Preparing for moving day is more than just packing; theres all that cleaning to do too! Here are some tricks to help make the process go more smoothly.
Caution: before trying any of the methods listed below, do a spot test on fabrics and porous surfaces to check for colorfastness.
Everyday household items can work wonders on many common messes. Use a pencil eraser to remove scuff-marks from woodwork. A hot iron on a low setting and a piece of absorbent cloth can remove wax from hard surfaces and curtains. Press firmly on the cloth with the iron until the wax starts to loosen. Repeat, turning or replacing the cloth as needed. Remove crayon marks from walls by gently rubbing toothpaste on the stain.
Did you know that toothpaste can remove ink and crayon from hard surfaces? Let the toothpaste sit for an hour or so for stubborn stains and then rub gently with a soft cloth.
The most important thing to remember when washing walls is to start at the bottom, to avoid streaks. For textured walls, a nylon sock wont leave lint behind. Always test for colorfastness before applying cleaners. Paint spatters can be removed from most woodwork by gently rubbing them with brass cleaner. Lime scale, dried toothpaste and soap scum can be treated with an oxygen-based cleaning powder. These Oxi type cleaners can be found in almost any supermarket. Follow the directions on the package.-
Moldy or damp smells can be removed from just about anywhere with baking soda. Simply apply to the smelly area (or leave a box open in a cupboard or fridge) and the smell should be greatly reduced or gone within 24 hours. You can also use activated charcoal, or a few drops of vanilla extract on a piece of cloth.
Very important: Do not mix any cleaning solutions or other chemicals with one another; serious injury can occur. Bleach and ammonia in particular must never be combined, as the mixture creates fumes that can be deadly. Also use caution when going back over areas that have already been cleaned; the use of different chemicals, in addition to being potentially dangerous, can also cause staining.
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