When I’m not writing for Family Handyman, I’m a nurse with a Master’s in Public Health, so I could go on and on about this topic. The truth that comes as a surprise to many is that disinfectant wipes are mostly a no-go for everyday usage.

Stick with me, and I’ll gently and factually discuss the dangers of disinfectant wipes, when they are actually OK to use and how to use them. I’ve got a fantastic expert source who will offer a clever, budget-friendly, and public health nurse-approved method for cleaning up messes.

What Are Disinfectant Wipes?

Disinfectant wipes are single-use, premoistened, chemical-soaked towels meant for killing pathogens. Most manufacturers will instruct you to wipe them onto a surface and leave them to dry for a specific amount of time. Essentially, they kill the crud on your countertops.

“Disinfectant” is not a dynamic marketing term, but a designation made by the EPA that indicates the extent to which a product applied to a non-living surface can kill bacteria and viruses. Within the disinfectant category, there are more specific list levels, and any bacteria or virus that the disinfectant has proven effective against, according to the EPA’s testing standard, must be listed on their packaging.

Types of Cleaning Products

Here’s a breakdown of some of the terms you’ll see on the packaging of cleaning products and who’s responsible for what in the U.S.

Non-living surfaces (not your body)

1. Cleaners: remove dirt and pathogens, not registered or regulated by the EPA
2. Sanitizers: kill bacteria, not viruses, registered with the EPA
3. Disinfectants: kill bacteria and viruses, registered with the EPA

Living surfaces (your body)

1. Hand sanitizer: meant for hands, not regulated by FDA
2. Antiseptics: considered antimicrobial drugs, regulated by FDA

Downsides of Overusing Disinfectant Wipes

Disinfectant’s Effect on Your Body

Chemicals, chemicals, chemicals! Disinfectants are meant for non-living surfaces; however, contacting them with your living surface is nearly impossible without a whole ridiculous outfit. I’m talking about respirators, gloves, and goggles. Seriously, who’s doing that? Frequent, extended, and/or long-term exposure to these types of chemicals can cause a lot of bad things to your skin, your lungs, your tummies, and your kids. Examples of these are allergies, asthma (particularly in children) and other reproductive issues. Many of these disinfectants also contain chemicals or release byproducts that are associated with certain types of cancers.

Disinfectant’s Effect on The Planet

Waste. Disinfectant wipes come in plastic bags or tubs, and they’re meant to be single-use, which creates more plastic waste.

Resistant pathogens. Resistant pathogens are when germs develop the ability to survive despite exposure to drugs or chemicals designed to kill them. This has long been a concern in the U.S., wherein we are having increasing numbers of cases of resistant pathogens such as MRSA, which is a multi-drug resistant staph infection that can often hospitalize folks – or worse. These resistant pathogens are correlated with the overuse or misuse of products like disinfectants and antibiotics. In the healthcare field, it is becoming more and more difficult to combat these resistant pathogens, so one small thing we can do in our daily lives is to lessen the frequency of disinfectant use.

Disinfectant’s Effect on Your Wallet

Cost: Organic food, farm-fresh eggs, and literally every time you try to avoid plastics, it all adds up. This is one of those win-win situations where the more “responsible” choice is also more budget-friendly and convenient. Reuse a cotton cloth or microfiber, make or buy cleaners instead of disinfectants, and don’t spend your hard-earned money on unnecessary, single-use, toxic chemicals to clean your home.

One might say that disinfectant wipes are like bringing a gun to a knife fight, and those guns get expensive and someone could get hurt.

Alternatives to Disinfectant Wipes

For this question, I reached out to expert John O’Brien, owner of Green Maids Cleaning, a company that prides itself in eco-safe, hypoallergenic cleaning services. “Worried about the chemicals in traditional disinfectant wipes or tired of their single-use waste? Don’t sweat itgo green!

Make your own reusable disinfectant cloths by cutting up cotton fabric into squares (old t-shirts work great!) and soaking them in a super simple, eco-friendly solution: 1 cup of distilled water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Pop them in a sealed container, and you’re ready to wipe away messes with a clean, green wipe!”

Is it Ever Okay to Use a Disinfectant Wipe?

For all of the reasons listed above, disinfectant wipes are almost always not the best option. However, there are rare and very specific instances in which I might consider them for my home. One is if I suspect a pathogen has found its way onto a trafficked surface and I have a vulnerable or immunosuppressed visitor scheduled within enough time for the fume to dissipate but not enough time for me to bust out the steamer.

For example, let’s say my son’s friend does a yucky sneeze all over the countertop just before he gets picked up. Great Grandma is coming to visit in 90 minutes, and in the interim, we will have to run an errand. I might consider a quick disinfectant wipe (according to manufacturer’s instructions), run the errand, and then water wipe the counter after we return from the errand and before anyone could touch the counter.

Nearly every other circumstance warrants a non-toxic choice of cleaner like the option John described.

About the Experts

John O’Brien is the owner of Green Maids Cleaning, LLC. Green Maids Cleaning has been serving Southern Maine, the Seacoast of New Hampshire and the North Shore of Massachusetts since 2009.

Sources

• EPA: What’s the difference between products that disinfect, sanitize, and clean surfaces? (2024)
• StatPearls: Disinfectants (2022)
• CDC: Regulatory Framework for Disinfectants and Sterilants (2008)
• CDC: About Antimicrobial Resistance (2024)
• Ecotoxology and Environmental Safety: Exposure to Disinfetion By-products and Risk of Cancer: A Systemic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis (2024)

The post The Dangers of Overusing Disinfectant Wipes (and What to Use Instead) appeared first on Family Handyman.

Windshield wipers are not meant to last forever, but you can prolong their life by keeping them clean. Knowing how to clean windshield wiper blades is one of the easiest things you can do for your vehicle, and it makes a huge difference every time it is done. You’ll thank yourself the next time you drive through a rainstorm, snowstorm, or a huge bug hits your windshield. Not to mention, it’s very satisfying to no longer have those annoying streaks on your windshield every time you use your wipers.

When to clean wiper blades vs. replac them?

To determine whether a windshield wiper blade should be cleaned or replaced, you should take a good hard look at it and inspect it for any rubber splitting, cracking or hardening. If it appears fine, clean it. If, after cleaning it, you notice skipping, chattering, streaking, or an inability to clear water effectively, it’s time to change the wiper blades.

Clean wiper blades

Gently lift the wiper arms up and away from the windshield. To clean them, start by dampening a clean microfiber cleaning cloth with soapy water and wringing out the excess. Next, gently wipe down the windshield wiper blades from top to bottom to ensure thorough cleaning and prevent missing any sections. Focus most of your energy on cleaning the rubber squeegee part of the blade that makes contact with the glass.

The post Clean Your Wiper Blades for Streak-Free Driving — A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Family Handyman.

Clean Rusty Tools With Vinegar

Vinegar is useful in all kinds of cleaning hacks because it can make short work of hard jobs. Catherine Miller found a much easier way to clean rusty tools than scraping and sanding them. She poured white vinegar into a tin can (we used glass) and put a rusty wood chisel in the vinegar to soak overnight.

The next day, with the help of a Scotch-Brite pad, all the rust came off with little effort. The blade still needed sharpening, but the chisel was almost as good as new. Catherine wraps larger tools in a vinegar-soaked rag, covers the rag with a plastic bag or plastic wrap and then leaves it for 24 hours. After cleaning off the rust, you just rinse the tool in the clear water and wipe it dry.

The post 11 Vinegar Cleaning Hacks That Will Save You Time and Money appeared first on Family Handyman.

Deferred decision clutter, or procrastination clutter, is one of the biggest barriers to a tidy space and clear mind. This type of clutter doesnt just make your home look messyit also takes up mental real estate, adding a layer of stress every time you see it. When we put off making decisions, our brains perceive those deferred choices as tasks that still need attention. This leads to decision fatigue, making the act of decluttering feel even more daunting.

@iorganize The l!nk in my bio takes you to my links page on my website. Look for the pink colored letter G. Thats my Gumroad shop of digital products where you can find all my digital products! #professionalorganizer #iOrganize #iOrganizeeverything #HappyOrganizing #organizing #howtoorganize original sound – iOrganize

Why We Hold onto Deferred Decision Clutter

Procrastination clutter often sticks around for a few common reasons:

• Sentimentality: We keep things because they have some emotional significance, even if we rarely use or see them.
• Guilt: If something was expensive or a gift, we might feel guilty letting it go, even if we dont like it or need it.
• What if Thinking: We think we might need these items someday, so we keep them just in case. This can be true for old gadgets, duplicate items, or even clothes in a range of sizes.

Deferred decision clutter represents a choice were avoiding, whether thats letting go of the past, facing the possibility of needing something we dont currently use, or simply deciding to toss it. Over time, this habit can lead to an overwhelming amount of stuff that lacks purpose or joy.

Steps to Tackle Deferred Decision Clutter

The good news is that deferred decision clutter can be tackled with a little planning and a few easy steps:

• Identify Your Clutter Zones: Look for areas where you tend to park items. This could be a junk drawer, a miscellaneous shelf, or that storage bin in the garage. These are often prime spots for deferred decision clutter.
• Ask the Right Questions: When you find items youve kept indefinitely, ask yourself why youve held onto them. Are you really going to use that old coffee maker you were planning to fix? If not, its time to let it go.
• Use a Maybe Box: If youre having trouble deciding, try putting uncertain items in a labeled box with a date (a month from now, three months, or whatever feels comfortable). When you revisit it, if you havent missed or used the items, you may find it easier to say goodbye.
• Forgive the Guilt: Remember that youre not obligated to keep things that dont serve a purpose or make you happy. If its a gift you dont love or an item you spent money on but dont use, its okay to let it go.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Every time you make a decision, celebrate it as a win. Decluttering can be emotionally taxing, so its important to recognize your progress.

Reclaiming Space and Peace of Mind

Decluttering deferred decision items isnt just about a cleaner home; its about lifting a weight off your mind. By tackling these lingering choices, youre not only making space in your home but also freeing up mental energy to focus on things that matter. Give yourself permission to release the things that no longer serve you. Youll be surprised how refreshing it feels to let go and create room for what truly brings you joy.

The post This Hack Will Help You Tackle Your Procrastination Clutter appeared first on Family Handyman.

But what if I told you there is a quick and simple hack to eliminate those yellow toilet stains without a hitch? Put the dish rags and homemade solutions aside because all you’ll need is a magic eraser, water and a little bit of elbow grease.

The solution is so simple that you may not have even thought of it: All you need to do is wet a magic eraser and scrub at the yellow stains, and voila your stain should lift in mere seconds, as displayed in countless TikTok videos of the trick, including this one by @leaderscleaning.

@leaderscleaning Have you tried this one yet?! We love efficiencient and effective hacks! #cleantok #hack #tips #cleaninghacks #cleaningtips #fyp VANNA RAINELLE –

An added bonus to this method is that you can preserve most of your magic eraser for other cleaning tasks by first ripping or cutting off a portion of your sponge necessary to complete the task and saving the rest for later.

The post Remove Yellow Toilet Stains Without Destroying All Your Rags and Sponges appeared first on Family Handyman.

Ahead, learn about the likely causes and ways to remove this unwanted smell with Michael Sacenti from American Healthy Homes and realtor Beatrice de Jong.

What Causes That Old House Smell?

Older homes can develop a distinctive, musty smell over time, especially if unoccupied and closed up for any length of time. Both experts agree that the main cause of old house smell is unresolved moisture issues in the home. “Musty is another word for mold,” Sacenti says. He points to high humidity levels in the basement or slow plumbing leaks as primary culprits of mold and mildew, which largely contribute to old house smell. Other causes include years of accumulated dust in carpets and HVAC systems, cigarette or fire smoke and pet urine. When these musty smells are trapped in a home with poor ventilation, this can lead to an old house smell.

Tips to Get Rid of Old House Smell

Improve ventilation

The first thing to do is to get some fresh air into the home. “Open windows and doors and use fans to increase airflow and bring in fresh air, which can help dissipate the smell,” de Jong says. This step is free and can begin to make a difference right away.

Address humidity levels

Humid basements are prime areas for mold to develop and grow, so if you’re combating old house smells, start here. “Fifty to sixty percent of all basement air goes straight up into the house,” Sacenti says, so if the basement smells, the house will smell too. A dehumidifier should be used in the basement or crawl space to keep humidity levels below 50, preventing mold spores from growing.

Repair any plumbing leaks

Inspect the home for plumbing leaks, or hire an inspector to look for you. Look under sinks, below and around showers and tubs, in the basement and in the attic. “Inside sink vanities is a prime spot for mold growth if there’s a plumbing leak,” Sacenti says. “There’s moisture, darkness and organic matter, which are perfect conditions for mold to grow.”

Remove Mold

Areas of mold greater than 10 sq. ft. should be treated by a mold remediation company. For smaller areas, wear gloves and a mask, then scrub hard surfaces with a 50:50 solution of water and white vinegar. Moldy soft surfaces like drywall, rugs and ceiling tiles will need to be removed and discarded.

Clean the Carpets

If the home has wall-to-wall carpeting, these will absorb and trap odors. Even if you remove mold sources and improve ventilation, the smell may persist unless you remove or deep clean the carpets. “Try sprinkling baking soda on the carpet, letting it sit and then vacuuming it up,” de Jong says. “If the odor persists, consider hiring a professional to deep clean or shampoo the carpets.”

Paint the Walls

Like carpets, walls can also absorb smells. “Applying a fresh coat of paint can help not only freshen up the look of your home but also mask lingering smells from previous occupants,” de Jong says. Before painting, apply an odor-blocking primer like Kilz Restoration.

Use Scented Solutions

When you’ve neutralized the smell with the above tips, you can add some pleasant smells to the home. “Burn scented candles or use an essential oil diffuser to freshen up the space,” de Jong says.

About the Experts

• Michael Sacenti owns American Healthy Homes. He has 10 years of experience in the mold remediation industry and 40 years experience in real estate maintenance.
• Beatrice de Jong is a real estate broker with Beverly Hills Estates in Los Angeles, California. Ms. de Jong previously worked for Open Listings as the Director of Residential Sales and OpenDoor as a Consumer Trends Analyst. She has over ten years experience in the real estate industry.

The post Old House Smell: What Causes It and How To Get Rid of It appeared first on Family Handyman.

Knowing just how good Dyson vacuums really are from personal experience, I was eager to learn more about their latest floor-cleaning device: The WashG1, Dysons first wet floor cleaner. You heard correctly: This new device tackles wet (and dry) debris in one go. Knocked over a bowl of cereal? No problem. The WashG1 can take care of it. All of it.

What is the Dyson WashG1?

The latest from Dyson floor care technology, the WashG1 is designed to clean wet and dry messes on hard floors, specifically across large spaces of tile, laminate, vinyl and sealed wood floors. Its 27-ounce clean water tank covers up to 3,100 square feet, and the device runs up to 35 minutes on one charge.

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Dyson WashG1

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The WashG1 cleans floors using a combination of hydration, absorption and extraction. It automatically separates dry debris from wet for no-touch waste removal. Heres how it works: Two motorized microfiber rollers at the back and front of the machine counter-rotate to simultaneously remove wet and dry messes. The rollers flush with clean water throughout the process so as not to spread dirty messes across the floor. The device has the classic Dyson maneuverability to glide around furniture effortlessly.

You can adjust the hydration level on the WashG1 depending on what you’re cleaning. For instance, light spills and debris only require level one hydration, while sticky spills and mud might need level three.

After youve finished cleaning, simply dump the dirty water tank (its easy to remove, and you dont have to touch the dirty water) and empty the debris tray into the trash. The debris tray is quickly removed with the touch of a button and has a no-touch, hygienic emptying mechanism. When its back on its dock, the WashG1 charges and cleans itself by flushing its system. It will be ready to go again in a little over two minutes for your next clean.

And, to prove Dyson has thought of everything with this cleaning machine, its designed without sharp internal crevices to help reduce buildup inside the machine.

Where to Buy the Dyson WashG1

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The WashG1 retails for $700 directly from Dyson, and youll currently receive two additional microfiber rollers free of charge.

Other Dyson Products We Love

Dyson V12 Slim

TheDyson V12 Slim is a compact, lightweight cordless vacuum. It weighs just 4.8 pounds yet has 30 percent more suction power than the Dyson V8, which is essential for keeping your space clean if you suffer from backaches and pain.

It has two cleaner heads: a standard de-tangling head and a fluffy head with a green light to reveal and pick up dust on hard floors. Plus, it comes with five accessories for crevice and upholstery cleaning. Its LCD screen displays battery life, runtime, particles picked up when a clog occurs and more. It also converts into a handheld vacuum to clean furniture and cars.

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Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde

This product is part of Dysons line of air purifiers, all tower-style models with cooling functions. TheFormaldehyde model (model TP09) detects, captures and destroys formaldehyde by converting it to water and CO.

The Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde is a high-end air purifier and cooling fan that lives up to its claims, says home improvement writer Elizabeth Heath in her Dyson air purifier fan review. The cooling features are excellent, as this tower fan really serves as a great way to cool a single room.

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Dyson Outsize Plus

As Dysons largest cordlessstick vacuum, theDyson Outsize Plus is excellent for deep cleaning medium to large homes. It has high suctioning power for pulling up impressive amounts of hair and dirt and laser beam technology to capture dust particles. Plus, its equipped with an extra-large cleaning head and receptacle bin, so you can tackle more surface area with each gowithout emptying the vacuum.

Overall, I was extremely impressed with the Dyson Outsize Plus. Between cleaning my carpets, floors, furniture and car, it truly is a full-service hair removal machine, says our tester Nancy Snyder in her review of the Dyson Outsize Plus.

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The post Dyson’s First Wet Vacuum Just Launched, and We Can’t Wait to Get Our Hands on One appeared first on Family Handyman.

There’s an interesting scientific reason for this unusual cleaning method to restore your wooden furniture to its former glory.

Does Mayo Remove Water Stains?

Often, yes. Mayonnaise can effectively remove water stains from wood surfaces. The success of this method lies in its composition. Its primary ingredientsoil and egg yolkswork together to address the underlying causes of water stains.

The oils in mayonnaise penetrate the wood, displacing the moisture that caused the stain. Meanwhile, the fats help to condition the wood, potentially restoring its natural luster. The vinegar or lemon juice often present in mayonnaise can also help to break down any mineral deposits left behind by the water.

How to Remove Water Stains With Mayo

Materials: You’ll need mayonnaise, a soft cloth, and a clean, dry towel.

Step-by-step

• Thoroughly clean the surface area: Gently clean the stained area with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris.
• Apply the mayonnaise: Spread a thick layer of mayonnaise directly onto the water stain. Make sure to cover the entire affected area. Allow the mayonnaise to remain on the stain for at least an hour. For tougher stains, you may want to leave it overnight.
• Wipe off the mayonnaise: Gently wipe away the mayonnaise using a soft, clean cloth.
• Buff the area: With a clean, dry towel, buff the treated area to remove any remaining oil residue.
• Assess the results: Check if the stain has disappeared. If it’s still visible, you may need to repeat the process.
  • If needed, you can apply furniture polish to restore shine and protect the wood.

@astr33t

How to get Water spots off of wooden surfaces using Mayo! #lifehacks #mayo #cleaninghacks #cleaningtiktok

Little Things – Adrin Berenguer

Does This Method Always Work?

This viral trend has been attempted online many times with varying results. Some swear by the technique, while others claim it didn’t have any effect. That will depend on several different factors, including the wood types, damage significance and any user error.

Remember, while this method is generally safe for most wood finishes, it’s always wise to test it on an inconspicuous area first. If you’re dealing with sentimental, valuable or antique furniture, consider consulting a professional before attempting DIY treatments.

The post Removing Water Stains With Mayo: How To Do It appeared first on Family Handyman.

He dismissed these reports with a chuckle, explaining that they are due to something called “rust dust.” By way of explanation, he texted me a YouTube video that explains this phenomenon and what to do about it.

So, if you just dropped $100,000 on a new Cybertruck, can you rest assured that your vehicle won’t rust? Gordian Hense, Managing Director for an automotive magazine focusing on in-depth analyses of vehicle durability and material sciences, answers that question: “It’s a misconception that stainless steel is completely immune to rust. If exposed to high concentrations of salt, such as in coastal areas or from road salt used in winter, even stainless steel can develop surface rust.”

How can stainless steel rust? To answer that, you need to know what makes stainless steel stainless.

Why Is It Called Stainless Steel?

Steel is an alloy of iron, nickel, carbon and other elements, but what makes it stainless is the addition of chromium at a concentration of at least 10.5% of the alloy’s content. Chromium is a super-hard metalalmost as hard as diamondand it’s highly resistant to corrosion.

Not only that, but chromium combines with oxygen to form a protective chromium oxide layer on the surface of the metal. Even if scratches do occur, the protective layer self-heals and protects the iron in the alloy from the oxygen exposure that makes it rust.

Can Stainless Steel Rust?

Yes, stainless steel can rust. Hense writes: “According to a study by the International Stainless Steel Forum, stainless steel exhibits excellent corrosion resistance, but pitting can occur when it comes in contact with chloride ions.” Exposure to chlorine-based bleach or cleaners, for example, has been known to cause pitting in stainless steel sinks, because chlorine attacks the chromium-oxide surface layer of the metal and wears tiny holes in it. That’s pitting.

Salt is sodium chloride and it releases chloride ions when it dissolves in water. Does this mean that you’re exposing your expensive Cybertruck to possible corrosion when you don’t protect it from salty air or road salt? The chances aren’t zero, but Hense notes that the Tesla Cybertruck’s body is constructed from 30X cold-rolled stainless steel. “It’s known for its impressive durability and corrosion resistance,” he says, so it would probably take an unusually long period of exposure to salty conditions for it to rust.

Tips to Prevent Rust on Stainless Steel

Whether it’s a stainless steel sink, a refrigerator or a new Cybertruck, the most important way to prevent rust is to avoid contact with chemicals that cause it. They include:

• Sources of chlorides: They include salt, chlorine bleach and cleaning agents that contain chlorine. If you drive your Cybertruck in a community that uses salt on the road, clean your vehicle frequently to wash off salt deposits. If you live near the ocean and the air is salty, keep your vehicle covered or park it in a garage.
• Acids: Hydrochloric acid (HCl) and muriatic acid (a weaker type of HCl) can quickly cause discoloration and pitting, and so can other acids, such as sulfuric acid, in high concentrations. Avoid cleaning products that contain them. Even weaker acids like the phosphoric acid in fizzy soft drinks, the citric acid in lemons and the acetic acid in vinegar can stain stainless steel if they remain in contact long enough.

FAQ

How do you remove rust from stainless steel?

If you’re talking about rust dust, my nephew explained that a major source is the wheels or railroad cars, which produce microscopic specks of iron as they grind against the tracks. These specks can linger in the air, settle on the Cybertruck’s panels, cause surface discoloration or even embed themselves in the finish.

As explained in the video linked above, you can clean off rust dust with a combination of an abrasive cleaner like Barkeeper’s Friend and a non-ammonia window cleaner like Sprayway Glass Cleaner.

You can find other methods for removing rust from household items here.

About the Expert

• Gordian Hense is the Managing Director of Carmart.ch.

The post Tesla Cybertrucks Are Rusting Despite Being Stainless Steel: Here’s Why appeared first on Family Handyman.

But now that I know the proper technique and materials to use, most scratches are actually pretty simple to mitigate. Below is some advice for doing just that, collected from five experts.

• Note: Some stainless steel is clear-coated, especially panels that are fingerprint-resistant. For those, check your owner’s manual for additional precautions and advice.

Can Scratches Be Removed From Stainless Steel?

Sometimes, scratches can be removed from stainless steel. Shallow scratches can be buffed out or minimized in appearance, but deeper ones might be a lost cause.

How to Remove Scratches From Stainless Steel

Non-Abrasive Cleaners

There are a range of non-abrasive cleaners and kits specifically made to buff scratches out of stainless steel. To use these:

• Apply the cleaner to a clean microfiber or other soft cloth.
• Gently buff the surface in the direction of the grain. Repeat as needed.
• Wipe with a damp cloth, followed by a dry cloth.
• Follow any manufacturer instructions and precautions.

“Be sure to move the pad in the direction of the grain as you work over the deep grooves to fill them in,” says Fahad Javaid, General Manager at Zanduco Restaurant Equipment Supply. “Although larger projects may take some time, avoid using circular motions, as this could cause discoloration on the appliance.”

Pros and Cons of Non-Abrasive Cleaners

Since these products are made specifically for stainless steel, this is the preferred method for regular maintenance and treating scratches, says Alicia Sokolowski, President of AspenClean. But they are more expensive than home remedies.

Scratch Removal Kits

For deeper scratches, several of our experts recommended Scratch-B Gone or Scratch Pro scratch removal kits, which come with polishing compounds and sanding disks of various grains. Be sure to follow any instructions included with the kit.

Pros and Cons of Scratch Removal Kits

“It removes both light and deeper scratches and restores shine, but it also requires time and effort and may not be effective in removing all kinds of scratches,” says Shlomo Cherniak, owner of Cherniak Home Services.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is a popular DIY fix. This method is best for very fine scratches and routine upkeep, says Sokolowski, but not as good for deep or widespread scratches.

• Choose a non-gel, not-whitening toothpaste.
• Put a small amount on a soft cloth, then gently rub it over the scratch.
• Always follow the grain of the steel.
• Rinse with water, then dry with a soft, clean cloth.

First, try it out on a small, inconspicuous area to make sure it won’t do more harm than good on your particular surface. “A lot of people recommend a combination of toothpaste and olive oil, but I’ve found this to cause more scratches,” says Delah Gomasi, Managing Director at MaidForYou.

Baking Soda Paste

The light abrasiveness of baking soda makes it another popular DIY fix for removing scratches from stainless steel. To use it:

• Combine equal parts baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
• Rub the paste gently into the scratch along the grain, applying light pressure.
• Rinse the area with water to remove excess paste, then dry with a soft cloth.

“This method is eco-friendly, gentle on surfaces and cost-effective,” says Sokolowski. But, “It requires patience and may not work on deep scratches.”

Alternatively, you can use a non-gel toothpaste mixed with baking soda and water to make the paste, says Javaid.

Olive Oil or Vinegar

For a quick, temporary fix, Sokolowski recommends trying olive oil or vinegar.

• Wipe the stainless-steel surface with a damp cloth to remove dirt.
• Dampen another clean cloth with olive oil or vinegar and rub it into the scratch along the grain or in a circular motion.
• Wipe away any excess oil or vinegar using another clean, dry cloth.

This is a quick-and-easy eco-friendly method that leaves a natural shine, but it only masks the scratches, rather than removing them, and only works for lightly scratched areas, says Sokolowski.

Fine-Grit Sandpaper

Fine-grit sandpaper is often Gomasi’s go-to fix when his teams scratch stainless steel appliances. “To buff out the scratches, we usually use 800-grit sandpaper and lightly scrub in line with the grain,” he says. “You’ll need to do this for the entire stainless steel surface.

Javaid says 400-grit sandpaper soaked in water can also work, but cautions that with any sandpaper method, you run the risk of scratching it further.

New Panels

When scratches are too deep to be removed from stainless steel surfaces, the best solution is to replace the panel or part of the appliance that has scratches, says Gomasi.

What NOT to Do to Remove Stainless Steel Scratches

• Do not use abrasive pads, such as steel wool or hard-plastic brushes, as they can cause more scratches.
• Do not rub against the grain or in a circular motion, which can also cause additional damage.
• Stay away from chlorine-based cleaners, which can damage the finish.
• Do not apply heavy pressure, which can create new scratches or deepen existing ones.
• Do not use a dirty or old cleaning cloth, as it might contain particles that cause scratches.

How to Prevent Scratches on Stainless Steel

Regular cleaning and polishing are important to maintain your stainless steel, and they will hide many minor scuffs and scratches.

• Use clean, soft cloths, like microfiber or soft cotton, and polish with the grain.
• Dry immediately. “Water spots can contribute to scratches, so dry your stainless steel appliances after cleaning,” says Ross Pascale, director at Neeet House Cleaning Services.
• Use coasters and trivets, and avoid touching the surface with sharp or abrasive objects.
• Place magnetic, felt or rubber pads under appliances to prevent scratches from shifting.
• Stay away from abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads.
• Don’t use chlorine-based cleaners, which can all dull the finish.
• If your appliance didn’t come with a coating, treat your stainless steel with an aftermarket protective film.

Don’t rush cleaning. “Let cleaning solutions or a baking soda and vinegar mixture sit on any charred food or residue,” says Javaid. “After the solution has had time to work, you can easily wipe away the grime without risking scratches.”

FAQ

What materials can scratch stainless steel?

Many materials around your home can scratch stainless steel, such as:

• Steel wool and other abrasive scouring pads
• Sharp objects, like knives and scissors
• Other hard objects
• Sandpaper, unless designed for stainless steel
• Ceramics, like plates or mugs with rough bottoms
• Dirty cleaning cloths

“Used microfiber cloths can hold onto microscopic dust and sand particles that, when rubbed on a stainless steel appliance surface, can cause scratching,” says Gomasi. “We found that we had considerably less damage when using new cloths when compared with older ones.”

Does WD-40 remove scratches from stainless steel?

Yes, WD-40 can reduce the appearance of minor scratches and add shine, but it might not be suitable for all finishes, says Pascale. To avoid damage, test it on an inconspicuous area first, then spray a small amount on a soft cloth and rub in the direction of the grain.

“For polishing WD-40 is more effective, while toothpaste is best for very light scratches,” says Cherinak.

Can toothpaste remove scratches from stainless steel?

Yes, but test a small area first to make sure it won’t harm the finish. Use non-gel toothpaste since it is mildly abrasive.

“Both WD-40 and toothpaste work best for light surface scratches and enhancing the shine of stainless steel, however their effectiveness is limited on deep scratches and neither of them will permanently remove the scratches from the stainless steel,” says Sokolowski.

About the Experts

• Alicia Sokolowski is President and CEO of AspenClean, a green cleaning company and products manufacturer in Vancouver, British Columbia.
• Delah Gomasi is Managing Director at MaidForYou, a house cleaning agency based in Sydney, Australia.
• Fahad Javaid is General Manager of Operations at Zanduco Restaurant Equipment Supply.
• Shlomo Cherniak is owner of Cherniak Home Services, which offers handyman services to the Baltimore area.
• Ross Pascale is director at Neeet House Cleaning Services in Melbourne, Australia.

The post How to Remove Scratches and Polish Stainless Steel appeared first on Family Handyman.

Is it me, or is dropping liquids and foods on a carpet or rug one of the most nerve-wracking experiences? You know you have to act quickly to prevent the stain from setting in, but the panic also causes you to forget where your cleaning supplies are.

Good news: The Hoover Clean Slate and I are here to calm your nerves and save your carpet, rugs and upholstery. As a loving dog dad to an adorable but messy pup, I’ve had to pull this cleaner out several times to get our rugs and carpets clean. Since it’s a portable cleaner, I can use it in any room or to clean my car seats.

In this Hoover Clean Slate review, I’ll discuss my experience with this carpet cleaner, its special features, who it’s for and other opinions from professional cleaners. We’ll also compare the portable versions of Hoover and Bissell carpet cleaners.

What is the Hoover Clean Slate?

VIA MERCHANT

$99.99 at Amazon

Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

$99.99 at Amazon

The Hoover Clean Slate is a portable carpet, rug and upholstery spot cleaner that removes stains. Like traditional carpet cleaners, it uses a combination of cleaning solution, scrubbing and suction to remove messes. It has the added benefit of being lightweight and able to be taken from room to room or even in the car.

Before we continue, keep in mind that this is a spot cleaner. In other words, it is meant to clean food, beverage or pet urine stains, not the entire carpet.

The Hoover Clean Slate Plus, the model we tested and reviewed, comes with three attachmentsyour traditional scrubber, a seven-inch WidePath tool for larger spills and a TightSpot attachment for corners and hard-to-reach areas. The 40-ounce tank is large enough to clean multiple stains, depending on their size and severity, and you’ll get a small bottle of Oxy carpet solution.

Hoover is well-known in the cleaning industryand has long been synonymous withvacuum cleaners. The famous brand has recently expanded into spot cleaners with its Clean Slate product line, which includesseveral models and bundles.

Hoover Clean Slate Features

Portable

The Hoover Clean Slate weighs under 10 pounds when empty, so it’s easy for most able-bodied adults and even children to carry up and down stairs or out to the car when needed, similar to a handheld vacuum. I will say the only annoying part about carrying this is the tube. It sometimes gets in the way or drags on the floor if it’s not wrapped around the cleaner, but it doesn’t make it any heavier.

In terms of storage, it’s a pretty compact unit. It’s only 14 inches deep, 10.5 inches wide and 13 inches tall, so it should fit in most closets or cleaning cupboards with no issue.

The 15-foot cord also means you don’t have to find an outlet right next to the stain. You can plug it in on the other side of the room, turn it on and get to cleaning. The tube is four and a half feet long, so you have plenty of room to maneuver it without moving the main unit.

Attachments

The Hoover Clean Slate has three attachments: a traditional vacuum nozzle with bristles, a seven-inch WidePath tool for larger spills and a TightSpot attachment for harder-to-reach areas.

All three attachments do exactly what they’re supposed to do. The traditional nozzle is the one I’ve used the most since I (knock on wood) haven’t had a spill large enough to warrant using the WidePath tool. I’ve still used it as part of my testing for this review, and it works just as fine as the regular nozzle.

The TightSpot tool has a special place in my heart because there are few things I hate more than being unable to get to a stain. This is a great tool to use in between couch cushions or around baseboards, which typically don’t get very clean with standard cleaning attachments.

My only complaint about the attachments is there’s nowhere to store them on the Hoover Clean Slate. Right now, I have them in a closet next to the cleaner, and I have to carry them when needed. It would’ve been nice if there was a storage component on the unit similar to what you see on vacuum cleaners.

Spray, Scrub, Suction

Once the Hoover Clean Slate is plugged in and turned on (the power button is right on top of the tank), you’ll hear the suction start. But let’s forget about suctioning and talk about spraying first. There’s a gray trigger on the hose that you can press to spray water (mixed with a cleaning solution) on the stain. Of course, the benefit of this is that you get to apply the soapy water directly to the stain.

Each attachment has bristles on its underside, which allow you to scrub the solution directly into the stain. It’s exactly like hand-scrubbing soap into a carpet but with more force and surface area.

The next step? Time to vacuum. Well, not really, but it’s essentially the same concept. Run the hose over the stain until it disappears. And it will happen. I’ll be honest: this isn’t the type of machine that works in one swipe, at least not for my stains. It took about six seconds of back-and-forth scrubbing/suctioning on most of the stains I tested this on. Yours might be shorter or longer. Anyway, six seconds is a short amount of time, so I got a big return on my financial and time investment.

Hose Rinse Tool

In several episodes of “The Simpsons,” Marge Simpson cleans her cleaning products (there’s an episode where she irons her trash bag before putting it in the bin). I kind of wish this fictional character could see the Hoover Clean Slate, the appliance that cleans itself.

The Hose Rinse Tool can be used after emptying the removable tank of dirty water (another feature I love) and replacing it with clean water. After attaching the Hose Rinse Tool, you can press it to flush clean water through the system to flush out any odor-causing bacteria that might be stuck within the unit. I can’t say enough good things about this feature. This should, in theory, keep the machine clean and running well for a long time since it gets rid of bacteria and other small particles.

I only say “in theory” because I’ve only had this cleaner for two months, so it’s too early to tell if this will make any difference in how long this cleaner lasts. There are some Amazon reviews saying it doesn’t have much longevity.

How We Tested It

Allow me to introduce you to Brodie: My partner’s seven-year-old fur child and my best friend.

Brodie is adorable, food-motivated, stubborn and one messy puppy. This one loves getting under the house and into the mud and just laying there, possibly rolling around in it if he’s feeling spicy. Brodie also has two younger but larger dog cousins who also love getting messy and climbing all over our furniture.

To be honest, we’ve actually replaced most of our carpet in favor of laminate flooring, but we still have a couch, bed and rugs (plus two rooms where we haven’t put the new floor in, yet) that don’t take well to dirty fur and paws. In fact, two days before I submitted this story, one of the aforementioned dog cousins got the rug under our bed fairly dirty.

Filling the tank is pretty standard. It even has markings telling you how much water and concentrate to put in for small and large areas (depending on how much you’re cleaning). The “small area” was enough to do about a quarter of an eight-by-ten rug. Oh, did I mention the rug is white? Yeah, this would be fun, especially because I had let the stain sit for about two days before getting to it.

After spraying the entire area, I got to scrubbing it before scrubbing/suctioning. This took about six seconds of work before I saw stains disappear.

I had also conducted another test in one of the rooms that’s still carpetedspilling coffee. For what it’s worth, this was a very strong and dark coffee that was intentionally spilled on the carpet and allowed to rest for four days. I did nothing to the stain and even avoided stepping on it when I walked into the room.

This took less effort than the dog stains.

Pros

• Portable
• Powerful enough to remove set-in stains
• Hose Rinsing Tool to flush the system with clean water
• Three attachments
• Lightweight
• Compact
• Long cord and tube
• Clear markings

Cons

• No attachment storage on the main cleaning unit

FAQ

How long does the Hoover clean slate run?

The Hoover Clean Slate is plugged into a wall outlet, so in theory, it can run until you run out of clean water. Some customer reviewers note that the motor isn’t powerful enough to last more than 10-15 minutes, but we never ran ours that long.

How to empty the Hoover Clean Slate?

To empty the Hoover Clean Slate, you simply have to press the button on top of the tank, take it out, remove the lid and empty it into a tub or sink. Be sure to clean it and let it air dry before putting it back on the machine.

What other reviewers/experts had to say

Josh Miller, a professional cleaner and CEO of Clean Carpets, has used the Hoover Clean Slate and recommends it to homeowners looking for a powerful spot cleaner. “What really impressed me was this product’s impressive suction power and excellent spot-cleaning capability,” Miller says. “This will come in very handy for those toughest stains or just small areas, making it one of our most versatile cleaning artillery.”

As of this writing, the Hoover Clean Slate had a 4.4 average customer rating on Amazon, with close to 8,000 reviews. “I tried it out on this old dirty ottoman that I had purchased at the thrift store. I cleaned the top portion, and I have to say it already looks brand new,” writes 5-star Amazon reviewer Alma Estrella.

On the other hand, some say it doesn’t last very long. “I loved this product while it was working, then the hose broke due to regular usage within a year of my purchase. I purchased a new one, and the suction only works for a minute at a time. I’m moving on to another brand,” says Amazon reviewer Lisa Ingrassia.

Hoover Clean Slate vs Bissell Little Green Pro

While I have used the Hoover Clean Slate, I haven’t used the Bissell Little Green Probut my partner has in her previous apartment and home. She says she liked the machine and only stopped using it because she upgraded to a full-sized carpet cleaner. (Check out our recommendations for the best Bissell carpet cleaner).

“I used it after Brodie made a mess on the rug or carpet, and it was good,” she says. She recommends it to anyone looking for a spot treatment cleaner. “My only complaint is it would sometimes get clogged with pet hair,” she adds, “so you’ll need to clean out the system to make sure it continues to work.”

The Bissell (13 pounds empty) is heavier than the Hoover (9.4 pounds empty) but has a longer power cord and hose (22 feet and five feet, respectively) than the Clean Slate (15 feet and four and a half feet, respectively).

Clean Slate has a 40-ounce container, and the Bissel has a 96-ounce clean water tank. So the Bissell definitely is the choice for people who are either cleaning large surfaces, such as a minivan or sectional sofa or have a lot of pets or kids (or you could try the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam). The Hoover Clean Slate, on the other hand, works for people with smaller areas and less frequent messes.

Check out our full Bissell Little Green review for our full thoughts.

Final Verdict

The Hoover Clean Slate is a powerful, portable and versatile spot cleaner that excels in cleaning up new and set-in stains on rugs, carpets, upholstery and sofas. The 40-ounce tank is a good amount for couples or small families with a small amount of carpeting and rugs. The attachments work well, though I wish there were a way to store them on the tank, and it’s easy to empty. The hose rinse attachment is a nice touch for people who want to flush their cleaner of odor-causing bacteria.

Where to Buy the Hoover Clean Slate

VIA MERCHANT

$99.99 at Amazon

Hoover CleanSlate Upholstery Portable Cleaner

$99.99 at Amazon

The Hoover Clean Slate Plus, the model we tested and reviewed,currently retails for around $125 on Amazon. It’s also available at The Home Depotand Walmart.

The post Hoover Clean Slate Review: We Tried this Carpet Cleaner Machine and Love it For Pet Messes appeared first on Family Handyman.

Struggling with a stubborn stove stain? What about greasy kitchen cabinets? Spray surfaces with Ecolab Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser, and grease stains disappear in minutes. I tested this degreaser onmy stove, which had not been cleaned in an embarrassingly long amount of time, and I could see it working its magic before I even wiped the area. It has a citrusy scent I’ve grown to love in my many years of cleaning professional-grade and residential appliances.

This degreaser is perfect for mechanics, home cooks or anyone who frequently cleans grease stains. For more serious stains on automotive parts or outdoor appliances, add the heavy-duty citrus degreaser to a power washer.

VIA MERCHANT

$5.98 at Home Depot

Ecolab Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser

$5.98 at Home Depot

The post I’m a Former Maintenance Worker—This Is The Only Brand of Cleaner I Need For My Whole House appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our product testing team has thoroughly tested nearly a dozen home steam cleaners, including the popular Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner. We put it through several tests to determine its ease of use, cleaning performance, maneuverability and more; in our Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner review, you’ll find out if it’s worth the purchase price.

What is the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner?

According to the manufacturer, the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is a popular home steamer and the best-selling unit from Dupray. When you buy the Dupray Neat steamer, you’ll get a box full of goodies, including:

• 2 extension poles
• 5 small nylon brushes
• 1 small brass brush
• Steam nozzle
• Floor tool
• Squeegee tool
• Triangular brush tool
• 3 microfiber pads for the floor tool
• Microfiber bonnet
• Microfiber cloth
• User manual

This steam cleaner also comes with an integrated funnel and retractable handle that, according to our product testers, stays cool to the touch.

VIA MERCHANT

Shop at Dupray

$149.78 at Lowe's

$149.78 at Home Depot

Shop at Walmart

We Tried It

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner

A sleek-looking, durable steam cleaner for all your cleaning needs

Shop at Dupray

$149.78 at Lowe's

$149.78 at Home Depot

Shop at Walmart

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner Features

After testing nearly a dozen steam cleaners, our product testing team determined that the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is one of the best values available. This is due to its top-tier features and reasonable price point.

Easy Setup and Cleanup

Setup is a breeze; our product testers said: “Simply attach the tool head of choice, fill and plug in. Press the trigger to activate steam.”

One drawback is that the Dupray steamer doesn’t have a pitcher, so you’ll need to grab one from the kitchen to fill the water tank. The steamer does have a built-in funnel to avoid spillage.

Cleanup is easy, too. All you have to do is turn the machine over to dump out the water. The mop pads are machine-washable, though air-drying them is recommended.

Large Water Tank

Of all the steam cleaners we tried, the Dupray Neat has one of the largest water tanks with a capacity of 54 ounces. This means you get excellent steam pressure (50 PSI/3.5 Bar) while still being able to clean non-stop for up to 50 minutes.

Quick Heating

The water tank heats to its maximum temperature of 275 degrees Fahrenheit (135 degrees Celsius) in just 8 minutes. That’s about the same time it takes to make a pour-over coffee if you were wondering.

Quick Drying

Some steam cleaners leave wet marks or water rings after use, especially on fabrics and upholstery. This isn’t the case with the Dupray Neat steamer, which, according to our testers, left couches and curtains “barely wet” with no water rings.

Long Cord and Hose

The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner’s cord is 155 inches long, or about 13 feet. Though it’s the shortest cord of all the canister steam cleaners our team tried, our testers said it didn’t affect maneuverability. Combined with the 93-inch hose and 36-inch extension pole, our testers said, “We couldn’t imagine there are any places this thing wouldn’t reach.”

360-Degree Wheels

In addition to a grand total of 284 inches of length (about 23.5 feet) to work with, this steamer also features 360-degree wheels, which our product testers loved. “The 360-degree wheels are amazing,” one tester said. “It moves around and maneuvers effortlessly.”

Intuitive Use

Despite being relatively simple pieces of equipment, not all steam cleaners are intuitive to use. The Dupray Neat is. Our product testers awarded it 5 out of 5 points for ease of use, saying, “It’s very intuitive compared to the others. The parts actually snap into place and make sense. It’s well-designed and stylish, too, which is a plus!”

Additionally, this machine has a trigger lock that keeps steam flowing without needing to hold the trigger down, earning the Dupray Neat bonus points.

Powerful Cleaning

Most importantly, the Dupray Neat excelled in almost all cleaning tests. Our product testers dubbed it the “gold standard” for coffee stain removal, noting that it performed amazingly and completely removed a coffee stain from upholstery within 90 seconds. This is likely due to the high-quality bonnet that came with the machine, our testers said.

Additionally, the Dupray Neat scored 5 out of 5 points for de-wrinkling curtains, removing all wrinkles within 90 seconds, and removing muddy footprints from vinyl flooring. On the vinyl, our testers said the Dupray steamer removed the mess entirely with zero streaks or smears. Could we ask for more?

This steamer scored 4 out of 5 points for our tile and grout test; our testers said it performed above average, that the pressure is great, and that the brush bristles are nice and stiff. However, it scored lower on our glass-cleaning test, earning 3 out of 5 points, because, according to our testers, the quality of the squeegee isn’t the best.

How We Tested It

We put the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner through a series of tests, rating it against predetermined criteria for its performance in the following scenarios:

• Removing dirt, grime and mold from tile and unsealed grout
• Dewrinkling curtains
• Pulling coffee stains out of upholstery
• Cleaning muddy footprints off of vinyl flooring
• Cleaning handprints and toothpaste smears off of a glass mirror

Our product testers also judged the following qualities:

• Ordering, shipping, delivery and packaging
• Portability/maneuverability
• Ease of use/intuitiveness
• Size/dimensions
• Dryness
• Emptying/cleaning
• Value

FAQ

Can you use distilled water in a Dupray steam cleaner?

Yes, the manufacturerrecommends using distilled water. This will reduce mineral buildup and can potentially increase the machine’s lifespan.

How to clean a Dupray Neat Steamer?

You don’t need to clean your Dupray Neat Steamer since the tank only holds plain water. Dupray does recommend performing a boiler drain every 20 hours. Otherwise, all you have to do is wash the cloth and pads that come with the machine, which is machine-washable (air-dry).

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Several other shopping websites have named the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner the best overall steam cleaner or the best for some given purpose. Additionally, customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive. On the Dupray website, the unit has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars out of nearly 300 reviews. On Amazon, it has an average rating of 4.5 stars out of more than 21,500 ratingsincredibly impressive for the volume of reviews.

One reviewer called it “way better than others on the market.”

“Great price for an amazing product,” the reviewer wrote. “I tried other brands and they didn’t even come close to this one. Other brands just shot hot water and left pools of water; this really puts out perfect pressurized steam. I use this for cleaning floors, furniture, windows, bathrooms, really everything. Once you start using it, you get a bunch of ideas on what you can use it on. The unit is easily portable, lightweight, clean design and powerful enough to break down grime or sanitize any job you can think of.”

Dupray Neat Steamer vs. Mcculloch 1385

Mcculloch is a reputable home appliance brand that makes a few hard-working steam cleaners. The Mcculloch 1385 is a canister steam system much like the Dupray Neat. However, there are multiple differences between the two products.

For starters, the Mcculloch 1385 boasts an impressive run time of up to 120 minutes, more than double that of the Dupray Neat. It’s also slightly more powerful, outputting 58 PSI compared to the Neat’s 51. It comes with 23 versatile accessories compared to the Dupray Neat’s 17.

The Dupray Neat does surpass the Mcculloch 1385 in some regards, though. For example, it heats to 275 degrees Fahrenheit in 8 minutes; the Mcculloch heats to 212 degrees Fahrenheit in 12 minutes. Additionally, the Dupray Neat costs $50 less than the Mcculloch 1385 and has far superior maneuverability due to its long hose, cord, extension pole and 360-degree wheels.

The Dupray also has a better warranty, with a lifetime guarantee on the boiler and a two-year warranty on parts and accessories. In contrast, the Mcculloch has a two-year warranty on the boiler and parts and accessories.

Final Verdict

The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is highly recommended by shopping experts, home goods experts and real buyers alike. Our product testers found it to be one of the greatest values as far as steam cleaners go because it excels in almost every type of cleaning and has an intuitive, easy-to-use design. Our testers only wished it came with its own pitcher and had a place to store the cord/hose and accessories. Otherwise, it’s easily one of the best steam cleaners our product testing team has tried.

Where to Buy the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner

VIA MERCHANT

Shop at Dupray

$149.78 at Lowe's

$149.78 at Home Depot

Shop at Walmart

We Tried It

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner

A powerful steam cleaner with wheels and multiple attachments for all your cleaning projects

Shop at Dupray

$149.78 at Lowe's

$149.78 at Home Depot

Shop at Walmart

The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is available directly fromDuprayonline, as well as atAmazon,Lowe’s,WalmartandThe Home Depot. Its list price isabout $150.

The post Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner Review: We Tried it and Here’s The Steaming Truth appeared first on Family Handyman.

The first step in cleaning walls with flat paint is to remove any dust. Vacuum the wall with the brush attachment or simply wipe down the entire wall with a dry microfiber cloth. “Disposable microfiber dusters or washable microfiber dusters are my go-to for dusting walls,” says Brewster. “They trap dirt instead of pushing it around and remove it easily from surfaces as it attaches to the duster fibers.”

To reach the top of the walls, you’ll have to bring out the ladder or attach a microfiber cloth to the end of an extendable mop.

The post How to Clean Walls With Flat Paint appeared first on Family Handyman.

Although pavers are known for their durability, pressure washing may damage them if you’re not careful or use the wrong equipment. Conversely, properly maintaining and washing pavers keeps them looking good for years. “Pavers are durable but do need some light routine maintenance to keep them looking clean and fresh,” Joe Raboine from Oldcastle APG says. Read on to learn how to clean your patio pavers without a pressure washer with pro tips from Raboine and Ryan Farley from Lawnstarter.

Safety Precautions

Wear gloves and protective glasses if using harsh chemicals. Pavers can become slippery when wet, so wear sturdy, non-slip footwear.

When to Call a Pro

If stains are too severe for a DIY cleaning job or your pavers are starting to wear, contact a professional for an assessment.

How much does it cost to hire a pro?

There are many factors to consider, but expect to pay between $1 and $2 per sq. ft. to have your pavers cleaned, sand replaced and sealed.

Remove objects and debris

• Remove furniture, plants and all other objects from the patio.
• “Sweep off your paver patio to remove dirt, debris and leaf buildup,” Raboine says.
• Remove weeds from between pavers with a weeding tool. Wear gardening gloves to protect your hands.

The post How To Clean Patio Pavers Without a Pressure Washer appeared first on Family Handyman.

Cleaning the coils on your refrigerator is not a glamorous task. But it is an important refrigerator maintenance chore that improves the refrigerator’s efficiency. The coils help the refrigerator release heat so it stays cold enough to keep the food at proper cool temperatures. Its easy for dust and debris to accumulate under the refrigerator (as you probably already know). The dust can cling to the coils and prevent heat from releasing efficiently. A refrigerator consumes more energy when working harder due to dirty coils.

It took less than an hour to clean the coils. At first, I tried a soft-bristled brush, but I ended up using a Swiffer duster because it was thin enough to get between the coils. I cant promise Ill clean the refrigerator coils every month, but now that I know how quick and easy it is, I wont wait years to do this again.

Unplug the fridge

Unplug the refrigerator to avoid any electrical hazards. Then, put on a dust mask.

The post How To Clean Refrigerator Coils appeared first on Family Handyman.

Your refrigerator may be the most important major appliance in the home. It certainly has a critical job: keeping your food fresh and bacteria-free. Im guilty of opening my refrigerator and thinking to myself that I should wipe down the shelves, but I end up closing the door and walking away after grabbing whatever food I was after. Luckily, my laziness did not win today, and I deep-cleaned my refrigerator in under an hour without ruining my Saturday.

You dont need much to complete this job and will most likely already own all the necessary supplies. I recommend doing this on a day right before you need to go to the grocery store so you dont have a ton of groceries sitting on the counter as you clean. Also, this is a good time to take an accurate inventory of your needs before you head to the store. After your refrigerator is spotless, make a routine of quick-cleaning the refrigerator before putting new groceries in. A 50-50 solution of plain white vinegar and water makes a great, food-friendly fridge cleaner.

• Pro tip: If there’s an odor in our refrigerator, you can place a bowl of baking soda inside the fridge to absorb the smell.

Empty refrigerator

Empty the refrigerator. Toss spoiled or expired items into a garbage bag as you go. Have a cooler ready to hold highly perishable foods (e.g., milk or raw fish) and set the rest in an out-of-the-way spot on your kitchen countertop.

The post How To Clean a Refrigerator appeared first on Family Handyman.

I can’t even imagine what my life would be like without my trusty dishwasher. The amount of time I’ve saved by not having to manually clean and dry every dirty dish is beyond comprehension. That’s all the motivation I need to stay on top of maintenance tasks like cleaning and checking the dishwasher door seal, the filter and the spray arms.

What Is a Dishwasher Filter?

A dishwasher filter plays a crucial role by trapping and holding onto any leftover food particles, debris, or other remnants that might remain after a cleaning cycle. However, as time passes, these particles can accumulate and obstruct the filter, making it more difficult for the dishwasher to perform effectively.

What Is a Dishwasher Spray Arm?

The dishwasher arm distributes water onto the dishes during the washing cycle. If the arm becomes clogged, it’s safe to say that the dishes won’t be thoroughly cleaned. Luckily, cleaning these two vital components doesn’t take much time at all, yet it can make a significant difference in performance.

In spite of the fact that this project isn’t difficult, it is quite gross, so I recommend wearing rubber dishwashing gloves or disposable gloves when completing it.

How To Clean a Dishwasher Filter

Remove the lower rack in the dishwasher

To access the filter, slide out the lower rack of your dishwasher. The top rack can remain in place unless it is in the way. The exact position of the filter can be found in your dishwasher’s manual. You can easily find the model’s information online if you don’t have the manual.

The post How To Clean a Dishwasher Filter and Spray Arm appeared first on Family Handyman.

A dirty dryer vent can increase drying time, spike energy costs and eventually become a fire hazard. If your dryer doesnt dry clothes, or the top of the dryer is hot to the touch after each use, clogged ductwork may be the culprit.

The removable dryer lint filter catches most of the lint as it passes through a load of laundry, but pieces of lint can sneak past the filter and get stuck in crevices along the dryer duct. When theres a build-up of lint, airflow is restricted, which can lead to overheating. If the air inside the duct gets hot enough, it can ignite the lint and cause a dryer fire. So its essential to clean your dryer vent at least once a year, if not twice if frequently used.

Follow the steps ahead to thoroughly clean your dryer vent.

Unplug dryer

The first step is safely disconnecting your dryer by unplugging the power cord from the outlet and turning off the gas or propane valve.

The post How To Clean a Dryer Vent appeared first on Family Handyman.

Imagine how unpleasant taking a bath in a dirty tub would be. That’s how the birds in your backyard feel when their birdbath isn’t kept clean. Cleaning birdbaths properly is important to create an appealing environment for birds and ensure their safety. A safe and effective method is to use a mixture of white vinegar and water. Vinegar has the power to eliminate algae without posing any harm to the birds. Bleach or other harsh chemicals, on the other hand, are not recommended, as they can leave toxic residues that can harm birds and disrupt the delicate ecosystem. Neglecting to maintain a clean birdbath can have severe consequences for birds.

As we welcome the arrival of spring, it’s an excellent opportunity to give the birds a sparkling clean birdbath. The birdbath I cleaned was made of concrete, a popular choice for these types of baths. I even know people who have used concrete to make a birdbath themselves. I grabbed some supplies, rolled up my sleeves and got to work, and believe it or not, I had that bath squeaky clean in under 20 minutes! And hey, with some regular TLC, I bet it’ll be even quicker next time.

Rinse the birdbath

Quickly rinse the birdbath with a high-pressure garden hose nozzle to remove any loose dirt and debris. When done, dump out the remaining water.

The post How To Clean a Birdbath the Right Way appeared first on Family Handyman.

Making your own DIYlaundry detergent and other laundry essentials is fast, easy and will leave your clothes smelling and feeling fresh. There are many reasons to dive into DIY-ing your cleaning products. With grocery costs rising, I switched to a homemade laundry detergent that’s less than half the cost of store-bought detergent. Plus, my homemade detergent is a powder detergent mix, so you use less of it per wash.

My family is also sensitive to added fragrances that make them itch or trigger their asthma. When they’re only vaguely listed as “fragrances” on ingredient lists, it’s hard to know what really goes into producing these scents and smells. Making your own detergent gives you full control over your ingredient list, leaving you confident in the safety of your final product.

DIY laundry detergent

This homemade laundry detergent will soften clothes, brighten whites, and leave your clothes smelling fresh.

Mix these ingredients together in a quart-sized jar:

• 1-1/2 cups of baking soda
• 1-1/2 cups of washing soda
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt
• 1/4 cup sea salt
• 25 drops of essential oils (lemon, sweet orange or lavender are my favorite)
  • Note: Lemon oil will clean and brighten whites and is antibacterial.

Make sure to work through the clumps made by the essential oils.

Use 1 to 2 tablespoons for each load of laundry. Put detergent in before adding clothes to thewashing machine.

The post How To Make Your Own Laundry Detergent and Other Laundry Essentials appeared first on Family Handyman.

I’ve been using this Electrolux vacuum for nearly a month to clean my roughly 900-square-foot apartment to test it for this review (you’re welcome). In addition to dust bunnies, I’ve tested it on Legos, food and other items to find its strengths and weaknesses.

While I think it’s an excellent vacuum that I’d recommend to a lot of people, it’s not perfect so there are a few people who it’s not right for. Read on to find out which camp you fall in.

What is the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum?

The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum is a cordless stick vacuum made by Swedish appliance company Electrolux. Although not as well known as LG or Samsung, Electrolux is the second best-selling appliance company in the world, behind Whirlpool.

The Ultimate700 is one of many vacuums they sell and comes in two options: standard and Complete Home. We tested the Complete Home package, which comes with additional attachments. Both options have a charging stand with attachment storage and a two-year warranty. They are ETL-listed, meaning they meet strict appliance safety standards.

Although it’s sold as a stick vacuum, the Electrolux can become a handheld vacuum for use in cars or harder-to-reach spaces like the top of your cabinets.

One feature that’s new to me is the LED display that shows your battery level and the setting (low, medium or high) the vacuum is on. This was a nice touch and easy to read. Another cool feature is the charging stand, which makes storing the vacuum and accessories much neater than putting them in a random closet.

VIA MERCHANT

$358 at Electrolux

$359 at Amazon

$389 at Wayfair North America

We Tried It

Electrolux Ultimate700 Complete Home Stick Vacuum

This lightweight, cordless vacuum is powerful enough to clean every surface of your home.

$358 at Electrolux

$359 at Amazon

$389 at Wayfair North America

Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum Features

After testing the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum for four weeks, we found a few features that made it stand out.

Attachments

The Electrolux Ultimate700 standard and Complete Home versions come with a PowerPro Bristle Nozzle, and the Complete Home version has a PowerPro Hard Floor Nozzle.

The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum standard version comes with the following attachments:

• Crevice Tool
• Small Dusting Brush
• Angled Joint

The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum Complete Home version comes with the following attachments:

• Pet Nozzle
• Crevice Tool
• Small Dusting Brush
• Delicate Dusting Brush
• Angled Joint

All the attachments work as intended and easily detach with the press of a button.

LED Lighting

Whether you’re vacuuming at night or in a dark corner of your home, the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum has LED lights so you can see where and what you’re cleaning. This isn’t a feature I’ve seen in many other vacuums, and while I like it, I find it a little unnecessary.

Firstly, this vacuum is way too loud for vacuuming after dark. The noise level clocks in at 80 decibels, which is about as loud as a busy downtown street (think the interstate during rush hour). Secondly, the lights don’t illuminate much so seeing anything other than the space directly in front of the vacuum is hard.

It should be noted that the lights are only included in the primary nozzle attachment and not on attachments like the crevice tool or small brushing tool.

Charging Base

Honestly, I could write a review just about the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum’s charging base. Stick vacuums often need to be propped in a corner or stored somewhere it won’t tip over, so I love having the base to keep it upright. You can leave it there when not in use or, as the name implies when you need to charge the vacuum.

It also has spaces for all the attachments because we all know those things have a way of growing legs and getting lost.

Five-Step Dust Filtration

The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum has a five-step dust filtration that, according to the company’s website, traps 99 percent of “microscopic particles” as small as 0.3 microns. This means the vacuum has the same filtration capabilities as one of the highest-rated high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filters, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The dust is filtered into a bagless dust bin that has a 0.3-liter capacity, which is just over three-quarters of a gallon. This isn’t a vacuum for large houses, but I’ve been able to vacuum my 900-square-foot apartment two or three times before emptying the dust bin.

One thing I like about the bagless dust bin is it makes retrieving mistakenly vacuumed items, such as Lego pieces, effortless.

LED Smart Display

The top of the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum has an LED smart display that allows you to check its battery and power level and receive alerts for any needed maintenance. You can also use it to change the power level when needed.

Why more vacuums don’t have something like this is beyond me. I love being able to easily monitor the battery level, and while I haven’t received any maintenance alerts (knocks on wood), it’s nice to know that I won’t have to spend hours Googling any issue that pops up.

How We Tested It

To test the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum, I used it to clean my 900-square-foot, one-bedroom apartment. In addition to using it as a regular stick vacuum, I tested all the attachments and used it as a hand vacuum in my car and hard-to-reach corners.

It Sucks (And That’s a Good Thing)

My apartment is mostly carpeted, but the bathroom and kitchen have vinyl flooring. The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum works incredibly well on both surfaces. Before this, I used the Bissell featherweight stick vacuum and I could tell an immediate difference in the carpet the first time I used the Electrolux.

But dust isn’t the only thing you or I have to vacuum, so I couldn’t test this just by doing regular cleanings.

That’s why I placed several food crumbs, such as chicken and cereal, on the vinyl flooring and carpet to see how well the Electrolux vacuum could suck them up. It passed with flying colors, not struggling at all to pick up anything in its path.

I also placed Legos and other small items in its path to see what happened. The vacuum picked up all the pieces and there was a little rattling inside, but it quickly reached the filter without damaging the vacuum.

My one major knock against the vacuum is its battery life. It takes four and a half hours to charge fully but only lasts about 50 minutes on low power and only 10 minutes when running on high. For me, it’s not that bad since my place isn’t that big, but it could be an issue for those in larger homes.

It’s Here, It’s There, It Vacuums Everywhere

If there’s one thing I love, it’s a versatile piece of cleaning equipment. The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum is versatile in that it can quickly become a handheld vacuum and be used with one of the attachments or on its own.

I like this for cleaning my car or cleaning dust from the top of my fridge or in tight corners like behind my dryer.

Pros

• Works on most surfaces
• Comes with multiple attachments
• Has a charging stand with attachment storage
• Can be used as a handheld unit
• Under five pounds
• Five-step filtration
• Motorized nozzles
• Partially made with recycled plastic
• LED lighting
• Fits in tight spaces
• Aesthetic design
• 50-minute run time on full charge
• LED display

Cons

• Takes four and a half hours to charge fully
• Loud

FAQ

Where are Electrolux vacuums made?

Electrolux is based in Sweden, but their products are made in the USA, Hungary and China.

What is the difference between the 700 series and 800 series vacuum?

The Electrolux 800 series is slightly larger than the 700 series and has a slightly longer battery life. The 800 series charges in two and a half hours, whereas the 700 series takes four and a half hours to charge.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum has a 4.9 average rating on the company’s website, with 11 five-star reviews and one five-star review.

“I liked to vacuum before now but this product took it up a notch for me,” wrote five-star reviewer BarrettsMom.

On Amazon, the vacuum has a 4.5 average rating with 21 reviews.

“The suction is excellent,” writes five-star Amazon reviewer Laura Golightly. “It’s leaps and bounds better than my other cordless stick vacuum. I can get the wood floors of my house with no problems and the suction seems to be spread out evenly on the vacuum head so it picks up dirt to either side of it and not more concentrated towards the middle.”

Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum vs. Dyson V8

I’ve used the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum and the Dyson V8 stick vacuum, so I feel I’m qualified to be the referee in this cordless vacuum showdown.

Both vacuums are similarly priced and come with multiple attachments, but I think Dyson takes the win here. Dyson attachments like the anti-tangle hair screw tool perform better than the pet nozzle on the Electrolux. Dyson’s attachments also feel more high-quality than Electrolux’s, which generally feel like cheap plastic.

The Electrolux has a slightly better charging time and battery life, though that’s not saying much. It’s also lighter and more compact than Dyson. Both boast the same filtering capabilities and high decibel levels.

The Dyson V8 doesn’t have an LED smart display like the Electrolux, though I don’t think that’s a deal breaker for most homeowners.

Both vacuums also perform just about the same when it comes to picking up dust, pet hair and food.

So, which one should you pick? This might sound weird, but I think it depends on how you want to store the vacuum. The Dyson V8 has a wall-mounted dock, whereas the Electrolux Ultimate700 vacuum has a charging stand that stays on the floor. The Electrolux is better for renters or anyone who may not be allowed to drill holes into their apartment, while the Dyson V8 is a good pick for those who are allowed to drill holes (or don’t mind a quick plaster job to get their deposit back).

Final Verdict

I think a lot of people will love the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum. It’s lightweight, powerful, can be used as a stick and handheld vacuum, has versatile attachments and the charging stand keeps the vacuum upright and attachments in one place.

The 0.3-liter bagless dust bin is big enough for those looking for a reliable apartment vacuum that doesn’t require you to drill into the wall.

That said, it’s pretty loud, takes up to four and a half hours to charge and can run out of power in as little as 10 minutes when on high.

Where to Buy the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum

VIA MERCHANT

$358 at Electrolux

$359 at Amazon

$389 at Wayfair North America

We Tried It

Electrolux Ultimate700 Complete Home Stick Vacuum

The PowerPro Bristle Nozzle with LED Lights and full tilt design highlight dirt and dust while easily tackling hard-to-reach spaces.

$358 at Electrolux

$359 at Amazon

$389 at Wayfair North America

On Amazon, the Electrolux Ultimate700 Vacuum costs a little more than $325 for the standard version and a little more than $375 for the Ultimate Home version. Both options are available for Prime shipping and free returns. The Electrolux vacuum is also available on Wayfair.

The post Electrolux Vacuum Review: We Tried the Ultimate 700 Series appeared first on Family Handyman.

According to a 2024 Nextdoor survey, nearly nine in ten people participate in the ritual of spring cleaning. And nearly everyone agreed it puts them in a better mood.

“Spring cleaning can be hard work, but also very satisfying,” says green-living author and advocate Stephanie Miller. “As you sort and set aside things you no longer want, it opens up the possibility of using your space differently or maybe just enjoying the pleasure of a decluttered room.”

But, it’s also tempting to get a bit lazy by tossing old items in the bin and reaching for harsh cleaning chemicals both of which only deflect the problem away from your house and onto the planet. So, here are some green spring cleaning tips to dodge those pitfalls.

Repair, Repurpose and Upcycle

Whether it’s a broken table, toaster or bicycle, there’s probably a place for it other than the trash can and repairing or repurposing items (or giving them to someone who will) saves immense resources over manufacturing new ones.

“Nowadays, my clients want to declutter responsibly, and so we work closely to recycle, re-gift, donate, sell and compost as much as we possibly can,” says certified life and decluttering coach Julie Leonard. “Spend a little time researching where items can go and always check ahead, especially with charity shops, to make sure they will take all your items to avoid anything ending up in a landfill.”

Gift Good Clothing

The average American throws away more than81 poundsof clothes every year. To avoid being part of this problem, Miller recommends first sending pictures of clothes you don’t want to family members who might be interested. Also, look for charities that acceptspecific types of clothing, such as professional workplace garb or gowns, then list other items inBuy Nothinggroups or Facebook Marketplace.

Recycle Clothing That’s Beyond Repair

Many organizations can help you in your green spring cleaning efforts by responsibly disposing of worn-out clothing, towels and bedding for you. Outdoor manufacturers, like The North Face and Patagonia, will take back their used-up gear. Others, like For DaysandRetold Recycling, will send you a shipping bag to fill up.Earth911also has this helpfulrecycling locator.

Sort Specialty Items

With a bit of online searching, you can find places to get rid of most other old household items. For example, electronics can go to e-waste recyclers and electronics stores like Best Buy, Staples and Apple.

As for paint, give those half-empty cans to local schools and charities, says Miller. Or, if they’re too dried up to use, contactPaintCareor check whether your local paint retailer will accept them. “Before you go, check with your neighbors and friends to see if they would also like to get rid of theirs,” says Miller. “They will thank you!”

Switch to Plant-Based Lubes and Degreasers

When tending to bicycles, lawnmowers and squeaky doors, opt for plant-based products over petroleum-based ones (especially those containing PTFE, a forever chemical). Around 60% of the 2.5 or so billion gallons of petroleum lubricants used by Americans each year wind up in our groundwater, contaminating soil and harming ecosystems, wildlife, people and pets.

Gear Huggermakes a green lineup we’re particularly fond of, including a multi-purpose lube, a water-based heavy-duty degreaser (great for cleaning the grill and garden tools) and a rust protection/remover (for cars, boats and beyond).

Ditch Sponges and Plastic Cleaner Containers

“A year of plastic kitchen sponges will lie in landfills for up to 52,000 years, so instead invest in a few reusable cloths,” says Leonard. “Better still, repurpose old towels, linens, and T-shirts as cleaning clothes to declutter at the same time.” Also, choose refillable cleaning products to help end dependence on single-use plastic bottles.

DIY Cleaning Products

All of our experts advocated forDIY cleaners as a key to green spring cleaning. “Making your own cleaning products is easier than it sounds, and you can do it with products that are already in your pantry,” says award-winning environmental toxin expert Tonya Harris. “It also saves a lot of money, and you can control the ingredients to know exactly what’s in it. DIY cleaners are safer around kids and pets!”

Typical DIY ingredients include white vinegar and soda crystals (or bicarbonate of soda or baking soda), combined with lemons or essential oils for a fresh scent. “Not only are these ingredients generally affordable and natural, they typically work just as well as conventional cleaners, without the risky fumes or toxic chemicals,” says writer and environmentalist Ben Hardman. They’re also easier on the environment, from manufacturing through disposal.

Avoid Overusing Bleach

“Bleach is a powerful disinfectant, but isn’t without health risks,” says Harris. “It is corrosive, harmful to the respiratory system, and it can damage/discolor surfaces.” Instead, try isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide for disinfecting (but don’t use them together!).

As alternatives, Harris recommends rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide, both of which are listed on theEPA’s list of N products.

Freshen Naturally

Instead of using air fresheners with syntheticfragrances, many of which use ingredients that can cause health problems, open windows and incorporate lots of plants into your home. “Plants are natural air fresheners,” says Leonard. “Your home will not only look great but plants lift your mood and your home will smell fresh too.”

To further absorb and neutralize odors, you can try banking soda, cornstarch or coffee grounds. “Unlike traditional plug-in or spray air fresheners that just mask odors, these household staples can actually absorb and neutralize odors, getting to the root of the scent,” says Harris.

About the Experts

Stephanie Milleris the author ofZero Waste Living, the 80/20 Wayand founder ofZero Waste in DC. She spent 25 years at the International Finance Corporation, where she was director of climate business, leading teams in finding innovative solutions to climate change. She reaches a wide audience through keynote presentations, learning events and household consultations.

• Tonya Harrisis an award-winning environmental toxin expert, the founder ofSlightly Greenerand author ofThe Slightly Greener Method, which offers busy moms simple solutions to reduce toxins. She holds a master’s degree in holistic nutrition and multiple certificates in the environmental health field, and has been featured on numerous national TV shows.
• Julie Leonardis a certified life and decluttering coach with more than 30 years of psychology, mental health and coaching experience. She is the creator of the Simplify Your Life coaching program and The Intentional Happiness Circle, and author ofIntentional Happiness: The Life-Changing Guide to Being Happy and Staying Happy.
• Ben Hardmanis a writer, environmentalist and the creator of the websiteTiny Eco Home Life, a platform that helps people live more sustainable lives and reduce their impact on the environment. His business has been featured in outlets like The New York Times and BBC Radio 1.

The post How To Keep Your Spring Cleaning Green appeared first on Family Handyman.

“I think you know in your gut that it’s time to start letting go,” says Mary Cornetta, chief executive officer of Organized Overall. “[It’s time] when the clutter really starts to stress you out, you’re misplacing things more frequently, and the floors and countertops are starting to disappear.”

But knowing you need to declutter and actually decluttering are different things. It’s hard to take that first step because the task seems so overwhelming. It’s not hopeless, though. If you’re ready to start, Cornetta’s expert techniques will get you on the path to organization, without the stress.

Start With the Easy Stuff

The first things to go? “Anything with an expiration date,” says Cornetta, who also founded and owns Sort and Sweet professional organizers.

Getting rid of “no-brainer” items like expired medicines and stale food works wonders for your confidence. Open up your medicine cabinet and check the bottles and boxes. Next, tackle the pantry. Ditch anything expired or empty.

“As you gain confidence in your decluttering skills, you can move on to a space like your closet,” says Cornetta. It’s hard to part with our things, so it pays to start with something that doesn’t require much thinking. If it’s out of date, get rid of it no decision-making needed.

Pick a Small Space

Another way to jump into decluttering is starting small.

Most of us have a junk drawer in the kitchen, or several. Cornetta says decluttering a small space like a drawer, your purse or a backpack is a great first step, especially if you don’t have a lot of time. “Doing a little decluttering is better than doing none at all!” she says.

So take 15 minutes and go through your sock drawer. You’ll feel better and gain confidence to tackle bigger spaces.

Bring in a Friend

Friends are there for us through thick and thin job changes, breakups and the daily grind of life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about the prospect of decluttering your home, enlist a buddy to help.

This works great for people who work well in teams, says Cornetta. And if a friend won’t tell you those old jeans have to go, who will?

Professional organizers are an option too, Cornetta says. And don’t overlook your family members. “If the clutter is your partner’s or kid’s, it’s really important to include them,” she says. “Not only is it their stuff to make decisions on, it takes the load off of only you.”

Make a Schedule

If you’re eager to declutter but can’t seem to kick-start the process, Cornetta recommends scheduling dates on your calendar. Scheduling declutter days will keep you from backsliding, too. Clutter seems to magically accumulate, but knowing there’s a declutter date around the corner can ease your mind.

“Look at the year ahead and schedule two closet decluttering days, four for skincare, makeup and medicine, and monthly or bimonthly sessions for the pantry,” Cornetta says. Choose a schedule that makes sense for you and stick to it.

Make Your Bed Every Day

Do you make your bed? It’s a great way to get you in the right frame of mind for decluttering and staying organized, says Cornetta. “This simple 60-second act will set the tone for the rest of your room (and day),” she says.

Most people make their beds at least some of the time, according to the National Sleep Foundation. If you’re one of the bed-making majority, make the effort to do it every day to give yourself a boost. And if you’re not, it’s a great time to start.

Declutter Regularly

If you’re struggling with clutter and need another incentive to streamline, here’s a tip: If you can make it part of your routine, over time you’ll reduce your workload around the house. A clutter-free home means less time spent cleaning and searching for things.

“Having less stuff means having less to clean up or tidy,” Cornetta says. “Decluttering regularly is really the most powerful way to stay organized.”

The post How To Start Decluttering When It Feels Overwhelming appeared first on Family Handyman.

But which cleaning apparatus reigns supreme? I put these two Swiffer products to the test in a head-to-head cleaning battleand I think I have an answer.

What’s the difference between the Swiffer WetJet and the Swiffer PowerMop?

The answer? There arent a ton of differences, but theres a few. Both the WetJetand the PowerMopretail for around $30 and come with one bottle of cleaning solution to get you started. The WetJet gives you five disposable pads to the PowerMops two.

Interestingly, the PowerMop itself holds the cleaning solution container in the back while the WetJets is in the front. Im not entirely sure why that ismaybe they found the weight distributes better in the back?

The head of the PowerMop is thinner and a little longer than the WetJet, but both have dual jets where the cleaning solution is released. The real difference in these products is in the pad itself. The PowerMop has over 300 scrubbing strips on each pad and is designed to clean like a mop and bucket without the hassle. This means you can scrub at sticky messes easier than you can with the WetJet, which has pads with a smooth bottom.

Pros & Cons of the Swiffer WetJet

The Swiffer WetJet has been around since the turn of the millennium. No, really. This household staple disrupted the cleaning market in 2001, first making its debut in Canada before coming to the U.S.

The draw? Its an alternative to a traditional mop and bucket, making cleaning your floors easier than ever. You no longer had to wait an hour for your kitchen floor to dry, and consumers were hooked. Over 20 years later, the WetJet still sells like the day it was released. In fact, the first thing I purchased after buying my condo was a WetJet at Target. Go figure!

I love how easy it is to pop on a disposable pad-like wipe and get to cleaning. Simply press the button on the handle (after youve added batteries) and the WetJet sprays a misting of the cleaning solution on your floors. Its also easy for almost any able-bodied person to use since its really lightweight and simple to maneuver.

However, Id be remiss if I didnt point out the recurring costs of using a WetJet over a traditional mop and bucket. In order to continue to use the WetJet, you need to buy the disposable cleaning pads (around $10 per pack of 15) and the cleaning solution (around $15 per bottle). This is something to keep in mind if youre on a tight budget.

I do like that there are multiple cleaning solutions for the WetJet. Whether you have laminate, hardwood or vinyl flooring, theres a specific option available for you.

Pros & Cons of the Swiffer PowerMop

The Swiffer PowerMop is the newest addition to the Swiffer cleaning family. Similarly to the WetJet, this pseudo mop is designed to make cleaning your floor easier. The long, thin head of the PowerMop swivels and is supposedly able to get underneath couches, tables and fridges without issue.

As someone who is constantly cleaning their floors (thanks, muddy dogs), I was interested to see if the PowerMop delivers on its promises. Luckily, the unboxing and assembly (if you can even call it that) was seamless and took under five minutes. Simply snap in the included batteries, add the cleaning solution to the front and connect the handle.

I started scrubbing my floors and immediately noticed how fresh the cleaning solution smelled. It was also evident that the PowerMop cleaned much quicker than the WetJet, thanks to its larger mop head. Better yet, the floor dried in a snap, leaving my kitchens hardwood flooring dry and dirt-free.

According to the box, you should vacuum before using the PowerMop in order to get larger pieces of dirt or debris off of the floor. Naturally, I ignored this advice because I was feeling lazy (and I wanted to see how the mop would work without vacuuming). Spoiler alert: The PowerMop still did an excellent job. However, if you have things like Cheerios or dog kibble on the floor, Id recommend vacuuming ahead of time.

The Final Verdict: Which Is Best For You?

My honest take? You cant go wrong with either choice. If you tend to have more sticky messes on your floor, Id probably recommend the PowerMopbecause of the scrubbing strips. And if youre someone who just wants to get dust and surface dirt off your floor, go with the tried-and-true Swiffer WetJet.

Where to Buy the Swiffer WetJet

More into ole reliable? Pick up a Swiffer WetJet (and plenty of dirt) from Amazon, Walmart, Lowe’sor Ace Hardware.

$32.15 at Amazon

Where to Buy the Swiffer PowerMop

Want to try Swiffers latest innovation? Grab your own PowerMop for around $30 at your favorite retailers, like Amazon, Walmart and Target.

$29.94 at Amazon

The post Swiffer WetJet vs. Swiffer PowerMop: Does Old or New Win the Floor-Cleaning Game? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Dawn Dish Soap

Say the brand name and you know the product: Kleenex, Band-aid, Q-tip, Pampers, andof courseDawn. To many, Dawn dish soap detergent is the go-to soap to cut through the grease and grime on even your dirtiest dishes. Enthusiasts’ testimonies may point to its unbeatable sudsy quality or its heart-warming story about literally saving animals’ lives. But why are the suds so super? After some digging by a non-scientist, there are a couple of theories as to why Dawn dish soap is the soap of all soaps for not only doing dishes but also protecting your plants, treating laundry, and unclogging your toilet. It’s so popular, there’s even a Dawn powerwash and other Dawn products to help clean other products around the house.

Get Dawn dish soap on Amazon.

The Scientific Difference

Unless you spend your days as a chemist (cool!), the actual science behind Dawn dish detergent gets a little complex for the layman DIYer. But, put simply, there is a secret ingredient. While the complete “recipe” is inaccessible for the masses, a Dawn spokeswoman has pointed the magic to uniquely powerful surfuctantsor, the chemical compounds that reduce the surface tension of a liquid when it’s dissolved, aka the stuff that cuts the grease. One of those super special surfuctants? A small amount of petroleum. Beyond this truth, there is unfortunately little research out there to satiate our curiosities about the heroic nature of Dawn dish soap.

The Marketing Genius

Dawn earned its crown as the strongest and gentlest soap for wildlife in the 1970s and has reigned supreme since then. When Proctor & Gamble donated massive amounts of suds after the 1988 Exxon Valdez oil spill, they began a cause campaign that has carried them into the present. And let’s be honest, this campaign works. When you pass the Dawn dish detergent bottles in stores, maybe you see the fuzzy duck on the bottle and recall the commercials where Dawn heroically transforms a sad and oil-covered chick to an adorably happy and floofy chickling. P&G masterfully appeals to logic (I need the strongest soap that can do its job) and emotion (if it’s gentle enough for animals, then it has to be gentle enough for my family). By connecting to everyone’s emotional decision centers, they stand out from the dish soap crowd.

Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The post What Gives Dawn Dish Soap Detergent Its Super Powers? appeared first on Family Handyman.

The next time you are thoroughly cleaning your kitchen, glance under the range hood and check out how dirty and greasy the filter is. Its important to clean your range hood filters every few months maybe more often if you cook frequently.

Whether you have a mesh or steel filter, these five quick steps will make your filters shine. Im always looking for ways to reduce my environmental foot print, and replacing common dish soap with a natural home cleaning product will help keep your filter and the environment clean. With a quick soak and some elbow grease, your filter will be shining in no time.

Set up a drying station

Set up a drying station on a table or countertop. I like to use flour sack towels they’re lightweight, dry quickly and are excellent for wiping down steel.

The post How to Clean a Range Hood Filter appeared first on Family Handyman.

Believe it or not, historically, it’s the latter.

This fabric tape with its strong pressure-sensitive adhesive was developed during World War II as a waterproof (like a duck’s back!) fix-all for emergency repairs. Though it wasn’t recommended for mending metal ductwork, homeowners began using it that way when the war ended.

Manufacturers responded by making it gray to match galvanized steel, then rebranding it. That, according to the folks at Echotape, is how “duck” tape became “duct” tape.

Today, you can find seven kinds of duct tape, from general purpose to professional grade to a type of coated cloth tape called “Mission Tape” that helped save the lives of the Apollo 13 astronauts. They all have one thing in common: a sticky adhesive that leaves a hard-yet-gummy residue when you pull off the tape.

Removing this residue can be a headache. Josh Rudin, a home restoration pro, says when his company encounters taped ductwork, they “often just cut out that section and redo it according to code.” That isn’t always the best solution, obviously. So he described the ways he removes tape residue.

I also three other experts how they do it. Read on to learn what they said.

About the Experts

Joshua Rudin, a certified restorer, owns ASAP Restoration, LLC in Tempe, Arizona.

James King is the operations manager for DeluxeMaid, a home cleaning service in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Dela Gomasi is CEO and director of MaidForYou, a cleaning service in Sydney, Australia. He writes all the standard operating procedures for the company’s cleaning teams.

Rafi Friedman is the CEO of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, a pool building, construction and cleaning company based near Jacksonville, Florida.

Method 1: Dissolve It With a Solvent

Most of the experts agreed using a solvent is one of the best ways to dissolve duct tape residue. These include:

• Rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol: “For hard surfaces like glass, metal and hard plastics, rubbing alcohol on the residue is a highly effective,” says Friedman. “Simply apply it to a cloth or cotton ball and rub the sticky area until the residue comes off.” Don’t try this on painted surfaces, because rubbing alcohol can soften or dissolve paint.
• Goof-Off Pro-Strength Remover: “This solvent is great for around the home tasks like this because it will take off the residue without damaging the materials you are trying to clean,” Rudin says. “This works on almost any surface that has duct tape residue on it.”
• Olive oil or cooking oil: “Apply a small amount of oil to the residue and let it sit for a few minutes,” King says. “Gently rub the residue with a cloth to remove it.” This is not recommended for porous surfaces like bare wood or unsealed tile grout, because oil will stain it.
• Soapy water: If you’re worried about staining, Friedman recommended this method. “For more sensitive surfaces, a solution of warm water and dish soap can soften the residue, making it easier to scrape off gently with a plastic scraper or a credit card,” he says.

Does WD-40 remove duct tape residue?

Yes, though none of the experts recommended WD-40. But I know it works, and I always keep a can in my car for this purpose.

Though it doesn’t leave stains, it probably shouldn’t be your first choice. Its a strong petroleum odor may bother people with sensitivity to volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Method 2: Heat It With a Hair Dryer

“We deal with a lot of removing adhesive residue, duct tape marks and other wall marks that have been left over from previous tenants of a home, where they have tried to hang photo frames and other ornaments,” Gomasi says. “Realtors are often surprised that we have managed to remove the adhesive, as they thought that it would be permanent.

“Our preferred method is to use a hair dryer on the lowest setting to melt the adhesive residue and then we wipe it away. We rinse and repeat until the adhesive has been removed.”

However, Gomasi cautioned against using a heat gun. “We find it ruins the paint,” he says.

Method 3 : Rub It Off With an Abrasive

When old tape residue turns hard, you can often rub it off easily from bare wood with 100-grit sandpaper. This won’t work as easily on soft, gummy residue, however, because it clogs up the sandpaper. And it isn’t good on painted surfaces, or surfaces you don’t want to scratch.

Rudin recommended a pumice stone in certain circumstances. “It’s best for cleaning mineral deposits off of glass and porcelain, but it can also be used to rub off the residue from duct tape effectively,” he said.

Use a Plastic Scraper

Whether you dissolve duct tape residue with a solvent or soften it with heat, you’ll still need to scrape it off. Don’t use a metal scraper or you’ll leave scratches. You can do as Friedman suggests and try a credit card. But if you’re like me and prefer to keep your credit cards in good condition, go with a plastic putty knife instead.

FAQs

What’s the easiest way to remove duct tape residue?

Lay fresh duct tape over it, then pull off the tape. The residue often comes with it. This doesn’t always work, but when it does, it’s magic.

What causes duct tape residue?

The remnants of the pressure-sensitive adhesive that makes the tape stick. The adhesive is a blend of rubberized polymers that tend to harden over time, so residue becomes harder to remove the longer you leave the tape on the surface.

Can you prevent duct tape residue?

No. It’s almost impossible to avoid some residue from clinging to a surface. But the sooner you remove the tape, the less residue will remain.

The post How To Remove Duct Tape Residue appeared first on Family Handyman.

My basement is the dumping ground for old furniture and rugs, so I had plenty of test subjects. I started my cleaning test on a beloved white shag rug with old pet stains. I was excited to try the Bissell on this rug before I called in a professional or tossed it out.

What is the Bissell Little Green Machine?

The Bissell Little Green is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner. This handy machine has a 48-ounce tank to hold cleaning solutions and a dirty water receptacle. Similar to a wet vacuum, the machine sucks up the liquid as you clean.

The handle has a trigger-activated spray nozzle to release the cleaning solution. And a handy 3-inch soft brush tool snaps into place with the click of a tiny button.

The footprint of this machine is compact, measuring 17 inches by 8 inches, and its just under 14 inches tall, so it easily slips into a cabinet when its not in use. The carrying handle is strong and substantial for easy transport, and the unit weighs just under 10 pounds when the tanks are empty. Bissells Little Green Machine has a 15-foot power cord and a 4-foot hose that accommodates a variety of detachable cleaning tools.

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Bissell Little Green

Instantly cleans messes on carpet and upholstery with the power of a wet vac.

$81.49 at Amazon

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Bissell Little Green Features

The Bissell Little Green comes with a 3-inch tool brush, a 32-ounce bottle of Bissell Pet & Stain cleaner and an 8-ounce trial bottle of Spot & Stain cleaner with Febreze.

This machine is ready to go out of the box, except screwing in the hose holder bracket and attaching the tool head. When the job is done, the Bissell Little Green includes a self-cleaning hose tool to keep the machine clean and fresh between uses.

The slim handle doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome, and the attachment is lighter than my vacuum cleaner attachments, which is helpful for detail work. The Bissell Little Green is perfect for cleaning car upholstery or stairs due to its lightweight and portable design.

The 3-inch brush tool attachment included in the bundle is lightweight and easily snaps into place. The brush is soft yet substantial, with three rows of -inch bristles to gently lift out the gunk. Much like an upholstery brush, the soft bristles are gentle on fabrics. As a user, you control the angle and pressure applied to the tool. Outfitted with a clear view edge, the brush tool allows you to monitor the moisture extracted.

Its easy to fill the tank in the sink. Simply add the Bissell formula to the formula fill line, then add water to the water line. Cleaning takes less water than I imagined, and an entire tank lasted through several cleaning sessions.

Pro tip: Bissell doesnt recommend storing the machine with water and formula in the tank.

I Treated Every Stain in My House for This Bissell Little Green Review

While Im usually pretty careful around my furniture, accidents happen. Like this past Sunday morning. I snuggled on the sofa with a blanket and a monster mug of creamy coffee, and suddenly, my dog leaps to the ready at some passer-by, startling me into spilling the coffee on my brand new Grandin Road sectional. Luckily, the blanket and my sweatshirt took the brunt of the spill. But I was left with four big spots on the cushions and pillow.

Coffee Stain on Sofa

I grabbed a Swedish dishcloth to absorb what I could and ran downstairs to fetch the Bissell Little Green machine. I sprayed the stains with a vengeance. I was about eight inches away from the fabric when I pulled the trigger, which resulted in a wide over-spray area. The sprayer is hard to aim because its under the handle. Later, I realized I should have been an inch above the spot I was treating to avoid over-spraying.

As a result of my initial panic, I didnt take the time to do a spot test in advance. After all, this was an emergency. In the meantime, I sprayed some spot remover on my sweatshirt and returned to the scene of the crime 10 minutes later to finish the job.

As the machine sucks the excess moisture out of the fabric, the stains magically disappear. Its pretty cool because you can watch liquid bubbling through the clear tool head. I let the machine do its thing until I couldnt see any more liquid extracted.

Admittedly, I was heavy-handed when spraying the solution on the spots, and it took about eight hours for the spots to dry on the thick foam cushion. The following day, I could still see a faint ring around the treated area, not from the stain but from the over-sprayed detergent. Although faded, the ring is still visible if you know what to look for.

By the way, the stains came out of the sectional but remain on my sweatshirt.

Bissell Little Green Review for Set-in Stains

Overall, I was pleased with the results while removing a fresh spill, but when I tried removing long-standing stains on a few area rugs and runners, I wasnt as thrilled.

The first test out of the box was on a thick, 3-inch white shag rug with old pet stains. The rug had been banished to the basement five years prior, with the intention of calling in a pro. I used the Bissell Pet Spot & Stain cleaner in the Little Green machine and even treated the stains a second time 48 hours later. The detergent certainly freshened and brightened the rug, but the stains were stubborn. However, I did see a noticeable difference when I worked the detergent through the fibers with the scrub brush. On other stains, I tried a stiffer, longer brush to work through the long thick shag and also treated it with an enzymatic pet stain remover. Unfortunately, the five-year-old stains were set for life.

On other light-colored hallway runners, I spot-treated several mystery stains that were six months old or less. Among these stains were some oily tar-like marks from a repairmans boots, something sticky, random coffee splatters, ground in muddy paw prints and who knows what else? I was shocked at the black water and embedded dog hair flowing through the machine on these freshly vacuumed rugs. With patience, these stains were lifted, except for the tar-like marks.

What I Learned Using the Bissell Little Green Machine

My advice? Get close to the stain, and dont overspray. The 48-ounce detergent tank is overkill for small messes or spot cleaning, and a little goes a long way. More importantly, I learned to deep clean spills on fibers and for best results, get them when theyre fresh.

Luckily, now that I have the Bissell Little Green machine, it’s convenient to thoroughly clean messes before the stains set in. Its easy for residue to stay in fibers after simply being blotted or rinsed away. Sticky messes attract more dirt and before you know it, you have a big dark spot.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Lightweight and portable
• Sucks moisture and dirt out of the fibers
• Easy to store
• Long 15-foot power cord for mobility
• Large 48-ounce tank

Cons

• Only Bissell cleaning products are recommended
• Short hose doesnt swivel at the base
• Loud

FAQ

Does Little Green Bissell work?

If youre looking for a quick way to thoroughly clean up messes, the Bissell Little Green machine is a good choice. It lets you saturate the fibers, loosen debris with the brush tool, and suck up the extra moisture to protect the fabric. The machine saves time and is easier than scrubbing and blotting. The powerful suction pulls excess moisture out of the fabric to aid in drying time and ensures your upholstery isnt overly saturated.

Does Bissell Little Green leave couch wet?

I was heavy-handed when spraying a fresh stain on my couch, and it took over eight hours to dry. I learned my lesson and went easy on the spray when I did a quick sweep over a dusty and drab upholstered chair in the basement. The chair was damp to the touch for about an hour. The Bissell Little Green freshened up the old, worn upholstery, but there wasnt a dramatic contrast once it was cleaned.

How long does it take carpet to dry after using Bissell Little Green?

The low-pile polyester carpets that I cleaned felt slightly damp when I was done using the machine, and they dried within an hour. Whereas the thick shag in the cold basement took a few hours to dry.

What Other Bissell Little Green Reviews Say

I recently took my dog to the vet and I asked her if she had ever used the Little Green machine. Her eyes widened and she exclaimed, Oh my God, I couldnt live without it! Other Bissell Little Green reviews echo the professionals sentiments.

Cindi Willette wrote a five-star Bissell Little Green review on Amazon, saying, “Let’s talk about the size of this thing. It’s like a carpet-cleaning sidekick that fits perfectly in your closet, ready to leap into action when spills and stains threaten your home’s dignity. Bissell Little Green is to carpets what Batman is to Gothamcompact, efficient and always ready for a cleanup caper.”

Collin M. also wrote a Bissell Little Green review, giving it five stars on Amazon, writing, “I absolutely love this thing, for certain, it’s simply magic. Super easy to use, there are lines in the clean water tank that show how full to put the cleaning solution vs. clean water, then you simply hook it back into place and flip the machine on. Suction is constant and there is a trigger pull to help spray the fluid or just focus on suction. What’s extra neat as well is there’s a ‘self-cleaning’ nozzle also that simply circulates the clean water through the hose into the dirty tank so you don’t have to take everything apart to clean when you are done.”

Another Five-star user, Mona, says, “I recently bought the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner, and let me tell you, it has been a game changer in our house. With a baby and a pet, you can imagine the kind of messes I deal with daily. This little machine has made cleaning up so much easier.”

Bissell Little Green Product Comparison

As a leader and innovator in the clean-up business, Bissell makes machines that tackle tough messes.

If youre looking for a heavy-duty carpet cleaner, Bissell has a style, bundle or size to suit your needs. For a few dollars more than the original, grab the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxein gray or blue. This bundle comes with the 3-inch brush tool, self-cleaning hose attachment, plus, a stain trapper tool, as well as an 8-ounce trial bottle of Pet Oxy Boost and Pet Spot & Stain formula.

Pet owners arent the only people who need carpet cleaning tools that can work for multiple surfaces. Similar to the original Bissell Little Green, the portable Little Green Hydrosteam is a multi-tasking machine. Not only does it deep clean carpet and upholstery, but it also includes a hard surface cleaning tool for tile or hardwood floors.

Whats even better is that the HydroSteam adds the deep cleaning power of steam. The Hydrosteam model has three clean settings for more control, in addition to more powerful suction for quicker drying times. The larger tanks make this steam cleaner a little heavier, but the portable profile makes it easy to store and transport.

The Revolution HydroSteam adds a heightened level of deep cleaning to this upright machine with steam. Our editors tested the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam Pet Carpet Cleaner with incredible results. In addition to its easy-to-use upright wheeled design, the HydroSteam has a hose attachment for cleaning upholstery and hard-to-reach places.

To compare other Bissell carpet and upholstery cleaning tools, check out our best Bissell carpet cleaning machine recommendations.

Final Verdict

This Little Green machine works great for upholstery and spot-cleaning carpets. I like the lightweight portability and compact footprint of the Little Green machine. Whether you need to clean your car or treat a stain in the middle of your staircase, the 15-foot power cord gives you the flexibility to do it.

Im confident that the Bissell Little Green machine cleans deeper than my old blotting method or spraying and vacuuming any kind of mess. Luckily, I never noted any scent of soured milk on my sectional, because the Bissell washed it away.

The machine is stable and steady when sitting on the floor. Its durable and works well to spot clean fresh messes. Plus, its user-friendly and simple to operate. The only flaw I found while using this machine for several months, was the 4-foot hose. Honestly, it could use a few more feet to reach the back of a tall chair, upholstered headboard or deep couch. Another downside is that the hose doesnt swivel at the base, and as a result, I spent a lot of time adjusting the angle of the machine for a comfortable reach. Not a deal-breaker, but worthy of noting just the same.

Im not a fan of the manufacturers recommendation to exclusively use Bissell cleaners in the machine. However, I was pleased that the cleaner was included in the bundle and the bottle should last me a long time.

Noise Levels

As someone who suffers from hearing loss, I found this machine to be annoyingly loud, so I did a noise level check on it. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) app on my phone, the Bissell Little Green scored 82.2 decibels, which is similar to a loud vacuum cleaner. For reference, my vacuum cleaner clocked in at 67.8 dB. According to the Hearing Health Foundation, noise levels above 70 dB will damage hearing over time. The NIOSH considers 85 dB hazardous when exposed to that level eight hours a day, but you’re likely not using the machine that long.

Overall, I was so relieved that I had the Bissell Little Green when I made a mess on my new sectional. It sucked up the stains in minutes. And what was even more rewarding was watching them disappear. If you want to save your furniture and carpet from unsightly stains, this affordable little unit is worth having on hand.

Where to Buy the Bissell Little Green

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Bissell Little Green

Every home needs a Bissell Little Green machine, before messes turn into forever stains. This carpet and upholstery cleaner keeps your home clean and smelling fresh.

$81.49 at Amazon

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$123.59 at Wayfair North America

The Little Green Machine is available on Amazon, Bissell, Wayfair, Walmart, and Target. Pet lovers have looked to Bissell for cleaning solutions for years with a high satisfaction rating. Dont worry, you dont have to own a pet to get the cleaning power of the Bissell Little Green because it works on human messes equally well.

The post I Tried It: My Honest Bissell Little Green Review appeared first on Family Handyman.

In case youre wondering, HEPA purification technology has been widely used for decades, and its a tested and proven method for filtering and purifying indoor air. Its standard filtration for pulling out microparticles by using a fan and filter system. Once the air passes through the filter(s), its put back into the room. Eventually, most of the air in the room will cycle through the air purifier, decreasing particulate matter, odors, dust and more.

I ordered the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier, had it delivered to my home (which is full of hard flooring and prone to collecting dust and dander) and tested it for about a month to see if there were any noticeable differences in my indoor air quality. Heres how it went.

What is the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier?

The NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier (AKA the OxyPure 1200) is a smart air purifier that removes airborne lead, pollen, dander, allergens, gasses and more from the air in your home. Specifically, the air purifying system claims to capture airborne particles as small as .09 microns, which means it should capture most pet dander, bacteria, household dust and dust mites, mold spores and pollen.

The NuWave OxyPure is designed to clean air in rooms as large as 2,671 square feet by taking in air and running it through its five-filter system for safer, cleaner air. It connects to your home’s Wi-Fi so that you can control and monitor it from an app on your phone. And if you want to clean the air in another room of the house, the purifier has wheels. So, all you have to do is unplug it, wheel it into another room and plug it back in! (If app-controlled devices arent your thing, the top of the purifier has all of the app functions in big-button form.)

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NuWave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier

NuWave is a five-stage HEPA air purifier that cleans more than 2,500 square feet of indoor air in your home.

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$449.99 at Amazon

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NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier Features

The NuWave air purifier has five filters: A true HEPA filter to catch fine particles; a carbon filter to remove vehicle emissions, fumes and odors; an ozone emissions removal filter; a patented bio-guard (ESP) filter to catch particle pollutants; and a stainless-steel pre-filter that catches dust, fiber, hair, pet fur and lint. Additionally, the purifier has two main sensors: An air quality sensor and an odor sensor. So, its designed to adjust its fan speed when it senses air particles and smells.

Apart from the HEPA and carbon filters (which are combined), the rest of the five-layer filtration system is designed to last a whopping 20 years and can be washed for maintenance. The HEPA/carbon filter should be replaced every 12 months, but the air purifier comes with four of these filters, so youre set for a while.

The air purifier plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet and takes 125-128 watts to run. It weighs just a little under 27 pounds and is 14 inches long, 14 inches wide and 26 inches tall. I initially thought it would be a bulky eye-sore, but I put it right off my kitchen, tucked behind a long storage table, and I barely noticed it. Its also very quiet, which is a huge plus!

How We Tested It

I had the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier delivered to my home so I could test it in a real living environment. Quite frankly, I was in desperate need of an air purifier, as my house constantly seemed to accumulate dust and dander despite daily vacuuming and cleaning. I have hard floors throughout my house, which tend to show dust more than carpet. So, I was excited to test the NuWave OxyPure to see if it helped eliminate some of the dust and floating particles.

Unboxing and Placement

As mentioned, I set the NuWave OxyPure right off my kitchen, in my dining nook that leads into a small living room (the main part of my home). Its all open, and less than 2,000 square feet (the air purifier claims to clean rooms up to 2,671 square feet). So, I figured that was the most beneficial place to put the purifier, as the kitchen, living room and dining nook are essentially one large room.

The device arrived at my doorstep in one box about the size of the device itself. Setting up the purifier was easy and simply required unboxing it, flipping through the instructions, unwrapping the filters and reinserting them. Then, after removing the stickers and tape from the device, all I had to do was plug it in and download the app (to control the air purifier remotely, but this last step isn’t necessary).

Fan and Speed Modes

Once I plugged my new air purifier in, I set it to auto mode which allows the system to run at the lowest (and quietest) fan speed for the PM (particle matter) level detected. In other words, if the device detects a low PM level, the fan speed will be at a one or two, and if the PM level is high, then the fan speed will be at a five or six. There are six different fan speeds altogether.

Additionally, the air purifier has an ultimate clean button that switches to the highest fan speed when PM levels rise. If you know there is something in the air that may be polluting your home, then the ultimate clean function may come in handy. The device also has an eco-mode that allows you to conserve energy by keeping the fan off until its needed. This mode is achieved by pressing and holding the power and ultimate clean buttons together. Lastly, you can put the purifier in sleep mode if you want to keep the device on but turn off the LED control panel. You can also set the fan speed and a device timer manually.

Checking Airflow

One way to test that an air purifier is working is by checking the airflow. The NuWave OxyPure, like most air purifying systems, has a fan that pulls in air from the room and runs it through a filtering system that removes harmful pollutants. Then, it blows out clean air. I like that I can feel (and sometimes hear, depending on the fan speed) the clean air coming out of the NuWave OxyPure whenever its on. Ive also noticed that it detects a pickup when I walk by with laundry, for instance, as it is likely sensing an uptick in lint or dust from the clothes Im carrying.

I’ve also noticed less dust and dander in the area around the purifier, which has meant less vacuuming. There also seem to be fewer odors, and I even removed my plug-in air freshener as it doesnt seem necessary with the purifier running (we will see how long this lasts).

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Detects air quality and odors
• 5-stage filtering system
• Filters last up to 20 years, except for the HEPA/carbon filter
• Includes 4 extra HEPA/carbon filters, which last 12 months each
• More sustainable than other air purifiers with lower lifespans
• Wheels make device transport from room to room easy
• Quiet operation
• Wi-Fi connectivity and app control
• Lightweight

Cons

• Pricey
• App is minimalistic and easy to use but could provide more information and specifics regarding device and air quality

FAQ

How long do NuWave OxyPure filters last?

Apart from the 2-in-1 HEPA/carbon filter, all filters in the NuWave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier last up to 20 years with proper cleaning and maintenance. The HEPA/carbon filter lasts a year, but the system comes with 4 extra HEPA/carbon filters.

Is the NuWave air purifier worth it?

After sifting through several customer reviews across multiple sites and testing the product, we can say that we do think the NuWave OxyPure is worth it. People cite a noticeable difference in their air quality, the air in their home feeling less stuffy, fewer odors and less dust and dander while using the device.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

With nearly 2,500 ratings on Amazon, the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier has a 4.5-star average. Heres what people are saying about the device.

Verified purchaser Megan loves it so much she has two. She says, Our house is around 3,000 square feet but a portion of the basement is closed off like its an apartment. I have one in this area, where my daycare is, and one in our main portion of the house. I have them set to ultimate clean and I can tell a difference. My daycare kids are way less sick and when they do it normally doesnt spread and they dont get as bad. I have noticed a huge difference in the dust that gets or well doesnt get on things. I dont worry about the daycare smelling like diapers anymore. These are amazing and if I ever have to replace the two I have I would buy this brand again.

Tim T. gives it five stars and says it has helped clear his stuffy nose. He writes, I used to wake up every morning with a stuffy nose which took hours to clear or use nose spray. After using this for two days I almost never have a stuffy nose anymore and have used it since May. I used to use small machines but did not work that well and filters had to be changed a lot. What a relief. The only time I shut it off is if my windows are open on nice days.

Product Comparison

NuWave makes other air purifiers that have similar features to the OxyPure air purifier. While other NuWave air purifiers are more affordable and some are even portable, the OxyPure Smart Air Purifier is the only one with a five-stage filter, so it filters out more pollutants than the other models. It also has a sleeker, stainless-steel appearance, while the other air purifiers are white. Depending on your appearance preferences, budget and portability needs, you may want to consider other NuWave air purifiers too.

Final Verdict

If youre someone who notices a lot of dust and pet dander throughout your home, an air purifier is worth looking into. Some people also say they notice a decrease in symptoms of allergies and illness while using an effective air purifier. While I havent noticed that (yet), I have noticed a decrease in general odors, dust particles and dander in the room where my NuWave OxyPure sits. For me, those are enough reasons to continue using an air purifier, and I would recommend one to anyone who notices a buildup of dust and dander or unpleasant odors in their home. Furthermore, I love that NuWave OxyPure has smart technology and that its filters have a longer lifespan than many other commercial air purifiers.

Where to Buy the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier

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I Tried It

NuWave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier

NuWave is a smart air purifier that eliminates dust, pet dander, gasses and other pollutants in your home.

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$449.99 at Amazon

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You can buy the NuWave OxyPure Smart Air Purifier directly from NuWave for $600. You can also shop the device on Walmart or Amazon with Prime delivery. Retailers frequently run discounts on the product, so youll likely pay less than the marked retail price.

The post I Tried the NuWave OxyPure Air Purifier and Noticed Less Dust Around My House appeared first on Family Handyman.