Get your home prepared for the upcoming holiday season and beyond with this helpful Fall Cleaning Checklist for inside and outside the house. This list may seem overwhelming, so complete similar tasks together, or go room-by-room.
For the sake of simplicity, this list will assume that daily cleaning tasks like mopping or vacuuming floors, wiping counters and washing dishes gets done daily, so those items will not be included. Instead, we are including items that are not cleaned so frequently and that you may be overlooking.
If you plan on hiring a professional to deep clean your home, or clean your carpets, make sure you schedule them as early as possible. Cleaners cannot always fit you into their schedule on a last minute basis and are very in-demand leading up to the holiday season.
Empty the pantry and dispose or donate any unwanted items. Clean the shelves with a Non-scratch scrub sponge like our non-scratch Monster Scrub Sponge or Non-Scratch Cleaning Pad.
Clean or change-out any over the oven range hood filters. Greasy dirty filters cannot do their job properly and let cooking smells linger in the kitchen and home, so be sure to either clean them or change if your filter is disposable.
Clean out the refrigerator and freezer disposing of any expired foods. Remove and wash shelving. If your kitchen sink is not large enough, fill a bathtub with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Use a non-scratch scrub sponge to clean all shelving. Dry with a microfiber cloth and return shelving and food to the fridge.
Vacuum refrigerator’s condenser coils. Doing this will help allow your refrigerator to work efficiently and could extend the life of your appliance.
Clean garbage cans using an outside hose and scrub sponge.
Degrease and clean cabinet doors and backsplashes. Use a flexible microfiber dusting wand to dust the top of cabinets and walls.
Use an eraser sponge to remove any dark scuff marks, dirt and grime from walls, doors or baseboards. Save your back and use our Eraser Sponge and Extension Handle Kit.
Make sure you’re stocked up with extra cleaning supplies for cleaning up from any holiday gatherings and meals.
Classroom cleaning supplies should make everyday cleanup straightforward while fitting the school’s cleaning procedures. Start with reusable cloths for routine wiping, absorbent tools for ordinary spills and suitable sponges for occasional marks. Confirm the approved supply list before buying cleaners or donating products to a classroom.
Back-to-school shopping is a useful time to restock, but desks, activity tables and shared spaces need attention throughout the year. Teachers, custodial teams and school purchasing staff can use this guide to choose supplies by task and plan replenishment without filling a cupboard with products they cannot use.
Start with the school cleaning plan
Ask which jobs classroom staff handle and which belong to the custodial team. That helps determine whether a classroom needs a small spill kit, a set of cleaning cloths or access to centrally stocked supplies.
Cleaning and disinfecting serve different purposes. Cleaning removes dirt and other material from surfaces. When sanitizing or disinfecting is required, staff must use an appropriate product and procedure; an ordinary sponge and water do not replace that step. The CDC’s guidance for early care and education settings explains these distinctions and the importance of following product directions.
Keep cleaning chemicals secured and follow school policy for staff use, ventilation and protective equipment. Children should not apply disinfectants. Blood, vomit and other body-fluid spills need the school’s designated response procedure rather than an ordinary classroom cleanup cloth.
Microfiber cloths for daily classroom wiping
Reusable microfiber cloths are a practical starting point for routine dusting, wiping and drying on compatible surfaces. Keep clean cloths available so staff can change them as they become soiled instead of carrying the same cloth from one area to another.
Our blue 14 by 14 inch microfiber cleaning towels come in multiple pack sizes. They can help stock individual classroom kits or provide replacements while used cloths are being laundered.
Separate cloths by task or location. For example, label one set for desks and another for staff-room surfaces. Keep restroom tools with the custodial supplies assigned to that area. Follow the cloth’s care instructions and the school’s laundry procedure before returning used cloths to service.
For computers, tablets and interactive displays, follow the equipment manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Do not spray liquid directly onto electronics.
Replace Paper Towels in the Classroom with Reusable and Compostable Swedish Dishcloths
Swedish dishcloths for ordinary spills
A tipped water cup or wet activity table calls for an absorbent tool. Instant Erase Swedish dishcloths can absorb everyday spills and wipe washable surfaces. Made from cellulose and cotton, they are washable and reusable.
Keep a few in the classroom’s approved cleanup area and provide a separate place for used cloths. Wash them according to the product instructions and school procedure, then let them dry fully before storage. Rinsing a dirty cloth and leaving it to dry is not a substitute for the cleaning process required by the school.
Reusable cloths can reduce reliance on disposable paper towels for suitable tasks. Keep disposable supplies available where the school’s procedures require them. The amount of paper towel use you replace will depend on the classroom’s activities and cleanup routine.
Eraser sponges for selected scuffs and marks
An eraser sponge can help with marks that remain after ordinary wiping, provided the surface tolerates melamine foam. Our Instant Erase XL melamine eraser sponges are available in several pack sizes and clean through fine abrasion when dampened with water.
Use them as a targeted tool for compatible hard surfaces rather than the default choice for every desk, wall or floor. Staff should check the surface manufacturer’s instructions, test a hidden area and use gentle pressure. Stop if the finish dulls, changes color or transfers to the sponge.
Avoid using melamine on glossy finishes, coated screens or delicate painted surfaces unless their care instructions permit it. Do not use eraser sponges on skin, and keep them out of children’s reach. Water-only cleaning does not make a tool suitable for unsupervised student use.
Take special care with classroom whiteboards
Whiteboard surfaces differ, so do not assume every board can tolerate an eraser sponge. Begin with the board maker’s recommended eraser, cloth and cleaner. Quartet’s board maintenance guidance explains how its recommended cleaners differ for whiteboards and glass boards. Check the instructions for the specific board before treating stubborn marker residue.
Absorbent shammy cloths for larger water spills
For staff handling a larger ordinary water spill, large shammy cloths offer another reusable option. These absorbent chamois towels can be washed and reused according to their care instructions.
Keep people away from a wet floor while it is being cleaned and leave the area dry before reopening it. Store floor-cleanup cloths separately from tools used on desks or other classroom surfaces. If the spill involves chemicals or body fluids, contact the designated staff and follow the appropriate procedure.
Build a practical back to school cleaning supply list
Before ordering, check what is already on hand and ask classroom and custodial staff what needs replacing. A starter list can include:
Clean microfiber cloths for approved everyday wiping tasks.
Washable, absorbent cloths for ordinary spills.
Eraser sponges for staff use on confirmed compatible surfaces.
School-approved cleaners and any required sanitizing or disinfecting products.
Separate storage for clean supplies and used cloths awaiting laundering.
The disposable supplies and protective equipment specified by the school.
Families and parent organizations should confirm requested products and quantities before donating. Sending the exact items on the school’s list is more useful than buying a large assortment that staff may not be authorized to use.
Plan bulk orders around actual classroom use
Schools buying for several rooms can organize an order around the number of cleaning stations, how quickly supplies are used and how often reusable cloths are washed. Include enough clean replacements to keep each location stocked during the laundry cycle.
Start with a small trial if a product is new to the school. Ask staff whether it suits the intended surfaces and cleanup tasks before committing to a larger pack. A lower price per item is only useful when the product gets used and can be stored properly.
Keep a simple inventory showing the product, assigned location and remaining quantity. Choose a reorder point that allows time for purchasing and delivery. Separate classroom needs from cafeteria, restroom and specialist cleaning requirements, which may call for different tools and procedures.
Can eraser sponges remove crayon or marker from desks?
They may help on compatible surfaces, but desk finishes vary. Check the care instructions and test a hidden spot first. Use the least abrasive effective method and stop if the finish changes.
Are reusable cloths suitable for schools?
They can be useful when the school has a procedure for collecting, laundering, drying and storing them. Keep sufficient clean replacements available and use separate tools for different areas.
Should schools buy classroom cleaning supplies in bulk?
Bulk packs can simplify stocking multiple rooms, but quantities should reflect actual use, storage capacity and laundry turnaround. Test unfamiliar products first and compare pack sizes after confirming that the product is suitable.
Stock your classrooms for the work they do
Choose supplies around the messes staff handle most often, then build a replenishment routine that keeps clean tools available. Shop our microfiber towels, Swedish dishcloths and XL eraser sponges to compare options for your school’s approved supply list.
Get your home ready for summer activities, cookouts, and guests with these summer cleaning tips.
Summer Cleaning Checklist Tip 1: Get Your Outdoor Spaces, Ready for the Summer
It’s important to give the exterior of your home and outdoor entertainment spaces a good once-over when the summer starts. Here are the areas you should pay attention to:
Household Vinyl Siding: Use an eraser sponge to remove mold, mildew, dirt, and grime. If you have a large area to clean, our Super S Eraser Sponges (12 Pack) will help shorten your cleaning time due to the their large size.
Windows: Use an eraser sponge to remove any dirt or grime from windows. The eraser sponge extension handle kit can help you reach the upper areas of the window with ease as it extends up to three feet. No ladders or step stools required!
Make cleaning kitchens and bathrooms easier with these tips used by professional cleaners.
Start from the Top and Work to the Bottom
That means start with dusting high areas like the tops of cupboards or kitchen cabinets or the bathroom vanity. Use a microfiber duster to trap dirt and dust and not just knock it to the ground, or on to lower counter tops or shelves.
Here’s how to make sure your home and new room is ready for baby
Clean Hand-Me-Down Furniture
Since babies grow so fast, using used or donated furniture is a great way to save money. You may also have pieces from previous children which you can reuse. Prepare any cribs, changing tables, or rockers by giving them a thorough cleaning. Be careful using cleaners with heavy scents as these can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat of a young infant. Use a gentle soap and hot water to disinfect any surfaces.
When it comes to cleaning furniture or walls, an eraser sponge from SpongeOutlet.com contains no harsh chemicals and only uses water and the power of gentle scrubbing to remove dirt and grime. Eraser sponges can also remove adhesive from stickers and marks from crayons from walls and furniture.
Give the Room a Through Dusting – Including the Vents
Keep allergens low and away from your new baby by giving the room and contents a thorough dusting. A damp microfiber cloth or dusting wand will help remove dust. Don’t forget to also dust any vents. Dirty vents can distribute dust and allergens from other areas inside the home. Make sure they are clean and clean any in-room vents as well.
Keep a Cleaning Routine & Cleaning Tools on Hand
After baby comes home, it is important to keep cleaning every day. Keep eraser sponges around to safely clean up any dirt of marks on the crib or changing table. An eraser sponge with soap also has the added advantage of providing gentle disinfecting when used with hot water.
Babies are known for their ability to make a mess out of nothing, so it is important to make those messes easy to clean up. Using disinfecting wipes often combined with frequent use of eraser sponges can keep your baby’s room shining and clean, until they become a toddler. Then, you will need a larger box of sponge erasers for all the artwork they leave you!
Whatever cleaning tools or detergents you decide to use, be sure to keep them out of the reach of tiny hands. Lock them securely inside a cabinet with a baby proof lock, or store them high up in a cupboard and out of the reach of children.
As always, if you’re not entirely sure of using an eraser sponge on any surface, test a non-conspicuous area first. If you still have questions or concerns, feel free to contact us at customerservice@spongeoutlet.com.
As the warmer weather starts to show itself, cleaning becomes a necessary task for homeowners all around the country. Cleaning is often a dreaded task, but with the eraser sponge; you can clean your kitchen and bathrooms with more ease and even teach the kids to use it, making household chores less stressful and easier. But one of the most exciting things about the eraser sponge is the discovery of uses that are quite unique, but extremely helpful to know about.
Pet Slobber on the Windows
For those of us who know what it’s like to have pets; dogs in particular love to press their little faces up against windows and glass doors, leaving saliva stains. Use an eraser sponge to give your windows and glass doors a good cleaning to return them to their sparkling days.
House Siding Can Get Dirty During the Winter Months
It’s the summertime season, and most families want to entertain outdoors. Green mildew that builds up on porch columns and vinyl siding can be quite unsightly. It works wonders in bringing the shine and newness back to your white columns and siding, and ridding them of that terrible looking green, mossy, mildew.
Glass Stovetops
Glass stovetops are becoming increasingly popular, especially because of electric stovetops. They create a modern and stylish look in your kitchen area, but they can also be difficult to keep clean. Between battling grease stains, food splatters, and fingerprints; your glass stove top can appear years older than it actually is. With the eraser sponge, you can keep your glass stove top clean and free of dirt, food grime, and fingerprint smudges.
Cleaning the Interior of Your Car
That’s right; the uses of the eraser sponge never end. Eraser sponges are perfect for cleaning the interior of your cars. Your dashboard can be free of grease, ink, and smudges from those cute little kiddy hands and doggy prints. The eraser sponge allows you to get into all the small areas of the interior, which allows you to restore your car interior back to its original beauty.
As you continue to use your eraser sponge around the house, on porches, patios, and other outdoor spaces; you will come up with your own unique uses for this magical cleaning product that will surprise you.
Contact Sponge Outlet at 877-776-6430 today or visit us online for more information!
Mold is the last thing you want to find inside of your home. Mold can grow in plenty of conditions, so if your home is the right blend of warm and moist, you may be at-risk.
But not to worry. If you have mold, you can get rid of it by taking a few key preventative steps and removing it completely from the areas inside your home that are affected.
Read on to learn about ways to remove mold from walls so you can avoid replacing the interior of your home!
Step 1: Identify the mold
The first thing you’ll need to do when you suspect that there’s mold in your home is identify what kind of mold you’re dealing with. Some molds can be very detrimental to your health, while others are not so harmful, so it’s important to take the proper precautions.
Mold can grow anywhere, but you’ll most often find a version of it called mildew in your shower tile grout lines, other areas in damp bathrooms, and walls that had recently been wet due to a leak. To see if you’re dealing with mildew, test a small area by placing a few drops of bleach. If the bleach lightens up the dark spots, then you’re dealing with mildew. If it stays black, you probably have something else—like dirt!
Other molds, or mold in a high concentration, will give off a musty odor. If you can smell something funky, but can’t see what you’re dealing with, it might be a good idea to bring in a professional. Mold can be tricky to remove, even in the best of circumstances, and if you can’t see the mold, it’s probably burrowed in your walls.
Black mold is also something that you shouldn’t attempt to remove—let the professionals deal with it.
Step 2: Remove the mold
Once you’ve identified that you have an area of your home that needs to be cleaned and rid of mold, you’ll need to gather your supplies. Remove any furniture from the area that needs to be treated, and put on a pair of rubber gloves, goggles and a mask to protect yourself. You’ll also want to wear old clothing that you won’t mind bleaching or tossing when the task is done.
Home Guides says to mix 3 parts warm water to 1 part detergent in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the moldy areas of the wall, and scrub with a towel. Keep in mind that wire brushes may damage your drywall. Once all areas have been washed, use a clean spray bottle to apply water and wipe the area dry.
Next, mix a solution of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water. Spray the mixture on the affected areas, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, rinse with the water-only spray bottle. Dry with a clean cloth or rag, and discard of any used towels or rags in a tightly sealed garbage bag.
If these steps don’t work, or you prefer to not use bleach in your home, you can try to remove the mold with a vinegar mixture.
Spray the mold with vinegar and let it sit for 1-2 hours. Afterwards, mix baking soda and water to form a paste, and use this paste to scrub the affected areas of your wall. Rinse with clean water when you’re finished.
Step 3: Repaint the mold areas
Unfortunately, removing mold can be a bit of a messy business, so chances are you’ll need to re-paint your walls once the mold has been taken care of. The bleach and the scrubbing won’t be kind to your paint job, so plan for a re-paint. If your walls are still dark and stained from the mold, ask your local hardware store about a primer that will cover up those stains.
Step 4: Prevent mold
Antimicrobial sprays can be used to prevent mold in your home. Or, you can pick up an anti-mildew paint from your hardware store.
In areas that are often subject to heat and humidity, consider installing a de-humidifier to pull excess moisture from the air and prevent mold growth. Keep everything as well-ventilated as possible.
Pick up your mold-removal supplies for your home right here at Sponge Outlet. Our microfiber cloths are great for wiping down walls and other affected areas, and our eraser sponges are great for treating tough stains caused my mildew. For more tips and tricks to keep your home clean, head to our blog! Need help placing an order? Call us at 877-776-6430.
We’ve all been a bit too busy, or tired, or interested in other things to worry about keeping the house clean. When you’re strapped for time, but you still appreciate a sparkling home, bringing in a professional cleaning company is a great way to maintain your sanity and clean the house.
But, you shouldn’t just choose the first cleaning company that you come across online. After all, the people you hire will be spending a lot of time inside your home, and you want to be sure you can trust them. Plus, you want to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Read on for a few key questions to ask before hiring a cleaning company.
Do you have insurance?
The most important question to ask is whether the cleaning company is bonded and insured. They should carry liability insurance and bond, and have policies to follow for what to do if one of your items is broken or goes missing during a cleaning, according to Angie’s List.
You should also make sure that any potential company that you hire has workers’ compensation insurance and ask to see proof. If a worker is injured in your home, or even while driving on their way to your home, if your cleaning company isn’t properly insured, it could end up costing you.
Keep in mind that your homeowner’s insurance doesn’t typically cover short or long-term disability or workman’s comp from injuries sustained by workers in your home.
If the cleaning company balks at the question, move on. If they are happy to provide the paperwork, and don’t seem surprised that you asked, chances are they’re a reputable company and they have their insurance in order—but definitely look at the paperwork yourself.
How do you determine prices?
Chances are, this will vary from company to company. It’s important to understand how your cleaning company will set rates for your home before you sign on the dotted line. Ask for an estimate for how long it’ll take to have your home cleaned.
If you want to make sure to control costs, ask about capping the number of hours workers can be at your home. And, most companies will charge an hourly rate for the initial visit, and then a flat rate based on that visit after that.
Do you use your own cleaning supplies, or do you want me to supply them?
Another hot button issue when it comes to cleaning services is who provides the products. If you have very specific products that you want your cleaning company to use, then they should be able to make that allowance. But, it’s always nice when the cleaning company provides the products themselves. That way, the workers will be properly trained on how to use the products, and you won’t see any damage to your furniture if, for example, someone used the wrong cleaning agent.
Some cleaning companies may offer a few options in terms of which products you’d like them to use. If it’s important for you and your family, ask about non-toxic options.
How do you screen your staff?
Like we said in the intro, the staff at the cleaning company will be trusted with keys to your home, so you want to make sure the people who are working for the cleaning company are screened. Most companies will provide background checks if you ask, and some companies will also do drug screenings of their employees.
What services are included?
Some cleaning services include laundry, while others don’t – you may prefer to ask for deep cleans of windows, baseboards, and bathrooms from your cleaning service, and leave the daily tasks like dishes for yourself. Or, you can request that everything is cleaned. It all depends on your preference, and what the cleaning company offers.
What should I do with my pet?
Ask about what your cleaner is most comfortable with when it comes to your pet. If you won’t be home during the cleanings, introduce your dogs to your cleaner before they clean for the first time, that way your pup won’t be alarmed when your new cleaner lets himself in.
If your cleaner would prefer to clean the home without the dog around, make sure the pup is crated or staying with a friend during the clean.
Can I see references?
The last thing we recommend you asking is for references: most cleaning companies will have these handy and be happy to send them to you. Customer satisfaction is a great indication of a good service, so if the reviews look really good and honest, chances are you can trust the company.
The best way to clean kitchen appliances is to match the cleaning method to the appliance and its finish. Start with a clean, soft cloth and the cleaner recommended in the owner’s manual. Loosen dried spills before wiping, keep water away from electrical components, and dry surfaces before putting the appliance back into use.
Whether you are cleaning your own kitchen, preparing a rental for new guests, or stocking a professional cleaning cart, a few well-chosen supplies can cover many everyday jobs. This guide walks through refrigerators, microwaves, ovens and smaller appliances, with tips for choosing the right sponge or cloth along the way.
Choose your kitchen appliance cleaning supplies
Keep separate tools for washing, drying and spot cleaning. A cloth used on the floor should never be the one you reach for inside the refrigerator.
Microfiber cleaning towels are useful for everyday wiping and drying. Keep a fresh towel ready for the final pass over appliance exteriors.
Swedish dishcloths offer a reusable option for absorbing ordinary spills and wiping washable surfaces.
Instant Erase Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges combine a cellulose sponge with a scrubbing side. Use only where the appliance’s care instructions permit a scrub sponge, and test first.
A soft brush can help with removable filters and small crevices when the manufacturer recommends it.
Have mild dish soap or an appliance-approved cleaner available. More cleaner or a rougher pad is not always the answer to a stubborn mark. Giving residue time to soften can reduce the amount of scrubbing needed.
Check the finish before you scrub
Stainless steel, painted metal, glass and plastic can require different care. Fingerprint-resistant finishes and touchscreens may have coatings that ordinary scrubbing can damage. Check the manual, test a hidden area and inspect your cloth for grit before starting.
Melamine eraser sponges clean through fine abrasion. That makes them useful for certain marks on compatible hard surfaces, but unsuitable as an all-purpose appliance scrubber. Keep them off stainless steel appliance finishes, glossy coatings, nonstick surfaces and electronic displays unless the manufacturer specifically permits them. A successful spot test does not override the care instructions.
Let heated appliances cool and unplug portable electrical appliances before cleaning them. Apply cleaning liquid to the cloth rather than spraying controls, vents or electrical openings. Never immerse a motor base, cord or plug.
How to clean a refrigerator and freezer
Plan the job before emptying the refrigerator so perishable food can stay cold in another refrigerator or a cooler with ice packs. Follow the manual’s instructions for switching off cooling or disconnecting power during a deep clean.
Remove food and take out the shelves and drawers designed to be removable. Let cold glass shelves warm to room temperature before washing them.
Hand-wash removable parts with mild dish soap and warm water, using a soft cloth or suitable sponge. Do not assume that refrigerator parts are dishwasher-safe.
Wipe the interior and door seals, paying attention to crumbs and sticky residue in the folds. Keep excess water out of vents and seams.
Wipe away soap residue and dry the surfaces. Reinstall the parts, restore cooling and return food promptly.
Whirlpool’s refrigerator care guidance explains these precautions in more detail. For a freezer that needs defrosting, use the procedure for your model rather than chipping at ice with a sharp tool.
Treat the ice maker as a separate maintenance task. Its ice bin, water filter and internal cleaning cycle may each have different instructions. Replace filters on the manufacturer’s schedule rather than attempting to wash a disposable filter.
How to clean a microwave
Once the microwave is cool, remove loose crumbs and take out the turntable if the manual allows it. Wash the turntable using its approved method, taking care not to expose hot glass to cold water.
Wipe the interior with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution permitted by the manufacturer. For dried splashes, hold a warm, damp cloth against the residue before wiping it away. Avoid flooding the interior, scrubbing protective covers or pushing moisture into openings.
Clean the door edges and exterior, remove cleaning residue and dry with a fresh cloth. Follow your model’s directions if you use a steam-cleaning method; hot water and steam can burn. Whirlpool’s microwave cleaning guide provides additional guidance on interiors, turntables and exteriors.
How to clean an oven and stovetop
Check the oven’s cleaning instructions before choosing a product. Conventional, self-cleaning and steam-cleaning ovens do not all tolerate the same treatments. A cleaner intended for one oven may be unsuitable for another.
When the oven is cool, remove loose food and clean removable racks as directed. Use the approved cleaning method for the interior and door glass. Do not scrub heating elements or the door gasket, and do not combine an oven cleaner with a self-cleaning cycle unless the instructions explicitly allow it. See Whirlpool’s oven cleaning guidance for an overview of the different methods.
For the stovetop, identify the surface before tackling cooked-on residue:
On glass or ceramic cooktops, use the cleaner and cleaning pad specified for that surface. Use a scraper only if the manufacturer permits it and follow its directions.
On gas cooktops, remove grates and burner components only as instructed. Clean and dry removable pieces thoroughly before reassembly.
On electric coil models, keep electrical connections dry and follow the manual for drip pans and removable components.
A scrub sponge belongs only on surfaces approved for that type of tool. Its color or “non-scratch” name does not establish compatibility with every appliance finish.
How to clean a dishwasher
Empty the dishwasher and check the bottom for visible food debris. If your model has a user-removable filter, take it out and clean it according to the manual. Some filters are not designed to be removed by the user.
Wipe accessible door edges and seals with a soft, damp cloth. Then use a dishwasher cleaning product and cycle approved for your machine. Do not add hand dishwashing liquid to a dishwasher cycle or substitute an improvised cleaning mixture without checking the instructions. Whirlpool’s dishwasher guide covers filter checks and cleaning cycles.
Finish by wiping the handle and exterior with a separate cloth. If the dishwasher continues to smell or drain poorly after routine cleaning, investigate the cause rather than repeatedly adding cleaner.
How to clean stainless steel appliance exteriors
Begin with a clean microfiber cloth and the cleaning method approved for the finish. Wipe along the grain of the steel, then dry with a second clean cloth to remove remaining moisture and streaks.
Avoid steel wool, abrasive pads and harsh cleaners. Coated or fingerprint-resistant stainless steel may require different care from uncoated steel, so check before applying polish. Whirlpool’s stainless steel care guide explains how to identify the grain and choose a suitable cleaner.
Remember coffee makers and small appliances
Small appliances need attention wherever food, grease or crumbs collect. Unplug them and let them cool before handling removable parts.
For a coffee maker, wash the carafe and other removable components according to the manual. Descaling is a separate process for mineral buildup; use the recommended solution, cycle and rinse procedure rather than a universal vinegar recipe.
For blenders and mixers, clean detachable parts as directed and keep fingers away from sharp blades. Wipe the motor housing with a barely damp cloth. Only place parts in the dishwasher when the manufacturer identifies them as dishwasher-safe.
For a toaster, empty the removable crumb tray as instructed and let any washed parts dry fully before reassembly. Keep water and cleaning tools out of the heating slots. Air fryers and toaster ovens also need model-specific care, especially around nonstick baskets, heating elements and fans.
Make appliance cleaning easier to maintain
Use a short checklist based on how heavily the kitchen is used. Deal with spills once surfaces are safe to handle, inspect refrigerator shelves and microwave interiors regularly, and schedule deeper cleaning according to the manuals. A busy shared kitchen may need attention more often than a lightly used home kitchen.
For cleaning teams, assign separate cloths to appliance interiors, exteriors and other areas. Keep a clean supply available while used cloths are being washed, and replace worn sponges. Our house cleaning and maid supplies page can help you plan supplies for recurring work.
Kitchen appliance cleaning questions
Can I use an eraser sponge on every appliance?
No. Melamine foam is abrasive, even when it feels soft. Follow the appliance manufacturer’s instructions and reserve eraser sponges for compatible surfaces. Start with a soft cloth for delicate finishes.
Does a cleaning sponge disinfect a kitchen appliance?
An ordinary sponge or cloth is a cleaning tool, not a disinfectant. If sanitizing or disinfecting is required, use a suitable labeled product and follow its directions, including any food-contact rinsing requirements.
What should I buy for routine appliance cleaning?
Start with microfiber towels, an absorbent cloth for spills and a suitable sponge for washable removable parts. Add specialized tools only when the appliance calls for them. Compare Sponge Outlet cleaning products to choose supplies for the jobs you do most often.
Your bike is your loyal companion out on the road or trail. When you return from a long day of pedaling, chances are you’ll toss your favorite bike shorts and windbreaker in the washing machine—but when’s the last time you washed your bike?
If your bike is looking a little worse for wear these days, but you’re not sure where to get started to make it look like new again, you’re in luck: SpongeOutlet is here today with a step-by-step guide to cleaning your bike. Read on, pick up the supplies you need, get started, and then get back to the trails!
Plus, cleaning your bike regularly will maintain its paint job and keep it looking as good as the first day you rode it out of the bike shop. If you don’t clean your bike regularly, the dirt and grime build up can start to impact some of its mechanical integrity.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You’ll need a few things to properly clean your bike, so the first thing you should do is gather your supplies. Grab two buckets, bottle brushes if you have them, a soft microfiber cloth, regular sponges, eraser sponges, a garden hose, degreaser for the chain, and dish soap.
Depending on the type of bike you have, there may be specific cleaning instructions, so make sure you check the internet before you dive in with your scrub brush. If your bike company or brand recommends a certain type of soap, it’s probably a good idea to pick up a bottle. Your bike is made to last through tough conditions, but it’s important to make sure you’re doing everything you can to maintain its paint.
Step One: Clean Your Bike Wheels
The first thing you want to do is fill your buckets with dish soap and water and remove the wheels from your bike. Use a soft, plastic brush to gently remove grease and grime from your wheels. Don’t forget the valve, spokes and hub, and flip the wheel over when you finish one side.
One of the buckets will be the grimy bucket, and the other will be the finishing bucket. Use the cloth or sponge in the grimy bucket to do your first round of washing—give everything a good wipe down.
Once you give everything a good scrub, hose down the wheels. Then, swap to the finishing bucket, and re-scrub everything. This will ensure you loosen all of the fine dirt that might be stuck in your wheels’ nooks and crannies.
Once you’re done with the wheels, check the tires for air and set them aside to dry.
Step Two: Clean Your Bike Chain
Use a degreaser, and apply it to each of the links: Bicycling.com says turning the cranks backwards can make it easier to reach each and every link. If your chain is still a greasy mess after you use your degreaser, you can apply a little dish soap and run your eraser sponge around the chain.
A little grease left over is OK, as long as you remove the major build up. Rinse the chain, repeat if necessary, and move on to step three.
Step Three: Clean Your Bike Frame
Next up is the frame: use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth and start at the top and work your way down. Start by wetting the frame with a garden hose, and then using your cloth to scrub it. Tough spots can be tackled with eraser sponges, just be careful not to damage the paint with too much harsh scrubbing.
Rinse, repeat, and then buff with a dry microfiber cloth to make sure all areas of the frame have dried to a sparkling finish. Buffing your bike after you clean it with a microfiber cloth can actually prevent dirt from sticking to it while you’re out on your next ride!
Step Four: Clean the Smaller Parts of Your Bike
Use a toothbrush to get the grime and grease out of any hard-to-reach areas on your bike, and don’t forget to dry and buff those areas really well when you finish up. And, remember to wash things like handlebars, cup holders, and pedals. Some of these pieces may be easy to remove, so if you’re going for a deep clean, snap off the pieces and clean them before reattaching them to the bike.
Just like any pastime, riding a bike can be fun, relaxing and rewarding, but it’s important to take care of your equipment. After all, you spent a good deal of money on it! So, remember to regularly wash your bike, and if you’re not up for a weekly deep clean, a wipe down with a microfiber cloth and some soapy water after a ride in between deep cleans will do the trick.
For more tips on cleaning items around your car, office and home, check out our blog. Contact SpongeOutlet today if you have any questions about our products or how you can use them to keep your life sparkling clean!
Step 2: Remove the mold
Can I see references?
Step Two: Clean Your Bike Chain
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