Rubber Gloves

A-Z of DIY & Building Guides Top Cleaning Tips

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Date Published:
20/05/2008

Kim and Aggie are right - with the right attitude, cleaning doesn't have to be a chore. Here are some top tips to help you have a better time getting a cleaner home.

*All product details and prices correct at time of publication - 05/2008

Plate of Lemons

Lemon Fresh

Kim and Aggie are always recommending the powers of lemon juice. Here are their top three tips for getting the most out of that all-natural yet magic fluid...

* To remove limescale: Soak a paper towel in lemon juice, cover limescale with it for an hour before rinsing. Repeat as necessary. Do not use on thinly plated surfaces, such as gold.

* To whiten your whites: Soak the fabrics in lemon juice for 15 minutes then wash as usual.

* To buff brass or copper: Mix juice with coarse salt crystals, dip a soft cloth into the mixture, then rub away the tarnish. Polish up with a dry cloth.

Vacuum Cleaner

Beating Dust

Sneezing non-stop? It's might be time to buy a new vacuum, and probably the best small one is the Solution Hepa 5000 by Miele. It has a strong, 2,200 watt motor, but is really quiet (there's even a silence setting), a 10m cable, a bumper strip to protect furniture, and a HEPA filter, which should mean no more sneezing. John Lewis sells it for £199.

Dusting

Dusting Electrics

Everyone has dust under their TV. Why? Because it's really hard to dust under there. However, such an excuse is about to become redundant now we've discovered this great flat duster that is specially made for sliding under appliances. The duster costs £4 from Kleeneze.

White Wizard Cleaner

Spot Cleaning

Having trouble keeping that pristine sofa white? If you don't have the time (or energy) to wash removable covers, try White Wizard (£5 from Kleeneze) - a whizz of a product that'll take just about any stain out of upholstery, carpet and leather. Just spread it on and wipe it off, along with the muck.

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  1. How do i get nail polish off my walls??
    Posted by Rachael on 21/11/2009 23:21:36
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  2. Hi, I would just like help with how often to do things. I end up doing everything in the one day and its a nightmare. Obviously with general cleaning everyday. I need some sort of rota. Please help. xxx
    Posted by niki on 14/11/2009 21:54:16
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  3. Hi I live in a flat and the lady below is a smoker. The smell is permeating through her ceiling and up into my flat. The smell is very bad in the hall/hall cupboards and bedroom. I have tried all sorts to clear the smell including cloves, oranges soaked in essence but nothing is working. Please could you give me any tips to elimiate the smell. Many thanks
    Posted by Lorraine Johnson on 02/11/2009 17:39:28
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  4. A cat recently sprayed on my sons football boots. How do I get the smell out of them I have tried to wash them but it is still there.
    Posted by Diane Simpson on 22/10/2009 14:57:14
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  5. Hi there, could you please tell me how to get chewing gum off rough faced tiles Thanks
    Posted by denise on 01/10/2009 17:19:15
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  6. how do u get rid of the smell of mould of a nylon top
    Posted by valerie caargill on 29/09/2009 10:17:23
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  7. how do i get tipex stains of my woolen or cotton coat
    Posted by rafaene on 27/09/2009 15:28:49
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  8. how do i get rid of sticker marks
    Posted by chloe f on 27/09/2009 13:22:42
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  9. I have removed orange-coloured gunge from the grouting in the bathroom around the shower using a paste of borax and lemon jiuce applied as a paste with a toothbrush, but that doesn't ger rid of the blobs of black mould on the waterproof seal around the edge of the bath. Does anyone know of an eco-friendly solution to get rid of the mould? I don't want to use bleach or anything that will make the seal brittle and porous.
    Posted by Annie on 24/09/2009 21:15:19
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  10. Hi, i was wondering if anyone knows how to remove nicotine stains off radiators? it has a white metal paint on it and i do not want to damage it. I would really appreciate your help, i do not know where to start. thank you.
    Posted by Zuzu on 20/09/2009 15:23:05
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  11. how do i remove red dye off a quilt cover that has rubbed onto my white wall paper
    Posted by help on 20/09/2009 10:05:02
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  12. how do you remove the smell from apolostry on your sofa,would like to frshen it up.
    Posted by carlene on 08/09/2009 10:45:09
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  13. Hello i just wanted to know an easy way of getting dog wee wee's smell out of my carpet as my dog didnt do well training and the smell of dog out of our frontroom as we close the door at night and when we come down in the morn it just smells of dog have tried air freshners plugin's and candles, spray ones but none of them seem to work?????please help i am desperate.xxx
    Posted by stacey brooker on 03/09/2009 14:57:17
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  14. how to get gum off carpet
    Posted by elizabeth on 28/08/2009 14:47:43
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  15. hi to could you please give me some tips on how to clean granite and get ring marks out also get the shine back thanks
    Posted by Kelly on 27/08/2009 07:04:06
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  16. Have leather which has been marked with pen. I have tried hair spray, toothpaste, alcohol, and a cleaner on it.Its old how could i remove it.Blue ink on beige leather about 8 inches long.
    Posted by Kathy on 25/08/2009 19:11:43
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  17. how do i get ring stains out of marble?
    Posted by elly on 24/08/2009 15:14:03
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  18. How do I find the answers to these questions? Some of the queries are of use to me but I have tried to click to find the answers but no luck? Thank you
    Posted by Marlene on 23/08/2009 16:34:52
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  19. Whilst making marmalade, the mixture boiled over on my glass hob. Can anyone advise me how to remove this.
    Posted by Thelma on 18/08/2009 11:48:07
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  20. Hiya, we have had our oven trays for ages now, and they have a habit to stay very greasy after we have cleaned them, have you got any tips on how to get it clean and not greasy :) thanks
    Posted by DaniBayliss1 on 16/08/2009 18:42:10
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  21. How to clean throw pillows that cant be washed.
    Posted by lisamiller on 19/07/2009 02:53:49
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  22. i watch the revisit to the farmers and you's told them how to stop bugs and creepy crawlies coming in to their home, you clean all sufaces down with something on your cloth could you please let me know what was on your cloth thanks kymm from gateshead
    Posted by kymm26 on 14/07/2009 09:58:16
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  23. Hi I was watching the show and sadly missed the part where you caught the fly's I had the sound on mute as i was on the phone could you tell me the best way to catch lots fly's i think it was a double sided tape with something spread on it, please help!! Thanks Adam Ps great show!!!!
    Posted by Adam on 28/06/2009 13:06:21
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  24. I need to clean some unknown gunge off a rubber washing machine doorseal. Has anybody got a solution (no pun intended) for this type of problem?
    Posted by R. King on 11/06/2009 20:44:01
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  25. please can you yell me how do you get rid of mould spots on vertical blinds?. regards, Helen
    Posted by Helen Connor on 06/06/2009 18:43:38
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  26. I have really bad limescale marks in my bath. Do you have any cures for it I have tried all the products on the market and nothing is working. Thanks desperate Sue. x
    Posted by Sue on 10/05/2009 17:02:54
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  27. Hi kim and aggie, i wondered if there was an easy way to get the shower head clean? also the shower windows and door? thanks, lisa
    Posted by Lisa on 29/04/2009 18:59:46
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  28. i have 2 dogs they r doing well with trying to go out side for a wee but they still having accidents i mop the floor with bleech and a good make floor cleaner i also hav a plug in air freshoner but can still smell the wee how do i get rid of the smell
    Posted by nadiah davies on 27/04/2009 13:45:48
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  29. hi kim and aggie, can you tell me which is the best material for cleaning organic matter? i don't know if it has to be an alkaline based detergent, an acid based detergent, a neutral one - or will plain washing up liquid do? thanks so much ladies,debbie
    Posted by deb on 23/04/2009 22:37:43
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  30. I am really struggling to clean the top of the gas oven (enamel) and also around the gas hob rings on the stove top where grease has built up. Scourers and Astonish have no impact at all. Please help!
    Posted by chudofbroady on 30/03/2009 10:50:22
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  31. Would be very grateful for advice on how to defrost my elderly mothers freezer. It is full of food and has so much ice build up that I can't remove any of the food. Is there any way I can get the food out so it is still edible and I can then get the freezer defrosted. Thanking you in anticipation.
    Posted by Sheila on 27/03/2009 21:18:28
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  32. What is it you do to keep the fridge sented
    Posted by Trevor on 14/03/2009 19:05:24
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  33. hi can you help my husband spilt a bucket water on the carpaet i have clean it with the rug doctor cleaner but the room still smell is there any think i can put on the spill or in room to get rid of smell thanks janine
    Posted by janine on 04/03/2009 13:25:30
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  34. Hi i have a question, i own a St Bernard dog who lives in the house with us. I clean the house every day and wash the floors but any time someone come to visit they say there is an awfell smell of the dog and in the house, we do wash the dog and spray with a grooming spray but this dosent work. can you help on how to refresh my house please without getting the dog out of the house
    Posted by anne on 25/02/2009 22:28:41
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  35. Hi Kim & Aggie, Could you help please... A kind friend gave me her travel cot. It had been stored in their shed for three years before and has now got a very strong musty dampish smell. unfortunatly i am unable to soak as none of the panels are romveable and the matress type base is i believe hard wood and foam.it is also ment to be fire retardent.is there anything you could advise??..BABY FOOD ON CLOTHES...RINSE AS SOON AS POSSIBBLE THEN SOAK IN NAPPY SOAK(this can bought at boots or amazon.com)
    Posted by Joanne on 20/02/2009 14:14:01
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  36. hi, i have a beige fabric sofa and cant seem to get rid of the staines ive used alsorts but im left with the stain where the fabric has dried many thanks also any ideas on removing baby food staines from clothes ?
    Posted by lynzy on 19/02/2009 18:17:32
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  37. Hi girls I live in a 300 yr old house in france. I get an awful lot of cobwebs, no sooner do i clean them away they are back. Can you help.
    Posted by fred on 17/02/2009 17:38:20
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  38. Help!! We have a narrowboat cratch cover made of canvas which is mildewed on the inside. We need to know what to clean it with, as we are afraid bleach might take the green colour out. We have tried wiping with a rag wrung out in water/washing up liquid, but it comes back when dry. Is there a 'natural' remedy, like vinegar or something which we could use? Also, 'algae' stains on the outside of cover, due to being in a location which seems to attract a lot of lichen on nearby paving and other boats. Any help gratefully received. Thanx
    Posted by mike wright on 11/02/2009 22:35:28
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  39. Can anyone help. my washing machine rubber (in door) has black marks on it both on the outside and inside, I can not get this off and I think it occasionally marks clean clothes, I have no idea how to get the rubber clean again, does anyone out there have any great ideas, I have tried lemon juice, even a mind solution of bleech and water on a soft cloth, I have tried scrubbing with a pot cleaner, and I am getting worried about harming the rubber, any help would be appreciated.
    Posted by Nita on 02/02/2009 15:06:42
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  40. does anyone know how to get iron brew pop stains out of a cream carpet I've tried everything yet its still stained here's a challenge for the toughest of carpet cleaners and hovers on the market i'll challenge any new product to do it even just after its been spilt not ten Min's after as advertised PLEASE HELP
    Posted by mandy on 29/01/2009 11:17:54
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  41. hey .... me and my partner have just moved into a lovely rented house but it absouletly stinks i am a bit of a neat freak and scrub the house every day but there is still a horrible smell iv tried all sorts of air freshners but nothings working ..... were expecting our first child now in 2 months and i really will cry if i have to come home to this smell anymore ... please help
    Posted by little_ms_fancy on 24/12/2008 05:17:44
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  42. hello, can you tell me the best thing that will clean up stainless steal taps in the bathroom and the plug holes covers. just decorated bathroom and they look grimey and dis-coloured. thank you
    Posted by anita martin on 14/12/2008 18:35:02
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  43. Please can you tell me how to clean cast iron,I have bought a Range Cooker and the gas rings and the top of my cooker is cast iron. Thanks Denise
    Posted by denise sullivan on 30/11/2008 04:57:21
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  44. How do I clean mould from shower corners and grout, and how do I keep it from coming back
    Posted by Jean on 20/11/2008 12:56:34
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  45. hya my remedies for some of your problems that worked for me.i cleaned a persons fridge that was covered in nicotine with flash bleach it came out like brand new. stains in the sink i used a metal scourer the ones like balls with bleach these scourers can be used on plastic or anything without scratching surface. i clean my laminate floor with nice smelling fairy liquid and a bit of bleach dont soak the wood just go over it twice a week it keeps dust levals down as well and shines like new without any smears.what im looking for is how to clean nicotine off wallpaper,it was very dear wallpaper and dont want to redecorate again,any suggestions pls.
    Posted by tracey on 01/11/2008 09:56:01
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  46. MOULD & MILDEW IN THE BATHROOM: Hi my parents are having problems with the above in there bathroom any suggestions please? also any tips on how to get rid of greese on the oven/stove fans? thanks love the show and the presenters kim & aggie who are really funny & enjoyable to watch. Any ideas where I can purchase their books if any? thanks Lizzie
    Posted by lizzie on 21/10/2008 13:59:24
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  47. hi gillian ere does anyone know to clean carpet stains i have tried every thing please help!!!
    Posted by gillian on 11/10/2008 15:13:44
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  48. please help me i really cant find any thing to remove a very large cherry aid stain from my cream carpet
    Posted by claire on 04/10/2008 19:41:08
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  49. Could somebody tell me how to clean my black hotplates on my cooker? Carole
    Posted by Carole on 02/10/2008 11:06:46
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  50. How can I clean my DVD's please and I still have the old fashioned cassetts, also a little "tired". Both lots have various flaws. Some have scratches. Any ideas. Advice and help much appreciated. Thanks.
    Posted by BELLABEATHOVEN on 02/10/2008 07:23:54
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  51. how do i get my white cotton and nylon bras white/ i have tried lingerie cleaner from asda there a bit cleaner thanx sandie
    Posted by Sandra Dorrian on 01/10/2008 16:34:21
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  52. HI, Can someone tell me how to clean my black electric hobs on top of the cooker. Carole
    Posted by Carole Maguire on 28/09/2008 15:56:14
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  53. Hi just moved into a rented appartment where the off-white leather suite is filthy! Please help but to make matters wors the appartment is in India so I think I might need the generic names of cleaners. Thank you both. PS have spare rooms if you fancy visiting!
    Posted by Rosie Rafferty on 26/09/2008 13:53:37
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  54. How do i get iron brew stain out of a carpet
    Posted by Carol on 25/09/2008 22:11:29
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  55. i would like to know if anybody has a tip for cleaning a badley stained nicotine fridge please let me know as i really want it to be white again
    Posted by kim on 21/09/2008 16:30:25
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  56. hi, ive got three dogs and i can't get rid of the smell of dogs in my house, is there anything you think will work apart from getting rid of my dogs! :-P
    Posted by Danielle on 21/09/2008 15:23:12
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  57. I have just moved in to my partners flat and there is a strong odour coming from the washing machine this is going to sound strange but it smells like garlic please help???????ive tried the white vinegar treatment but it is still smelly
    Posted by sonia on 21/09/2008 11:56:10
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  58. how do i get nail varnish off a carpet help please
    Posted by v crerie on 19/09/2008 21:10:09
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  59. Since moving into our new house we have found that the kitchen cupboard all smell really musty, we have tried cleaning them out and drying but the smell always comes back, its making everything in the cupboard smell aswel. Any ideas how to get rid of this? Thanks.
    Posted by Claire on 18/09/2008 13:06:46
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  60. Hi Serena, Sugar soap cuts through nicotine really well, which you could get from a diy shop. My dad was a decorator and he always used it to wash down paintwork so that the nicotine didn't come through the fresh paint.
    Posted by Clarabella on 16/09/2008 20:29:52
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  61. Hi can anyone help me please... I lent a travel cot to a relative and it has come back nicotine stained - i got rid of the smell with fabreeze but not sure what to do about the yellow colouring on the previosly white netting. am unable to soak as its not removable from the cot. thankyou, x
    Posted by serena on 16/09/2008 00:00:14
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  62. hi ya...i have not long moved into my new home and the kitchen sink has some stains on the bottom of the bowl it is a cream hard plastic type sink i have tried various cleaning products also filled it up with bleach and left it over night but no joy if you have anthor solution please let me know.thank you
    Posted by sunita.solanki@internet.com on 14/09/2008 19:10:53
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  63. Hi Kim & Aggie, I have a slow cooker and the pot is 'white,' with making curries, stwes & casseroles in it it has become discoloured, can u please tell me the best way to get it back white. I have tried washing powder, sterident tabs, lemon juice and bleach but they havent worked. thank you XX
    Posted by Summer on 14/09/2008 13:04:31
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  64. Hi Kim/Aggie, what would be best to wash lamaiated flooring? I use lamaited floor clearer but its very smeary, I would like it to shine. Thanks. Love the show.xx
    Posted by colleen on 12/09/2008 14:51:05
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  65. I need advice on how to remove the odour and stain caused by vomit on the carpet,i was thinking about using a vanish spray but doesn't seem to do much. The carpet in question is multi coluored pink. thanks
    Posted by Miss Julia Davies on 11/09/2008 13:06:43
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  66. Hi Kim & Aggie How can I clean a granite fireplace, Im sure you have covered this on your show, any tips will be appreciated Thank in anticipation
    Posted by audrey on 08/09/2008 19:02:10
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  67. Hi Kim and Aggie - I'm a mega fan of your show and I need real help I have just moved into a new house and I was that desperate I took a sound, but filthy one. I have never had a house to look after on my own and don't know where to start or what to do. What are the daily, weekly, monthly maybe yearly, tasks that you do to keep your house as hygienic as possible. My mam was always the one who sorted the housework, I was never shown or taught how to look after a home of my own. I'd be grateful for a response as it is disgusting and I have a one year old and haven't been the same about hygiene since i watched your show about the fly's and how many bugs they carry. I would like to know as i'm desperate as I come from a hoarder background too. Please help me. Thank you.
    Posted by rhiannaphoenix on 08/09/2008 17:03:21
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  68. Hi Mary Keep coming back here - we will have literally LOADS more cleaning info up over the next few weeks!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:38:54
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  69. MOULD/MILDEW ON SHOWER CURTAINS Is the shower curtain nylon? If so, don't do this... If it isn't nylon, try this: sponge marks with a solution of household bleach (7 pints water, 20ml bleach). Rinse thoroughly then treat curtains with a fungicide
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:38:00
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  70. BLOCKED SINKS You might have to remove the Ubend beneath the sink to remove a blockage, but try this first: pour a strong solution of washing soda (8oz to 12 pints boiling water) down it. Use a plunger
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:35:03
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  71. SMELLY MICROWAVE A simple way to get rid of odours is to microwave half a lemon (or lemon slices) in a bowl of hot water - try it on high till it boils, then on medium for 20 mins. Wipe dry...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 05/09/2008 14:32:44
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  72. One of my favourite programmes is How clean is your house and I would like to thank the presenters Kim and Aggie for all their cleaning tips. Not only is this programme informative, Kim and Aggie are brilliant presenters and very enjoyable and funny. A big thank you and I was wondering where can I purchase all of their books with all of their cleaning tips. Thank you very much Mary O'Connell
    Posted by Mary on 03/09/2008 20:41:15
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  73. can any one tell me how to get rid of mould on shower curtain,have washed it in washing machine but it still comes out dirty. thanks
    Posted by mandy ainge on 03/09/2008 10:06:15
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  74. Hi Bev PEN ON THE FLOOR What kind of flooring is it?
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:48:34
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  75. Hi Louise BEDBUGS Sorry, you might need to contact your local authority's environmental health dept. At the very least, you need to get rid of the mattress.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 02/09/2008 21:47:42
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  76. Could anyone tell me what to use for unblocking kitchen/bathroom sinks please. They are not fully blocked but don't smell very nice. Thanks
    Posted by Elaine on 01/09/2008 17:20:12
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  77. Hi!my son burn't a jacket potatoe in my microwave i have repeatedly cleaned it and can't get rid of the smell, does anyone have any tips?
    Posted by elaine on 01/09/2008 16:57:42
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  78. TIP OF THE DAY: Thanks Phillipa, I'm nominating soda water on dog pee (or child's pee for that matter!) as tip of the day! Love it? More please everyone!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 01/09/2008 12:20:09
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  79. Help PLEASE!!! I've got bed bugs! They attack me in the middle of the night, wake me up and there is loads crawling all over my bed, they leave blood stains on the linen, and make me itch like mad!!!! What can i do???? I've bleach the bed and hoovered everywhere but still they keep coming! It's not that i have a dirty house as i like to think i've got a really clean house, but this is making me think about it! Please, please, please tell me what i should do.
    Posted by Louise on 31/08/2008 20:02:01
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  80. hi my daughter has just moved back into my bungalow with her goldfish max , my 3 year old shi tzu bitch seems very very excited by the new arrival and keeps peeing on my new blue carpet . ive moved the fish into the bathroom but can anyone tell me how to get the wee out as its left a stain and the wee smell. also how do i stop this new habit if it continues. many thanks rachael shand
    Posted by rachael shand on 31/08/2008 17:04:09
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  81. DOG PEE The solution given used soda water - as in the mixer people add to scotch etc. so you can find it in the drink mixers aisle at the supermarket. SINK UNBLOCKER The missing ingredient Vera is looking for is Borax - I could remember this ingredient as I had to google to find out where to buy (Boots the Chemist apparantly) but couldn't remember the rest of the ingredients which is what I was looking for - Thanks Vera!
    Posted by phillipa on 30/08/2008 08:06:43
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  82. Hello, ive just bought a 2nd hand cream leather sofa its in lovely condition but it smells of smoke, i read to put sliced apples on it and i have scrubbed it with saddle soap, none of which has worked have you got any ideas, please!!??? Thanks
    Posted by Helen on 28/08/2008 17:57:39
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  83. Hi I missed the solution for keeping sink drains unblocked could anyone give me the solution please thankyou
    Posted by Noreen McFadden on 28/08/2008 12:28:34
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  84. Hi, we have hard flooring (not lino or tiles) in the kitchen, our beautiful children got green felt pen and drew lovely pictures on it. We have tried cif, WD40, vinegar, bicarb, cif with bleach. Please any help?
    Posted by Bev on 26/08/2008 22:29:05
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  85. Hi Sarah CLEANING WINDOWS AND GLASS Have a look at this for top tips: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/diy-self-build/diy-build-advice/a-z-of-diy-building-guides/how-to-clean-everything-glass-mirrors-and-windows-08-05-19_p_1.html
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 26/08/2008 14:07:35
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  86. I saw on the programme last week a solution for keeping sink drains upblocked- could i get the ingredients? It included salt, lemon hot water and another which I didn't catch the names of. Thanks Vera
    Posted by vera ashworth on 23/08/2008 15:29:45
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  87. Hi I wonder if anyone can give me some tips on removing deep stains and and dirty marks from removable sofa covers, they are cream so every mark and stain shows up on them??? Material is cotton ish like canvas material.Many thanks
    Posted by sharon on 22/08/2008 17:24:35
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  88. Hi Helen, a washing machine repair man told me one of the most common reasons he was called out was because of musty smelling machines (it hapened to me too!) and this is because the machine is not getting time to dry out inside between uses so mould can grow. When not in use leave the door ajar and the dispenser drawer slightly open to let air circulate, also try wiping dry just inside the door around the rubber flap that seals the door, you may find a hidden build up of scum/mould there. These things can prevent the smell in the first place but getting rid of it when it is there can be harder. I don't know if the washing machine people would recommend this but what worked for me was a boil wash with a cup of bleach in the tray, I then washed some whites to make sure the bleach was all clear before washing coloureds again. I hope this helps.
    Posted by Alison on 22/08/2008 16:56:51
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  89. Hi Anne Well, the trick is to act quickly... but I find this works really well. Blot the stain till it's as dry as possible. Then flush it with soda water (i've also used fizzy water and/or tonic if that's all I've had to hand). Then blot again. Then wash with sponge and soapy water, then blot again. Then use a foam carpet cleaner. Blot again. Then wash again with warm water, then blot. Works for me every time...
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 22/08/2008 14:35:27
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  90. Hi Sarah Have a look here for tips on cleaning glass and windows: http://www.channel4.com/4homes/diy-self-build/diy-build-advice/a-z-of-diy-building-guides/how-to-clean-everything-glass-mirrors-and-windows-08-05-19_p_1.html
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 22/08/2008 14:33:30
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  91. Hi Helen Re your musty washing machine. It must be that there is mould growing in there somewhere, which is causing the smell. Have you pulled out the tray where the powder goes - this sometimes harbours black spores? Failing that, it might be somewhere within the machine for some reason. The only way to get rid of the smell is to clean that part out - but short of taking the machine apart, I'm not sure how you'd do this. Have you pulled out the machine to check it's not coming from behind or under or down the side of it? Anyone else got any bright ideas?
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 22/08/2008 14:32:03
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  92. Cleaning paths: We've had a few questions about how to clean paths. I'm not in favour of using anything too strong on a pathway, especially in a garden or near where children will play, so here's my best advice. Use garden tools to weed or prise up anything that's stuck to the path, followed by a stiff broom. Once that's done, a solution of washing up liquid and water, brushed into the path should get it fairly clean. Do this regularly and it should stay clean. Pressure washers can be bought from DIY stores, or hired, and these will do the job much more quickly, and with alot less elbow grease.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 22/08/2008 14:28:10
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  93. how do i get red wine out of carpet
    Posted by anne on 21/08/2008 17:35:33
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  94. Hi, what is the best tip for getting your windows gleaming and also glass? xx Love the show
    Posted by Sarah on 21/08/2008 17:05:45
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  95. Hiya Please can you let me know how to get rid of a musty smell which is coming from my washing machine. I have tried a boil wash with a tub of bicarbonate of soda but its still there. Thanks
    Posted by helen on 20/08/2008 17:38:06
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  96. Hi Catherine It's there now - sorry, took a while to pop up! See about three or four comments down. Lucy
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 20/08/2008 14:42:20
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  97. I have read with interest the information about pets and vomiting on carpets. The detailed answer you gave also mentioned about the smell of Urine and that the information was further down the page. However I have looked and can't see it. Could you advise once again how to get rid of ther persistant smell of urine despite the fact I have shampooed the carpet no end of times. Thank you
    Posted by catherine adams on 19/08/2008 12:53:30
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  98. Hi Rosie with the suede couches I'm guessing the kids and dogs came after the couch - otherwise it's madness mixing the three and expecting the sofas to come out tops!? Really, your best option is to get the sofas cleaned professionally every now and then. Or, sell them and buy new ones with removeable, washable covers with proceeds and the money you'd save on cleaning them
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 19/08/2008 12:20:04
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  99. Hi Carly How often are you doing your washing? If mildew is building up on it, it would suggest you're keeping it somewhere dank and damp for some time. Best solution would be to throw out the linen basket you have, buy something with holes (or perhaps one made of wicker) so the air can get in while it's sitting there, and try to leave it sitting for no longer than two or three days before you do a wash. Normal washing should remove mildew stains. Old stains need a bleach solution (try household bleach diluted 5 parts to 9 of water). This is obviously only for white fabrics. Colour fabrics will need Stain Devils or something similar. In all cases, do a test patch first to check the stain remover doesn't ruin your clothes.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 19/08/2008 12:17:34
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  100. Hi Katie URINE ON CARPETS (i've highlighted that up big because everyone's having this problem!). You need to flush the area with cold water first, then blot till nearly dry. Then sponge with a carpet shampoo, then rinse with water and a few drops of antiseptic. Then blot. If smell persists, use a deodoriser, such as Febreze.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 19/08/2008 12:13:32
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  101. hi please can you help me .I have a 2 year old soon who i am potty training and for some reason he keeps peeing on his bedroom carpet.Please could you tell me the best solution to get the smell out.I have scrubed the carpet with hot soapy water and it still stinks.many thankxs katie shepperd
    Posted by katie on 19/08/2008 00:05:01
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  102. Hi Penney Are the tiles sealed, do you know? If they're not, once they've been cleaned, they should be to keep further grime from soaking into their porous surface. As for cleaning them, you'll need to get a specialist terracotta cleaner from a specialist tile centre - try www.yell.com for one near you. Good luck!
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/08/2008 12:40:08
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  103. Hi everyone with vomiting and urinating pets... The soda tip is for vomit - you need to scoop as much of the stuff up as possible, then clean with a solution of bicarb of soda. Blot well, then rub in a foam carpet shampoo solution and repeat until the stain has cleared. Rinse with warm water, adding a few drops of antiseptic to it. Blot well. Urine tips - see below. The trick of course is to act immediately. Any delay makes for that much more elbow grease. As for smells, best I can offer you is a deodorising product - try your supermarket shelves for something.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 18/08/2008 10:07:06
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  104. Please can you let me know the best for terracotta tiles - cant get off the grime
    Posted by penney lister on 18/08/2008 09:08:50
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  105. Hi, Can you tell me what measures I should use when using cornflour to clean windows. I only saw the part when Aggie cleaned the windows and it looked brilliant!
    Posted by amy on 17/08/2008 17:09:46
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  106. thank you for your tip on limescale remover. it really works brbie
    Posted by barbara bastille on 17/08/2008 02:05:03
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  107. Hi I watched the program about the revisit to Pat crothers and would like the proceedure for removing the dog pee from the carpet, in our case it's not pee but her doggy smell where she lies all the time, we shower her weekly but the deodoriser products just don't seem to get rid of her smell both on her or the carpet thanks roy
    Posted by D Chung on 16/08/2008 10:42:32
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  108. hi on your programme, u mentioned how to get rid of dog pee on carpet, i hav a puppy who is impossible to train, my carpets are getting ruined and very smelly, thank you with regards emma
    Posted by emma on 15/08/2008 12:17:59
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  109. hi there i seen a tip in one of the shows about getting old stains out of carpets,it it old womit,tried cleaning it with soapy water,but no luck is it soda eater that i should use,if so what is soda water,and where can i buy it,please help
    Posted by sigrun on 14/08/2008 19:21:47
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  110. hi wonder if you can help me i watch your program on the 13th aug 2008 the revisited one pat crothers and they mention about getting rid of the smell dog pee with soda and water could you tell me what type of soda please as i have tried everything i can think off thank you
    Posted by jane on 14/08/2008 10:21:01
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  111. Hi i was wondering if anyone can help me,My lovely dog was not very well about a month ago she was sick and had the runs (she ok now)thing is she did this in my bedroom and the smell is still there i have tried everything i can think of.Have had carpet cleaned had stuff from vets just for this sort of thing and nothing seems to work.Could change carpet but not had it for that long and nothing wrong with it apart from this smell. HELP.
    Posted by Gail on 13/08/2008 22:53:04
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  112. Hi Amy, It might be that you have to tackle where the flies are coming from - a compost heap near the window, perhaps?? Traditional ways to deter them (apart from keeping windows and doors shut or putting fly screens up) are to hang bunches of mint or basil, or to grow strongly scented flowers, such as marigolds and pelargoniums at the doors or on windowsills. Less traditional methods include fly papers, impregnated with insecticide. If they're tiny, they're probably fruit flies, in which case keep rotting or ripe fruit and veg covered or in the fridge, depriving them of their source of food. Large quantities of dead or lethargic flies might be the sign of an infestation of cluster flies (about the size of house flies). In which case, call in the local authority's pest control department.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 13/08/2008 11:23:24
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  113. Hi Gilli I've looked into this for you and here's what I've found out: if you want to dip your teapot, you need to line a plastic washing up bowl with aluminium foil, fill it with hot water and add a handful of washing soda. You'd then have to immerse the tea/coffee pot but ensure the tarnished areas are touching the foil. Leave it for five minutes, then rinse. However, although the ebony can withstand abit of water, it won't benefit from this so you'd have to be confident you could seal it within a plastic bag, gaffered into place... Not that practical, me thinks. Your other option is to use a silver dip (buy them at dept stores and big supermarkets, and some mail order cos). These you just por into (and around) the pot, swirl around and rinse. Might be worth a try first.
    Posted by Lucy 4Homes Ed on 13/08/2008 11:18:09
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  114. i have a problem with mildew on my dirty laundry and it is spoiling all of my clothes. i am struggling to remove it and i am having to throw a lot of clothes away. i have tried spot on white wizard remover and i have hot washed my clothes, no hope. please help.
    Posted by carly on 12/08/2008 20:55:45
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  115. I HAVE SUEDE COUCHES AND 2 KIDS PLUS 2 DOGS. HOW CAN I CLEAN SUEDE FURNITURE WITHOUT DESTROYING IT? HELP!
    Posted by ROSIE on 12/08/2008 19:21:01
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  116. I have been using White Wizard as an intricate part of my cleaning regime for years so I was excited to see it mentioned here. This product is incredible and I am happy to see that the Queens of Clean use it also. Keep up the good work. Betty Barr
    Posted by Betty Barr on 10/08/2008 19:03:45
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  117. Hi. For some reason we seem to have flies in our kitchin all the time. We have cleaned and scrubbed and tidyed but they are still around. I remember on one episode that there was a trick with apple juice that could be used to catch flies but i cant remember what it was. Anyone remember?
    Posted by Amy on 10/08/2008 17:00:41
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  118. Hello! I have a silver coffee pot with an ebony handle which is in desperate need of cleaning. Ive heard you can clean silver in a bath of soda crystals and tin foil but Im worried about immersing the wooden handle - any ideas please! many thanks :)
    Posted by Gilli on 09/08/2008 22:38:03
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