"Queen of Clean" Part 5

Cleaning Tips for the Laundry

Wash Plastic Shower Liner

To remove soap scum and mildew from plastic shower curtains and liners, fill washing machine with warm water, 1 c. white vinegar, and your regular laundry detergent. Add the curtains, along with several old light colored towels. Run through complete cycle and re-hang curtain immediately.

Oder-Eater Socks

1 gallon warm water
1/4 c. baking soda

Mix and soak freshly washed socks for 30 minutes in mixture. Spin out in the washer (do not rinse), then dry.

Bleach Alternative

1/4 c. lemon juice
1/4 c. white vinegar
1 gallon warm water

Mix and soak clothes 15 minutes before washing.

Removing Rust from Clothes

Apply lemon juice, let item dry in sun, then launder as usual. This method is generally safe on all washable fabrics; but, if in doubt, test it in an inconspicuous place first.

Another method is to apply Cream of Tartar to the rust spot. Gather up the edges of the material and dip the spot into hot water. Let sit 5 minutes and launder as usual.

Grease and Oil

In order to treat a grease stain, first you have to know if it is animal oil, vegetable oil, or automotive. Grease and oil can leave a semitransparent stain that turns dark from the soil it attracts. To remove a grease stain, remove as much of the greasy substance as possible without forcing the grease further down into the fabric fibers. Use a paper towel to blot and absorb all the grease that you can. Next apply a drawing agent such as baking soda, cornstarch, or talcum powder. Rub it in and let it sit 15 - 30 minutes to allow it to absorb and draw the grease out of the fabric. Brush the powder off thoroughly and check the stain. If it looks like you can absorb more, repeat the process. For tough grease stains sprinkle the stain with cornstarch, cover with an old lightweight rag and press with a medium-hot iron to absorb the grease/oil.

Sometimes grease stains can be stubborn and we need to fall back on the idea that grease removes grease. Therefore, you want to spray the grease spot with WD-40 Lubricant and let it soak for 10 minutes. Work in undiluted dishwashing liquid and work well between your thumbs. Flush with the hottest water you can for the fabric, pre-treat and launder as usual. Do not use this mithod on silk or crease-resistant finishes.

Although my neighbor gave me these cleaning tips, they can be found in The Queen of Clean's Books. You can find them at your local library or buy them here.