Cleaning

Get the Smell Out:

Got a stinky suitcases, dry clean only clothing, hats or purses? Don’t use the popular store brands! They don’t work. They try to hide the offensive odors with artificial scents. Plus they can damage fabrics and create stains. Use VODKA. Cheap, unflavored vodka. Put it in a spray bottle and spray the stinky item. Spray and let it dry. You may have to repeat this several times. It does not leave an odor, does not stain, dries quickly and does not harm fabric. (Having just said that, it is always a good idea to test a small area first.) I got this tip from a fabric museum. They use it on their collections with very good success. Use it for stinking tennis shoes too.

Go Green:

Simple Green is not just for the garage. If you only have one cleaning product this is it. Simple Green is non-toxic and biodegradable. Take care when you spray it. A well ventilated area is best. Use it in your laundry room. It works great at getting stains out of fabrics. Spray it on stains and follow the washing instructions for the fabric. For the tough stains, let fabric soak in a diluted solution of Simple Green. Works well on plastics, glass, glazed ceramics and more . All your dirty little treasures you bring home. I like ‘digger’ yard and Estate sales. Those are the ones that you have to dig through boxes, go through cabinets and drawers and search through, at times, some stuff that has not seen the light of day in years. I have picked some greasy, dirty things. Simple Green is the only thing that will cut through the grime. Be brave. Don’t let the sweet smell of automobile grease scare you at a garage sale. Go in with confidence. A little dirt is not a problem.