Reseal Grout Lines
Wax Wooden Furniture
Th e cement-based material between wall, fl oor,
and countertop tiles is extremely porous and stains
easily. Protect it with a penetrating grout sealer; it’s
best to apply it with a small foam brush.
Wipe surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with
water and mild dishwashing liquid. Apply paste
wax, such as Butcher’s wax, a few feet at a time with
a cotton rag folded into a square pad. Let the wax
dry; buff with a clean cloth.
Vacuum and Shampoo Rugs
Synthetic carpets and rugs with waterproof back-
ings can be deep-cleaned with a rotary shampoo
machine and a hot-water extraction machine. Rugs
without backings, including Orientals, require pro-
fessional cleaning.
Ensure Fire Safety
Dust Books and Shelves
Wash Window Screens
Take everything off the shelves, and brush them
(along with the books) with a feather duster. Use
the dust brush or crevice tool on a vacuum to reach
into tight spots. Wipe the spines of leather-bound
books with a clean, soft cloth.
Using warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid,
scrub each screen with a brush; rinse thoroughly.
Clean Upholstered Furnishings
Take cushions outside and gently beat them by
hand to remove dust. If there are stains, check the
pieces for care labels. Use a vacuum’s upholstery and
crevice tools to clean under seat cushions.
Polish Metal Door and Window
Hardware
Liquid polishes and polish-impregnated cloths
work well for medium-tarnished surfaces; pastes
and creams are best for heavier work. If the tarnish
doesn’t come off , try a stronger product.
Related: Th e Golden Rules of Cleaning: What You
Should Be Cleaning When
Dust Your Home Th oroughly
Th is includes hard-to-reach places, such as the tops
of ceiling fans and window casings. Always work
from the top of a room down, vacuuming the dust
that settles on the fl oor. Avoid using dusting sprays.
PAGE 12 " Central Oregon Homes & Business
Change batteries in smoke detectors (this should be
done twice a year), and make sure units are free of
dust. Teach everyone in your household how to use
a fi re extinguisher, and review escape plans.
Clean Window Treatments
Many draperies and curtains are machine washable;
check labels. Dry clean fabric shades. Wipe wooden
blinds with a damp cloth; warm water mixed with a
mild dishwashing liquid is safe for metal and vinyl
blinds.
Wax Non-Wood Floors
Vinyl and linoleum fl oors that have lost their shine
should be waxed with a polish designed for these
surfaces. Most stone and tile fl oors can be treated
with either a paste or a liquid wax designed for the
material.
Source: marthastewart.com