Tips to Clean Like a Pro
DITCH THE MOP
Schar doesn’t use a wet mop. She says mops do more harm, spreading dirt everywhere. Instead, she says to clean floors on your hands and knees. First vacuum, then fill a bucket three-quarters full of warm water and 1 tbsp. castile soap. Wash with a terry cloth rag in a 4-sq.-ft. section, dry and repeat, working your way out of the room.
MAKE YOUR OWN RAGS
To save money, Schar makes her own rags from sheets she buys at the thrift store. Cut them to size and if you like, hem them so they don’t fray. You’ll have plenty of rags without paying a premium.
WASH YOUR RAGS TWICE
If you want a clean house, you need clean rags. Dirty rags harbor all kinds of bacteria, so wash your rags twice—once with bleach and the second time without.
FORGET DISPOSABLE CLOTHS
Disposable dust cloths might seem like a good idea, but use a flannel cloth with a little Old English instead. It’s just as effective and you’ll save money.
ANYTHING YOU WASH, YOU DRY
Don’t wash surfaces with a cleaner and let them dry on their own; it leaves a sticky residue. Dry everything after washing.
LIFT OBJECTS; DON’T SLIDE
When dusting, it’s easy to move objects around without thinking about how you’re moving them, but Schar emphasizes you must lift them rather than sliding. Sliding scratches the finish.