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• Emulsification

  The process that makes so many cleaning products effective.

• Rinse

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

• Skunk odor

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

• Floor Care: No Wax Floor

  Not so fast with the finishing polish or wax! Do this first.

• Soap

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

• Microban®

  It’s how advancing technology helps people keep bacteria at bay.

• Water

  This is the universal solvent for cleaning.

• Pressed wood

  Vacuuming is the best way to dust this porous surface.

• Air cleaner

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

• Anti-bacterial products

  The scientific debate continues over whether soaps, sprays and wipes may end up doing more harm than good.

• Natural ventilation

  A scientific term for “airing the place out.”

• Biofilm

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

• Hot water extraction

  Carpet cleaning that’s highly effective at flushing out dirt.

• Extraction cleaning

  A method that’s highly effective at flushing out dirt from many carpets and some rugs.

• Driveway

  Sweep and spray to remove dirt. Also, the right way to soak out oil stains.

• Carbon monoxide

  You can’t see it, smell it or taste it, but that doesn’t make it any less deadly.

• Wicking

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

• Blood

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

• Knives

  Keep cutlery out of the dishwasher.

• Microbes

  The scientific name for what many people call germs or bugs. Microbes contribute to bad smelling bathrooms, but also function as nature's cleaning agents.

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