Linen closets can be a jumbled mess, especially when you have children making their own beds. Organize bed linens in sets. Fold flat sheet in half twice lengthwise, then fold fitted sheet the same way and lay it on top of the flat folded sheet. Add one or two pillow cases folded long ways and roll them all together into a neat roll. Whoever is making the bed can grab only a roll instead of rummaging around and making a mess.


Spray broom or dust mop with you favorite furniture polish and the dust and dirt will be easier to collect when you sweep.

Sponge area with white vinegar. If stain remains, soak with denatured alcohol. Wash with detergent in hottest water safe for fabric.
Clean by rubbing with a little lemon juice, dry with paper towels and polish with newspaper for a sparkling table.
Toothpaste will remove small scratches from glass.

Vacuum draperies. Wash blinds. Replace heavy drapes with lightweight or sheer curtains.

Polish furniture, wash upholstery, vacuum between cushions. Clean behind and under sofas and cabinets.

Carved furniture- dip old toothbrush into furniture polish and brush lightly.
To remove polish build-up mix one cup water and one cup vinegar. Dip soft cloth in the mixture and wring out before wiping furniture. Dry immediately with another soft, dry cloth.

Shoe polish

Follow the tips listed below (in order) until stain has lifted from your carpet: Apply small amounts of the cleaning solution with a clean, white, absorbent towel. Continue to apply and blot frequently until the staining material is no longer transferred to the towel.

Tip 1:
Apply a small amount of dry cleaning solvent or alcohol (available at grocery, drug and hardware stores). Use small amounts to prevent possible damage to sizing, backings or stuffing materials. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid or other flammables.

Tip 2:
Mix one-half teaspoon of white neutral detergent (a mild dishwashing dish washing detergent containing no strong alkalis or bleaches), with a cup of lukewarm water.

Tip 3:
Mix one tablespoon of household ammonia with one-half cup of water.
The final step is to blot any remaining moisture or cleaning solutions by pressing or padding the area with absorbent towel. Weight it down and allow at least six hours to dry.

Having trouble finding time to read these days? You can rent great books on tape from the library to listen to while you're cleaning and doing chores. It helps to pass the time, keeps you working a little longer and lets you catch up on those mysteries you've been wanting to read

Clean with the dust-brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
Remove stains and dirt with mild soap and water. Don't let the tiles get too wet.