Seven great cleaning tips help keep home sparkling

This week, I thought I would share with you seven great cleaning secrets.

1. Borax and water make an outstanding cleaner for porcelain. Just make a paste, rub it in well and then rinse clean.

2. You can make drain cleaner. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by two cups of vinegar. Cover the drain and wait about 30 minutes then flush with water.

3. You can clean casserole pans and dishes without scrubbing them. Fill them with hot water, pour in one tablespoon of fabric softener, mix and let it stand overnight. The next morning, cleaning it will be a breeze. If there are still a few tough spots, pour some cola on it and wait 10 minutes and that puppy should come clean,.

4. You can sanitize your wet sponge. Just zap it in the microwave for 30 seconds before using it. Be careful, it will be hot when it comes out.

5. You can make an outstanding non-abrasive powder. Mix four parts of baking soda with one part of borax.

6. Storing clothes in a plastic, dry cleaner bag will cause them to yellow.

7. By spraying non-cooking spray on the hood of your car before taking a trip will cause bugs and road grime to wash right off.

If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabric and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene/meth lab cleanup.