Explore

Sort results by: Best Match | Alphabetically

• Blender

  Separate the parts, and clean this kitchen appliance easily.

• Rinse

  This step in the cleaning process has the biggest impact on final results.

• Heater, portable

  If it has a plug, make sure it’s nowhere near an outlet before cleaning.

• Laminate floor

  These pre-finished surfaces are easily maintained by sweeping or vacuuming, and damp mopping. Avoid going overboard with cleaners and polishes.

• Spills, spots

  A guide to the best ways of preventing stains on floors, rugs, carpet and upholstery.

• Mat

  Hate dusting, sweeping, vacuuming and mopping so often? Try a set of these.

• Denatured alcohol

  This solvent is a capable spot cleaner on many hard surfaces.

• Window cleaner

  Consumer Reports offers an inexpensive, homemade cleaning solution.

• Biofilm

  More than just gross, that slime is a bacterial fortress.

• Awnings

  Tread lightly while cleaning these sun screens.

• Laminate countertop

  Cleanup is a snap, but be careful to prevent surface damage.

• Dust mites

  You can’t see them, but they can cause allergies and other respiratory problems.

• Skunk odor

  A tomato-juice bath isn’t as effective as this home remedy, several experts say.

• Trisodium phosphate (TSP)

  An old standby that is still useful for cleaning walls and other surfaces.

• Blood

  A not-so-fearsome stain — if it gets immediate attention.

• Ink spot

  Fast action can prevent spots from becoming permanent stains.

• 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.

• Lampshade

  Cloth shades should be cleaned carefully with dry methods. Spot clean with wet methods only when absolutely necessary.

• Houseplants

  Dusting and rinsing are the answers.

• Range fan

  The hood has a removable filter that’s essential for reducing airborne grease.

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.

Find WOOLSAFE Approved Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Companies

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