Top household cleaning problems and solutions
Is your home in need of a thorough spring cleaning? Vanquish the dirt, dust and grime with these tips from top cleaning experts. Be sure to protect your hands with gloves, and check out our gallery of the best household cleaning products before starting.
Soap scum, calcium and lime scale buildup on shower glass doors
Struggling to get your glass shower walls to sparkle? Nick Kaczun, founder and CEO of Lustre Luxury Cleaning & Services in Toronto recommends using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to remove the build-up. “There are many cleaners that can remove soap scum, calcium and lime scale, however they may be harmful to your natural stone, like granite, marble, limestone, and slate,” he says. Once the build-up has been removed, he suggests cleaning any streaks with a window cleaner. Want to save time in the future? Wipe and wash down your glass with a squeegee after showers.
Fingerprints on screens
Get rid of fingerprints and splatters on smooth surfaces with durable microfibre cloths. “They can even be used dry for delicate surfaces like pianos, televisions and computer screens,” says Kaczun.
TIP: “Buy a few of them and keep them handy in rooms throughout the house,” says Kaczun. “They are soft and work very well on many surfaces.” Keep them clean for best results, and wash and dry them after each use.
Natural stone maintenance
To maintain the look of natural stones in your home, like granite or marble, you’ll need to take special care. “Ask your manufacturer or installer what cleaning product and methods they recommend for the specific stone you have,” advises Kaczun. “Generally you want to avoid any products with acid or bleach as they can cause etching and permanent damage to the surface,” he says. Use mild dish soap with water for your regular cleaning, and “clean up any spills on these surfaces right away to avoid penetration into the stone and surrounding grout.” Reseal your stone every few years to maintain the look.
“Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional you will be surprised at how much better you feel when your home is clean,” says Kaczun, founder of Lustre Luxury Cleaning & Services.
