Why does our laundry come of the wash still smelling bad? There are ways to solve this and other household conundrums.
By Jolie Kerr
BHG.com
Many common cleaning tasks are straightforward, like cleaning a bathtub or mopping the floor. But other household chores can be a struggle to get done right or are so burdensome you put them off altogether. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the top cleaning conundrums, explaining what makes them so tricky and, most importantly, how to get them done right.
1. Dingy or Moldy Grout
Grout is porous, and it can be difficult to clean grout lines that are set deeper than the surface tiles. Experts recommend regular cleaning with a grout brush, but when grout is badly stained or has developed significant mold or mildew buildup, something stronger may be needed. A mold- and mildew-eliminating grout cleaner that contains chlorine bleach makes quick work of cleaning and brightening dirty grout. For an alternative solution, a steam cleaner fitted with a grout brush attachment will do the job fast using only steam.2. Stiff and Smelly Towels (Even When Clean)
Towels feeling stiff and smelling less than fresh? You’re using too much detergent, liquid fabric softener, or dryer sheets. Waxy buildup from softeners reduces the absorbency of towels, and buildup from detergent residue can make towels feel stiff. The combination of the two can also add up to a musty lingering odor, even in towels that have just been washed.
