Explore

Sort results by: Best Match | Alphabetically

• Acoustic popcorn ceiling

  A ceiling finish that presents a cleaning challenge.

• Acoustical tile ceiling

  A ceiling that absorbs sound — plus a whole lot more.

• Asbestos

  What it is, and what to do — and not do — about it.

• Extension pole

  Also known as extension handles, these tools help keep your feet on firm ground instead of on a shaky, wet ladder.

• Smoke alarm

  Since the introduction of smoke detectors 40 years ago, deaths from residential fires have been cut in half. Here’s how to ensure maximum protection from your alarms.

• Fire alarm

  Professionally monitored systems are most often found in commercial settings.

• Vacuum system, central

  These powerful units offer many advantages over upright and canister vacuums.

• Humidity

  What this term means for a clean, healthy home.

• Carbon monoxide alarm

  Every home should have at least one CO detector.

• Air watt

  This standard measures the cleaning power of a vacuum cleaner.

• Wet-dry vac

  Wet-dry vacuum cleaners are best suited to garages and unfinished basements since they tend to spew fine dust out with the exhaust air if you don’t install an optional filter. They can come in handy for limited jobs in the home, such as clearing out a clogged sink, sucking up pet accidents, etc.

• Dry sponge

  Removes dirt where you can't use liquids.

• HEPA

  A term relating to filter effectiveness. HEPA filtration removes 99.97 percent of all particles 0.3 microns and larger.

• Air cleaner

  There are several different types, but these useful appliances are no substitute for good cleaning and other preventive measures.

• Duct

  These metal conduits distribute heated or cooled air from a furnace or central air conditioner. No one’s sure whether they need regular professional cleaning.

• Dust, dusting

  It's everywhere, all the time. Here's how to keep it to a tolerable minimum.

• Room air conditioner

  Cleaning this appliance is best done in autumn.

• Preventive maintenance

  Take care of household systems and cleaning tools, and they’ll take care of you.

• Wicking

  An explanation of how dirt can re-appear on a (supposedly) clean carpet or sofa.

• Television

  These appliances attract a lot of dust. Here's how to prevent or remove it.

Free Cleaning Checklist

Find a Certified Professional

Ads, ad links or content on this page are not necessarily endorsed by IICRC.

Find CRI Certified Vacuum Cleaners and Carpet Cleaning Products

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) does not necessarily endorse products, ads, links or content appearing on this page. To find CRI-approved vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaners, visit www.carpet-rug.org.

Glimpse the Microscopic World of Germs and Dust at KaiScience: The Cleaning Science Community.

Also visit our sister site, HealthyHouseInstitute.com, for comprehensive coverage on green & healthy homes.

Popular Topics: Housekeeping Tips | House Cleaning Tips | Carpet Cleaning | Stains | Clean My House | Stain Removal
Green Cleaning | Cleaning Service | Spring Cleaning | Air Cleaners | Vacuum Cleaners