The American Cleaning Institute (ACI)

Search

Results (203)

If you have the Owner's Manual, follow the cleaning instructions. If you don't have the Manual, just follow these easy steps: INTERIOR (note: do this before going to the grocery store for your weekly shopping) Unplug the fridge and slide a coil brush under the unit’s kick plate to remove dust. Empty the contents of the entire fridge. Toss anything past its prime. Remove the drawers and scrub with a sponge, warm water and liquid dish soap. Spray the (now empty) interior with a…
February 8, 2019
Bathrooms are where the cleaning challenges can really get tough. There are so many surfaces: chrome, brass, glass, porcelain, fiberglass ... plus a wide variety of soils: hard water deposits, soap film, rust stains and mildew, not to mention germs. An assortment of effective cleaning products is available for these jobs. Cleaning Tips Rinse the tub after each use to keep soap film and hard water deposits from forming. Keep a small sponge handy for wiping down the tub walls after bathing. Use…
December 5, 2018
Q. The cold weather means I get to wear my favorite scarf. I noticed that it smells a little musty. What is the best way to clean it? Wash it right – Most people never think to wash their scarves, they’re the bed skirts of fashion. But we wear them next to our skin, so they get oil and perfumes on them which can cause fabric damage. A scarf you wear most days should be washed every couple weeks especially during the cold season. And if you clip of the care label before tying…
February 8, 2019
For best results, always read and follow label directions on cleaning products. Labels will give specific instructions for types of surfaces the cleaner should or shouldn't be used on, how much to use and how to use the product. Also, read and follow the use and care guides that come with fixtures, appliances and other surfaces. Do not mix cleaning products. Products which are safe when used alone can sometimes become dangerous if mixed with other products. Surfaces…
February 8, 2019
Q. I’m motivated this year to do a massive spring cleaning but with little kids running around my home, I'm concerned about cleaning product safety. How should I be planning to clean safely?  A. We encourage parents to do spring cleaning in the absence of young children so that you can give it your full attention without distractions. Here are some additional safety tips —  Children are usually curious and explore all the new things they find around a household. Take…
March 11, 2019
Q: We have a wood cutting board that we use for everything. What's the best way to clean it? Would it be better to get a plastic one?  A: Wash your cutting board with dish soap and hot water after each use. Rinse with clear water. Air-dry or pat dry with clean paper towels. Note that some nonporous cutting boards, including acrylic, plastic or glass, can also be washed in the dishwasher. If the cutting board was used for uncooked meat, fish or poultry,…
March 11, 2019
Q. I try to keep my home clean while raising toddlers, but it’s not easy. They’re into everything! How can I keep my house clean and safe at the same time? We understand, as a young mother, it’s tough balancing your cleaning routine, managing children’s busy schedules and all of the other things on your list. Children can be curious and may like to explore new things they find around a home. To help keep them safe and prevent accidents, teach your children at…
December 5, 2018
Q: My son's sneakers always get so dirty in summer. Can I launder them in the washing machine?  A: Most shoe manufacturers discourage machine washing sneakers. Some detergents and the machine's agitation may damage many leathers and adhesives. But, some shoes can be cleaned in your washing machine. Your best bet is to read and follow the care instructions inside the sneaker. If there are no instructions, here are some basic instructions for cleaning most canvas and nylon sneakers by…
May 30, 2020
Q: We had a real tree for Christmas but now I am finding tree sap everywhere! What is the best way to clean mittens, coats and my carpet?  A: Rubbing alcohol can remove sap from washable clothing, knit gloves, and rugs, because it acts as a solvent. For clothes, even a down coat, saturate the area with alcohol, let sit for a minute, then launder in warm water with regular detergent. Heat sets stains, so be sure all the sap is gone before using the dryer. Repeat the process if…
March 11, 2019
Practicing good hygiene is an important part of defending ourselves against the coronavirus. By and large, we have been cleaning and disinfecting more than usual during the pandemic, a habit which we will likely continue as we enter a “new normal” following the height of the pandemic. There may be different reasons why you worry about “cleaning too much.” It could be that you’re worried about cost, the amount of product you’re using in your home, or the use of disinfectants. Whatever your…
May 3, 2021