Explore

Sort results by: Best Match | Alphabetically

• Soap

  The old standby is mild enough for personal use, but doesn’t work too well in hard water.

• Phosphates

  Once widely used to soften water for use in washing machines, some makers have reduced use of these chemicals.

• Ketchup spills

  Fast action will help reduce chances this spot will become permanent.

• Water softener

  A powder can help with laundering in hard water. There’s also a more permanent solution.

• Water

  This is the universal solvent for cleaning.

• Mud

  Spatters, spatters everywhere? Whatever you do, don’t spread them around.

• Chlorine bleach

  This laundry aid is also an effective disinfectant, but be careful.

• Detergent

  A cleaning agent that, unlike traditional soap, works well in hard water.

• Silk

  Your best bet? Read and follow the fabric-care label stitched into the garment.

• Shower stall

  Preventing the buildup of soap scum and water deposits is a lot easier than removal later.

• Lint

  It’s unavoidable, just like death and taxes. Here’s how to make it bearable.

• Blood

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

• Labels, product

  We cannot overstate the importance of reading product labels. Far too many people ignore this vital information.

• Chelating agent

  A "builder" that gets dissolved minerals out of the way of laundry detergent.

• Wool garment

  Take it to the dry cleaner unless care instructions say otherwise.

• Bathtub

  Enamel or plastic? Know before you clean.

• Vomit

  Remove as much as you can immediately and dilute with water, experts say. Then follow these tips.

• CRI

  An acronym for the Carpet and Rug Institute, an industry association.

• Spills, spots

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

• Ink spot

  Fast action can prevent spots from becoming permanent stains.

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