Solve Tough House Cleaning Problems

Professional house cleaners spill their best-kept secrets to save you time and effort

Shower door soap scum, greasy dirt on lamps and kitchen cabinets…some things around the house just don't come clean. We talked to professional house cleaners and got them to spill their best-kept cleaning secrets. Use these tips to simplify your housecleaning—and save time and effort.

Tip 1: Scum-proof your shower doors
Keeping shower doors clean and streak free is a challenge—unless you know the pros' secrets. Start by cleaning any mold, mildew or streaks off the glass with a glass cleaner. Use a Mr. Clean^® Magic Eraser ($1) to get into the cracks in textured glass. Scrape off tough buildup with a razor blade. Dry the doors with a cloth.

Solve the 10 toughest cleaning problems »

Clever Cleaning Tips

Make cleaning around the house easier using common household supplies

House cleaning isn't exactly fun, but it doesn't have to be drudgery either. Here is a great collection of clever tips and hints that will make cleaning your house easier and more efficient using common items you already have on hand.

Tip 1: Vacuum extension tube
Don't throw away the cardboard tube from wrapping paper! Tape the tube to the end of a vacuum cleaner wand to reach cobwebs in ceiling corners or dust on fans. Reach all the way under beds and furniture, or flatten the roll to vacuum narrow crevices. Make it a permanent dusting wand by wrapping it with duct tape, and it'll stand up to years of use.

9 more tips using items you already have on hand »

Quick Cleaning Tips

When you are short on time, these tips will get you out of a bind

Company coming? Sick to death of housework? Here are some speedy ways to simplify your house cleaning and get rid of stubborn stains both outside and inside your house.

Tip 1: Remove tree sap from vinyl siding
If drippy trees or deck lumber deposit sap on your vinyl siding, don't delay cleanup. The longer you wait, the more stubborn the sap will become. If you attack the fresh sap within a week or so, a common kitchen cleaner such as Formula 409 or Fantastik^® will likely remove the goo. You can also use a biodegradable product such as Simple Green. If standard cleaners won't dissolve the sap, use a citrus cleaner such as Goo Gone (at home centers). Check the label of any product you use to make sure it's recommended for vinyl and test it in an inconspicuous spot for discoloration. Apply the cleaner with a rag or sponge. Scrub tough spots with a soft-bristle brush.

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Do you have a great tip to share?

We’re always looking for great tips and we’ll pay $100 for any we publish in The Family Handyman magazine. Submit your tip »