15 TRICKS FOR CLEANING

1. Get rid of marker stains

Toothpaste will erase marker stains from wood – a handy trick to have in your back pocket if you have creative kids.

2. Freshen stuffed animals

In between washing, groom your kids’ plush pals by giving them a once-over with a lint roller.

3. Solve smelly sneakers

Freshen up after the gym by sprinkling some baking soda inside your shoes (and your gym bag while you’re at it). Just tap it out before you wear them again.

4. Defunk hairbrushes and combs

Combat build-up from hair products with a solution of a few drops of shampoo mixed with warm water.

5. Clear a slow drain

When you notice your drain is starting to clog, pour a half-cup of baking soda down it, followed by a halfcup of vinegar. Cover with a wet cloth to contain the fumes. Wait five minutes and then flush with hot water.

6. Make sneakers bright again

Get your tennis shoes to their just-out-the-box state by scrubbing with toothpaste.

7. Untangle a knotted necklace

Never waste time desperately tugging at tangled jewellery again. Loosen the knot with a little baby powder and use a pin to pull it apart.

8. Soften fuzzy towels

Mineral build-up can cause towels to feel scratchy. To lift deposits, wash the towels in the hottest water possible and add one cup of ammonia.

9. Get stains out of a cutting board

Run the cut side of a lemon over the board to remove food stains and smells. For extra cleaning power, sprinkle it with salt or baking soda first.