Home Management

Archive for February 18th, 2011

A stain is a discoloration of a fabric caused by the presence of foreign matter. Always test the removal method on a hidden part first, to make sure that it doesn’t harm the fabric. In all stain removal, prompt attention is most important. Rinse non-greasy stains away with water. Sprinkle talc on grease marks to absorb them. Dab salt on wine or beetroot stains. Soak in cold water as soon as possible. White wine will remove red wine stains. Many stains can be removed by soaking and then washing, as long as the fabric is washable. Professional cleaning is better when expensive garments or furnishings are stained, particularly if the mark cannot be identified or if there is a special finish to the fabric. In this case, avoid home treatment, mark the stain and, if possible, tell the cleaners exactly what was spilt.

The four categories of stains are
. Those removed by normal washing action.
. Those removed by oxygen beach.
. Those for which soaking before washing helps.
. Those requiring special treatments.

The methods recommended are those most likely to be effective and can be carried out under ordinary domestic conditions. However, there can be no hard-and fast rules for stain removal. The age and concentration of the stain and the weave and finish of the fabric affect the chances of success. If chemical treatment is carried out on a fabric weakened by age or exposure of any kind it may be further weakened. Extra care must be taken when using chemicals marked poisonous or highly inflammable.

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Since the well being of the family may be said to revolve round the kitchen, some basic ground rules are essential for maintaining it in as hygienic a manner as possible.

Large Appliances

Depending on the size and space available, the age of the kitchen and the money to spare, large appliances will usually consist of cooker, sink unit, refrigerator\freezer, a washing machine or some appliance for assisting in the laundry process. There may also be items in the luxury bracket such as a dishwasher, tumble drier or freezer. All these are potential germ traps even, surprisingly, washing machines, and a regular routine is required to keep them clean.

Cookers – Turn off electricity or gas. Half-fill the sink with very hot water and enzyme detergent – marvelous for dissolving burnt-on-food. Remove all shelves, trays, grill pan burners and soaking sink. Rinse, dry and replace. Wipe all enamel parts with damp cloth and cream cleanser. Rinse well. For inside oven, use one of the good quality products. If oven is very dirty leave cleaner on all night. Rinse off thoroughly and dry. Toughened glass in oven doors can be cleaned with a nylon scourer and cream cleanser.

Solid fuel Cookers – Wipe spills at once. Use cream cleanser on all enamel parts. Rinse off carefully. If enamel is really dirty, try soap filled pads, but avoid using on plastic or aluminum. Brush out oven regularly.

Kitchen sinks

Hot water and washing up liquid is enough for general cleaning. Stainless steel and enamel sinks should be cleaned with a cream cleanser or special stainless steel cleaner to avoid scratching surface. A handful of soda and a capful of liquid bleach washed down the drain at regular intervals will help dissolve grease, kill germs and reduce smells.

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