however, is that learning how to get oil out of clothes is actually quite easy! Oil stains are pesky and a little challenging to remove, but it is possible.

Most oils are semi-solid at room temperature, which makes removal much easier when you use warm or hot water. The fabric of the garment does play a role; however, as synthetic fibres like polyester are harder to clean and offer the ones that suffer the most as oil is attracted to them. 

Still, removing oil stains isn’t impossible if you act as quickly as possible as stains that have dried are a lot harder to get out. Read on for the steps of how to get oil out of clothes and become a laundry expert who never has to throw away a loved clothing item because of a stain again.

How to get oil out of clothes with baking soda 

Many people head straight for the baking soda when they find an oil stain – – and for good reason. It works by pulling oil out of fabric and should always be your first line of defence when treating a stain. 

Just follow these simple steps: 

  1. Remove as much oil as you can with a cloth or paper towel
  2. Sprinkle the baking soda onto the stain and let it sit for 24 hours 
  3. Vacuum or brush the baking soda away 
  4. Spray the area with a mix of vinegar and water 
  5. Scrub with soap then rinse.

You may need to repeat this process a few times if the stain remains, but eventually, you will win the tussle!

How to get oil stains out of clothes with chalk 

Interestingly enough, chalk can remove oil from your clothes in a similar way to baking soda! Chalk works in the same fashion, pulling the oil from the fabric; however, this method is not ideal for large or set-in stains. Use it more for smaller grease splatters, when you are trying to figure out how to get cooking oil out of clothes.

To use chalk, all you need to do is:

  1. Remove any oil from the garment with a paper towel
  2. Cover the entire stain with chalk
  3. Wait a few minutes for the oil to absorb
  4. Wash the item 
Jeans hanging on line
Bruno Nascimento

A step-by-step process to remove set-in oil stains

Set-in oil stains require a little more work to remove. Generally, these are formed because you were unable to remove your oil stain immediately after it happened. 

If this has happened to you, follow these steps to get rid of that annoying stain:

1. Start while the fabric is dry

Do not make the mistake of rinsing your garment with water before you start as it is easier to work on a dry as well all know that oil and water do not mix. Water coats the fabric around the oil meaning the oil has nowhere to go, so avoid this straight up.

2. Place cardboard behind the stain

Placing cardboard between layers of the garment means you will avoid transferring oil to other areas of the fabric.

3. Blot the stain 

Use a clean, dry cloth to remove as much excess oil as possible, being careful not to spread the oil to other parts of the fabric. 

4. Grab a little dish soap 

Dish soap is a great way to cut through grease on clothes. Apply a few drops to the stain and let it soak, then rub it gently with a soft-bristled brush or cloth, allowing it to soak for about five minutes.

5. Rinse with warm water

Rinse the area with warm water then wash the item in hot water as per usual in the machine. Add in your regular detergent with bleach for white items.

6. Air-dry the item

Refrain from machine-drying your item as the high temperature may set the stain, making it harder to remove.

How to get motor oil out of clothes

Motor oil stains can be a little more tricky to remove, but once again, not impossible if you follow these steps:

  1. Scrape off as much of the oil as possible 
  2. Blot at the grease stain with a paper towel in a lifting motion
  3. Sprinkle baby powder or cornstarch on the stain and allow it to sit for ten minutes 
  4. Remove the powder with a brush 
  5. Place a drop of dishwashing liquid on the stain with a little water, working the mixture in with your fingers
  6. Use a brush to scrub the stain in a circular motion 
  7. Wash the item in your machine
  8. Air-dry the fabric by laying it flat or hanging on a line, and ensure you do not put it in the dryer 

This process is usually sufficient for all types of fabric with the exception of silk or wool, which may require help from a professional laundry service. You can also buy ready-mixed pre-treat grease stain removers but before buying them, make sure that the product is appropriate for your stained fabric.

It is also important to remember that removing a fresh grease stain is much easier than removing one that has dried. When it comes to all stains, the sooner you act, the better. A pre-treat will increase your removal chances significantly and can be effective with something as simple as dishwashing liquid.

If you are dealing with a grease stain that has set in, however, spray it with a little WD-40. Test an inconspicuous area first to make sure you do not see any discolouration. There are many reports that the Coca-Cola method of stain removal is also quite effective, so you can also give that a try if the other methods aren’t having an impact!

How to get coconut oil out of clothes

Coconut oil is a great organic product which is sustainable and used for many versatile purposes, like skincare. It can, however, make a bit of mess on your sheets or clothes.

It is possible to remove a coconut oil stain with the baking soda and dishwashing liquid mentioned above; the only difference is a longer soaking time.

  • Leave the soda or liquid on the stain for 15 minutes as it may take a little longer to absorb the oil.
  • You can then scrape or brush it off as per usual then wash with hot water.
A clean pile of clothes
Dan Gold

Frequently asked questions

How do you get oil out of clothes after they have already been washed and dried?

While not ideal, you can remove oil stains even after the item has been washed and dried. Doing this requires one additional step as the heat from the dryer has baked the oil into the fabric.

This often leads to discolouration, so a pre-treatment with an enzyme-based cleaner will be required before following through with the standard steps.

Interestingly, you can also try using WD-40 (is there anything it can’t do?) Just keep in mind; you will also have to get the WD-40 out, as it may leave its own residue. 

How do you get dried oil stains out of clothes?

As oil stains will happen, they are simple to remove even after they have dried. Just blot the excess cooking oil with a paper towel and cover the stain with baking soda. 

Let it sit for just over thirty minutes, then scrub it with an old toothbrush. As you rub the baking soda, you may see it starting to clump up. The baking soda will absorb the oil and it, along with the oil, should disappear after you give the garment a wash in the machine. 

Tough stains may require you to repeat this process a few times, or you can add dish soap for a bit of extra power. Ensure the stain is gone before putting the item in the dryer to avoid setting the stain with heat.

What removes grease from clothes? 

All you really need to get rid of a grease stain is some baking soda, a toothbrush, dish soap and a piece of cardboard to make sure you don’t spread the stain.

Let the baking soda and dish soap sit on and sink into the stain, then scrub with the toothbrush and rinse, washing the garment as per usual in your machine as the final step. repeat this process as many times as you need to until that annoying stain has left the building!

You’re all set to enjoy stain-free clothes!

Hopefully, this article has eased your mind when the next inevitable oil stain appears as you now know how to remove it and save your clothing! If you are a little time-poor, search the range of Taskers who can help you with your laundry to ensure a high-quality clean without having to add the job to your to-do list.

You can also have a read of our guide on keeping white shoes sparkling clean, so your entire outfit looks brand new all the time! just doing our bit to make sure you always look your best.

How to clean leather couch so it looks brand new

Nothing is better than a clean leather couch that never needs to be replaced. 

How to clean leather couch so it looks brand new

If taken care of properly, leather can last forever. All you really need to achieve this is the right amount of care and upkeep. Learning how to clean leather couch furniture to keep it looking shiny and brand new means that your purchase will be well worth the dollars and never need to be replaced.

So here’s the proper technique of a leather cleaning process that will have your couch looking beautiful in no time. This is also a great technique to use if you want to get the best out of a second-hand leather couch purchase if you are looking at a more sustainable and ethical way of getting some new furniture.

Top tips for a clean leather couch

Leather couch maintenance is an on-going job, and here are some quick tips to always keep in mind when looking to care for your couch:

  • The most important leather maintenance tip is to keep your couch away from the sun so it won’t fade.
  • You can use home furniture polish once a month to give your leather a nice finish.
  • Refreshed and renewed leather will last for years with regular maintenance.
  • A light-coloured leather couch should be cleaned every six months.
  • A dark-coloured leather only requires a clean once a year.

How to clean your leather couch

The steps below will make the cleaning of your leather couch a simple part of your regular cleaning routine. First, let’s start with the items you’ll need for your clean:

Equipment

  • Leather conditioner or cleaner
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Mild dish soap
  • Baking soda

Leather couch cleaning steps

There are clearly defined stages of cleaning a leather sofa – vacuum, stain cleaning and leather cleaning / conditioning.

Vacuuming a leather couch

1. Remove seat and back cushions and vacuum them.

2. Vacuum the rest of the couch and remove the loose dirt and crumbs. If you can’t remove cushions, them make sure you put the right attachment on and vacuum the crevices.

Leather couch stain removal

3.  Dip a clean cloth into warm water that has been mixed with dish soap.

4. Wring it out and rub the damp cloth in small circles around the stain to buff it out. Avoid rubbing back and forth so there’s no unnecessary wear and tear.

5. If your stain has been caused by grease, a dry cloth with a little baking soda should work to absorb it.

6. To dry the sofa get a dry rag to wipe down as remaining water from the last step will weaken leather if left to dry.

Leather cleaner and conditioner

7. Spray the cleaner onto a cloth (not the furniture)

8. Lightly rub it all around the couch, including the edges and nooks. Work from top to bottom and try to keep all of your wipes even.

9. Wipe away any excess cleaner and begin conditioning (if you are not using a 2-in-1).

Tip: Some products are 2-in-1 with a cleaner and conditioner which will save you some time.

10. Apply a small amount of conditioner onto a clean cloth and get to work. The conditioner leaves a lovely smell while moisturising the leather to make things look brand new.

11. Once you’ve finished with the conditioner, let the leather dry for an hour or so, and then you are all done! Your leather couch should look like new.

It is critical that you avoid using any harsh chemicals like alcohol or leather shoe polish during your clean. These aren’t made for leather couches and will likely do more harm than good.

How to clean faux-leather couch

If you don’t like the idea of real leather (for all the animal lovers) or you want the look of leather for a fraction of the cost, you may have gone for a faux-leather couch. If so, it’s essential to know that they do require different care as the upholstery material is often a plastic leather that contains materials such as polyvinyl chloride, or vinyl.

Because of this, chemical cleaners can cause some damage to the material, making it stiff. To keep your faux-leather couch looking and feeling its best you’ll need:

Equipment

  • A vacuum with a brush attachment
  • Mild detergent
  • Vinyl stain remover or rubbing alcohol
  • Cotton balls
  • Rags

Faux-leather couch cleaning steps

1. Vacuum the couch with the brush attachment covering any cracks or crevices and remove the cushions.

2. Mix liquid dish soap or a mild household detergent with warm water.

3. Wipe the couch with a clean rag that has been dampened with the detergent solution.

4. Rinse the cloth then wipe down the couch a second time to remove the detergent and dry the excess moisture.

5. Dip a cotton ball in vinyl stain remover or rubbing alcohol to clear off any stains then immediately flush the area with water.

6. Cleaning regularly is important because abrasive dirt particles can scratch the faux-materials, so regular vacuuming is a good idea.

Tip: Make sure you avoid chemical cleaners or anything that contains bleach.

In some cases, your faux-leather will come treated with a stain preventer. If it does not, you can buy and add protective-finish spray to create another layer of protection to your couch.

You should take note of the fact that the materials of faux-leather couches can vary, so you should read the care tag on the bottom of the couch to ensure you have the proper cleaning materials.

How to clean suede leather couches

When it comes to cleaning a more delicate fabric like suede, you need to ensure both a stain-free environment while also protecting your couch from wear and tear.

Equipment

  • An upholstery cleaner specifically for suede
  • A well-ventilated space with open windows
  • A painter’s face mask
  • A suede napping brush
  • A suede rubbing cloth
  • A vacuum cleaner
  • Brown gum eraser
  • A dry sponge
  • A waterproofing spray (optional)

As a weekly task, spray the couch with a suede-friendly stain repellent covering each section covering the entire couch weekly to protect from accidental spills and make cleaning much easier. Some suede-protecting products will need 2-3 coats to work properly, this should be mentioned in their instructions.

Steps to clean your suede couch:

1. Test your chosen cleaning product first on an unseen area of the couch to ensure it doesn’t negatively affect the suede e.g. the underside or behind cushions.

2. Remove the cushions and vacuum any trapped dust or crumbs.

3. Wipe down with a suede brush.

4. For stains, moisten a clean cloth with suede cleaner and gently rub the affected in small circular motions. Let the area dry then polish with the suede cloth.

5. If you have a dry stain, brush it gently with a suede brush then use a brown gum eraser to remove the stain (a small piece of sandpaper can also be used here if the stain is stubborn but make sure you do this very gently).

6. When the stain is gone, use a suede brush to neaten.

Frequently asked questions on leather couch cleaning

What household products can you use to clean leather?

The following household products can be used to clean leather:

  • A vinegar rinse in a mix of 50-50 distilled water and white vinegar mixture
  • Apple cider vinegar (also mixed with water)
  • A natural oil in a bowl mixed as two parts oil with one part water or lemon juice (coconut, olive, or walnut oil is perfect)
  • Essential oils, usually 10-15 drops onto a microfiber cloth or sponge
  • A mild baby soap or detergent mixed with warm water and a few drops of vinegar

How do you deep clean a leather couch?

Deep cleaning a leather couch involves initial steps of vacuuming and dusting, followed by a moist cloth and leather cleaning solution to give the couch a standard clean.

Once you have done this, you’ll need a wet cleaning brush dipped in warm water to loosen-up the bristles.

From here, you need to add a leather cleaning solution, scrubbing the couch in a circular motion with light pressure, increasing gradually to get rid of dirt and marks.

What is a good leather cleaner?

A highly rated leather cleaner is the Leather Strong Cleaner by New Life, which is appropriate for leather furniture, car/boat/caravan leather interiors, shoes, handbags, and more.

Add a microfibre cleaning sponge and a clean damp, cloth, and you are all set to achieve a great clean for your leather couch.

A little strapped for time?

If you are a little too busy to give you leather, faux-leather, or suede couch the attention it needs to stay brand new, there is another option! There are plenty of people who can come and clean your couch no matter the material or specifically leather cleaning for you to save time.

Want to learn a little bit more? Have a look at some other excellent how-to guides to spruce up your living room:

Easy steps for how to clean an iron

Say goodbye to gunk and hello to an iron that glides effortlessly across your clothing.

Easy steps for how to clean an iron

Some people loathe the chore of ironing, others can find it quite therapeutic (so long as there isn’t too much of it). Either way, we can all agree that irons make our clothes look great! They remove wrinkles and creases, helping us to look our best when we leave the house. So, knowing how to clean an iron can help you get the very best out of the task.

With that in mind, the clean, crisp look provided by an iron is best achieved when the iron itself is also clean. It is essential to maintain your iron as soleplates, which are located on the bottom of your iron, as they can become sticky and oily.

This can cause trouble for your clothes as fabrics can melt, or you can leave residue on your outfits. The last thing you want is your wardrobe looking worse after an iron! By taking care of your iron, you’ll get the best results and allow for it to glide effortlessly across your clothing, making the task of ironing a much more pleasant experience.

How often do you need to clean an iron?

Sometimes it can be very obvious when your iron requires a clean, especially if you are noticing some adverse effects like the ones mentioned above. If a gummy build-up is forming on the soleplate or you are seeing a grab on the fabric as you iron, it’s likely time for a clean.

You may also notice that instead of emitting steam, there is gunk spurting out of your iron. These are mineral deposits that are telling you your iron is well overdue for a clean. These deposits can cause stains on clothing that are hard to remove. There is nothing worse than dirtying your freshly cleaned clothes, especially if you are in a rush to get out the door!

How to clean your iron in 10 different ways

You will likely find many strategies on how to clean the bottom of an iron with natural, readily available ingredients. The good news is, most of them are probably pretty effective!

cleaning-iron-gunk-steam

It does depend on what substances form on your iron as to which method will work best, so experimentation may be necessary. To help, we’ve compiled some of the best processes available to get a good clean:

1. Baking soda and water

Most people have baking soda lying around the home, and everyone has water, so this method is an easy one! This combination should dissolve any gunk on your iron. Simply mix a little baking soda with enough water to create a paste.

Once you have a nice paste, rub it on the soleplate with a soft brush or towel. Let it sit for a while then use water to wipe it away. Remember, it is crucial that you ensure the paste is completely removed, and the iron is dry before you use it on your clothing.

Actually, if you’re wondering what else baking soda can be used for here is some other helpful natural cleaning products to clean your house and also check out these 10 ways to clean with baking soda.

2. Newspaper

Before you recycle those old newspapers, spare a little to help clean your iron! Just heat up the iron to as high as you can, scrunch up some paper and scrub the soleplate with it.

It’s as simple as that! Just be careful as the iron will be hot, some sort of protection for your hands may be necessary.

3. Acetone nail polish remover

For a particularly dirty iron, this method will dissolve grime and make it much easier to wipe away. Once again, you’ll have to turn the iron on heat it up to high, then just soak a cotton ball in some acetone nail polish remover.

From here, you just dab the soaked cotton ball onto the heated soleplate. You’ll notice the acetone nail polish will evaporate quickly while it’s also dissolving the gunk! When you are finished, make sure you wipe the surface with a wet cloth.

4. A kitchen sponge

Sometimes all your iron will require is a wipe with a non-scratch kitchen sponge or scrubber. Just use soap and water and wipe the iron with a towel to help it dry completely before use. Easy!

5. Vinegar

This method has been popular for a long time. Use distilled white vinegar on a towel, wiping the soleplate to remove gunk. You may need to let the soleplate soak for 15-30 minutes if your iron is really featuring some dirt.

If you want to really power-up your clean, add a little baking soda to the vinegar and dampen a towel with the mixture. Lay the soaked towel flat and run the iron over the towel for a great clean. Just make sure the iron is off while you do this!

6. Dish detergent

That’s right, what’s good for your plates is good for the plates of your iron! Get some water and pour a few drops of liquid dish detergent in, then use a soft rag and wipe away any residue.

7. Salt

Ever wondered how to clean an iron with salt? Just sprinkle a fair amount of salt on to a sheet of paper and run the warm iron over it. This will do a great job of tackling stains and other gunk. Just make sure you wipe away the salt with a dry cloth before use.

8. Toothpaste

This may seem a little strange, but if you’ve ever heard someone ask how to clean an iron with toothpaste, they are not crazy; it works! Rub some white toothpaste on the soleplate, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

Once again, it’s essential to let the iron dry thoroughly before use.

9. Distilled water

A great way to clean the inside of your iron and the steam holes is by ensuring you don’t leave stale water in it for too long. Every now and then, refill your iron with distilled water and set it to the highest heat with the full steam setting selected.

You may even have an iron that offers a steam clean setting, which will achieve a similar result. From here, just let your iron sit and emit steam, which will help to clear the vents. Another method similar to this, or to be used in conjunction with it, is ironing an old towel allowing the steam to flush the gunk out.

Whatever you do, never put vinegar inside of your iron!

10. Dryer sheets

Finally, you can rub a slightly warmed up iron on a few dryer sheets to remove the gunk. Sometimes simple is effective!

But here’s what not to use…

When it comes to cleaning an iron, many people are tempted to use things like paper clips, or anything hard they can jam into the steam holes or scratch gunk off with. This is a bad idea and should be avoided at all costs!

It will more than likely cause unwanted scratches on your soleplate and in the steam holes. Don’t make us write an article on ways to get rid of its scratches!

Frequently asked questions

How do I clean the gunk off my iron?

You could use baking soda, newspaper or a kitchen sponge as a starting point; however, the level of gunk, and what has caused it, can often be the determining factor of which will work.

You may have to try a few before you find an effective one for your situation, but trust us, one will work!

How do you remove brown water from an iron?

If you are noticing drips of brown water, it’s like a build-up of gunk in your steam holes, which can be a little trickier to clean.

To clean the steam holes, get a damp cotton swab and dip it in a solution of water and a liquid detergent. This can be time-consuming and a little monotonous, but then you’ll have to insert the damp cotton swab into each of the steam holes for a little scrub.

You can also use a toothbrush or pipe cleaner as a handy tool for cleaning the steam vents. An old toothbrush is an effective way to loosen and remove unwanted residue or remove the baking soda or salt you’ve used for cleaning from the vents.

How do you de-scale a steam iron?

Much like the distilled water step above, the best way to descale your steam iron is by following these steps:

  1. Completely fill the water tank of your iron and turn it on. Some irons with adjustable settings are best set to MAX TEMP and NO STEAM
  2. When your iron has reached maximum heat, unplug and hold it over the sink with the soleplate in a horizontal position
  3. Your iron will have a setting that reads CALC CLEAN (or similar) via a button or selector, press and hold to activate
  4. Give the iron a gentle shake until it is empty, you will likely see water, steam, and grime coming out of the vents.
  5. Finally, heat the iron and glide it over an old cloth to give the soleplate one last clean, you may need to repeat this process a few times to get all of the grime.

Don’t have the time to iron?

Who has the time to iron baskets and baskets of clothes, sheets and everything else these days? Well, why not get a well-versed ironing expert to help carry the load.

Looking for some more great how-to guides check out:

Remove wallpaper from your walls

Even the oldest of wallpaper can be removed when you know the best method for doing it.

Remove wallpaper from your walls

Wanting to remove that wallpaper from your childhood room or just fancy a shakeup? Wallpapering is no easy task, but I’m going to walk you through every step so you know exactly remove wallpaper from your walls.

There are a few essential things you need to know before you get into it though. For instance, what type of surface is beneath the wallpaper. If it’s an older style home, perhaps it’s wood, or maybe it’s drywall or plaster in a newer home. This will impact how you remove your wallpaper.

From removing old wallpaper when you’ve recently moved into a new home to vinyl wallpaper and also how do you remove wallpaper borders or glue. It can be difficult to navigate if it’s your first time, especially if you want to prepare for new wallpaper installation. But don’t fret because we’ve got your back! Let’s jump in.

How to remove old wallpaper

Even the oldest of wallpaper can be removed when you know the best method for doing it. Our proven process can eliminate any outdated wallpaper.

vintage old wallpaper that needs to be removed

Removing wallpaper with a steamer

This is one of the best methods for old wallpaper as the hot steam helps to loosen the glue, which allows you to easily scrap the wallpaper off the walls.

You might be able to borrow a wallpaper steamer from someone in your network or you can even hire them from your hardware shop but here’s a complete list of what you’ll need:

Equipment and materials

  • Wallpaper steamer
  • Perforator
  • Drop sheets
  • Personal protection clothing (masks, gloves etc)
  • Scraping tool
  • Ladder
  • Electrical tape
  • Warm water
  • Sponge

Steps to using a steamer to remove wallpaper

  1. Lay down your drop sheet and cover power points with electrical tape. Put on your PPC.
  2. Get the steamer set up per the instructions, it will probably need a bit of time to warm up
  3. Use your perforator to make little holes in the wallpaper which helps the steam to penetrate the glue – just don’t press too hard so you don’t damage the walls.
  4. Once heated, put the steamer on the walls and allow it to seep in for about 30 seconds. You’ll want to take it nice and slow, it will make the next stage way easier.
  5. Scrape the walls until all the wallpaper comes off. You’ll need to repeat these last two steps as you move around the room.
  6. To remove residue etc, clean the walls with warm water and soap.

Homemade wallpaper removal method

Before you get started, you might need to make a quick dash to the shops yo pick up some supplies because quality tools are vital for the best results. You can purchase smaller brand names if need be, but we recommend splashing a bit of cash to guarantee a simple procedure. Here is a list of some things you’ll need to get the job done in a flash:

Equipment and materials

  • Paint roller
  • Fabric roller
  • Putty knife
  • Bucket or large bowl
  • Paper towel
  • Hot water
  • Personal protection clothing (gloves, masks etc)
  • Drop sheets

Once you’ve filled your shopping basket, checked out, and lugged it home, we can get started on the work.  Here are the steps to say goodbye to old-fashioned walls:

  1. Mix fabric softener and hot water (nearly boiling) into a bucket or large bowl. The ratio between water and softener should be approximately 50/50.
  2. Protect your floors with a drop sheet
  3. Use your paint roller to spread the solution over your wallpaper. The paper should be completely saturated.
  4. Use your putty knife to scrape the paper from the wall. You will need to apply some pressure and scrape over some areas multiple times.
  5. Once the bulk of the paper has been scraped off, you can gently brush over the zone with a paper towel, pushing any residue away, to see if wallpaper still remains.
  6. If there is paper left, begin the process again. If it’s all gone, you can pop the champagne and get ready to paint or replace with new wallpaper.
Hot tip: Only cover small areas of wallpaper with the solution at a time. If you coat an area that is too large for you to scrape quickly, the solution could dry the paper out and make it more challenging to remove. Between soaking the wallpaper and scraping, you have about 15 minutes until it starts to dry out.

How to remove a wallpaper border

Perhaps I jumped ahead a little by explaining how to remove the centrepiece of wallpaper before the border. To fully replenish your walls, you need to understand how to remove wallpaper borders. The border is where the removal process begins, and it’s often the section that is most unbelievably stuck to the wall.

Hot tip: You should put old towels or sheets on the floor before you begin removing any wallpaper, paint or material from your walls. The wallpaper will be scraped onto the floor and could get stuck to floorboards or carpet if they aren’t protected. Nobody wants to undertake a second round of removal!

To really get behind the edge of wallpaper, you may need to place some of the water into a spray bottle and directly shoot it onto the corner of the paper. With enough sprays, the paper should soften and eventually be able to be lifted from the wall without the need of a putty knife which could cause more harm than good.

Once the border is removing smoothly, you can proceed to drench the rest of your wallpaper and scrape it off as per the methods mentioned above.

How to remove wallpaper glue

Once you’ve managed to get rid of the wallpaper, there’s a chance that your job won’t be complete because some nasty wallpaper glue might still remain. In most cases, the yellowed and dried glue is even more hideous than the wallpaper was itself.

Removing wallpaper glue is as simple as following these four steps:

  1. Combine hot water (nearly boiling), many squeezes of liquid dish soap, and a dash of baking soda into a bowl or bucket.
  2. Spread the soapy solution over the wallpaper glue with a soft sponge.
  3. Try to get as much as you can gently with the sponge, and only use a scraper or knife if you must.
  4. Apply more soapy solution if you need.

The combination of baking soda and soap has enough chemical strength and hardiness to soften the glue for removal. The baking soda brings the acidic touch, whereas the soap makes the solution an ideal texture for working with oily, flexible materials.

How to remove vinyl wallpaper

Vinyl wallpaper is a little unique in comparison to other forms of wallpaper. Vinyl is essentially a synthetic resin or plastic that can be stuck to your walls. Because of its smooth and sometimes shiny appearance, it is a popular kitchen wallpaper and bathroom wallpaper.

But just like other wallpapers, it can be an unfortunate pain to get rid of.

Hot tip: If you are really struggling to remove wallpaper, you might benefit from adding some vinegar to your fabric softener solution. Vinegar is highly acidic, so as well as destroying your insides when you consume too much, it can help destroy sticky vinyl, paper, paint or glue.

Removing vinyl wallpaper requires more emphasis to be placed on the edge, sides and border of your wallpaper. You will need to get a good grasp of a corner in order to begin the displacement.

Rather than scraping, vinyl should be able to be peeled from your walls. It typically peels away like a sheet or sticker and ends up coming off in large strips. If the vinyl rips and your strip of peel has ended, you can loosen another corner and begin peeling again. You know this can be strangely satisfying so you might find the this all pretty relaxing.

If it’s a little tricky, put some water in a spray bottle to help loosen it.

How to remove painted wallpaper

Painted wallpaper is one of the more stubborn types of wallpaper because you can find that there are several layers of paint of the top of the original wallpaper. That’s why we’ve left it to very last to discuss – take a deep breath!

leaf wallpaper design
Source: DesignEcologist / Unsplash

Similarly to other types of wallpaper, you should use a chemical removal method to soften the glue. The difference between removing painted wallpaper and other types of wallpaper is that the paint cannot easily be scraped, pulled or peeled from the wall.

Instead of a scraping tool, we suggest using a scruffy brush or gritty scourer to gnarl the paint from your wall. Although this process requires a fair amount of elbow grease, it is the best way to make inroads with the paint so that the soapy solution can get through to the glue and work its magic.

Rally a team of helpers, otherwise known as forced relatives, and get to work. It’s scrubbing time!

How to remove wallpaper FAQs

What’s the easiest way to remove old wallpaper?

The most effective and least time-consuming way is to use a chemical solution or water and soap to soak into the wallpaper and soften the glue before scraping off.

What’s the best homemade wallpaper remover?

As well as having the option to make your own wallpaper remover, there are some wallpaper remover solutions available at supermarket and hardware stores. But, if you would rather avoid any harsh chemicals and try a more natural method, you can use a vinegar and hot water solution to soak your walls. This is also likely to be the most cost-effective combination.

How do you install wallpaper?

After your wall has been stripped clean, you can start investigating what other wallpaper you might want to use in replacement. Applying new wallpaper to your walls requires the expertise of a wallpaper installation professional. If you’re in need of some pro wallpaper assistance, have a browse of Airtasker’s reviewed, rated and trusted wallpaper installers.

How to clean silver quickly and effectively

Here are some easy peasy ways to clean your silver

How to clean silver quickly and effectively

We’ve all experienced the shock of opening up a drawer of silver and discovering that it suddenly doesn’t appear as it should. You’re not the only one left thinking about how to clean silver.

Actually it’s not just the silver dinnerware but many items can be subject to tarnishing such as; necklaces, coins, rings, cutlery, plates, dinner sets, chains, sterling silver, bracelets, ornaments, tools, and more.

You are probably wondering… Is it possible to clean silver? What methods are available for polishing silver? Can your tarnished silver ever look new again?

Thankfully, there are some easy peasy solutions for cleaning your dirty silver goods. Anybody with the right resources should be able to follow these quick cleaning methods. So with a little bit of time, determination and hot tips, I know that you’ll be able to refresh your silverware as well.

how-to-clean-silver-cutlery
Source: Tracey Hocking

There are three commonly recognised procedures for cleaning silver, including the baking soda method, the foil method, and the coca-cola method. To give you a better understanding of each individual home remedy for cleaning silver, we are going to outline the steps required for each process with the pros and cons.

But what is tarnished silver?

Your silver can tarnish (discolour) when it’s exposed to moisture, air or other chemical compounds that cause a layer of corrosion. Products that are made from silver are often mixed with other metals, and it’s these additional metals which often react with the air, pollution, other chemicals (hairspray, perfume etc) causing the silver to tarnish.

But luckily it’s only on top layers, so it can be easily removed with one of the methods below and elbow grease. Keep in mind that tarnishing will only get worse over time, so it’s important that you get cleaning as soon as possible so that it’s not a huge task.

Top tip: the quicker you put an end to tarnishing silver, the easier your cleaning process will be.

How to clean silver with baking soda

When most people enter into adulthood, it isn’t long before they realise that baking soda is the answer to everything, and in this case, it is the top-notch fix yet again. Similarly to cleaning your oven with baking soda, cleaning silver with baking soda is one of the most commonly employed methods for eliminating evidence of tarnish.

All you will need to carry out this process is a food-safe quality container, baking soda, polishing cloth, and ample water.

jewelry in baking soda
Source: Pinterest

Steps for cleaning with baking soda

  1. Grab your container and fill it 75% with warm water.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda (more if you have a large quantity of silver or a large container).
  3. Mix the baking soda into the water gently with a spoon or mixer.
  4. Gently drop your silver items into the container. You may need to have multiple containers ongoing if you are trying to clean an entire dinner set or various pieces of jewellery.
  5. Place the lid on and leave to rest overnight.
  6. Next morning, remove the silver from the container and softly wipe with a clean polishing cloth.
  7. Assess what progress has been made to remove the tarnish. If you are satisfied, dry the silver completely and consider it a job well done. If there are still dark stains on the silver, you may need to repeat the process from the beginning until desired results are achieved.
Top tip: If you happen to have some vinegar in your pantry, a small amount of this can also be added to the baking soda mix at step two. However, this is not an essential requirement.

Understandably, the baking soda method for cleaning silver is mostly loved for its simplicity and effectiveness. However, depending on the severity of your dirty silver and how much silver you need to be cleansed, you may need to repeat the process up to five times to achieve a satisfying outcome.

Baking soda pros:

  • The materials don’t cost much (most people will already have some Tupperware and baking soda at home)
  • It doesn’t require much effort on your behalf
  • When done correctly, the method has high rates of effectiveness
  • There are many ways of cleaning with baking soda
  • There’s a very low risk for your own safety with baking soda

Baking soda cons:

  • You cannot use the silver while it is being cleaned overnight
  • Your Tupperware container might require a few cycles in the dishwasher to get rid of the baking soda tang
  • You may need to repeat the steps multiple times to achieve a solid result, and this could ultimately take a couple of days

How to clean silver with foil

Foil is another great multi-use product and it’s the second most popular way of cleaning dirty silver is with foil.

You’ll need plenty of aluminium foil, a plastic container or tub, a microfibre cloth, and some boiled water.

silver cleaning in foil
Pinterest

Steps for cleaning silver with foil

  1. Line your sturdy plastic container with aluminium foil. Cover the base and sides.
  2. Wrap each individual piece of silver with foil, ensuring it is enclosed tightly within the foil wrap.
  3. Place foil-wrapped silver into the container.
  4. Fill the container with boiling water.
  5. Remove the silver after five minutes and unwrap from the foil. (Be careful as both the silver and the foil will be extremely hot. You might like to wear protective gloves.)
  6. Clean immediately with a soft, clean microfibre cloth.

This method is effective because of how the hot aluminium reacts with the tarnishing coat on your silver. The chemicals within the black tarnish actually get transferred from the silver good and onto the foil via the water channel. When you remove the foil wrapping, you may even be able to notice the dark stains are now present on the foil rather than the silver.

Foil pros:

  • The method is quick and often complete within fifteen minutes
  • The process is known to be relatively effective, with most people reporting that it has a positive impact on the appearance of their silver
  • The materials needed are not expensive nor hard to find
  • It is considered by some to be a more natural cleaning product compared to other cleaning methods

Foil cons:

  • You need to be careful of your own safety, as the boiling water can burn your skin easily
  • It isn’t known to be as effective as the baking soda cleaning method

How to clean silver with coke

We all know that fizzy drinks are delicious to drink,  but they might also be useful for cleaning tarnished silver. The cola method for cleaning silver is very similar to the baking soda method.

All you need is a reliable plastic container, a cotton-based cloth, and a bottle of cola drink.

cleaning-silver-coke-cola
Source: Leighann Blackwood

Steps for cleaning silver with coke

  1. Fill your container 75% with bubbly cola soft drink. The bottle of cola must be newly-opened to ensure optimal fizz.
  2. Place your silver into the container and leave for at least one hour.
  3. Remove the silver and rub gently with your cotton-based cloth.

Interestingly, this method works because the strong acid component of the cola draws the tarnish from the silver items, leaving them free from any dirty coating. The best results will occur when you use room temperature cola rather than a chilled beverage.

Coke cleaning pros:

  • It is a simple method
  • The process is 100% safe
  • The entire method only takes an hour or so to complete

Coke cleaning cons:

  • The cola can sometimes leave a sugary residue on your silver which needs to be scrubbed off
  • Your silver might also be sticky after the procedure, so you will need to give it a thorough wash in soapy water

But wait, why not use all three methods!

For the most awe-inspiring outcome cleaning your coins, jewellery, cutlery and homewares, our recommendation is to complete each method after one another, or all together in one go.

You can combine both baking soda and cola into one mixed solution, pour it into a container, add your foil-wrapped silver goods, and leave to rest overnight. When you unveil the items in the morning, they will just need a quick wipe with a cloth before you can see the positive outcome.

So, if you are wondering how to clean silver quickly, how to clean silver that has turned black, and what is the best home remedy for cleaning silver, we suggest heading to the shops for some foil, baking soda and cola.

How to use silver polish

If you head to the hardware or grocery store and walk to the ceiling aisle,  you’ll see a few different silver cleaning products. You’ll see a liquid polish and also disposable cloths.

If you use the liquid you must wear gloves and you can use a sponge, cloth or cotton ball to rub onto the tarnish. This will take a bit more effort than the above set and forget methods.

You can also use the disposable polishing cloths that have been chemically treated to buff away any impurities. These are just not as environmentally friendly as the above methods.

How to store silver

Ok, so how do keep your silver from tarnishing again?

Well, heat and humidity quicken the tarnishing reaction, so make sure that you keep it away from these changing climate zones e.g. an attic or basement.

Often when you purchase silver items, you’ll get a material bag (think the Tiffany & Co blue bag) to put it in. Now, these aren’t for no reason, they are often treated with chemicals to stop the tarnishing process.

There’s also acid-free tissue paper that you can use for your items before putting in a sealable bag. You may want to add silica gel as well to absorb any moisture found.

But never put rubber and silver together as rubber can corrode silver.

FAQs

What is the best home remedy to clean silver?

Well, it depends on your preference but the most economical option for a home remedy to clean silver is baking soda. We usually have it in large quantities due to baking so to put it in a container with your silver and leave overnight is a cheap and easy solution.

How do you clean silver that has turned black?

If your silver has turned black it means it’s tarnished. It can occur in a few different colours and there’s no need to be alarmed, you just need to give it a good clean. You can use baking soda, foil, or the silver polishing products as a great place start.

How do you clean silver quickly?

If you need to clean silver quickly the best way is to either use a liquid silver polish from the shops or the aluminium foil method if you want a low-tox sustainable approach. This will have your silver sparkling again in no time.

How to clean your white shoes so they look brand new

Keeping your kicks scratch-free and shiny can be hard, but not with these tips!

How to clean your white shoes so they look brand new

White shoes are a blessing and a curse, they are fashionable and affordable, but they get stained quickly. There is no point of buying a pair of white shoes if you’re not going to keep them sparkling clean. A single stain on your white shoes and they look ridiculous. You’ll need to learn how to clean white shoes if you want to them to look pristine 24/7.

There’s something about white sneakers that draw attention to your feet. Clean white shoes are beautiful and make any outfit stand out, making you look perfect and sharp while dirty white shoes drag everything down, making you look dull.

Do not throw away your dirty Converse or Stan Smith white sneakers; our extensive guide has the best and easiest ways to clean dirty white shoes.

How to Keep White Shoes Sparkling Clean

Prevention is the first line of defence in keeping your white shoes spotless. Before you put your white shoes on, you need to apply a stain repellent. Do this once every two weeks to keep your white sneakers dirt and stain free regardless of the weather or where you plan to wear them.

Another useful tip that you should try is spot cleaning. Wiping off any stain that you find on your white shoes seems like a lot of work (it also makes you look like a clean junkie), but it’s worth it because you’ll find it easy cleaning them thoroughly. To do this, you need to have a cleaning agent or wet wipes every time you put on white sneakers to wipe off dirt and stains. Wiping off dirt and stains once you see them is crucial because stain won’t have enough time to penetrate the fabric.

What You’ll Need to Clean White Shoes

The first item that should be on your list of must-haves for cleaning white shoes is a toothbrush. Using a bristled toothbrush is an easy way to get to those hard to reach places. Use light and straightforward motions to brush away the dirt and add some pressure for stubborn stains. You’ll need warm water and soap to get the dirt out, but if that doesn’t work, you’ll need to add bleach, toothpaste or baking soda.

One thing that you should never do is throw your shoes into the washing machine. If you throw them in with laundry or even by themselves, you’ll make the stains even worse, or permanently damage your shoes. The cleaning motion of a washing machine is harsh on shoes, whether leather or canvas and can cause tears, leather breakdown and loose threads. Throw your white shoes in the washer, and they’ll never look the same again.

white-sneakers-shoes
Source: Geremi Gascon

Create a DIY Cleaning Solution

There are home ingredients that you can use to clean white shoes. These DIY products are cheap and get the job done; they include:

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

These two are probably the most popular DIY home cleaning agents of all time. Baking soda makes your fridge smell fresh and white vinegar freshens the scent of your home. One thing that you probably didn’t know is that you can use white vinegar and baking soda to clean white shoes.

Combine equal parts of baking soda, white vinegar and hot water (one tablespoon) in a bowl and stir until you get a paste-like consistency. Scoop the paste with a toothbrush and gently apply on the canvas area of your white shoes. Brush in circular motions and sundry for three to four hours. Clap the shoes together until the dry mixture falls off or brush it all off with a toothbrush. Your shoes should be sparkling.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is a gentle product that whitens your teeth and keeps the mouth fresh.

It’s these same qualities and properties of toothpaste that make it an excellent product for cleaning white shoes. Do not use coloured toothpaste which will stain your white canvas shoes even more.

Cleaning white shoes with toothpaste is easy, grab a non-gel toothpaste and squirt it on an old toothbrush. Apply the toothpaste to your dirty shoes using circular motions and add pressure on the stained areas. Once the toothpaste soaks into the fabric, let it sit for fifteen minutes and once the time lapses, use a damp cloth to wipe it off. Repeat the process until there is no stain left.

Use a Dedicated Shoe Cleaner

If you love your white sneakers and you can’t stand the sight of them being dirty, buy a shoe cleaner from the store. You’ll find different types of shoe cleaners, but you should buy the one with natural ingredients. Stay away from shoe cleaners with harsh chemicals because they wear away your shoes.

Natural shoes cleaners are gentle on different materials and loosen a variety of food, grass and soil stains.

How to Clean White Leather Shoes

Count yourself lucky if you own a pair of white leather shoes. Leather does not absorb as much water as suede or canvas, and cleaning it is easy.

  • Materials: Regular soap, an old t-shirt, paper towels, and Mr Clean Magic Eraser (order online if it’s not available in your local store).
  • Get Rid of Surface Dirt: Wet the paper towel in a bowl and squeeze out excess water. Wipe the outside of the shoe to get rid of the dirt and stains. Air-dry the shoes and proceed to the next step.
  • Clean the Sole: Get the Mr Clean Magic Eraser and put it in water, remember to squeeze out excess water. Wipe the soles until they’re sparkling clean. Sneaker Rescue Wipes are natural and work great on the soles too, use them to get scuffs off the soles.
  • Scrub: Grab the old t-shirt and lather it up with regular soap. Slowly clean the upper part of the shoe until its back to its original white colour. Wipe off any excess soap and air dry the shoes for ten minutes.

How to Clean White Canvas Shoes

Cleaning white canvas shoes seems like a daunting task but it’s not, as long as you have the right tips and cleaning products. All you need is white vinegar and baking soda. Check the Baking soda and white vinegar part on this article for the cleaning process.

How to Clean Suede Shoes

Suede is a delicate fabric that stains easily and is tricky to clean. This is the reason you won’t find any true white suede shoe. Use the following process to clean your white-ish suede shoes.

1. Materials

You’ll need white vinegar, soft cotton cloth, paper towel, a suede brush, and a pink pencil eraser.

2. Blotting

Using the soft cloth, blot the shoes to remove moisture and slowly rub the stains with a pink pencil eraser.

3. Drying

Dry the shoe with the paper towel but avoid rubbing the dirt as it could stain other parts of the shoe.

4. Remaining Stains

Dip the cloth in a white vinegar solution and rub off the remaining stains. Air-dry the shoes and rub them in circular motions with a suede brush to get the velvety texture back.

Don’t Forget the Laces! Do not pair your perfectly white shoes with a pair of dirty and ugly shoelaces. Remove the laces and dip them in a mild cleaning solution. Gently wash the laces, rinse, and hang them out to dry.

 

I Still Can’t Get the Stains Off, What Do I Do?

It’s time to call the professionals if you cannot get the dirt off your white shoes. There are plenty of trusted laundry cleaners near you who will get the job done in minutes. A laundry cleaner knows how to clean white shoes and get them back to pristine condition.

FAQs on How to Clean White Shoes

Can I use bleach to clean my white shoes?

Yes, you can, but you have to dilute the bleach, or it will turn your white shoes yellow. Mix one part of bleach to five or six parts of water. Dip a toothbrush in the solution and scrub gently. Rinse with warm water and allow the shoes to air dry. Repeat the process until you get the right results.

How can I keep my white shoes from getting dirty?

You need a stain repellent for your type of shoes and apply it before you wear them to keep them stain and dirt free. Use a water repellent to protect your shoes from snow and rain. Use a leather stain repellent for leather or suede shoes and any stain repellent (such as Scotchguard) for white canvas shoes.

How do I get rid of bad shoe odour?

Use the same cleaning method for the outside of the shoe to clean the insoles and the inside of the shoe. Once you clean all areas, leave them out to dry, and the bad odour will be gone.

Your step-by-step guide for a clean washing machine

Keep the mould at bay with these easy washing machine tips

Your step-by-step guide for a clean washing machine

If you fail to learn how to clean a washing machine, you’ll be exposed to germs, awful smells, mould and bacteria.

Why do washing machines get so dirty?

Fabric softeners and laundry detergents cling to the inside of the washing machine, and with the hot and humid Australian weather, mould and mildew grow fast.

Also, your washer collects bits of dirt after every wash and most of the dirt and grime sticks to the rubber corners of the seals. The seal stays moist, and any dirt that stays there develops mould. Don’t wait for bad smells or stains on your clothes due to mould build-up to know its time to clean your washer.

To keep your washer in optimal levels, we are going to share some tips on how to clean your washing machine.

Start with the Door Seals and Gaskets First

Take some towels and soak them in white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide and place them on the gasket cavities. Leave the sheets for about an hour for the white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to loosen up the grease or mould and disinfect the area. Wipe the gaskets and the doors seals and use a toothbrush to remove any residue.

Rinse-Off

Once the gasket is clean, add water and set the washer to the extended cycle, largest load and hottest setting.

Fill the Drum or Detergent Drawer with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Add one litre of vinegar and half a cup of baking soda. You can use either chlorine bleach, enzyme detergent, citric acid, hydrogen peroxide or oxygen bleach in place of vinegar and baking soda.

If you’re cleaning a front-loader, empty the vinegar to the detergent drawer and baking soda to the softener drawer, and start the wash cycle.

If you have a top-loader, allow the water to run for a few minutes before adding the vinegar and baking soda. Keep the machine going for about a minute to mix the two ingredients and then stop the washing cycle for an hour. Complete the washing cycle after an hour of soaking.

Keep the Washing Cycle Going

Clean the outside of the washing machine with a soft cloth soaked in vinegar as the washing cycle continues.

Run a Second Hot Water Cycle

Run a second cycle, but this time with hot water. Hot water and a dash of vinegar loosen up any leftover residue. Once the cycle ends, leave the door open to allow the drum to dry to prevent any formation of mildew.

Clean All the Parts

This part is optional but why would you leave the other parts dirty? Clean the entire device while you’re at it!

Take one of the towels soaked in vinegar and clean the inside of the lid. Grab a toothbrush and get into those hard to reach places like the crannies and nooks. Don’t forget the top edges and the tub’s rim. If you’re cleaning a top-loader washing machine, clean the agitator as well.

Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe the outside of the machine to get it sparkling on the outside as it is on the inside.

Five Different Methods and Ingredients to Clean a Washing machine

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

These two are the most widely used ingredients for cleaning a washing machine at home. For this process, you only need one litre of vinegar and half a cup of baking soda, and the water set at 90 ºC on a long washing cycle.

Baking soda and vinegar remove any limescale to keep your washer smelling clean and fresh.

The only downside for these two ingredients is the mixture is mild and will not eliminate all the mould. You need stronger cleaning ingredients if your washing machine is filthy from washing soiled clothes.

2. Enzyme Detergent and Oxygen Bleach

Choose powdered enzyme detergent over the liquid variety and get the one with the most grease eating enzymes. With the water set at 90 ºC, add the two and select the largest load option. The enzyme detergent and oxygen bleach remove any sticky residue and leave the inside of your washing machine sparkling clean.

3. Citric Acid

Citric acid is a natural and powerful cleaning agent for removing soap scum, limescale, bad smells and any build up inside the washer.

Mix one cup of citric acid with half a cup of baking soda and set the water temperature at 90 ºC.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

This chemical is a powerful washing machine cleaning ingredient for eradicating mould, limescale, bacteria and viruses.

Add one litre of hydrogen peroxide to water set at 90 ºC on a long wash cycle. Allow it to soak for about three hours for the best results.

You’ll need to run this process a couple of times for front loader washing machines.

5. Chlorine Bleach

This is the best cleaning agent for bad odour, but you can only use it with cold or warm water set at 40-degree celsius.

Observe caution when using chlorine bleach because it can penetrate porous surfaces such as porcelain or plastic inner drums of your washer. Chlorine bleach also fails to eliminate limescale and mould.

How To Clean the Other Parts of a Washing Machine

Cleaning the Tub Rims

Using a towel soaked in white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, clean the opening of the washing machine especially between the top edges and the rub rim. Make sure that you get into those hard to reach areas.

Cleaning the Detergent Drawer

For a front-loading machine, remove the detergent drawer and soak it in hot water. Use a toothbrush to remove any mould or residue. Rinse the drawer and let it dry before you put it back. Don’t forget to clean the area where the detergent drawer sits as it can have mould and residue. The manual has instruction for removing the detergent drawer.

Cleaning the Filter

Cleaning the drum and other parts of the washing machine eradicates bad odour; but to keep the washer in good condition, you need to clean the filter.

If you have a front-loading machine, the filter door is at the front and bottom of the washing machine. For a top loader, the filter is inside the fabric softener drawer.

Once you get to the filter of the front loader, place a towel under the door and put a shallow dish on top to collect the water. Unscrew the filter cap and allow the water to collect into the bowl.

You can completely remove the filter to get rid of any items that you find.

Soak the filter in soapy water and remove any residue using a toothbrush.

How to Keep Your Washing Machine Clean and Fresh

A clean washing machine smells excellent, and your clothes do too. If your machine has an odour, it means that you’ve allowed residue to build up in the inside. Here’s how to keep your washer clean and fresh:

  • Go easy on the detergent. Putting excess detergent inside the washer leads to build up. Check your packaging for dosing guides.
  • Do not put soiled clothing inside the machine, rinse them off to get rid of the excess dirt.
  • Minimise the build-up of limescale by using the tablets in your machine or a water softener connected to your in-flow pipe.
  • Leave the door open after every washing cycle for the drum to dry out; this is a simple way to prevent mould growth. If you’re using a front-loading washing machine, leave the detergent drawer open as well.
  • Run an empty hot wash at least twice a month to get rid of any hidden build-up.

If your washing machine is in a dire state, you might not be able to get all the dirt, mould and residue out in the first time. You may need to clean the washer up to six times at home to get the desired results. For many, this is too much work, and it’s time to let the professional cleaners handle it. A professional cleaner will give your washer the tender, love and care that it deserves.

FAQs About How to Clean a Washing Machine

Could I clean my washing machine with baking soda and vinegar, but using cold water?

You can use cold water, but you won’t get the best results. Hot water breaks down the soapy residue inside the washer and also kills bacteria and germs.

Is white vinegar safe for cleaning inside the washing machine?

White vinegar is safe for use, but you need to be cautious when cleaning around the rubber seals on the door. Don’t use strong vinegar for seals made from Buna-N or polyacrylate because it weakens them.

Can I use vinegar and bleach at the same time?

Don’t use vinegar and bleach at the same time because the two chemicals create a noxious gas. You need to remove any traces of bleach before adding vinegar and baking soda by running a full rinse cycle.

How to clean an oven with both natural and commercial options

From baking soda and vinegar to lemon juice and commercial cleaners - let's get your oven spick and span

How to clean an oven with both natural and commercial options

An oven is must-have kitchen equipment for roasting and baking, but after months of use, it tends to get dirty. The food particles and grease build-up and turn into carbon, releasing a potent burning smell when in use. You should learn how to clean an oven even if it has self-cleaning capabilities because it doesn’t always get the job done.

You can use commercial oven cleaners or more natural options like lemon or baking soda and vinegar. The following are the steps on how to clean an oven quickly to make you an efficient and better baker.

Cleaning an Oven with Baking Soda and Vinegar

  1. Take anything removable out of the oven before you start cleaning including all the racks, temperature gauges, kitchen foils, and pizza stones.
  2. Mix half a cup of baking soda and three tablespoons of vinegar in a bowl until you get a thick paste-like solution. Add water until you get the right consistency.
  3. Using a clean paintbrush, apply the solution inside the oven but do not cover the heating elements. Make more paste if it runs out and work on the dirty areas. Don’t forget to clean the interior glass if it is dirty.
  4. Once you are done spreading the baking soda and vinegar paste inside the oven, leave it for about twelve hours – this is enough time for the mixture to break down the grime stuck inside your oven.
  5. Turn your attention to the parts that you removed from the oven. You can clean your oven racks in the sink, but if they are too big, clean them in a larger vessel such as a tub. You’ll need warm water, a quarter cup of dish soap and a scouring pad to wash the oven racks. Soak the racks in warm water for about two hours, rinse them off with clean water and scrub with a scouring pad. Use the baking soda and vinegar solution to clean the broiler drawer and the pan.
  6. After the 12 hours have elapsed, take a clean wet cloth (make sure that it is not dripping) and clear off the dried baking soda and vinegar paste. If you get harder bits that are stuck together, break them off using a plastic spatula and clean with the wet cloth. Avoid using a metal spatula because it will scratch off the finish inside your oven.
  7. Mix half a cup of white vinegar with two cups of water and spray inside your oven. The left-over baking soda and vinegar paste will start foaming, making it easy to wipe off.
  8. Using a moist cloth, clean away the residue vinegar. Take another wet dishcloth and use it to wipe off the remaining baking soda and vinegar. Spray more vinegar on the stubborn spots until you get it completely off. You’ll start to see the inside of your oven shining. Do the same for the boiler drawer (if you had cleaned it with the paste) until its completely clean.

Allow the oven and the racks to dry and put everything back to its rightful place. If you use your oven frequently, clean it once every three months.

How to Clean an Oven with Commercial Cleaners

cleaning-an-oven

  1. Empty the oven by taking out all the removable items and set them aside so you can clean them later.
  2. Lay paper towels or old newspapers on the floor around the oven to catch any grime and cleaner that drip once you start cleaning. Once you’re done cleaning the oven, you’ll not have to mop the floor; instead, you’ll throw out the soiled paper towels or newspapers.
  3. Put on protective glasses and rubber gloves and open the windows. Read the instructions and start spraying the inside of the oven with the cleaner. Commercial cleaners work fast and are super active but they have a lot of chemicals, that’s why you have to protect yourself with protective glasses and rubber gloves.
  4. Depending on the oven cleaner brand, set the timer until the grime is saturated. Most commercial oven cleaners take twenty-five to thirty-five minutes to get the job done, but you should check the instructions for the time indicated. Do not allow pets and small children to come into the kitchen when cleaning, they’ll be exposed to the fumes, and this can be dangerous.
  5. Take the racks and the other removable parts outside or to a well-ventilated area for cleaning. Put them inside a large plastic garbage bag and spray them down with the cleaner and tie at the top. Again, read the instructions to know how long you’ll need to soak them.
  6. Once your timer goes off, wipe the interior of the oven with damp dish towels. Get all the cleaner and grime out and pay close attention to the corners and crevices. Use a sponge to work on the stubborn areas.
  7. Get the racks from the garbage bags and rinse them off in a sink or bathtub depending on their size. Use warm soapy water to get rid of the grime and grease but remember to wear the safety glasses and gloves the entire time.

Your oven should be sparkling clean but be sure to set a reminder for next cleaning. So if you use your oven a couple of times a week, clean it once every month. But if you use it a few times a month, clean the oven every three to six months.

And always store the cleaner in a safe place away from children or pets.

Cleaning an Oven with Lemon Juice

Lemon water loosens the grime and leaves the oven clean and fresh.

  1. Cut two lemons in half and squeeze the juice out into a baking dish. Fill the baking dish with water a third of the way and add the lemon skins. Cleaning with lemons is easy because you don’t have to remove the racks for effective cleaning. Lemon works fast by softening the grime on the racks and the inside of the oven.
  2. Preheat your oven, and once it heats up, place the baking dish for about 30 minutes. Don’t be alarmed if your oven starts to smoke, just open the windows and the oven fan.
  3. Turn off the oven after the thirty minutes and let it cool down. Take a scouring pad and scrub away the loosened grime. Apply pressure on the tougher stains, or you can substitute the scouring pad with a silicone spatula. Dip the scouring pad in the lemon and keep scrubbing until there’s no grime left. Work on the inside of the oven and the racks.
  4. Take a clean towel and dry the inside of the oven. If some parts are still dirty, clean them with a scouring pad.

How to Keep Your Oven Clean

  • Before you bake or roast something in the oven, line the base with oven sheet or regular kitchen foil and the bottom of your oven will stay clean.
  • Use cooking bags when roasting meat, this minimises the amount of fat that drips inside the oven.
  • Always remove the tray when checking the food to avoid spreading grease inside the oven.
  • When you’re done baking or roasting, put a heat resistant bowl of water inside and heat for twenty minutes on high temperature. The steam loosens the grease and when the oven cools, wipe with a paper towel.

Call the Professionals

Cleaning an oven can be a messy affair, but if you have the time and dedication, you can use the information on this article to keep your oven clean. But if cleaning an oven is too much work for you, you can look for oven cleaners near you. They should clean the inside and outside of your oven, leaving it sparkling clean and smelling fresh.

FAQs on How to Clean an Oven

How do I clean the outside of my oven?

You can use warm soapy water and a towel to wipe the top, sides, and outsides of an oven. You can also make a water and vinegar solution, a quarter cup of vinegar and two cups of water, then gently clean the top, sides, and front using a cloth.

How do you clean the stubborn stains?

Soak the racks in a baking soda and vinegar solution overnight. Use a wet sponge, a toothbrush and a scouring pad to clean the dirt in the hard to reach places.

How do I clean my oven if the heating element is at the bottom?

If your oven’s heating element is at the bottom, caution should be observed when cleaning to avoid harming the heating element. Create a baking soda and water paste, carefully spread it around the interior and use a clean cloth to wipe the heating element.

What is the easiest way to clean an oven?

You can use either commercial cleaners or the more natural options to clean your oven. Commercial cleaning agents are fast-acting and clean your oven in no time, but they have chemicals. The more natural alternatives such as lemon or baking soda and vinegar are effective, they have no chemicals but take longer to clean.

A DIY guide on cleaning your venetian blinds

Venetian blinds make a beautiful window covering for your home or office.

A DIY guide on cleaning your venetian blinds

Whether vinyl, wood, aluminium, fabric or faux wood blinds, many people do not like cleaning these bendable slats. The thought of cleaning Venetian blinds is enough to put you off. Why? Cleaning blinds take a lot of time, and no one knows whether they are doing it right. Luckily, this guide has easy and effective ways to teach you how to clean Venetian blinds, so maybe, just maybe, you might enjoy it.

There are three easy ways of cleaning Venetian blinds, namely;

  • Vacuuming to blow off the dirt
  • Light cleaning to remove dust and dirt
  • Deep cleaning to remove dirt, dust, grease and stubborn stains

Tools for the Job

The three methods of cleaning Venetian blinds namely, vacuuming, dusting and scrubbing depend on the material of the blinds or how much dust has accumulated. Assemble the following tools before you attempt to clean Venetian blinds:

  • A vacuum cleaner fitted with an attachment
  • A microfibre cloth or you can buy a microfibre mini blind duster from the store

Light Cleaning Your Venetian Blinds

Light cleaning means easy and less time-consuming methods that should be undertaken once every few days without taking down the blinds. Light cleaning is useful because you don’t allow dust or debris to collect on and in between the blind slats. With consistent light cleaning, you eliminate the need to give your blinds a deep clean.

Light-dusting the blinds using a feather duster is the simplest method, but for the best results, you should clean each slat individually using a microfibre cloth. No worries if you don’t have a microfibre cloth, you can use anything from old cotton cloths, antistatic cloths to old socks. Check the local household store for Venetian blind slat cleaning products; you will find a few that do the job well.

For Venetian kitchen blinds, you’ll most likely spot grease and other stain marks. You need to clean them off with a cleaning solution and water. Use window cleaning products or the specialised Venetian blind sprays that leave the slats in an antistatic state, that cuts the amount of dust that attaches to the slats.

Quick tip: Do not use just any Venetian blinds cleaner on your slats as many products in the market aren’t suitable. Also, if you’re using the water and household cleaning solution method, use only a small amount and quickly dry the slates to avoid spreading the dust.

Vacuum cleaning is another light cleaning method. When cleaning using a vacuum, add an upholstery attachment or other Venetian blind attachments. When vacuuming, keep the suction levels low to avoid sucking in the slats and damaging them. This is important, especially if you have aluminium or PVC slats.

Light clean the inside and outside of your Venetian blinds but if you’re not getting the expected level of cleanliness, give them a deep clean.

Deep Cleaning Venetian Blinds

You need to lightly clean your Venetian blinds regularly to postpone deep cleaning them. But sadly, many Venetian blinds sit for months before receiving the cleaning attention that they deserve. Even if you light-clean them, dust will accumulate in those hard to reach places, and this can only be addressed by deep cleaning.

For this method to work, you need to take your Venetian blinds down and place them in a bathtub and remember to lay some towels on the bottom and side of the tub to avoid scratching. Put enough water into the tub and add a suitable cleaning solution for your blinds. Allow the blinds to soak for about two hours and use a soft brush to remove the loosened dirt and grease on both sides. After cleaning the blinds, dip them again in clean plain water and rinse them in the shower.

If your blinds cannot fit in your bathtub, you can clean them outdoors. You can hang them on the fence, or wash them in your driveway, lawn or path using a garden hose. You must lay a blanket or any other material to protect your blinds; this also ensures that they do not pick up more dirt. You need a soft brush, water, and cleaning solution to scrub them down gently. Clean and rinse them a few times to get the desired level of cleanliness.

After cleaning, airdry the blinds by hanging them up to prevent the formation of water stains. After drying, you can hang them back to their rightful place.

How to Clean Different Types of Venetian Blinds

Faux Wood Blinds

These are the most commonly used window coverings. Faux wood blinds are easy to clean, and you can vacuum the dust off.

  • Before vacuuming, close the blinds and hold the bottom rail.
  • Vacuum on the side and then turn to the other side.
  • Remember to use the lowest suction setting to avoid warping the slats.

If your faux wood blinds have grime and grease, you need to give them a thorough cleaning using white vinegar.

  • Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a bowl
  • Dip a microfibre cloth in the solution and wipe each slat at a time and remember to cover both sides.

White vinegar cleans off the dirt, grease, and grime leaving the slats clean as new.

Wood Blinds

High-end wood blinds have a unique finish that doesn’t hold dirt and stains. Cleaning wood blinds is easy, and you can wash them with a clean cloth. If you want to polish them, apply furniture polish on the cloth and wipe each slat.

Tip: Wood blinds and faux wood blinds are absorbent, and you shouldn’t clean them with water or any other form of liquids. The timber slats can take in water and then warp when drying. Also, some of the colour finishes on faux wood and wood blinds should not come into contact with water as they can cause the finish layer to peel off. If you have wood or faux wood Venetian blinds, we recommend that you use light cleaning methods such as dusting.

 

Fabric Blinds (Pleated, Roman, and Cellular)

To clean fabric blinds, clean and dust the fabrics using a vacuum cleaner at the lowest setting. If you don’t have a household vacuum, you can use a hairdryer. Blow the dirt caught between the creases and the openings, and do not squish any bugs that you find between the honeycombs because they will leave a stain.

If the blinds are stained, clean them with a damp microfibre cloth but do not oversaturate.

How to Clean Vinyl or Aluminium Blinds

You can clean vinyl or aluminium blinds just like faux wood blinds by dusting or light cleaning with a cloth. But if they are many, this method of cleaning takes a lot of your time and its best to deep clean them.

Unhook the blinds and soak one set at a time in a bathtub, and use a sponge to work on both sides of the slats. After cleaning, dip them again in clean and plain water to rinse away the soap suds.

After rinsing, lay the blinds on some towels to soak up all the water then hang them up to air dry.

If your tub is not big enough to soak your blinds, hang them outside on a clothesline on a hot sunny day, spray them with soap and spray with a garden hose. Work on both sides and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse and leave them out to air dry.

Additional Tips

  • You don’t have to buy the blind cleaning tools; you can make your own by attaching a couple of microfibre cloths with some clips, rubber bands or a pair of tongs.
  • Always keep track of your slats because you can get distracted when cleaning, making it impossible to know where you left off. Hook a pin to the last slat that you cleaned.
  • Protect your blinds when cleaning. Do not spray the cleaner on the slats, spray on a cloth and wipe each slat at a time.

Call the Professionals

If you’ve read this guide and still think that cleaning your Venetian blinds is a tedious task for you, or you don’t have the time, you should consider hiring a professional Venetian blind cleaner. A professional blind cleaner will take down your blinds, clean them using the right method and put them back in place. A skilled Venetian blind expert can also make all the necessary repairs when cleaning.

FAQs on How to Clean Venetian Blinds

How do you clean plastic Venetian blinds?

Fill a tub or bucket with water and add the right amount of dishwashing liquid. Take a sponge or microfibre cloth and clean all the slats and both sides of the blind. Rinse and hang them to air dry.

How much does it cost to get blinds clean?

A professional Venetian blind cleaner will charge anywhere between $70 to $150 per blind.

How many times should I light clean my blinds?

You should wipe the dust off your blinds every time you’re cleaning your house, at least twice every month.

How to clean a BBQ – 6 easy & quirky ways

Need to clean up a grimy barbecue, have you tired beer or even coffee?

How to clean a BBQ – 6 easy & quirky ways

If there is one thing that Australians love, it’s barbequing. Friends and family come together on the balcony, garden or in the park to make fun and belly-filling memories. But there is a downside, cleaning the grease and grime from the grill. Grilling on a dirty barbeque isn’t just nasty, it’s a health hazard. The number one cause of flare-ups when cooking with a dirty BBQ is the built-up grease and food particles. Also, a grimy cooking surface gives your food an unpleasant flavour that can ruin your grilling experience. No worries though, we’ve created a list of simple tips on how to clean a BBQ.

Cleaning a BBQ is a straightforward process; follow these steps:

  1. Open up the grill and remove all the parts. If you have a gas grill, make sure that you disconnect the gas before opening it up.
  2. Clean the trays
  3. Clear the burner tubes (for a gas grill)
  4. Clean the interior before putting back the racks
  5. Apply oil to the grill plates to keep them in good condition
  6. Put fat absorber to the drip tray to collect fat and prevent fat fires.
  7. Clean the outside of the barbeque

Now that we have the steps to follow check out these hacks to keep your grill sparkling clean.

9 ways to clean a bbq grill

 

How to Clean a Barbeque with Vinegar

Vinegar, especially white table vinegar, is essential for cleaning your barbeque grill.

  1. Pour two cups of water and two cups of white vinegar into a spray bottle and shake to mix them.
  2. Spray the mixture on the grills and in areas covered with grease.
  3. Let the solution sit for about ten minutes.
  4. Empty the water and white vinegar mixture into a bowl and refill the spray bottle with vinegar. Spray the vinegar to a piece of aluminium foil and use it to give the grills one last scrub.

You can use the water and white vinegar mixture to clean the outside of the grill. Clean the exterior of the BBQ with cotton cloth but don’t spray the mixture directly on the grill, spray it on the cloth and work on the BBQ. Dip a cotton swab in the mixture and use it to clean the hard to reach places.

Deep Cleaning a BBQ with Vinegar & Baking soda

If your BBQ is choked in grime and grease, deep clean it with white vinegar and baking soda. How? Just follow these simple steps:

  1. Take out the grills and put them in a large plastic bag.
  2. Mix one cup of vinegar and half a cup of baking soda in a bowl.
  3. Pour the mixture on the grills inside the plastic bag and leave it overnight.
  4. Rinse the grills first thing in the morning to get rid of the loosened grease.

How to Clean a BBQ with Steam

Cleaning a BBQ with a household steam cleaner is easy and takes less time than removing the grills and scrubbing them by hand.

  1. Clear the steam from the steam cleaner by pushing the “steam” button down.
  2. Attach the grill brush to the steam nozzle. If your steam cleaner doesn’t have a steam brush add-on, you can use the grill brush in one hand and hold the steam cleaner with the other.
  3. Fill a measuring cup with 160ml of water and pour it into the water hole of the steam cleaner.
  4. Clear the charcoal and food remnants from the grill. If it’s a gas BBQ, disconnect it from the gas tank.
  5. Connect the steam cleaner to an electrical outlet. Once the steamer is ready, work on the grills, the walls, burners, and the top cover.
  6. Steam and scrub the grills to loosen the debris.
  7. Unplug the steamer after cleaning all areas of the grill.

Cleaning a BBQ with a Wire Bristle Grill Brush

A brass bristled grill brush is perfect for cleaning a porcelain coated grill rack. If you don’t have a grill brush, fold aluminium foil into a ball and use it to scrub the grill. Wash the racks with hot soapy water and a dishcloth after scrubbing to get rid of the food particles and grease.

If you still can’t get all the dirt out, substitute the hot soapy water with a household cleaner. Buy a household cleaner that is good for your barbeque.

If your grill has stainless steel grates, you will notice stubborn carbon stains that will not come off with regular brushing. Use a wire brush and household cleaner to clean the stains.

How to Clean a BBQ with Coffee

Having some coffee in the morning is the best way to start your day off right but did you know that you can use this beverage to clean your BBQ?

Coffee is good on your grill grates – the acidic nature of coffee loosens the grease on mildly dirty grills.

Cleaning a BBQ with coffee is easy, brew some coffee and pour it in a basin. Soak the grill grates, grilling utensils and oven burners in the coffee and let them sit for one hour.

Scrub and rinse with warm water and your grill grates should be sparkling.

Cleaning a BBQ with Baking Soda

Take out the grates and sprinkle some baking soda on them. Work on the grills using a scouring pad until they sparkle. You can also dip the scouring pad into some baking soda and scrub the racks until they’re clean. Rinse them off with warm water and your BBQ is spotless and ready for the next grill party.

Use Beer for Cleaning a BBQ

Warm the grill and pour half a bottle of beer on the grates and scrub with a wire brush or scrubber.

Clean the Base

If you have a traditional grill, remove the leftover charcoal and ash before cleaning. Save the charcoal for future use and empty the ash into a bucket for disposal. Clean the base with warm soapy water.

Scrub the Outside

Turn your attention to the outside of the grill after cleaning the inside. You can use stainless steel wipes to clean the outside or hot soapy water.

Heat the grill

Once you complete cleaning, heat the BBQ for about twenty minutes to burn off all the cleaning agents that might affect the taste of your food.

Don’t Forget the Rust

You should watch out for rust if you’re using a cast iron grill. The rust can eat through the iron and cut short the life of your grill. Don’t allow rust to build up by trying one of these cleaning options:

  • Baking Soda Paste: make a thick paste of baking soda and apply on the areas with rust build-up. Let the solution sit for about two hours then clean the paste using a scrubber.
  • Vinegar: apply white vinegar to the rusty surface and scrub with steel wool at full strength. Keep scrubbing until there’s no more rust.
  • Salt Paste: if you’re struggling to get all the rust out, mix kosher salt and water to make a thick paste. Apply the solution to the stubborn rust and scrub away. Once you clean the top layers of the rust, switch to the less abrasive baking soda paste.

Prevent Future Build-up

Certain practices prevent the build-up of dirt and grease from forming. One effective method is to apply cooking oil on the grill before you start cooking.

Onions are great for quick cleaning before using the grill. If your barbeque grill is not too meat-intensive or it’s not caked in grease and grime, you can clean it using onions.

Cut an onion in two and stick it with a fork. Rub the moist side of the onion on the hot grills to clean the dirt and grime. The onion releases moisture that breaks down stubborn grease and dirt.

Call the Professionals

Cleaning a BBQ is not the most exciting task to do, but if you plan on cooking on the grill, you must get it cleaned. If you cannot DIY, you can hire a barbeque cleaner to get the job done. There are reliable BBQ cleaners near you who will scrub your BBQ and leave it in the best steak-grilling condition.

FAQs on How to Clean a BBQ

How often should you clean a BBQ grill?

You should clean the BBQ after every use. Close the lid and preheat the grill for about twenty minutes and brush the grates with a stainless-steel brush. If you use a charcoal grill, you should clean it at least once every two grilling sessions.

How do you maintain a grill?

Cleaning is the only way to keep your grill in good grilling shape. Clean the inside and outside and don’t forget the rust.

Can I cook on a rusty BBQ?

The rust on your grill sticks to the food and the more you eat, the higher the chance that you’ll develop an intestinal tract problem. Clean the rust using baking soda, vinegar or salt paste.

How a butcher rebuilt his life after a hand injury

After injuring his hand as a butcher, Tim realised he got more than he bargained for and needed a career change.

How a butcher rebuilt his life after a hand injury

After injuring his hand at work, Tim realised that life as a butcher was more dangerous than he imagined and he desperately needed a career change. With no immediate job prospects, Tim reached out to his friends to see if they had any leads for him. His friends were all making money doing cleaning tasks on Airtasker. Tim thought “I’ve got nothing to lose” so signed up and in his own words, believes this decision has been “life-changing”.

How has joining Airtasker impacted your life?

It has completely changed the direction of my life. I’m originally from Malaysia where I was helping my father with small jobs. When I came to Australia, I decided to become a butcher. Soon after, I had an incident at work where I cut my hand pretty badly. I thought to myself – this job is more than I bargained for! After my hand healed, I decided not to go back. Obviously I still had bills to pay but I didn’t know what I could do to make ends meet.

A few of my friends were earning money doing cleaning jobs so I tried to find one too but was failing miserably! I tried Facebook and wasn’t getting anywhere. Searching for jobs with any sort of flexibility was also extremely difficult. When I realised my friends were getting their cleaning tasks on Airtasker, I joined as well. I was amazed that I could get a steady stream of work and could always control how much I wanted to do. It really was life changing at a time when I thought I had no other options.

Tasker Snapshot

  • 4.9 Star Rating
  • 50 Completed Tasks
  • End of lease and general cleaning specialist

What has the extra income allowed you to do?

It helps me with my living expenses like rent and bills but I’m actually just saving for my future. I don’t know what the future might bring but I’d like to have reserves in case I need the money. My dream is to buy a house here in Sydney and Airtasker is helping me with that ever day.

Have you had any memorable experiences on Airtasker?

I’ve met amazing people and it’s such a great community and made me realise one job can also lead to new opportunities. I was helping a guy with a house clean and thought that was the last I’d see of him. I noticed that he was putting cleaning tasks for other properties he owned and he picked me because he knew I would do a job from his previous experience. It made me realise how important it is to always put 100% effort because you never know where your next opportunity may be.

What are some of your top cleaning tips?

  • With oven cleaning, spray the entire oven with first and leave it for 5-10 minutes. It’s much easier to get the grime out once you’ve left the spray on for a while
  • You can use baking soda for lots of things – even for oven cleaning
Tim’s Tip: After spraying the entire oven first, leave it for 5-10 minutes before you start the clean. It makes it a LOT easier to get the grime out!

What would you like to know before making an offer?

Make sure you ask the right questions to the Poster e.g. how many bedrooms and bathrooms. Also make sure you know what type of clean they’re looking for – is it an end of lease clean or a general clean – the expectations are vastly different. It’s really important to me to know exactly what type of task I’m performing and what the Poster wants. Without clarification of expectations at the start, I don’t think I’d be able to provide the level of satisfaction that the Poster needs.

Have you posted a task before?

Yes – I had a fantastic experience using the platform on the other side! It really gave me more insight as to how I should be performing my tasks to serve the need of Posters. I was in a really desperate situation where I’d  locked my keys in my car and couldn’t get in. I didn’t know what to do and immediately thought maybe someone on Airtasker could help me. After posting the task, I received an offer from a locksmith nearby within 2 minutes. The guy came immediately and saved my life (at the time). It gave me so much trust in the Airtasker platform in that not only was I able to earn money but I could also use it in times of need for myself.

Want to book Tim for a clean? Check out Tim’s profile and request a quote.

Interested in joining the Airtasker community? Find out more about becoming an Airtasker.

How this immigrant nurse is building a new life in Australia

Anna's dream is to one day practice as a nurse again. Read how Airtasker is helping her.

How this immigrant nurse is building a new life in Australia

Four years ago, Anna migrated to Australia from Mongolia where she was working as a nurse in a large charity hospital. Despite having professional qualifications, Anna wasn’t able to find a nursing job in Australia because her skills aren’t recognised here. With teenage children and a family back in Mongolia to support, Anna signed up to Airtasker and hasn’t looked back since.

Tasker Snapshot

  • Bathroom and Kitchen cleaning specialist
  • Over 30 completed tasks since joining in December 2018
  • 4.9 star rating
  • 98% Completion rate

These days, Anna is one of Airtasker’s top cleaners with phenomenal reviews. The flexibility of the Airtasker platform has allowed Anna to study on the side so that she can attain the necessary qualifications to one day practice as a nurse again. Anna’s honesty and diligence makes her story truly inspiring. Read on to hear more of Anna’s story.

What has it been like as a new migrant in Australia?

I love Australia! It’s a very beautiful country and even though I’ve already been here for 4 years, there are still many places I haven’t seen. If I have spare time, I like going sightseeing. I particularly love going to the Opera House and Bondi beach. Aside from that I’ve found that the culture in Australia is very different to Mongolia. People are very open and direct and I really love that. When I do a good job in my cleaning tasks, people will often tell me how much they appreciate my work which makes me feel proud. It also encourages me to always do my best because it feels really nice for my work to be recognised.

Why did you join Airtasker?

When I first came to Australia I was working as a housekeeper in a big hotel. The job stability was good but it wasn’t very flexible and it became hard to manage as I was also going to English classes. A friend told me about Airtasker and I found it very convenient. I was able to choose tasks that fit in with my schedule and locations close to me. Sometimes I’m not really doing anything on my weekends anyway so it’s a great way for me to earn money in my free time.

What has the extra income from Airtasker allowed you to do?

Extra money is always good! Mostly the income has just gone towards every day expenses like rent and bills. On top of this, I’m trying to save for my future education. Ideally I would love to be a nurse again so I need the money to enrol in nursing courses. I’m still studying English right now so that I can become good enough to pass my nursing entrance exams. Most importantly, I’m a mum and have two teenage children in Mongolia. Hopefully by next year I will have saved enough money to pay for them to come and visit me in Australia.

Anna’s top cleaning tip: Don’t use too many chemicals. It’s best to clean with dishwashing liquid and water – it can be used on so many surfaces.

Have you had any memorable experiences on Airtasker?

Being on Airtasker has completely changed my life and I love it! I’ve met so many wonderful people just through Airtasker – everyone has been really nice to me. One poster recently said “I’ve never seen anything more clean in my life” and I felt so overwhelmed. In Mongolian culture, we are not used to being publicly praised so I felt shocked but it made me really happy. It’s also very rewarding when Posters give me a tip. I work hard to make sure I exceed people’s expectations so it’s a nice way for them to show their appreciation. Also, working on Airtasker has allowed me to explore many parts of Sydney that I had never seen before like Mosman and Neutral Bay. At my old housekeeping job, it was always the same place and got a bit boring.

What values do you try to stick to when you’re working?

Honesty is the most important value that I try to stick to. I feel like the only way to build trust with other people is with honesty. This is very important to me as a cleaner because I am entering people’s homes and I want them to feel safe and assured. There are a lot of business people on Airtasker who don’t have time to clean and just need an extra pair of hands. I think because of my honesty, they trust me to clean their homes even when they are not there.

I also think that I’m a very compassionate person because when I was a nurse I would always try to go above and beyond to care for my patients. It’s just in my nature to do all that I can to help people. In general, I always try to exceed people’s expectations. I feel immense satisfaction when people are impressed with my work.

Need help with cleaning? Check out Anna’s profile and request a quote.

Interested in joining the Airtasker community? Find out more about becoming an Airtasker.

Meet Sydney’s Best Cleaners

It’s almost a universal truth that no one wants to spend their free time cleaning the house.

Meet Sydney’s Best Cleaners

It’s almost a universal truth that no one wants to spend their precious free time cleaning the house. Even though Marie Kondo got us all in a state of decluttering frenzy and folding our clothes in thirds was fun for about 5 minutes, she didn’t have any drastic solutions for jobs like scrubbing grimy showers, vacuuming the carpet, dusting difficult to reach surfaces or window cleaning. If we’re being completely honest, it’s probably best we leave all of that to the professionals because they’re just better at it! With a plethora of cleaning of options out there, we’ve shortlisted the 10 best cleaners in Sydney for you.

Here are our Top 10 Best Cleaners in Sydney

1. Carina M. Sydney

Carina is a super-star cleaner and won first place as Airtasker of the year in the home services category.

Carina has 15 years of experience in residential and commercial cleaning and delivers exceptional service to a high standard. On top of general home cleaning and spring cleans, Carina and her team specialise in:

  • Post construction cleaning
  • Builders cleaning
  • Renovation cleaning
  • Pre-sale / post-sale cleaning
  • End of lease cleaning
  • Professional upholstery and carpet steam cleaning
  • Deceased estate cleaning

For end of lease cleans, Carina and her team offer a bond back guarantee. The team is well known for their professionalism and quality of work as well as their attention to detail in all aspects of cleaning.

Carina has 5 stars from 255 reviews on Airtasker and this is what one satisfied person on Airtasker had to say about her:

“Just excellent! Carina was open and honest about her booking process through Airtasker, encouraging me to provide thorough details of the job, so she could provide a complete quote. This professional approach and her great reviews made me feel confident booking her for the task. She was warm and friendly throughout her work, and has left my house sparkling! Thanks so much Carina!!” – MG

2. Catalina R. Mosman

Catalina and her team have extensive experience in home cleaning and pride themselves on their superior service, excellent attitude and attention to detail.

Catalina attends to end of lease cleaning, post renovation cleaning, commercial cleaning and general cleaning. They even guarantee to return to your premises without cost if you’re unsatisfied with any part of their cleaning.

Catalina is extremely easy to communicate with and very hardworking. Catalina and her team’s attention detail is second to none. Catalina has 4.8 stars on Airtasker and this is one of her reviews:

Catalina’s team did a fantastic job! Very professional and left my place sparkling and ready for the real estate agent to do their final inspection. Very happy with the service they provided! Highly recommended.” – Chrissy Y

3. Tara S. Newtown

Tara is a super cleaner based in the inner west. Tara’s philosophy in life is all around minimalism and zero waste and she aligns these values to all her cleaning jobs. She specialises in general cleaning or deep cleans. She also provides cleaning services for commercial kitchens and restaurants, offices,

Tara only uses non-toxic, eco-friendly and cruelty free / vegan products suitable for asthmatics, children and anyone who wants to avoid using harmful chemicals around the house. In addition to cleaning, Tara can also provide zero waste consultation for your home or business. She can do a trash audit and action plans to reduce your waste and will try to close the loop by repairing, repurposing, rehoming and disposing of items thoughtfully to keep both costs and waste low.

On top of cleaning, Tara is also an organising specialist and is very experienced with the Konmari method of decluttering. Tara has organised both homes and businesses and has transformed these places into efficient, beautiful spaces. Tara uses systems and methods that are easy to maintain and she uses whatever you have on hand to organise your things. Here is one of the many top reviews of Tara’s work:

“Tara had great communication as soon as the task had been assigned to her and made me feel comfortable straight away. She was very friendly and non judgmental of the task that had to be done. As soon as Tara arrived she got straight into the job that needed to be achieved.We will definitely be assigning Tara to more tasks within our house that come up. Thanks again and see you soon. :)” – Janice C

4. Bruce R. Sydney

Bruce is a qualified and trained professional carpet cleaner and also offers upholstery, leather and fabric lounge cleaning. As one of a handful of qualified carpet cleaners, Bruce is certified by Von Schrader USA and is a member of the National Academy of Von Schrader Associates (N.A.V.S.A).

Bruce is extremely dedicated to his work and believes that the best way to clean carpet is by using the LMX (Low Moisture Soil Extraction) method. This is where a cylindrical brush is used with dry foam (instead of water) and cleans deep down to the base of the carpet. When the soil becomes emulsified in foam, sand and grit are brought to the surface and a powerful suction then lifts out the dirt in seconds. As dry foam is used instead of water, the carpet is not wet, and therefore no risk of shrinkage or rot.

Here’s what some Airtaskers have said about Bruce’s carpet cleaning service:

“An absolutely awesome, A+++ Airtasker! ? Efficient & exceptionally effective cleaning of my chaise sofa & ottoman to almost look like new – and it’s over 10 years old so that’s saying something about his skills, and the top-notch product he uses (foam not steam). I’m even able to sell it instead of throwing it out now! Communication A++, arrived on time & was courteous & pleasant throughout. Also gave detailed advice on how to care for it afterward, to extend the life of the clean. Highly recommended Airtasker.” – Sharlene H

5. Diana M. Bondi

Dee has over 10 years of experience in professional cleaning and specialises in general cleaning, Airbnb change-over cleaning and domestic cleaning around the Eastern suburbs of Sydney.

Dee does not have a team and prefers to work alone so that she is fully accountable for her work. Dee tries to be a minimalist when it comes to cleaning and tries to use sprays as little as possible to avoid the toxic fumes. She prefers using dishwashing liquid and vinegar to clean both to look after the environment as well as saving costs for the Poster.

Dee believes her best attributes are her attention to detail, her honesty and the relationships she has built with the people she has cleaned for. Dee also has a Diploma in Business management and a Diploma in Business Administration. Here’s one of Dee’s reviews:

“Dee was fantastic. The house was spotless, she is so thorough (and so friendly!) and we don’t have any doubt we will be contacting Dee again soon. Highly Recommend Dee’s cleaning!” – Owen L

6. Kijo J. Ryde

Kijo performs all types of domestic cleaning from window cleaning to professional carpet cleaning. He also does upholstery cleaning for chairs, sofas and lounges as well as mattress cleaning. Kijo also has extensive experience in end of lease cleaning, general cleaning and Airbnb cleaning in between guests.

Kijo’s work ethic, his efficient ways of cleaning and how the cleanliness of people’s carpets are what people love about his work. He prides himself as one of the best cleaners in Sydney and has 4.9 stars from 1,030 reviews. This is one of his reviews:

“Kijo turned up on time, had all of the equipment and completed the task (steam clean carpet in 2 bedrooms). We would recommend him to others who need some cleaning done and need someone reliable” – Ronan H

7. Anthony K. Surry Hills

Anthony and his team offer general home cleaning and and end of lease cleans as well as home and wardrobe organisation. As well as this, Anthony also provides gardening services including weed removal and general garden maintenance.

In addition to cleaning, Anthony also has 20 years of professional ironing experience where he provides both at home and pick-up service.

Anthony and his team have a high level of professionalism, reliability  and prompt communication throughout the entire process. Anthony has 4.9 stars from 104 reviews with 100% completion rate and here’s what one person had to say about Anthony:

“Anthony did a fantastic job. The place was left spotless and his attention to detail in cleaning little things like marks on the wall and light switches was impressive. Would highly recommend him if you’re after a cleaner.” Justin L

8. Pei Ean Y. Newtown

Pei is not only an experienced cleaner but also has a degree in hospitality and tourism management. She understands the level of service required to ensure people are 100% satisfied with her cleaning work.

Pei either works alone or with her husband and impresses people with her amazing bathroom cleans, her punctuality and her attention to detail. People generally found that Pei exceeded their expectations when it came to home cleaning.

Pei is fluent in three languages – English, Chinese and Japanese, is based in Newtown but also services the entire Sydney region with her cleaning services. Pei has 5 stars on Airtasker and this is one of her reviews.

“My bathroom was left absolutely spotless. Pei did such a great job and was quick and efficient! Thank you – will definitely be asking for you to come back.” – Henna K.

9. Carly B. Potts Point

Carly and her team have over 12 years of professional cleaning experience and performs the following types of cleans:

  • private homes
  • commercial spaces
  • offices and warehouses
  • boarding houses
  • childcare centres

Carly also does professional end of lease cleaning and has previously worked for Belle Property Bondi Junction and City Living Agency in Walsh Bay with 100% satisfaction rate.

Carly and her team have a fantastic reputation and have professionally cleaned houses used for sets on a number of Australian TV shows including Packed to the Rafters, Wonderland and Finding Milat.

The team will come with all their own cleaning equipment and supplies and will service the whole Sydney region. Carly has a 4.8 stars on Airtasker and this was one of her reviews:

“Carly was an excellent choice or my challenging cleaning task. A recently vacated tenant left my otherwise meticulously clean apartment in a state of absolute filth. Luckily, Carly came to the rescue and within just a few short hours she had whipped it back into sparkling shape. Thanks, Carly. A+”

10. Huicheol L. Glebe

Huicheol has a small two-person team of cleaners and has over 10 years of experience in home cleaning.

The team performs all types of domestic cleaning but specialises in initial house cleans, end of lease cleans as well as  professional steam carpet cleaning.

Huicheol and his team are known for their attention to detail when cleaning, easy communication and their excellent carpet cleaning service. The team services the entire Sydney region. Huicheol has 4.7 stars on Airtasker and this is one his reviews:

“Wow! Did the most wonderful clean with attention to every detail. Please feel safe to use their services. I highly recommend.” – Natalie C

Clean your AirPods the right way – a step-by-step guide

Apple's advice on how to clean AirPods doesn’t really work, but this hack will actually make them sound brand new.

Clean your AirPods the right way – a step-by-step guide

No matter how neat you are, if you own Apple AirPods they’re going to end up dirty, grimy and full of earwax. Hello, grossness, goodbye sound quality.

So, how to clean AirPods so they sound as good as new? This article will show you a step-by-step guide on how to properly clean your AirPods and bring back that pristine audio experience. Let’s dive in!

How to clean Apple Airpods | Airtasker Life Skills

How to deep clean your dirty AirPods (the right way)

Apple Support suggests using a “soft, dry, lint-free cloth” to clean AirPods, but if you’ve tried you’ll know this doesn’t do much to help low or muffled sound quality. To bring that bass back you need to get the built-up wax out.

You need to do an AirPod deep clean. To give your AirPods a proper cleaning and restore their sound quality, you’ll need these cleaning materials:

  1. Hydrogen peroxide
  2. A paperclip
  3. Cotton tips / Q-tips
  4. Your Apple Airpod earphones
  5. A cloth or wet wipe
  6. A hairdryer

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

But, first things first, let’s get the terminology right.

When we refer to the ‘big‘ hole we mean the one that goes in your ear.

When we refer to the ‘side‘ holes we mean the smaller vents on either side of each earbud.

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Now, let’s go through these simple steps on how to clean your AirPods thoroughly and enjoy better sound quality.

Step 1: Unfold the paperclip

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

You just need a strong but small tool – you could also use the point of a nail file or the edge of a biro lid.

Find a Tasker for your next home project!

Step 2: Carefully scrape external build-up from the edge of the big hole with the paperclip

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Be careful and don’t poke the mesh too hard, this is just to scratch off any superficial gunk built up around the outer edge.

Step 3: Tap the AirPod on a flat surface to dislodge loose gunk.

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Keep the big hole face down so the dirt and wax fall out, not back in.

Step 4: Dip a cotton tip in the hydrogen peroxide solution

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Think damp, not soaking. You’re not re-bleaching your AirPods back to box-fresh white. The peroxide is to soften the built-up earwax caught in the mesh.

Hydrogen peroxide is considered a safe way to soften earwax and is commonly recommended by health professionals for this purpose.

Step 5: Wipe over the big hole with the peroxide-dipped cotton tip

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Wipe over the side holes too. This softens the earwax lodged in the mesh.

Find a Tasker for your next home project!

Step 6: Gently heat with the hairdryer to liquefy the wax

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Common sense is required here – don’t blast them on high heat for 10 minutes. You just want to heat them enough to melt any wax inside.

Now, this is where it gets a bit weird but bear with us.

Step 7: Blow hard through the big hole

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Then blow through the side holes. These should be short, sharp breaths.

This is a bit gross but presumably, it’s your own earwax, so…

Step 8: Suck through the big hole

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Seriously, stay with us.

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Step 9: Blow through the big hole again

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

…then clean up the outside with a cloth or wet wipe.

Step 10: Repeat it all on the other AirPod and TA-DA!

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Super clean, sound quality like new. Sorry Apple, but no amount of buffing with a soft cloth will have the same effect.

Clean your Apple Airpods like new | Airtasker Life Skills

Thanks to AskUncleDave for this technique. Have you tried this? Let us know!

Do you have issues with your AirPods? Let the professionals take care of it!

If you’re facing any issues with your AirPods or need professional help in cleaning and restoring them, Airtasker has got you covered! This platform connects you with expert electronic repairmen who have the knowledge and experience to effectively diagnose and fix any problems your AirPods may be encountering.

Whether you’re dealing with sound quality concerns, connectivity issues, or simply in need of a thorough cleaning to ensure optimal performance, there are skilled Taskers that can bring your AirPods back to life.

Just post a task today to get started.

These eco friendly cleaning products are under $10, and they work

It's time for a green clean.

These eco friendly cleaning products are under $10, and they work

What’s in the cupboard under your sink?  And more importantly, have you read the ingredients list on those 17 half empty bottles of Spray and Wipe?

The average household has 62 toxic chemicals on hand, and domestic cleaning products are one of the main culprits. They release volatile organic compounds, can irritate skin and get washed into waterways – not great for our health or the environment, so why are we still so keen to spray them around our homes?

Nature gave us options to keep our chic stone surfaces, stoves and Netflix dinner trays so fresh, so clean, and there are a growing number of eco friendly cleaning products available that claim to provide the same sparkling clean without the toxic side effects.

We’re sure it’s time to retire the bright blue spray and wipe and move to a more sustainable alternative, but do these green cleaners actually work?

We put these five environmentally friendly cleaning products (readily available in supermarkets around Australia for under a tenner) to the test to find out.

The method:

We tasked five people to clean common surfaces with these eco cleaning sprays and review the effectiveness of cleaning, ingredients, smell and cost of product. Find the results below.

Product 1: Koala Eco Multi-Purpose Kitchen Cleaner

Koala Eco natural cleaning spray with mandarin

Price: $10.90 (ok, this one snuck in just over ten dollars, but it’s worth it)

Available from: Koala Eco, IGA supermarkets and independent retailers across Australia

Ingredients: 100% pure Australian Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) and Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) essential oil, Australian filtered water, sugar-based biodegradable alcohol, vinegar, plant-based biodegradable surfactant (soap), plant-based food-grade biodegradable solubiliser.

The clean: Before

Koala Eco kitchen sink clean before

The clean: After

Koala Eco kitchen sink clean after

The review: Koala Eco

Ingredients: The Koala Eco range is derived entirely from natural ingredients, locally made, the bottle is recycled plastic and even the ink used to print the labels is biodegradable. Can’t ask for better than that!

Effectiveness: The multi-purpose kitchen spray is an effective all rounder, perfect for that after-cooking cleanup when you’ve managed to somehow splatter the stove, and the bench top, and a bit of the wall. The product doesn’t leave any residue when wiped.

Smell: The Eucalyptus smell is strong and distinct, but not unpleasant. The lemon undertones help balance out the gumtree vibes.

Cost: This one comes in at $10.90, which is edging towards the higher end of the scale for a multipurpose cleaner, but I think it’s well worth it for the ecological merit. The Koala Eco range is locally produced Bondi and stocked online and in independent retailers.

Definitely recommended!

Reviewed by: Claire M.

Product 2: Organic Choice Multi-Purpose Cleaner

Organic Choice eco cleaning spray tom dixon brass candle

Price: $5.50

Available from: Coles supermarkets, Woolworths supermarkets

Ingredients: Water, Coconut based non-ionic surfactants, Sugar/corn based alcohol, Citric acid, Organic Backhousia citriodora (lemon myrtle) essential oil, Organic Cymbopogon flexuosus (lemon grass) essential oil, Organic Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, Fragrance.

The clean: Before

Organic choice eco cleaning kitchen stove before

The clean: After

Organic choice eco cleaning kitchen stove after

The review: Organic Choice

Ingredients: We like the idea of having an organic product. We feel relief using it in our kitchen, assuming it contains less harmful chemicals.

Effectiveness: The product helped us to clean, but its very liquidy consistency made me feel that it must contain a big percentage of water. I would prefer a product with a thicker consistency, but it cleaned about the same as Sard Wonder which we usually use.

Smell: The smell is very light, this gives me the feeling that the product is not as strong as others. Combined with the organic label, it makes me feel that this is not necessarily the best option for heavy duty cleaning.

Cost: The price of this product is the best advantage. I think $5.50 is a very fair price for this type of product.

This eco cleaning product worked the same as what we usually use (Sard Wonder) so I would recommend it for an organic alternative.

Reviewed by: Fred E.

Need an eco-conscious cleaner to help green clean your home? Find one on Airtasker.

Product 3: Glitz Green Antibacterial Eucalyptus Spray

Price: $5.70

Available from: Bunnings

Ingredients*: Eucalyptus oil, Ethanol, Alkanes C3-4

*Note from editor: Glitz Green did not list the ingredients on the product, but we found them by downloading the Materials Safety Data Sheet.

The clean: Before

Kitchen stove chrome cleaning before

The clean: After

Kitchen chrome stove cleaning after

The review: Glitz Green

Ingredients: They are about the same as the antibacterial sprays that I usually use, aside from the eucalyptus oil.

Effectiveness: Overall, this eucalyptus antibacterial spray does the job well and is able to remove stains and disinfect surfaces. It is the same as other sprays I’ve used, such as the Woolworths antibacterial spray. This product doesn’t stand out of the crowd but it also isn’t any less effective than the others.

Smell: The eucalyptus scent was slightly overpowering. Personally, it smelled worse than other surface sprays I’ve used. Some people may find the smell overpowering and as a person with a sensitive nose, the scent definitely was too strong for me. However, in saying that, the strong smell gives me the feeling that the surface is cleaner (but doesn’t necessarily mean it actually is).

Cost: The cost was $5.70 for 200g at Bunnings. As a comparison to other brands on the market, there isn’t much of a difference in price.

Overall, this eucalyptus antibacterial spray does the job well and is able to remove stains and disinfect surfaces. Some people may find the smell overpowering and as a person with a sensitive nose, the scent definitely was too strong for me. However, in saying that, the strong smell gives me the feeling that the surface is cleaner (but doesn’t necessarily mean it actually is). This product doesn’t stand out of the crowd but it also isn’t any less effective than the others. Ultimately it boils down to whether you like the eucalyptus scent or whether you’d prefer something less intense.

Reviewed by: Julien L.

Product 4: Earth Choice Multipurpose Spray

Earth Choice green eco cleaning spray with lime

Price: $3.20

Available from: Woolworths supermarkets, Coles supermarkets

Ingredients: Water, Ethyl alcohol (derived from wheat or sugar cane), Sodium Methyl 2-Sulfo Laurate & Disodium 2-Sulfo Laurate (derived from coconut oil), Sodium coco sulfate (derived from coconut oil), Glycerin (derived from coconut oil), Sodium citrate (derived from corn), Fragrance, Benzisothiazolinone*, Cl 19140, Cl 42090.

*Note from editor: Benzisothiazolinone is an antimicrobial and preservative chemical and is considered by the European Commission Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety to be a skin sensitiser that may cause irritation over time.

The clean: Before

Earth choice kitchen floor cleaning before

The clean: After

Earth choice kitchen floor cleaning after

The review: Earth Choice

Ingredients: I like the ingredients of this product. It’s free from Ammonia which is good for the stove top and kitchen sink.

Effectiveness: I sprayed it on the stove and floor and wiped after 1 minute, the result was good, not too much work needed to clean. My opinion is this is a good product but not as great as my what I normally use – Dettol multipurpose spray. But since the price is cheaper than Dettol, I don’t mind using this for my general cleaning activity and where there’s kids or animals in the home.

Smell: The smell is not too sharp.

Cost: This product is cheaply priced.

My overall review is that I am happy with product and would definitely recommend, but the packaging is not really good since it leaked.

Reviewed by: Indri P.

Product 5: Probiotic Solutions – All Purpose Cleaner – Anywhere Anytime

Probiotic Solution eco cleaning spray with pink grapefruit

Price: $9.99

Available from: Harris Farm supermarkets and online (Probiotic Solutions has recently rebranded to Counter Culture – Probiotic Cleaning Tonic)

Ingredients: Purified water, Proprietary Mother Culture (Bacillus subtilis, Bifidobacteriumanimalis, Bifidobacteriumbifidum, Bifidobacteriumlongum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus [synonym: Lactobacillus bulgaricus], Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactococcus lactis subsp. Lactis [synonym: Streptococcus lactis], Rhodopseudomonaspalustris, Saccharomyces cerevisiae), Brown sugar, Mineral powder, Sea salt, Essential oils (lemongrass, lemon myrtle, rosemary, pink grapefruit, coconut).

The clean: Before

Probiotics Solution bathroom sink clean before

The clean: After

Probiotics Solution bathroom sink clean after

The review: Probiotic Solutions

Ingredients: I have used many other natural and chemical products before and found one thing to be true. Nothing can do everything. Probiotic Solutions – Anywhere Anytime is a great general purpose product made from natural ingredients.

Effectiveness: I found it to be adequate on all surfaces in the average household. It struggled on heavy oil build up in the kitchen and heavy soap/make-up grime in the bathroom. I did find it very good on most lightly soiled surfaces and was impressed with its effectiveness on both glass and stainless steel.

Smell: I was expecting a slightly stronger aroma. I found it to be so close to neutral that it was verging on almost non existent.

Cost: The cost, I believe, is comparative to what is in the current market, but more expensive than any of my other cleaning products.

Overall I found the ingredients to be more environmentally friendly than most of my cleaning products. The products effectiveness differed from worse on the built up oily grime to similar or better than my products when used on stainless steel and glass. The smell of the product was very subtle, but better than most of my normal cleaning solutions. Overall proved to be a very good cleaning product as an “anywhere anytime” household solution.

Reviewed by: Cameron J.

The verdict?

All these products did the job and our reviewers would use them again (as long as they could stand the eucalyptus smell), so there’s no excuse: next time you’re cleaning, make it green. Do you have a favourite eco friendly cleaning product? Let us know in the comments.

Product photos by Claire Mueller, before and after photos by reviewers.

How to descale a kettle (naturally!)

Your kettle is 100%, definitely, no-question full of limescale. Gross, but here's how to clean it in just one boil.

How to descale a kettle (naturally!)

Whether you’re an avid tea drinker, love a Cup-a-Soup or just have a dodgy hot water system, chances are your kitchen has a kettle, and that you haven’t cleaned it recently. Dare you to go look inside it now.

The inside of your kettle probably looks a lot like this:

clear kettle with limescale

Gunky, right? Gross. That greyish-whitish-brownish deposit is limescale, which builds up on surfaces in frequent contact with hard water.

But no need to stress! It’s easy to get rid of limescale in a kettle.

There are a multitude of commercial descaling products available but save your money and the environment and clean the all natural way with this clever kitchen hack. All you need are a few lemons.

Here’s how to descale a kettle naturally, without harsh chemicals:

Step 1: chop lemons

chopped lemons on marble benchtop

Chop a few lemons into quarters. You may want to remove the pips so you’re not fishing them out of your kettle later. If you have store bought lemons remove the little sticker too or you’ll find your have paper clogging up your kettle (and we don’t have a hack for fixing that)!

Step 2: squeeze lemons into 3/4 full kettle

lemons in clear kettle on marble benchtop

Make sure your kettle is approximately 3/4 full of water then give the lemon quarters a decent squeeze into the kettle. Drop the squeezed quarters in to the water then it’s time to lock and load – close the lid and flick the switch.

Step 3: boil!

lemons being boiled in kettle

Boil the kettle. If you have a clear glass kettle like this you’re in for a treat, it’s really mesmerising. If not you’ll just have to imagine what’s going on inside, we definitely do not recommend opening the lid to have a peek mid-boil.

Note: This kettle had heavy limescale and only needed one boil, but you could do it twice to make absolutely sure it ends up squeaky clean.

Step 4: swish and tip

stainless steel sink with lemons

Once the kettle has finished boiling the water pick it up and (carefully) swish the lemons around inside, then tip all the contents out into the sink. If you want to remove any trace of lemon you can rinse out the kettle with some fresh water.

The result?

TA-DA!

clean clear glass kettle

So fresh, so clean. Now go make a cup of tea to enjoy while you read about how it works.

How does limescale build up in a kettle? Limescale, otherwise known as calcium carbonate, is a sedimentary mineral deposit left over when water evaporates, which it regularly does inside your kettle. Thanks to modern living and plumbing systems the water out of the tap isn’t just H2O molecules. When you boil the water the pure steam escapes and the other stuff is left behind.

What is limescale? A calcium carbonate mineral deposit.

What is hard water? Water with a high concentration of dissolved minerals including calcium and magnesium.

Is limescale bad for your health? There is no evidence that drinking hard water is bad for your health.

How do you remove limescale? Limescale can be dissolved and removed with acids.

Limescale looks icky, and while it’s not going to kill you it is a killer for appliances. Limescale accumulates on limescale, so the longer you leave it the worse it gets, and build up can block small spaces, damage electrical elements and lead to corrosion.

How does the lemon work as a descaler? Limescale reacts with acids, so when you ‘descale’ you convert the deposit into soluble mineral salts that can be easily washed away, with carbon dioxide and water as the by-products.

For a less-natural but totally sweet alternative cleaning hack check out these 15 ways you can clean with Coca Cola.

Need someone to clean the rest of your kitchen so it’s just as sparkling? Hire a cleaner on Airtasker.