Specialty & pantry-item cleaners

Steps

1. 1

   Baking soda — gentle abrasive. Paste with water or dish soap for ovens, sinks, tubs and underarm stains.

2. 2

   White vinegar — cuts limescale, soap scum and odour. Never on natural stone or marble.

3. 3

   Lemon — steams a microwave clean and freshens bins and chopping boards.

4. 4

   Dish soap — the first move on any grease or oil stain, on fabric or hard surfaces.

5. 5

   Oxygen bleach — soaking whites and protein stains. Not chlorine bleach unless the client asks for it.

6. 6

   Cornstarch or baby powder — draws oil out of fabric and upholstery before you wash.

Never mix products, especially bleach with anything. If a surface is unknown, test on a hidden patch first.