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Talkin' Teeth: An Expert Answers Your Questions About Dental Health
Talkin' Teeth: An Expert Answers Your Questions About Dental Health

Yahoo

time7 days ago

  • Health
  • Yahoo

Talkin' Teeth: An Expert Answers Your Questions About Dental Health

We all know oral health is important — but beyond 'brush and floss twice daily,' the details get fuzzy fast. Are you supposed to do something special for crowns? Should implants be on your radar? And is a Waterpik a game-changer…or just a glorified squirt gun? These are just a few of the questions you sent to us about dental care — and we've brought in a pro to get you some answers. We've invited Bill Dorfman, DDS, a leading dentist you may recognize from his recurring appearances on The Doctors, to discuss everything from implants, how to banish bad breath, what to look for in a whitening product, and a whole lot more. Reader Q: What is deep teeth cleaning, and is it worth the extra cost? Dr. Dorfman: A deep cleaning goes beneath the gumline to remove plaque and tartar that regular cleanings don't typically reach. It's essential if you have signs of periodontal disease (like bone loss or pockets). If your dentist recommends it, it's probably because you need it. Skipping it could mean more bone loss or even eventual tooth loss. Is it worth the cost? 100 percent. It's not cosmetic, it's foundational to your oral health. Do you recommend using a Waterpik? I would recommend using a Waterpik if you have braces, bridges, or implants, or if you're prone to gum inflammation — but a Waterpik is not a replacement for flossing. Although it can assist those with mobility issues or get into hard-to-reach places, such as between brace brackets, it won't be able to get between the teeth as well as traditional floss will. So, I'd rather you use a Waterpik than nothing, but flossing is always the best option. What can I do about my boyfriend's bad breath? He brushes, flosses, and uses a Waterpik two to three times a day. What else can he do? Even people with excellent oral hygiene can suffer from bad breath. If he's brushing, flossing, and using a Waterpik diligently, it might be time to explore alternative solutions. Bad breath can stem from bacteria on the tongue, tonsil stones, dry mouth, or even gut health. Ninety percent of oral malodor (aka bad breath) comes from the tongue. I recommend that he try a tongue scraper, stay hydrated, and limit his consumption of coffee and alcohol. If the bad breath persists, have him see a dentist to rule out gum disease. It's not always about brushing more; it's about finding the source of the problem and making the necessary changes in his routine to solve it. If all else fails, I'd recommend sugar-free gum or mints. Should we be concerned about lead in toothpaste? What brands would you recommend? Yes, unfortunately, some imported or non-FDA-regulated toothpastes have been found to contain trace amounts of heavy metals. Stick with reputable, ADA-approved brands. I also always recommend my patients use fluoridated toothpaste. Personally, I would avoid anything that's not clearly labeled or comes from unknown online sellers. When it comes to what goes in your mouth daily, it's better to be safe than sorry. The enamel on my teeth has worn down. What can be done? Once enamel is gone, it doesn't grow back, but we do have solutions. A few options are bonding, veneers, or crowns. All of these can restore the natural look of your teeth and keep them protected. I also recommend you use a low-abrasion toothpaste and avoid acidic drinks. You can also have your dentist evaluate you for tooth grinding. Grinding is a leading cause of enamel wear, and a custom nightguard made by your dentist can help. What is the best way to whiten teeth at home? Generally, when seeking an at-home teeth whitening solution, look for a product that contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. If the product you're looking at doesn't have either of those ingredients, it won't actually whiten your teeth. The most it'll do is remove surface stains, but it won't whiten the structure of your teeth. We just launched a new tooth whitening strip called POOOF! — now available on Amazon. POOOF! Whitens your teeth 37 percent faster than the leading tooth whitening strip in a 10-day in vitro study. It's also made with a zero-sensitivity formula and tastes great. The strips actually dissolve in 10 to 15 minutes on your teeth, so it's fast, easy, and convenient. Any advice before I get implants? Implants are one of the best long-term solutions for missing teeth, but they require some planning: Have your dentist check that your bone density is sufficient. If not, a bone graft may be needed. Choose an experienced surgeon and restorative dentist. This is not something you want to bargain-shop for. After placement, follow all care instructions as advised by your dentist. If done right, implants can last decades, or even a lifetime. Fluoride — yea or nay? Yea! Fluoride is proven to prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. If you're at high risk for decay, it's a great preventive tool. If you have fluoridated water, make sure the amount is ideal. Too much is not beneficial. Use fluoridated toothpaste, too. Most adults also benefit from topical fluoride during their regular teeth cleanings. Unless you have a medical contraindication, I would always choose to use fluoride. The information provided in this article isn't intended as medical advice, and shouldn't replace professional medical treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any serious health concerns. The post Talkin' Teeth: An Expert Answers Your Questions About Dental Health appeared first on Katie Couric Media.

Can't wait until Prime Day? The Bissell Little Green portable cleaner is already on sale on Amazon — it has 16,000 reviews
Can't wait until Prime Day? The Bissell Little Green portable cleaner is already on sale on Amazon — it has 16,000 reviews

Yahoo

time04-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Can't wait until Prime Day? The Bissell Little Green portable cleaner is already on sale on Amazon — it has 16,000 reviews

Amazon Prime Day 2025 is just around the corner, and Amazon Canada will no doubt have some serious savings. But if you don't want to wait, you can already catch some pretty sweet early deals. Today, we spotted the Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner on sale for just $105 ahead of Prime Day, which kicks off July 8. The powerful cleaning tool has earned more than 16,900 customer reviews, which is promising enough. But if. you're curious to see if the "easy to assemble" cleaner is worth the hype, I put the Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner to the test. Scroll down for my honest review. This "impressive and effective" spot cleaner makes deep cleaning a breeze. 💵 Price: $105 (originally $140) ⏰ Used for: Over two years ⭐ Our rating: 5/5 🛍️ Reasons to buy: This portable cleaner can be used on carpets, upholstery, couches, auto interiors and gets rid of stains like nobody's business. ✋ Reasons to avoid: If your house/apartment doesn't have a ton of carpets or upholstered furniture that could use some TLC. There are few things more satisfying than giving your home a good scrub down, and the Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner is my fave device to bust out when my place starts looking a little worse for wear. Since first testing it out at the beginning of 2023, it's become a staple in my deep cleaning routine (and is absolutely essential if you have pets). But I'm not the only one who is singing its praises — TikTok views for the hashtag #bisselllittlegreen has amassed millions of views to date. To see why everyone keeps raving about it, keep reading for the full review. The Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner is a compact gadget that'll bust through spots, stains and built-up grime. When it's locked and loaded with the Bissell Professional Spot & Stain + Oxy Formula cleaner (don't worry, the machine comes with a trial size) it'll work some serious magic. Speaking of extras, it comes with a standard hose tool and a special stain tool that'll help you get deep into fabric fibres so you'll get the results your looking for. It also has removable water tanks that make refilling and swapping out dirty water a breeze during the cleaning was sort of an impulse purchase — I didn't think I needed it when I ordered it, but now I can't live without it. I've used it on my area rugs, couch and my mattress. I honestly didn't know how gross my stuff was until I put this to work. I vacuum regularly, I spot clean when I need to, and I'm not exactly careless with my furniture, but the colour of the water in its tank was absolutely disgusting when I got through, like, a quarter of one carpet. It's super intuitive to use — you just pull the trigger on the hose while gliding it across whatever surface your cleaning. It's also very lightweight, which is great when you have the tote it up and down stairs during cleaning sprints. Plus, it gets rid of lurking odours. My dog loves soft surfaces, which means my couch and carpets smell like her. This gets rid of that in a flash, which is probably one of the best things about it. Amazon Canada shoppers are also downright obsessed with the Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner. It has more than 16,000 reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.4 stars. One reviewer who has children and pets says stains are "easily taken care of" with this in their arsenal. They use it on car seats and couches and note that it gets rid of both odours and liquids when their little one has an accident. One reviewer loves how small and portable it is, saying it fits even in petite closets. They rave about how it leaves they're carpets looking amazing and love that they don have to haul "the giant rug cleaner out' to get rid of stains. And a ton of people also love using it to clean their car interiors. One reviewer who used it on their car seats, mats, and interior was "amazed at how clean they came out." More early Prime Day deals: Early Prime Day TV deals: Amazon already slashed the price of this 'crisp' Fire TV by $250 Amazon still has 100s of extended Canada Day deals ahead of Prime Day 2025 Prime Day is still 5 days away, but the Fire TV Stick is already 50% off Yes, it can be hard to justify spending $105 on a deep cleaning tool if you think your cleaning skills are 10/10, but I have been humbled by this machine (and so have reviewers). If you've got pets, kids, or are prone to spilling on your furniture, I highly suggest investing in it — you won't be disappointed. And of course, you'll want to snag it now when it's 25 per cent off.

How To Deep Clean Your House In 1 Day, According To An Expert
How To Deep Clean Your House In 1 Day, According To An Expert

Yahoo

time21-06-2025

  • General
  • Yahoo

How To Deep Clean Your House In 1 Day, According To An Expert

With some planning and prioritizing, you can tackle every room in your home for a deep clean. Declutter to put things back where they belong, and work from top to bottom in every room. Keep rooms clean longer with regular cleaning and managing clutter and unused many times have you opted to throw a big party at your house, only to leave the cleaning for the day before? Whether you're in a serious time crunch and need to deep clean your whole home, or you just want to dedicate a whole day to cleaning and getting it over with, this is the guide for you. We asked Jacqueline Stein, a professional cleaner and the owner of Home Reimagined in Austin, Texas, for her thorough tips on how to deep clean your whole house in one day. Yes, it's possible, but will take quite a bit of effort to get it all done! While cleaning the entire house seems like a Herculean task, the rewards are worth it. Thankfully, it only needs to be done once or twice a year. Use this guide to clean it in one day or to break up tasks throughout a longer time frame. Before diving into this big project, it's important to remember that not everything has to be 100% perfect. Do what you can in the time allotted and don't give up—you can achieve more than you think in a day. Before deep cleaning your entire house in one day, there are a few things you should consider: Plan Ahead: Make a schedule or task list for each room and allocate time for each task. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you are able to clean everything you need to in the allotted time. Gather Supplies: Make sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies and a sufficient amount of them before you start. 'And remember to always use proper ventilation when using chemicals, and always use protective gear when cleaning (e.g., gloves, masks, etc.),' suggests Stein. Declutter: Before you start cleaning, declutter each room by removing any unnecessary items. This will make it easier to clean and help you see what needs to be done. 'Removing all items that block your vision of the rooms will allow you to clean quicker and not get distracted during a clean to put items away or back in another room,' says Stein. Prioritize: Focus on the most important tasks first—this should be your dirtiest room first. Typically, this is your kitchen and then the bathrooms. Stein suggests cleaning these first, as they will take the most motivation, momentum, time, and energy. Get Help: If possible, enlist the help of family members or friends to make the cleaning process go more quickly and efficiently. Start at the Top: Start cleaning at the top and work your way to the bottom. 'Clean the tallest items first, then work toward the ground last—dust falls and there is no use in mopping those floors if you are just going to be pushing dirt and crumbs onto it from the countertops,' explains Stein. Vinegar Spray bottle Multipurpose cleaner Bathroom cleaner Tough scrub brushes Soft scrub brushes / sponges Microfiber rags (fuzzy and the lint-free ones) Duster Dusting gloves Glass cleaner Floor cleaner Mop Vacuum Broom Specialty cleaners (if applicable) Granite cleaner Stainless steel cleaner Laundry detergent Upholstery cleaning machine Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleaner Dish soap Bucket Dishwasher cleaner like Glisten Rubbing alcohol Oven cleaner Toilet bowl cleaner Washing machine cleaner tablets Lint brush First, declutter the space. Remove any items that have landed on the countertops, put them away, and remove the towels, bath mats, and shower curtains. 'Pop them in the washing machine, so they can be washed while you clean,' suggests Stein. Start from top to bottom and dust everything in your bathroom, or use a handheld vacuum and brush attachment to remove all debris and hair from the surfaces. 'Remember, it's crucial to remove all dust before applying any cleaning products to your surfaces, so you aren't just pushing wet debris around,' warns Stein. Spray the shower and tubs with cleaner and let it sit for 15 minutes while you disinfect the toilet seats, handles, backs, base, and more. Clean the base of the toilet that is on the floor and all the knobs, too. After that, scrub the inside of the bowl before moving on. Clean the mirrors with glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol and a lint-free rag, paper towel, or even newspaper. 'Spray the sinks and countertops with disinfectant—let the disinfectant/cleaner sit on the surface of the countertops for a few minutes while you wipe down any of those cotton ball jars, cotton swab containers, soap dispensers, or other items you put aside,' says Stein. 'Scrub the inside of the sink with a good scrub brush, faucet included, and then wipe down the countertops after for a fresh start.' Use a good scrub brush or scrub mop to clean the walls, floor, corners, door, water guard on door, and grout between tiles in the bathtub/shower. Use a soft sponge or brush to clean the fixtures (shower head, handles, and tub spout), so as not to scratch them. Rinse the shower well. If you have hard water remaining on your glass shower doors, Stein suggests spraying vinegar on them and letting them sit for 15 minutes to 12 hours, before scrubbing with a sponge and rinsing clean. Once you're done cleaning the shower, you can squeegee the entire shower and dry all fixtures and any water remaining on walls, floors, doors, etc. 'A dry shower is the best way to avoid water spots, mold and bacteria,' explains Stein. Clean the windows and window treatments by dusting or washing blinds or curtains, according to their care instructions. Then, use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean the windows. Wipe the cabinet and drawer doors (inside and out) and take the time to remove all bins or items in the cabinets and wipe the inside down. 'You can also do some light decluttering if you are up for the task,' suggests Stein. 'Remember to empty the trash and disinfect the wastebasket bin too.' Vacuum the floors and mop them for a perfectly clean room. If time allows, scrub the grout with a tough scrub brush and some cleaner before you mop those floors to remove any deep-set-in stains. Stein suggests replacing towels, shower curtains, shower liners, and bath mats before exiting the room. Start by removing any items that do not belong in the kitchen, as well as any small appliances, utensils, or dishes that are cluttering your countertops. 'Take everything off the countertops, including small appliances, cutting boards, and other items, and store them in their proper place,' suggests Stein. Dust the entire room first, and take out any kitchen towels, floor mats, or other linens and launder them at this time. Remove the stove burners and grates and soak them in hot, soapy water in the sink. 'While they soak, wipe down the stovetop with a degreaser, making sure to clean any spills or residue that has accumulated,' suggests Stein. 'You can also use a handheld vacuum to suck up any crumbs on the stovetop, before wiping it with cleaner.' After you've fully cleaned the stovetop, use a little bit of rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner over it to make it shine. Remove racks from the oven and soak them in the sink or put them in the dishwasher. Spray the inside of the oven and let sit for 30+ minutes before scrubbing it down. 'While the cleaner sits inside, wipe the outside of the oven down with a mild cleaner and then go over with a specialty cleaner,' suggests Stein. Microwave a bowl of water and lemon for two to five minutes. Remove the bowl with oven mitts and wipe the debris from the inside of the microwave. 'You can wipe the exterior, following the same rules as the oven exterior,' says Stein. 'If your microwave is above the stovetop, remove the air vent filters and soak in the sink with the stovetop grates.' Toss any expired food and wipe the shelves down in your refrigerator. Move on to wiping down the exterior of your refrigerator and freezer (following the same rules as the oven exterior), and vacuum the coils. Don't forget to clean the refrigerator's water and ice dispenser. Wipe down small appliances, such as the air fryer, toaster, and coffee maker. Return to the sink, and scrub and rinse all of the grates, filters, and racks sitting in the sink. 'Dry them well and return them to their appropriate appliance,' advises Stein. 'If any dishes, pots, or pans have also accumulated in the sink, wash them now or load the dishwasher and run it.' Start scrubbing the sink by removing all the gunk first—pull out any goop in the garbage disposal and scrub it. Then coat your sink in dish soap and lightly scrub with a sponge to remove all food particles, stuck-on-gunk, and more. Rinse well, and follow up with the appropriate sink cleaner for the material you have (for example, if you have a stainless-steel sink, Stein recommends using Bar Keepers Friend). Spray generously on the sink and scrub it in with a cleaning sponge. Make sure to scrub the sink faucet, handles, and any other metal fixtures with a soft brush or sponge to remove any buildup or stains. 'Let the cleaner sit for 10 minutes while you clean the cabinets,' suggests Stein. 'Return to the sink, rinse it well, and dry it out fully to avoid water spots.' While your sink cleaner is sitting, clean the exterior of your cabinets. If you have wood cabinets, a mixture of warm water and a tablespoon of dish soap in a bucket is a great cleaning solution, according to Stein. 'Use a microfiber cloth, dip it in, and wring it out very well—the rag should be barely damp,' she says. 'Wipe the exterior of the cabinets and drawers, drying immediately as you clean.' If time allows, remove all items from the cabinets and drawers, and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. Remove any liners and replace them with new ones, if necessary. Organize the contents of the cabinets and drawers and throw away any expired or unused items. Using a disinfectant cleaner, wipe down the countertops. 'Clean the backsplash tiles with a gentle cleaner and wipe down the grout with a toothbrush or scrub brush,' says Stein. 'If you have granite, I would recommend going back in with a granite cleaner to clean up the countertops.' Empty the trash, recycling, and compost bins as necessary, and scrub them with soap and a scrub brush. Once the dishwasher is empty, use a soft scrub brush to remove any gunk in the corners, empty the filter, and run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner. Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor to remove any loose dirt or debris, and then mop the floor with a heavy-duty cleaner, making sure to clean any spills or stains. 'Pay special attention to the areas around the stove and sink, as they tend to accumulate the most dirt and grime,' says Stein. 'Replace all towels and floor mats with clean ones and your kitchen is done.' The first thing you want to do is remove any clutter in your bedroom—think clothes, books, and any other items that should be put away into their respective spots. Use a damp microfiber cloth and a dusting brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment, and dust everything from the top of the ceiling fan or light fixtures to the baseboards. 'Remove any dust from the ceiling, walls, fans, light fixtures, window sills, and corners of the room before moving on to dusting the night stands, dresser, shelves, picture frames, lamps, and other decorations,' suggests Stein. Clean your bedroom windows. Dust or wash blinds or curtains according to their care instructions. Then, use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean the windows. Strip off all of your bedding, including your sheets, pillowcases, comforter or duvet, and mattress topper/cover. 'Wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions, and don't forget to clean any decorative throw blankets and pillows, too,' says Stein. 'Clean them now so they will be washed and ready to return to the room by the time you are done.' While your sheets are off the bed, this is a great time to clean your mattress. Dust mites can be in your mattress, so make sure you are vacuuming the mattress first and steam cleaning with a handheld steamer after. Let the mattress dry completely. To remove odors, Stein suggests sprinkling some baking soda on it and letting it sit for about 30 minutes. Vacuum it up using your vacuum cleaner's upholstery attachment. If you have an upholstered bed frame, you'll want to ensure you are vacuuming it now to remove dust and debris that gets stuck in it. While your mattress airs out, or the baking soda is sitting on the mattress, move on to wiping the surfaces. 'Use the appropriate cleaner for the material of your dressers and nightstands, and wipe all furniture to clean it,' says Stein. 'This includes the front of the drawers and handles.' While deep cleaning the bedroom, this is a great time to hang up any clothes that are on the floor, reorganize drawers, or go through your closet and donate items that you no longer need. When in your closet, make sure to vacuum or dust the shelves and wipe them down for a clean room. 'Replace all bedding, pillows, or other linens you laundered,' suggests Stein. Stein suggests wiping down the door knobs, lamp cords, doors, and light switches. Then vacuum the floors, including under the bed, and any carpets or area rugs in the room. Don't forget to vacuum any upholstery or curtains, if you haven't already done so. 'Start by removing any items that don't belong in the living room and find a proper place for them,' suggests Stein. 'Then, organize any items that are left in the room, such as books, magazines, or remotes.' Using a damp microfiber cloth, a dusting brush, or a vacuum with a brush attachment, dust the entire room starting from top to bottom. Remove any dust and cobwebs from the ceiling, walls, fans, and corners of the room before moving on to dusting the shelves, picture frames, lamps, and other decorations. 'Take this time to clean any knickknacks and décor items before moving on to the big stuff,' says Stein. 'I like to use dusting gloves to clean small items first, then I move on to lint roll the lamp shades, wipe coasters down, and wipe fake plant leaves.' Don't forget to dust and wipe any electronics like the TV screen, game console, remote control, and more with a microfiber cloth. Toss all throw blankets, pillow covers, couch covers, curtains, rugs (that can be washed), and any other fabric linen into the washing machine and launder before returning to the room. 'Wipe down all hard surface furniture such as tables, chairs, shelves, and more,' suggests Stein. 'Wiping with the appropriate cleaner for the item, don't forget to clean the legs and under sides of the tables and chairs, too.' For fabric furniture, start by vacuuming it first, then, if needed, use an upholstery cleaning machine or spot clean any stains. Clean the windows and window treatments. Dust or wash blinds or curtains, according to their care instructions. Then, use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean the windows. Vacuum or sweep the floors thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Make sure to do any spot cleaning on rugs at this time, too. Then, wet mop or steam mop the floors to remove any stains or marks. Declutter any items that shouldn't be in the laundry room. 'Dust the room or vacuum with a handheld vacuum and brush attachment,' suggests Stein. 'Dust the shelves, cabinets, tops of the washer/dryer, and any utility items in there.' Clean the washing machine first. Stein suggests running the cleaning cycle, or if you don't have one of those, run the hottest and longest cycle with a cleaning tablet in it. While this is cleaning, head to the dryer and remove all lint in the lint trap. 'Take out the lint holder and use a lint brush to clean deep down inside the dryer's lint trap,' says Stein. 'Or, use a long vacuum attachment and clean out any trapped lint.' Wipe down the inside of the dryer with a damp rag and clean the door, too. Then, clean the exterior of the dryer. Returning to the washing machine, once the cleaning cycle has completed, open the machine to let it air out. 'Pro tip: always leave the washing machine door open after a load to let it dry completely so that your clothes do not smell like mold and mildew,' suggests Stein. Wipe out the inside of the machine, cleaning the drawers/compartments that hold the detergent, and drum around the washing machine. If you have a front-facing washer, Stein suggests making sure to spray some cleaner into the drum and let it sit for a few minutes to remove any mildew and gunk. Then, dry the inside completely with a clean rag, including drying the drawers and any compartments for the detergents, and then wipe down the exterior. Clean the exterior and the interior of any cabinets, after removing any items. 'At this time, refill any products that need to be filled or add it to your grocery list, reorganize cabinets, and make sure they are all wiped clean,' says Stein. Wipe any countertops or folding tables, including the underside and the legs. Making sure you are also checking on any utility items in this room like water filters, water heaters, and other items to ensure they are all in safe and working condition. Vacuum the floors and mop for a clean laundry room. Declutter and put items away, moving the cars or any vehicles so you can fully clean. Use this time to reorganize or put boxes away that may have been left out. 'Donate anything that is not being used or put the donations into your car to drop off,' suggests Stein. 'Make sure to put all tools away, [place] ladders in the correct location, and charge any lawn mowers, weed whackers, or other lawn equipment that requires it.' Dust the ceiling in the garage and make sure to remove cobwebs and other particles that are on the shelves or walls. Wash and clean doormats and rugs or any fabric item that lives in these outdoor spaces. 'Wipe any hard furniture, gym equipment, shelves, or tables that are in the space,' says Stein. 'Sweep up any debris on the floor and then hose down or power wash the floors if needed.' To keep your home clean for longer, get rid of clutter before it accumulates. Set aside a few minutes each day to put things back where they belong. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule each week to prevent buildup of dust, grime, and dirt. Focus on areas of the home that get heavy traffic. They may need more frequent cleaning than less-used rooms. Tasks like taking out the trash, tossing expired items from the fridge and pantry, making the bed, and wiping down surfaces often will help maintain a clean house. Read the original article on Southern Living

15 Filthy Spots That Survived Your Spring Cleaning Rampage, According to an Expert
15 Filthy Spots That Survived Your Spring Cleaning Rampage, According to an Expert

CNET

time29-05-2025

  • General
  • CNET

15 Filthy Spots That Survived Your Spring Cleaning Rampage, According to an Expert

CNET Look outside and you'll see that flowers are blooming and pollen is flying. That means it's time to start spring cleaning -- or finish, according to a professional we spoke with. The professional in question is Angie Olive, owner of Alliance Building Services in St. Louis and she just happens to be my mom. She's been in the cleaning business for 25 years and says there are more than a dozen spots in the home that almost everyone misses. "Most things are out of sight and out of mind," said Olive, owner of . "If your outside surfaces are clean, you think everything is clean. It's no fault of your own that the stuff that slides down the side of your stove goes unnoticed until you move out." "If you maintain cleaning your house throughout the year, you should still consider hiring a professional cleaning company to come in at least twice a year for a deep clean," she added. So, if deep cleaning your home is part of your spring routine, here are 15 places in your home that you shouldn't forget. 1. Shutters Built-in shutters can accumulate a lot of dust over the years. Although it seems the only solution is regular dusting, I have found a tool that makes it slightly easier: a blind cleaner duster brush. Built-in shutters can often hide dust. Corin Cesaric/CNET (Tip: I also use this tool to clean my window AC unit, and you can also use it on blinds, too.) 2. Door frames The top of door frames is another area known for almost always being dusty. You can use a duster, microfiber cloth or vacuum to clean that area, then with warm, soapy water for the rest of the frame. 3. Baseboards Cleaning baseboards is typically on the list of least desirable chores. On Reddit, many users ask for tips on how to make this one easier on themselves -- and their backs and knees. One user suggested knee pads, while another advocates for using a vacuum with a brush attachment. If you have pets or there's a lot of foot traffic in your home, you'll want to clean your baseboards at least twice a month. FotoDuets/Getty Images Olive suggests that after deep cleaning your baseboards once, you can maintain them by using a damp mop on them when cleaning your floors. "As long as you're not using harsh chemicals, it won't damage your paint," she said. 4. Under the couch and bed For this chore, a robot vacuum may be the best -- and easiest -- option for regular upkeep. (CNET chose the Ecovacs Deebot T30S Combo and the iRobot Combo J7 Plus as the best robot vacuums for 2025.) 5. Ceiling fans It's good to occasionally clean the entire ceiling fan, including the bulbs, but the blades typically need the most attention. If your blades are heavily covered in dust, use a vacuum cleaner with the wand attachment on them first to minimize the amount that falls onto the ground -- or worse, in your face -- before dusting them clean with a duster or microfiber cloth. You can also clean the pull strings and bulbs with a microfiber cloth, but make sure the light switch is turned off and the bulbs have completely cooled before touching them. If you're deep cleaning your home, don't forget to look up to find the areas you may have missed. BackyardProduction/Getty Images 6. Grout When I moved into my apartment a few years ago, I could never get the tiny bathroom to feel clean — until I scrubbed the grout and unveiled its true color. I used Zep Grout Cleaner and a grout brush and was amazed at the difference, as were many on TikTok who used the same product. When I was halfway done with cleaning the grout, I was already extremely satisfied with the results. Corin Cesaric/CNET I poured the solution on the grout and let it sit for two to three minutes before using the brush to scrub the grout, then wiped the area clean. I now deep clean the grout about every six months and regularly mop. 7. Remote controls Although most people touch their TV remotes every day, it's often forgotten that we need to clean them, too. "They might not look dirty, but they're usually full of germs," Olive said. You should aim to clean and disinfect the remotes in your home about once a month.A quick way to clean your remote is to use a disinfectant wipe and then let it air dry. 8. Tops of cabinets When you cook on your stovetop, the smoke, steam and food particles travel up and often settle on top of your cabinets. This leaves a thick, sticky residue if you forget to clean the area. "Regularly clean with a degreaser on top of the cabinets," Olive said. "Once you get the build-up gone, you can maintain it." Another way to protect the top of your cabinets from the buildup is to line them with parchment or wax paper. 9. Doorknobs Doorknobs may not look dirty but most are teeming with germs. Fotosearch/Getty Images Doorknobs are another high-touch area that can be forgotten about. Use a disinfectant wipe or Lysol to clean them, especially during cold and flu season. (Tip: Clean your light switches at the same time you clean your door knobs since they're typically near each other.) 10. Stove knobs Stove knobs can get the same greasy residue buildup so it's important to deep clean them as well. Take the knobs off and soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub them if needed, then rinse, dry and replace. 11. Side of the stove As your stove knobs are soaking, you can deep clean the side of your stove, too. Pull out the appliance and use a cleaner of your choice to get rid of any food buildup that may have accumulated. "As you're cooking, you don't realize what you're spilling between the appliance and the countertop," Olive said. "Once you pull out your appliances, you'll find a lot of places that you need to clean." If you'd prefer to prevent spillage rather than clean it, you may want to invest in a stove gap cover. 12. Oven After you tackle the outside of your stove, it's time to clean the inside of the oven. You can try this chemical-free cleaning method to get your oven to look brand-new. Read more: Your Oven's Bottom Drawer Has a Secret Purpose -- Here's What It Actually Does Plan to clean your oven about four times a year. Jevtic/Getty Images 13. Walls You don't have to clean your walls every day, but they're not immune to getting dirty, especially the ones in your kitchen and bathroom, and for me, the one behind my dog's food and water bowls. You can start by dusting your walls, then using a Magic Eraser on them to get any marks, scuffs or splatters off. 14. Behind the refrigerator This area can be easily forgotten about, because most people don't routinely pull out their refrigerator. But when you do, you're almost certain to find dust and build up. You can clean the floor underneath your fridge and the wall behind it, then focus on the back of the fridge itself. First, unplug the fridge, then use a microfiber cloth or vacuum to dust the coils. Dust and hair can even find its way to the back of your fridge.15. Houseplants It may seem odd at first, but yes, you should be cleaning your houseplants, too -- even fake ones. The leaves on houseplants can collect a lot of dust. You can use a microfiber cloth or a duster to keep them dust-free. Plants with large leaves are especially likely to get dust buildup. Polina Sergeyeva/iStock/Getty Images Expert advice: Create a routine that works for you While it may seem overwhelming to keep every part of your home clean and free from dust, grease and buildup, don't overwork yourself. "Work out your own routine and do a little each time," Olive said. "Don't try to tackle everything at once."

Carpet Cleaning Reinvented: Tineco Introduces the CARPET ONE Cruiser
Carpet Cleaning Reinvented: Tineco Introduces the CARPET ONE Cruiser

Yahoo

time20-05-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Carpet Cleaning Reinvented: Tineco Introduces the CARPET ONE Cruiser

Powerful, smart, and hygienic – the new carpet cleaner delivers deep cleaning with unparalleled ease NEUSS, Germany, May 20, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carpet cleaning just got smarter, faster, and more efficient. With the launch of the CARPET ONE Cruiser, Tineco introduces an innovative solution that combines powerful performance, intelligent sensor technology, and a user-friendly design. The new model is now available in the Tineco Store and on Amazon. Far more than a conventional carpet cleaner, the CARPET ONE Cruiser features strong suction power of up to 130 watts, ensuring deep and effective dirt removal from carpet fibers. Even before cleaning begins, an optimized pre-treatment formula tackles stubborn stains – delivering visibly better results. The intelligent iLoop sensor module detects the level of dirt and automatically adjusts water flow and suction power, ensuring a thorough clean while conserving water and energy. Smooth Glide Across Every Carpet Type Thanks to SmoothPower technology with three power levels and bidirectional assist wheels, the CARPET ONE Cruiser moves effortlessly across all types of carpets – from high-pile to low-pile to delicate fabrics. A well-balanced tank system ensures easy handling, while special attachments make hard-to-reach areas easily accessible. Faster Drying – Back to Daily Life Sooner The device doesn't just clean carpets – it dries them quickly too. The built-in UltraHeat Drying Mode uses air heated to 75°C to reduce drying time by up to 50% compared to traditional devices. This helps prevent mold growth and gets carpets back in use faster. Self-Cleaning System for Maximum Hygiene After use, the FlashDry self-cleaning system activates a two-minute rinse cycle that flushes the brush, inlet, and roller cover. A five-minute drying cycle at 55°C follows, leaving the components clean, dry, and odor-free. The result: less maintenance, longer lifespan, and a device that's always ready for use – no extra effort required. The CARPET ONE Cruiser is now available via Amazon and the Tineco Store at a recommended retail price of €699. To celebrate the launch, both platforms are offering a 10% discount throughout May, bringing the price down to €629 (available on Amazon using the code TINCARPETDE). About Tineco Tineco was founded in 1998 with its first SKU as a vacuum cleaner and, in 2019, pioneered the first-ever smart vacuum. Today, the brand has innovated into a global leader offering intelligent appliances across home categories, including floor care, kitchen, and personal care. Tineco is dedicated to its brand vision of making life easier through smart technologies and consistently innovating new devices. View source version on Contacts

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