Lola Clean Freaks

5 Easy Steps to Clean a Stinky Dishwasher

5 Easy Steps to Clean a Stinky Dishwasher

Isn't it quite strange that something specifically made to clean also needs to clean itself? It just goes to show that the most ethical method is still hard work, regardless of how much we automate jobs. As a result, when your dishwasher begins to emit an unpleasant smell, it's time for you to step in and give your magical chore robot a good cleaning.

Yes, even your dishwasher requires a thorough cleaning now and then. Don't worry—its not as hard as it sounds. Weve broken it down into 5 simple steps (and why you need to do them).

Why do dishwashers eventually smell bad?

The following are the most common causes of smelly dishwashers: 

  • Food scraps lingering in filters and crevices 
  • Bacterial growth could be aided by the accumulation of grease and oil
  • Mold or mildew caused by standing water as a result of clogged parts or general neglect

What can you do?

Consider it like brushing your dishwasher's teeth—you'll have fresher breath in no time if you use the best toothpaste and mouthwash.

Check your dishwasher's filter. First and foremost, figure out how to clean the filter. This is frequently found at the bottom of the machine, so make sure to pull out the bottom rack to get the best access. Pull out the filter and handwash it in the sink with hot water and dish soap. Cleaning out the dishwasher's drain filter will remove those nasty food scraps, as well as any grease or oil that has become trapped and has started to grow bacteria and stink.

Unclog and wipe down the interior parts. Next, inspect the dishwasher's spray arm and drain hose to ensure that neither is clogged with additional food particles. Clogging of these important dishwasher parts may also contribute to unpleasant odors because it indicates that they are not functioning properly. If the spray arm(s) or drain hose become clogged, clear the passageways with a scrub brush or even a toothpick. Another thing to look out for is the garbage disposal. You should also clean out its hose. It's simple, but depending on how frequently you've cleaned it, be warned: it could be a dirty business. Then, using a soapy rag, wipe down the inside of your dishwasher's walls to ensure that no mildew has formed from food scraps. 

Drain standing water. If you haven't used your dishwasher in a while or have been away from home for an extended period of time, standing water in your dishwasher could be the culprit, causing a foul odor or mold growth. Make certain to get rid of it.

Run cycles. If the dishwasher really stinks, you may want to run two separate cycles: one with white vinegar and one with baking soda, which you can liberally sprinkle on the bottom of the dishwasher before running a short cycle. Honestly, either one or the other would suffice for mild odors. But never ever use both vinegar and baking soda at the same time. Be sure to run each cycle with hot water. If you're feeling brave, you can run a cycle with a cup of lemon peels, which should leave your dishwasher smelling heavenly, but make sure the peels don't clog the drain.

Let it air dry. Even dishwashers require some fresh air. Your dishwasher has a very strong seal. Consider this: an upright box sloshing around steam and water for about an hour and a half per use. If the seal wasnt top notch, your kitchen would be a kiddie pool. Because the seal is so strong, residual water can become trapped inside your dishwasher, never having the chance to dry. So, once the cleaning cycle is complete, open the dishwasher door and let it air dry overnight. You can even give the interior of the door a gentle wipe with a clean, dry towel to kickstart the air-drying process, being sure to get around the edges and the seal.

A little routine dishwasher maintenance goes a long way—just make sure to clean according to the manufacturer's manual or guidelines to keep your dishwasher in top shape. Youll forget your hard work is even paying off because of the lack of any weird dishwasher smell. Your dishes will appreciate it.

How to Get Salt Stains Off Your Favorite Shoes

How to Get Salt Stains Off Your Favorite Shoes

If you live in a snowy area, you probably have a favorite pair of shoes for shoveling the sidewalk or driveway. Even so, snow melting products used on other sidewalks and in parking lots are likely to leave salt stains on your shoes. Wearing rubber boots helps, but what if you forget or are caught off guard by the weather? The steps below will show you how to clean your shoes and protect them from future salt stains.

Leather Shoes and Boots

You will need:

Salt on your shoes can dry out the leather and cause permanent damage, just as too much sodium in your diet can cause dehydration. As a result, it's critical to treat any salt stains or snow remover residue as soon as possible. 

  1. With an old, damp rag, remove as much salt residue as possible.
  2. In a small bowl, combine equal parts white vinegar and water. Wipe your boots or shoes with this mixture using a clean cloth. To avoid transferring dyes from the fabric to your shoes, make sure to use a white cloth.
  3. Repeat as necessary until all of the salt residue has been removed. Place your boots or shoes somewhere out of the way to dry. Heat can cause leather to crack, so keep them away from a fireplace or heating vent. Stuff them with newspaper to absorb excess moisture if they were wet to begin with. Replace the paper on a regular basis until the boots are dry.
  4. Once dry, rub a little coconut oil into your shoes to protect them from salt stains. A light layer of oil will keep salt residue off your shoes while also preventing the leather from drying out.

Suede Shoes and Boots

You will need:

  1. Wipe away as much salt residue as possible with the dry microfiber cloth. 
  2. Brush the suede lightly along the salt lines with the toothbrush. Don't be too rough, or the suede texture will be damaged; instead, use just enough pressure to dislodge any remaining salt. 
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup cold water and three drops liquid dish soap. Spot-test the colorfastness of your shoes by dabbing the corner of an undyed cloth with soapy water. 
  4. If the dye does not transfer, dab the stained areas with soapy water until the stain is removed. If you rub, you risk lifting the dye and ruining the suede's nap. 
  5. Dry the shoes in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. 
  6. When they're dry, buff them lightly with a dry cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to restore the suede's texture. 
  7. Remove other types of stains from your suede shoes, then use a suede protector to prevent future ones at least once per winter season.

Fabric or Canvas Shoes

You will need:

Fabric or canvas shoes with leather accents, on the other hand, should not be washed. So, here are a couple of quick steps you can take to remove salt stains from fabric or canvas shoes.

  1. Dislodge as much salt rime as possible with the scrub brush. 
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup warm water and 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish soap. 
  3. Soak a washcloth in soapy water and gently rub the salt stains from your shoes. Dont saturate the shoe fabric — get it just damp enough to remove the salt residue. 
  4. To absorb excess moisture, press a dry cloth against the area you just cleaned. Your shoes should be free of stains and dry enough to wear. 
  5. Spray sneakers or trainers with a fabric sealant the next time you wash them to prevent future salt stains.

Fortunately, salt stains on your shoes are fairly easy to remove. There is no special equipment required. Just follow the simple steps above and you're good to go.

How to Bring Back the Sparkle of Your Old Glass Cookware

How to Bring Back the Sparkle of Your Old Glass Cookware

If you enjoy looking for vintage cookware, you've probably seen a lot of old, scratched glass cookware. The marks may have even caused you to pass on some things, but looking back, you may have regretted that decision because there are easy hacks to make those vintage glass cookware sparkle like brand new.

While we might be able to remove baked-on stains from glass cookware, it doesn't look like any amount of scrubbing will be able to remove the scuffs. So before passing up on old glass cookware from a vintage shop or donating your worn-out, outdated ones, you may want to give this tip a try. Here's how to revive the vibrant color of scratched glass dishes!

What you need

What you will do

  • Use hot water and a mild dish soap to wash your glass dish as usual. With a non-scratch scouring pad or sponge, try to scrape out the scratches or scuff marks after washing away any visible food or residue. We're going to focus on the persistent scratch marks that are still visible after the dish has been fully cleaned. 
  • Dry and rinse the glass cookware. 
  • Apply a small amount of fiberglass/ceramic polishing cream directly to the scratched area using a damp microfiber cloth. 
  • Use a circular motion to polish the dish as soon as possible and remove scuffs. Never allow the paste to dry. Surprisingly, your favorite toothpaste is also an effective ingredient for the job (but possibly not as effective as the prescribed polishing cream).
  • Dry after rinsing. And voila, no more scruffs!

Alternatively, the Lola® Rubaway Eraser Pads would also be a powerful tool to restore your glass cookware to their brand new glory. With their ultra-fine sandpaper-like action, these foam sponges can easily scour through even the toughest messes on a variety of surfaces, including glass cookware. And since these magic erasers require moisture to function correctly, we advise going a step further and including some mild dish soap in addition to the warm water. Even the toughest grease stuck to your glass cookware won't stand a chance against this combination of dish soap's grease-cutting power and the magic eraser's abrasiveness!

Our priceless antique glass cookware require a complicated cleaning procedure. In addition, we don't want to use any materials or techniques that will damage our items while trying to make them look as nice as new. But if you follow the simple tips above, you're definitely on the right track of preserving (and saving) your precious glass cookware.

Tips for That Eco-Friendly ’Fall Cleaning’

Tips for That Eco-Friendly ’Fall Cleaning’

Although spring may top the list as the ideal season for deep cleaning, doesn't fall make more sense? There is no better time to get your home in top condition than now, with the temperature falling, the holidays approaching, and the influx of seasonal bugs. Here are some of the most eco-friendly approaches to “fall clean” your home.

Start pulling out your winter gears

There is no reason to put off wearing those warm sweaters and cushy leggings if the temperature is already dropping. By sorting through last season's clothing, you'll not only learn what should be kept and what should be donated or thrown out, but you'll also reduce your carbon footprint and spend less money on utilities. Why? Putting on a sweater rather than turning up the thermostat could save you a decent amount on utility costs.

“Winterize” your chimney, as necessary

Few things are more romantic than spending a cold night together beside a fire. Ensure you're prepared for such a moment by hiring a professional to clean the flue of dirt, debris, and bird nests, as well as to undertake any repairs that may need to be handled. 

Sort through your cabinets and cupboards

We're all guilty of keeping food (and other stuff) way past their expiration dates, whether it be those soup cans no one in your family would eat or the pasta you've vowed never to eat again. This fall, go through your pantry and throw away everything that has expired. You can give food that hasn't gone bad to a lot of places, like your neighborhood food bank or homeless. Fill that empty area with healthful foods to keep you healthy throughout the fall.

Clean your tiles

While the tiles in your kitchen and bathroom may be lovely to look at and easy to clean, the grout between them can quickly grow mildew. In addition to being disgusting, this is unhealthy and may cause everything from coughing and wheezing to eye irritation. To floss those tiles, combine one part vinegar and one part carbonated water, and use the Lola® Eco Clean Bamboo Scrub Brush for that environmentally responsible tile cleaning. They'll shine even more, which will greatly improve how you and your family feel.

Wipe down your doors

It’s reasonable to concentrate the majority of your cleaning efforts on the surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom, but other areas of your home also receive a lot of activity and may be a source of germs (besides, think about how many visitors you'll have over the holidays). In light of this, thoroughly clean your doors to avoid the "sharing" of seasonal colds, and have some Lola® Anti-Microbial Clean n' Wipe Cloths on hand to sanitize those door knobs.

Wash your windows

This season of cuddling up will be much more delightful with sparkling windows, so clean them up before the cold weather arrives. Spray the glass liberally with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water, then wipe it down with The Reusable & Biodegradable Wowables® Paper Towels.

Repel insects from your home

Even though Halloween is just around the horizon, there is a big difference between spider webs that are just for decoration and actual spiders that are haunting your home. Use a Lola® Corn Broom to clear webs from the inside of your house, and a water hose to get rid of those outside that are hiding in crevices. Add some drops of citronella essential oil to your air filters as unwelcomed insects are deterred by it, which also has a fresh aroma that will make your home seem cozier.

As the weather is just starting to get chilly, it's best to start with outdoor tasks and then go indoors as the temperature drops. You'll thank yourself later (and so will Mother Nature) when you're enjoying a cozy winter since you put in a little additional effort now.

How to Clean White Shoes and Make them Look New Again!

How to Clean White Shoes and Make them Look New Again!

White shoes are a wardrobe necessity. This flexible footwear complements almost any kind of clothing, making it a great option for everyday use. However, after just a few days, scuffs, stains, and grime can make your beautiful white shoes appear dirty and old. Unfortunately, cleaning white shoes is more difficult than simply putting them in the washer and dryer to avoid damaging the shoes. Luckily, there are a few methods for cleaning to help keep your favorite white shoes looking great. These detailed steps for cleaning white shoes will leave your footwear looking brand new, regardless of whether they are made of leather, canvas, or mesh.

What you need

Whatever the main material of your white shoes is, you will need the following items for cleaning:

Leather Shoes

Because leather doesn't absorb as much water as some other fabrics do, it is one of the simpler materials to clean. Here's how to thoroughly clean white leather shoes with just liquid dish soap:

  1. Remove any loose dirt with a dry toothbrush after removing the shoelaces. Mix some warm water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Brush the shoes gently all over with the toothbrush after dipping it into the soapy water.
  2. Use an eraser pad to get rid of any stains or scuffs (as in instructions above). Wipe the shoes down with a wet cloth. After cleaning the shoes, pack them with white paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture and preserve the shoes' shape while they dry. Before wearing, make sure they are thoroughly dry.

Canvas Shoes

Your white canvas shoes may appear to be difficult to clean, but it's actually rather easy. Here's a simple hack on how to clean them with just white vinegar and baking soda:

  1. Gather your materials: an old (but clean) toothbrush, baking soda, white vinegar, Reusable & Biodegradable Wowables® Paper Towels, and Mr. Clean® Magic Eraser Comparable Rubaway Eraser Pads by Lola®.
  2. Get rid of any loose dirt. For easy access to every area of the shoe, untie and remove the shoelaces. Take the shoes outside and bang the soles together to dislodge thick clumps of caked-on mud or dirt. To clean the shoes and get rid of any last bits of loose debris, scrape them with a toothbrush. Make sure to brush the tongue's outer edges and rubber soles as well.
  3. Combine the baking soda and white vinegar with a 3:1 ratio to make a paste, apply this to the shoes using the toothbrush, and gently scrub to remove dirt and stains. Give the mixture time to set up on the shoes. When it is entirely dry, brush off the larger pieces and use a paper towel to wipe up the remaining residue. 
  4. Remove any scuff marks or dirt streaks from the white bottoms of the shoes with an eraser pad. Scrub the rubber sole on both sides using a sponge eraser that has been dampened with water. Wipe off the shoes with a clean, damp cloth or paper towel. Before wearing, let them totally air dry.

Mesh Shoes

  1. Mesh is a delicate material that can easily snagged or harmed. You should use a lighter touch while cleaning white mesh shoes than you would with a tougher fabric like canvas. To gently brush away any extra dirt on the exterior of the shoes, use a dry toothbrush with soft bristles.
  2. Mix a little liquid laundry detergent with some warm water in a basin to make a sudsy cleaning solution and apply it to the shoes with a gentle cloth while making circular motions. As you clean, periodically rinse the cloth with warm water to prevent transferring dirt or stains to the shoes.
  3. Avoid completely submerging your mesh shoes in water to rinse them because this could ruin the inside or change the contour of the shoes. Instead, clean the outside of the shoes with a clean, moist cloth. Before donning the shoes, let them completely air dry and then stuff them with paper towels to help them keep their shape.

Your white shoes will surely appear fresh new if you follow the tips above. As previously stated, always be mindful of your white shoes. Even if they weren't pricey, routine maintenance would allow you to keep them in top shape for years. Consequently, you don't have to be concerned about damaging your wardrobe basics.

Tips to Clean Your Brick Walls

Tips to Clean Your Brick Walls

Despite being resilient, brick walls can still accumulate dirt, dust, and stains. This goes without saying that they still need to be cleaned regularly. Although both interior and exterior bricks of your home require maintenance, they cannot be cleaned in the same way! You wouldn’t want to use a pressure washer inside your home, would you?  Interior brick walls often require less maintenance than exterior ones since they are not subject to as many external elements. Events like rain, snow, wind, dust, and pollution can quickly dirty the exterior walls of your home, necessitating additional time spent cleaning. Brick walls indoors are more likely to collect dirt in areas like the kitchen, where they may get splattered with oil or other cooking chemicals.

So, whether you want to revitalize the outside brick walls of your house or make your inside brick accent wall appear brand new, it’s a good thing that we have some of the best tips for you. In no time, if you follow the directions, your brick will shine.

What you need

Interior cleaning:

Exterior cleaning: (In addition to the materials above)

  • Pressure washer
  • Detergent
  • Bleach
  • Rubber gloves
  • Goggles

How to clean a brick wall indoors

The first step in this simple task is to use the broom to dust and remove any obvious dirt and debris on your brick walls. You can begin cleaning the wall once the top layer of loose dirt has been removed. To wash the wall, create a cleaning solution by combining water, your favorite dishwashing soap, and some table salt. Spray this mixture onto your brick walls to remove any oil that has built up over time. Use the scrubber to brush, and then wipe it away with a cloth wet with warm water.

How to clean the brick wall outside

Let's now learn how to properly clean the exterior of a brick wall, which is considerably more prone to collecting dirt. The top layer of dust, cobwebs, and debris that managed to accumulate on the surface should be removed first. The simplest approach to do it is to carefully sweep the area using a broom. Depending on your preference, you may select from the following methods for cleaning your exterior brick walls:

  • Naturally, you can use the cleaning solution we previously described for interior brick walls cleaning, which is created from water, mild dishwashing liquid, and table salt, along with a sponge. Before you start scrubbing, let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  • Another option is to use a high-pressure water cleaning. You should adjust the machine such that the maximum flow pressure is 700 psi to avoid damaging the wall. Don't forget to use a mild detergent safe for bricks as well.
  • If your walls have mold and mildew, you may need to use some bleach solution. Don’t forget to wear a pair of gloves (or even goggles) for extra protection while cleaning.

Bricks are one of the strongest construction and finishing materials out there and can provide you with excellent service for a very long time. It’s imperative not to disregard them, so it’s best to set aside some time to check on their cleanliness both inside and outside of your home.

Useful Tips to Easily Clean Your Humidifier

Useful Tips to Easily Clean Your Humidifier

If you have allergies, you may already use a humidifier in your home to help reduce your symptoms and make breathing easier. Unfortunately, many people are often too busy or forgetful to clean the humidifier on their own, which can result in mold and bacteria buildup that not only ruins the aesthetics of your home but can also damage your health and make allergies even worse. And let's admit it, cleaning a humidifier can seem like a difficult task, especially if you dont know where to start. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take, and readily available household items you can use, to clean your humidifier so that its as clean and sanitary as possible. 

Why should you clean your humidifier?

Cleaning a humidifier will not only make it more efficient, but also extend the life of the unit. A humidifier works by drawing in cold air, mixing it with water and then blowing warm, moist air into the room. The minerals and contaminants in tap water will build up over time on the inside surfaces of the humidification unit and may also grow mold if left unchecked. This will eventually lead to decreased efficiency as well as increased energy use due to higher than necessary humidity levels. 

What should you do daily and weekly?

On a daily basis, simple towel-drying, and filling the humidifier's tank with fresh water are enough to stop the formation of mold and other impurities. The tank and the base's well require a more thorough cleaning and sanitizing once every week. In accordance with the manufacturer's recommended timetable, replace filters and wicks.

What do you need and how to use them?

Easy! You only need the following:

Step 1: Remove the tank from the base

To the well of the base, add either 1 cup of white vinegar or 1/2 cup each of water and vinegar.

Step 2: Use the gentle cleaning tool

Scrub scale out of nooks and crannies in the well. Rinse until there is no more vinegar odor. Towel dry with the microfiber cleaning cloth.

Step 3: Add vinegar solution into the tank

Pour 1 cup each of white vinegar and water into the tank, then cover it. After covering the tank, leave it to soak for 20 minutes while occasionally swishing or shaking. Remove solution from container and rinse until odor is gone. Do the final towel drying with the microfiber cloth.

Humidifiers can be great for keeping your home or office from feeling too dry during the winter months, and to some extent, they are a necessary comfort item already. But like everything else in your home, youll need to clean them regularly to maintain their cleanliness and performance over time since they can become filthy, moldy cesspool if regular cleaning and maintenance are not performed. You wouldn't want to be breathing in that kind of stuff. With the simple steps above to easily clean your humidifier, you are definitely on track to keep it running smoothly all year long.

6 Ways to Make Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets a Breeze

6 Ways to Make Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets a Breeze

Kitchen cabinets can accumulate years of dirt, dust, and grime over time, making them not only unattractive but also unsafe to use. Unfortunately, cleaning out your cabinets can seem like an overwhelming task if you dont know where to start! Luckily, weve put together this handy guide to help you clean your kitchen cabinets in no time at all. Cleaning kitchen cabinets doesnt need to be hard! With these methods and tips for cleaning kitchen cabinets, youll have them looking as good as new in no time at all.

Remove all the items on your cabinets

First of all, take everything off the cabinets and wipe them down with an all-purpose cleaner and paper towels, or you may also resort to using the Lola® Anti-microbial Clean N' Wipe™ Cloth for that instant cleaning and disinfection.

Clean your cabinets with soap and water

There are many ways to clean the inside of your kitchen cabinets, but one of the simplest and most effective is using soap and water. Mix a generous amount of dish soap with water in a bucket or large bowl. Dip a Lola® Nylon Net & Sponge Cleaning Pad in the soapy water and then use it to wipe down the surfaces of your cabinets until they're clean. If you have grime on the cabinet handles, use another cloth dipped in soapy water for these hard-to-reach areas.

Scrub with baking soda

As one of the best cleaning supplies out there, baking soda is also great for kitchen cabinets. Mix baking soda with water in a spray bottle. Shake well before using and spray on cabinets until they're wet. Let sit at least five minutes before wiping down with a damp Wowables® The Reusable & Biodegradable Paper Towel.

Use a steam cleaner (if you have one)

If you have a steam cleaner, use it! You can use it on all the cabinets in your kitchen, as well as any drawers and shelving. It will take all the grime out of those cabinets without having to scrub. 

Polish cabinet doors using vinegar, salt and water

Vinegar and salt are great for removing water spots from your kitchen cabinets and shelves. To remove water spots, mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 2 tablespoons of salt in a bowl. Dip a Lola® Jumbo Microfiber Cleaning Cloth into the mixture and wipe down the cabinet doors. Rinse well with water and dry off with another towel.

Make sure items are wiped clean and dry before putting them back

Before placing things back in your cabinets, you should wipe them down with a high-quality, reusable cloth, and the Lola® Cellulose Sponge Cloth (aka "Swedish Cloth") may just be the best bet for this task. 

Cleaning and organizing kitchen cabinets can seem like an intimidating prospect if you have never done it before or are not sure where to start, but with the useful tips above, youll find that cleaning your kitchen cabinets doesnt need to be difficult at all. Follow along with these helpful steps and you will soon have clean cabinets that look great and make cooking more enjoyable!

Cleaning Tips and Hacks from the Pros!

Cleaning Tips and Hacks from the Pros!

If you despise cleaning with all your heart and would rather do anything else but — I feel you! There is something to be said, however, for knowing a few cleaning hacks to help make the task a little bit easier. We have scoured the world wide web for some of the best hacks and tips from cleaning professionals, and have listed them down here for your reference.

What tools and products you need

Making sure you have the right tools for the job is the best way to ensure cleaning success. The good news is that you don't need a lot of expensive cleaning supplies to keep your home clean. Making a caddy out of a few basic and dependable items is your best bet.

1. Microfiber cloths are an essential cleaning tool. Microfibers not only clean surfaces better than sponges, paper towels, and the like, but they're also machine washable and quick-drying, which means they're far less likely to harbor germs. Microfibers can also kill up to 99% of bacteria with just water and are three times more effective than traditional cleaning cloths, which is why many hospitals have switched to microfiber cloths, towels, and mops. The great news? Lola® has a variety of the microfiber cleaning products ranging from a simple Lola® 2-Way Cleaning Sponge Pad to the powerful The Revolution™ Microfiber Spin Mop System.

2. Make a cleaning caddy filled with supplies. In addition to multi-purpose Lola® Jumbo Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, a glass cleaner, a mildly abrasive cleaner, an all-purpose cleaner, and a pair of latex gloves should be in your cleaning caddy before you begin any home cleaning.

How to clean your kitchen

During the day, the kitchen is the epicenter of messes, but there are simple ways to keep this room from overwhelming you.

3. Throughout the day, keep an eye out for spills and messes. 'Clean as you go' should be your mantra. Clean the kitchen on a daily basis to keep things under control. Making quick work of the daily accumulation of clutter and mess will also help you avoid germ cross-contamination.

4. Perform simple tasks frequently and quickly. "Don't procrastinate!" -- This is the key to making kitchen cleaning easier. Sweeping your floor with the Lola® Pro Amazin™ Sponge & Scrubber Roller Mop at the end of the day, staying on top of surface messes and buildup, and tidying up daily clutter will keep your kitchen looking clean without taking hours.

5. For tougher messes, try baking soda. While a microfiber cloth is ideal for quickly cleaning up small messes on kitchen counters and appliance surfaces, larger food-related messes may necessitate the use of baking soda. Wipe down any grease-covered areas with a cloth dusted with baking soda. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping the area with a Lola® Anti-microbial Clean N' Wipe™ Cloth to remove the residue.

How to clean your bathroom

A lot happens in your bathroom, and it's critical to keep it as germ-free as possible. These pointers will assist you in gaining control of this heavily trafficked area.

6. Clean high-traffic areas at least once a week. Maintaining your bathroom on a daily basis, similar to the kitchen, can make deeper, less frequent cleanings much easier. Creating consistent and simple cleaning habits in your bathroom will save you from having to deal with a much larger mess later on. To make regular weekly cleanings easier, squeegee your shower after each use, and wipe down the toilet and toothbrush holders twice a week.

7. Pay special attention to the smaller, often-overlooked areas of your bathroom. Remember to clean often-overlooked areas in the bathroom to ensure that everything is thoroughly clean. These frequently overlooked areas can include faucet aerators and toothbrush holders. The best way to clean those nooks and crannies, including around your faucet, is to use Lola® Scrub Brush with warm water.

How to clean your living room

People spend a lot of time relaxing in the living room, so make it as comfortable, clean, and dust-free as possible. 

8. Keep dust at bay by concentrating on hidden areas in your living room. Because the living room is where you, your family, and any guests will spend the majority of your time, you should pay special attention to it. Moving your furniture as you go is the best way to ensure you hit every spot. Before moving the furniture back, move it around so that you're dusting the floor underneath it.

9. To deal with dust, use the proper tools. Feather dusters may be cute, but they're not very practical. They primarily move dust around rather than remove it. Use a Lola ® Rola Sticky Mop™ to effectively remove dust in the living room. It is made of a specially formulated sticky paper that picks up all types of dirt, dust, debris, hair, and much more!

10. Regularly clean dust-collecting textiles. While you may not want to clean your curtains, it is necessary in order to keep your home clean and your family healthy. Curtains should be washed twice a year at the very least.

How to clean your bedrooms

We all want our bedrooms to feel like an oasis, but we don't want to spend hours cleaning them. Checking off these simple tasks will help you get your bedroom in order quickly. 

11. Concentrate on laundering linens and pillows. Weekly sheet washing is more important than the rest. It's the most effective way to keep germs and allergens at bay, especially considering how many hours you spend sleeping in bed each week.

12. Make your bed and tidy up for 10 minutes every day. As soon as you wake up, make your bed. It may not appear to make much of a difference, but this is the focal point of your room. Making your bed can instantly make the entire room look cleaner. Making your bed every day allows the cleaning process to become ingrained in your daily routine. Clean up the surfaces after making your bed in the morning to keep your bedroom feeling like a peaceful retreat. Place any clothing that has been left out in the hamper or drawers. Doing these simple tasks on a regular basis will quickly become a habit, making weekly cleanings much easier.

Keeping our homes clean and tidy is a simple way to reduce daily stress, but the act of cleaning itself can be stressful for some of us. Feeling unsure of where to begin or how frequently we should perform certain household chores can put us off track. Fortunately, the cleaning professionals' suggestions above are some of the most effective ways to get and keep your home sparkling clean!

Common Household Cleaning Myths Debunked!

Common Household Cleaning Myths Debunked!

Cleaning your house is unavoidable, whether you enjoy it or despise it. Home remedies, hacks, and myths have been passed down from generation to generation to make this chore less of a chore. But, when all is said and done, did you do more harm than good to your humble abode? Perhaps it's time to clear the air about some commonly held cleaning beliefs.

Myth #1 - Feather dusters remove dust. 

Traditional feather dusters have long been promoted as the best option for removing daily dust buildup in the home. Do you remember the ratan feather duster? Hopefully, it was only used for dusting. Otherwise, it's about as useful as politely asking the dust to leave. Most dusters, feather or otherwise, merely move dust around rather than absorb it. Unless you use a wet cloth (which may be more work), make sure your duster is made of microfiber or lambswool (like the Swiffer® 360° Extender Duster Comparable Starter Kit by Lola®), as these materials pick up and hold dust.

Myth #2 - Bleach can be used for everything. 

When cleaning your bathroom, you may instinctively reach for bleach, believing it to be the most powerful, all-purpose cleaner. However, bleach is a disinfectant and stain remover rather than a cleaner. While bleach is useful for removing tough stains or whitening your clothes, it can make removing stains from certain surfaces more difficult. The chemical is not suitable for degreasing, and you'll be better off using a proper cleaning product or even baking soda. 

Myth #3 - Newspapers give windows a streak-free finish

Many of us are used to wiping down our windows with newspapers. This hack is supposed to leave no streaks on the glass. But this is old news now! With today's newspapers, it is no longer possible. Newspapers are now printed on thinner paper, which disintegrates easily when wet with glass cleaner. It may not only stain your hands with ink, but it may also leave a nasty paper residue on your windows. Instead, dilute some dishwashing liquid with water and spray it on your windows before wiping them down with a Lola® Jumbo Microfiber Cleaning Cloth! For the second round of cleaning, use a glass cleaner to give it an extra shine.

Myth #4 - Washing machines clean themselves

It is not clean simply because it washes things! Lint and wash cycles that require cold water are two examples of factors that contribute to bacteria remaining in the washing machine. Soiled sheets, after all, pass through your machine on a weekly basis. This, combined with the humidity levels, would make things prone to mold. So, clean your washing machine on a regular basis to keep it running smoothly and to prevent bacteria buildup. Fill your detergent dispenser with a 4:1 mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Then, on the hottest water setting, run an empty load. When you're finished, leave your washing machine door open to dry!

Myth #5 - More detergent = Better cleaning

It would appear logical to believe that the more laundry detergent you use, the cleaner your clothes will be. However, more is not always better, and this 'hack' may be doing the opposite. When you use too much detergent, soap residue may be left on your clothes and irritate your skin. Excessive soap residue will accumulate in your washing machine over time, resulting in mould and mildew. Not to mention that you will have to buy new detergent more frequently, wasting your money!

Myth #6 - Cleaning products work instantly

A common misconception is that cleaning products work instantly; all you have to do is spray and wipe! However, if you use this cleaning method, you may be disappointed with its ineffectiveness and wonder why your stains are not fading. Germs and grime cannot be broken down so quickly, no matter how powerful your product is. Wiping off your cleaning products too quickly leaves grime on your surfaces and is a huge waste of product.

While these household cleaning hacks have been passed down through the generations, they are not the most effective. With your newfound cleaning knowledge, you are now prepared to tackle even the most difficult cleaning days! You'll know what to do the next time you see someone grabbing a wad of newspaper to wipe the windows or unintentionally pouring a large amount of laundry detergent into their washer!