Learn multiple methods for cleaning cutting boards, as well as when you might choose one approach over another. Cutting boards are an essential cooking toolno kitchen is complete without one. Cutting boards are porous and can harbor bacteria like E. coli and salmonella that cause foodborne illness. Credit: gorodenkoff / Getty Images Rinse the board well with hot water and dry thoroughly with a clean dish towel. Allow 5-10 minutes to neutralize odors, then wash with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly....

The average desk is contaminated with even more bacteria than a public toilet. Use these office cleaning tips to banish germs from your workspace. Your workspaceincluding your desk, keyboard, and coffee cupis abacteria hotspot. Credit: Westend61/Getty Images When you sit down to work, you’re surrounded by thousands (perhaps millions) of germs. The simple cleaning tips below can help you avoid getting sick. These unhealthy habits can lead to a workspacein the office or at homefull of germs....

Remove water spots and buildup with the tips below, then apply regular TLC to keep them looking clean. Simply add soap and warm water to your brush or sponge, then gently scrub the faucet head. Allow steam to collect on the faucet head, then use the bristled attachment to rub away residue. Credit:Jacob Fox Use a soft-bristle scrub brush or a non-scratch scrub sponge if you don’t have a steamer attachment....

This popular cleaning tool offers several advantages over traditional string or sponge mops. Find out which floor types are suited for steam mops. They provide a highly sanitizing clean, as high temperature steam kills bacteria and viruses quickly and effectively. Credit:Jacob Fox Do not use a steam mop on an unsealed floor. Steam mops are typically safe to use on ceramic or porcelain tile, and on linoleum floors. It is also important to understand that improper use of steam mops may void the warranties on your flooring....

Find out when and how to clean your garden tools to ensure peak performance for years to come. When to Clean Garden Tools Ideally, garden tools should be cleaned off after every use. Plus, doing this important task during the colder months ensures your tools will beready to go for spring. Credit:Peter Krumhardt Heres how to make your tools shine and prep them for a long winter’s rest. Materials List: Step 1: Remove dirt....

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best productslearn process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. And don’t forget to clean your shower door tracks, too! Credit:BHG /Danielle Moore To keep glass shower doors clean and grime-free, prevention is key. “The best thing you might do is squeegee the door after each use,” Koenig says. A basic squeegee costs less than $20 and saves you lots of time and frustration....

Ensure your granite surfaces retain their natural beauty with our must-know cleaning tips. Employ these care and cleaning strategies to ensure your granite surfaces retain their natural beauty. What Is Granite? Credit:Getty Images / Grace Cary Granite is a siliceous stone composed primarily of silicates, such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. These create the colorful flecks and sparkling veins that make granite a favored finish for kitchens and baths. Granite isone of the hardest stonesused in interior applications and has antibacterial traits....

Don’t push this essential end-of-summer project to spring. Everyone loves a cookout, but cleaning up afterward can be a pain. Grime-free grill grates are essential to delicious barbecues and keeping a pest-free yard all year round. Credit: Mukhina1 / Getty Images Grill grates can be made of cast iron, stainless steel, or a porcelain coating. you could buy a professional grill cleaning kit or use supplies you already have around the house....

With just a little time and effort, your grout can look as good as new. Remove any visible dust, dirt, or general grime. If there’s any buildup or stains, take the time to clean those, too. Credit: Rett Peek Photography Inc Mix Cleaning Solution The best solution for cleaning grout depends on the state of your tile grout. If desired, you’re free to also use a commercial grout cleaner. Use distilled vinegar, with its high acidity level of pH 2....

Learn how to clean hairbrushes in just a few simple steps. Plus, find out when it might be time for a replacement. Learn how to clean hairbrushes to remove dirt, hair, and product buildup. Credit:Kelsey Hansen Take a few minutes to learn how to clean hairbrushes and reap the beauty benefits with this simple method. After you’ve removed all of the hair, give your hairbrush a good washing to remove buildup....

It can be difficult to reach exterior windows on high floors or oddly shaped facades. Here are tips to easily clean outside windows. Getty Images / Alexey Krukovsky Clean windowsimprove your home’s curb appealand allow natural light to pour inside. Credit:Getty Images / Alexey Krukovsky They also provide a clear line of sight for happenings outdoors. So, how do you clean hard-to-reach windows? Here are the best ways to clean outside windows you’re able to’t easily reach....

Floors take a lot of wear, including daily traffic and inevitable spills, scuffs, or mishaps. In addition to daily preventative practices, cleaning wood floors helps keep your home’s flooring in top shape. Learn how to clean hardwood floors, plus how to remove stains from wood floors. Credit:BHG / DANIELLE MOORE Do not use a vacuum with a beater bar attachment, which can scratch a wood floor’s finish. For quick dusting, use disposable electrostatic cloths....

Learn how to clean jewelry at home to restore shine to your favorite gems, rings, and necklaces. Understanding how to clean jewelry at home and properly care for your pieces will keep them in good condition. You don’t need a professionalor expensive jewelry polishto breathe life back into your favorite gems. Credit: Laura Moss Learn how to clean jewelry with homemade products that feature budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand....