How to Clean Smarter: Answers to Common Cleaning Questions
We’ve gathered some of the most common cleaning questions and broken them down room by room. From the kitchen to your bedroom, you’ll find simple answers, pro tips, and the right products to help you make cleaning fast and easier.
Kitchen
Kitchens can seem intimidating to clean due to the number of appliances, sanitary needs, and other sensitive surfaces. Protecting surfaces while cleaning is key.
Q 1: What’s the best way to clean a dishwasher filter?
A: A clean dishwasher filter helps to keep your dishwasher operating efficiently. To clean:
- Remove the filter and toss any food debris
- Wash gently with soapy water
- Rinse and return to its place
Q 2: How do you clean burnt food off stainless steel pans?
A: For burnt pans or grease stains, a heavy-duty cleaner like Zep Heavy-Duty Citrus Degreaser & Cleaner is recommended.
- Spray the product and let sit for 1 minute
- Scrub as needed and rinse thoroughly
Avoid plastic handles and don’t allow the product to dry on the surface.
Q 3: How do you clean the inside of a microwave?
A: The key to a quick and easy clean is contact time. Allow the cleaner time to penetrate stuck-on food and grease before wiping.
- Allow to sit up for 2-3 minutes for quick clean up or 2-3 hours for a deep clean
- Rinse thoroughly with water
Q 4: What’s the best cleaner for granite countertops?
A: Granite and other natural stones need a gentle touch. Acidic or alkaline cleaners can etch and discolor the surface. Instead:
- Use a non-caustic granite cleaner
- Spray evenly, let sit as directed, and wipe clean
- If used on a food contact surface, rinse thoroughly with water
This will preserve the granite’s finish while keeping it safe for everyday use.
Bathroom
Bathrooms can be tricky to keep clean due to constant moisture, soap scum, hard water, and grime.
Q 5: What’s the easiest way to clean my shower head?
A: Mineral deposits can block water flow over time. To clean:
- Remove the shower head
- Spray on limescale remover and allow to sit as directed
- Scrub or wipe as needed and rinse thoroughly
- Reattach shower head back
This is also a good time to replace the plumber’s tape under your shower head to help prevent leaks.
Q 6: How do I unclog a bathroom sink drain?
A: Bathroom drains often collect toothpaste, makeup, and hair over time. For fast results, we recommend Zep Liquid Heat Max.
- Pour in 16 oz. of product
- Wait 10 to 15 minutes
- Flush with hot water
Q 7: How do you clean a bathroom exhaust fan cover?
A: A dirty exhaust fan can lead to excess moisture and odors in the bathroom. To clean:
- Turn fan off and carefully remove cover
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner (If your cover also has a light, avoid getting it wet)
- Clear out the vent with a vacuum or soft brush
- Reattach the cover to the fan once dry
Q 8: How do you remove mold from a bathroom ceiling?
A: Mold is both unsightly and unhealthy, tackle stains and growth quickly.
- Spray a disinfectant to kill the mold and stop regrowth
- Let sit as directed and wipe
- For mold stains, try Zep Foaming Wall Cleaner
- Just spray and wipe
To prevent mold from returning, always use the exhaust fan when showering.
General
Keep common spaces fresh and clean.
Q 9: How do you clean a mattress?
A: Mattresses collect dust, skin cells, and allergens over time. To keep yours fresh:
- Vacuum the surface
- Spot-treat stains with an upholstery-safe cleaner:
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- Spray the product onto the stain.
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- Let it sit as directed.
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- Scrub gently, then blot excess moisture.
- Allow the area to dry fully before putting sheets back on.
Q 10: What’s a pet-safe floor cleaner?
A: Keeping pets safe while maintaining clean floors is all about proper use. Most cleaners can be pet-safe if you:
- Follow dilution directions carefully
- Allow product to dry fully before pets (or people) walk on it
- Rinse the floor with water if the label instructs you to do so
Q 11: What’s the safest way to clean a laptop or TV screen?
A: Screens are delicate, so use a light touch and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Turn off and unplug the device
- Wipe down the frame with a damp microfiber cloth
- Gently clean the screen with a microfiber cloth dampened with water or a screen-safe cleaner
- Dry immediately to prevent streaks
Never spray cleaner directly on the screen.
Q 12: How can I prevent stains on my carpet?
A: Here are some tips to keep spills from turning into stains.
- Soak up excess liquid by blotting (don’t wipe) with a clean towel into the carpet
- Spray carpet with a spot treatment and allow to sit as directed
- Agitate the area with a brush
- Blot again until the stain lifts
Repeat if needed, and finish by rinsing lightly with water to prevent residue.
Cleaning doesn’t need to be complicated. Tackle everyday messes with confidence with Zep. From tough kitchen grease to spills in your living room, these solutions will help keep your home fresh and inviting. Explore Zep’s full line of cleaning products to make any task easier.
- Zep Inc.
