Cleaning Scuff Marks
Use 3 tbsp. Of TSP (trisodium phosphate) to a gallon of water to clean scuff marks or crayon marks off walls. TSP can be found in the paint department of a hardware store. Wear gloves and do not use on semi-gloss or gloss paint or wood surfaces. Removing Blood from Furniture Use hydrogen peroxide to remove blood from clothing or furniture. Rub gently.
Dusting Tip
Use paint brushes to dust cracks and hard to reach places in telephones, stereos, etc.
Make a Schedule
Set aside a regular short period of time each week for the family to straighten up the house. It teaches good habits to the kids and gives the family a project to do together. Everyone will feel better when the job is done, and might just look forward to the day when they know things are going to be neat and organized.
Listen to Books On Tape to Help You Clean
Having trouble finding time to read these days? You can rent great books on tape from the library to listen to while you're cleaning and doing chores. It helps to pass the time, keeps you working a little longer and lets you catch up on those mysteries you've been wanting to read.
Removing Candle Wax from Walls
Candle wax can be removed from walls or other surfaces with an iron and facial tissue. Set the tissue over the wax and gently iron. When the wax seeps through or the tissue begins to brown, apply a new tissue.
Cleaning Chrome
Club soda or seltzer water will clean chrome.
Removing Blood Stains
Corn starch can remove blood stains. Rinse the stain in cold water, then rub in moistened cornstarch. Place the item in the sun.
Removing Gum
Gum can be removed using ice to harden and a dull knife to remove.
Removing Magic Marker Ink
Hair spray will remove magic-marker ink from surfaces.
Cleaning Window Screens
Nylon covered sponges are great for cleaning window screens.
Removing Smoke Odor
Place a bowl of vinegar out to absorb smoke odor.
Unstick That Door
Car wax applied to a sticking door will ease opening and closing.
Repairing Cigarette Burns in Carpets
Cigarette burns in carpeting can be repaired by cutting the blackened fibers from the hole. Squeeze liquid glue into the hole and fill with fibers trimmed from carpet remnants.
Repairing Small Holes in Window Screens
Clear nail polish will repair small holes in window screens.
