The American Cleaning Institute (ACI)

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Q: I unpacked my tent to get ready for the camping season, and found there was mold growing in the folds. How do I clean it without ruining the water-resistant properties? A: If possible, start by contacting the tent manufacturer for specific directions. If this isn't possible, wait for a warm, sunny day and then set up your tent in a shady location. Shake or brush off dirt and any other debris that can be easily removed. Fill a bucket with warm water, add a few squirts…
March 11, 2019
Five Great Ways to Show Dad you Care Does Dad really need another tie for Father’s Day? Is a bottle of after-shave going to ring his chimes? Probably not! So this year, how about something really different? What busy dads are short on is time to care for the “stuff” that fills their lives. Here are some ideas for gifting him with a surprise cleanup. 1. His Grill: A warm grill is easier to clean than a cold one. So fire it up, and then let it cool until slightly warm. Using a…
February 8, 2019
Items Routine Care Special Instructions Appliances  Accessories  Trim Use a nonabrasive, all-purpose cleaner. Rinse with clean water and dry with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleanser that may scratch the plastic. Bathtubs Shower Stalls Sinks Wall Tile Use a tub/tile/sink cleaner; nonabrasive, all-purpose cleaner; or a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the cleaner to the surface or on a damp sponge and rub gently…
December 5, 2018
Automatic dishwashers represent a tremendous saving in time and effort; they minimize breakage through reduced handling of dishes; they help keep the kitchen neater and more clutter-free; and cleanup after entertaining is simplified. These are benefits that have much appeal to consumers. In order to ensure that public health standards are maintained, hospitals and many other food service institutions are required by law to clean dishes by automatic dishwashing…
March 5, 2019
Q: My kids are into making Valentine's Day cards and decorations. It's fun, but it creates a mess – especially the markers and the craft glue! How do I get these stains out of their clothing? For regular felt-tip markers (those that aren't labeled "permanent"), rinse the stain with cold water until no more color is being removed. Then place the stain face down on some clean paper towels and sponge with rubbing alcohol. Apply the alcohol first to the clean area around…
February 8, 2019
Q: We had a real tree for Christmas but now I am finding tree sap everywhere! What is the best way to clean mittens, coats and my carpet?  A: Rubbing alcohol can remove sap from washable clothing, knit gloves, and rugs, because it acts as a solvent. For clothes, even a down coat, saturate the area with alcohol, let sit for a minute, then launder in warm water with regular detergent. Heat sets stains, so be sure all the sap is gone before using the dryer. Repeat the process if…
March 11, 2019
Q. American Heart Health Month has inspired me to use my treadmill (for exercise, not a clothes rack!) How do I clean it? Keeping your treadmill and other exercise equipment clean is important for maintenance and safety. Fortunately, it’s easy. (Much easier than keeping up with a rigorous exercise routine.) Just follow these steps and you’ll be off and running! Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away sweat on the deck, handrails and conveyer belt after every use. Once a week,…
February 8, 2019
Q: How do I remove greasy film from my granite counter tops? A: Fill your sink with warm water and add two tablespoons of a mild dishwashing detergent. Dip a cloth into the soapy water, wring it out and wipe the counter top. Continue dipping and wiping until the greasy film is removed. Rinse the counter top with cool water and a clean cloth. Dry with a soft dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads and acid-based products such as those with lemon-based or vinegar-based ingredients.
March 11, 2019
Q: This year my resolution is to do a better job keeping my home clean and organized. Things always get so cluttered once the kids go back to school after the holidays. Do you have tips for how to start the year off on the right foot? The New Year is a great time to reset your cleaning routines and put some new organizational systems in place. Here are my top five cleaning resolutions: Make It a Family Project. Assign different family members specific areas that they’re in charge of tidying…
February 8, 2019
If you’ve never used bleach and have questions about it, we’ve got you covered. Bleach is great for disinfecting surfaces, clothes, and linens. Other types of soaps and detergents are better for routine cleaning. Bleach is for when you want to sanitize, as well as get your clothes nice and bright.
December 3, 2019