Just when you thought you finished cleaning, here come some more things. Well, face it, that is the way it goes. Cleaning never ends. In fact, it never even slows up or fades away. Here are some more tips, no matter how you may feel about time, fading or even cleaning for that matter. Read on if you dare.
Lampshade Cleaning
The easiest way to remove marks from a fabric lampshade is to apply a mixture made from ½ cup dish soap, 1/2 teaspoon ammonia, 1 teaspoon vinegar and a quart of warm water. Froth the solution with a hand mixer and with a sponge; apply only the foam to the shade. Wipe off with a damp cloth and dry immediately with a hairdryer set on cool.
The Mattress
Every 3 or 4 months at a time when no one is on the mattress, sprinkle some baking soda onto it (the mattress not the person). Leave it on for the day and then vacuum it off.
Needlework
Baby shampoo applied to needlework can do wonders, but first check for color fastness. If the piece is framed, keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Use a feather duster to clean.
Papier Maché Items
Blot carefully with a soft cloth dipped in cool water, but do not use any kind of soap. Sprinkle a little flour on the item, and then brush off gently with a soft face brush.
Page Perk
Place the book with the musty odor into a paper bag sprinkled with baking soda. Leave it in for about 10 days. When you remove the book, the smell will be gone (and maybe the bag will have learned to read, but don’t count on it). To remove mildew, sprinkle the pages with some cornstarch and let it sit for 24 hours. Then dust off and stand back.
Do YOU have any tips to share? Please do.
Related Reading:
“Washing Windows: A Carefree Diversion”
“Cleaning Those Wooden Floors”