Housekeeping Channel - For the Home You Keep. The Resource for Better, Faster, Healthier Housekeeping.

Explore

HC-Pedia

MSDS? Microfiber?

Don't know? Look it up!

Simply use the HC Search form to the left to find definitions, explanations, suggested uses for cleaning products, advice for cleaning special surfaces, and more...all under the HC-Pedia™ section.

Or you may browse the entire HC-Pedia below.

HC-Pedia links can also be found throughout HC's articles and resources!

Simply click any highlighted link text within an article or entry to view more info on a particular topic.

HC-Pedia Entries

Backpack vacuum cleaner	Pros use this machine all day, avoiding back strain and repetitive stress injury.
Bacteria	The bugs are everywhere — literally.
Bacteria digester	A handy cleaner, particularly with pets or small children around.
Baking soda	This mild abrasive is also a decent deodorizer.
Barbecue grill	We’ve listed these patio appliances as separate entries by fuel type.
Baseboards	The no-backache way to keep them clean.
Baskets	A tisket, a tasket ... here's how to clean your basket.
Bathroom	It's easier and quicker than you think if done regularly.
Bathroom fan	Exhaust fans aren’t just for keeping the bathroom from smelling bad.
Bathroom rug	Just chuck them into the washing machine.
Bathtub	Enamel or plastic? Know before you clean.
Bathtub ring	An easy way to keep a yucky problem at bay.
Bed bugs	You’ll need the services of a pest-control professional to eliminate an infestation.
Biodegradable	A substance is biodegradable when natural biological decay processes can break it down into simple molecules.
Biofilm	More than just gross, that slime is a bacterial fortress.
Biological contaminants	Keeping these at bay is the main point in a lot of cleaning tasks.
Bleach	It's not just from a chlorine bottle anymore.
Blender	Separate the parts, and clean this kitchen appliance easily.
Blinds, vertical	Introducing a handy tool for making quick work of this task.
Blinds, window	How to be proud of their appearance again, the easy way.
Blood	A not-so-fearsome stain — if it gets immediate attention.
Blot, blotting	Blotting isn't rubbing or scrubbing. Here's how it's done, gently...
Books	Routine maintenance to emergency care.
Boots	They'll last a long time with proper care.
Borax	Cleaner and brighter, thanks to this booster.
Bottle	A bottle brush on a long wire handle is an indispensable tool.
Brass	Many brass objects have been coated with lacquer to help maintain the shine. Avoid using abrasive pads or cleaners, since abrasion will remove the lacquer.
Brick, exterior	Do these things if your chimney really needs cleaning.
Brick, interior (untreated)	This porous surface can be cleaned using the right methods.
Bronze	An ancient alloy that might not need cleaning, after all.
Broom	Old-style corn brooms are much harder to use than their modern counterparts.
Bucket	Do the job the easy, safe way — follow these tips.
Builders	These additives build on the power of detergent in a number of ways.
Butcher block	A place where cleanliness really helps keep the family healthy.