5 DAYS TO GO: Ruthlessly clean out the fridge; toss leftovers and expired items, then wipe down shelves with your Skura sponge and hot soapy water. It's going to get crowded in there very soon!

4 DAYS TO GO: Create space for the turkey - preferably on bottom shelf-just in case there is any leakage from the turkey wrapping

3 DAYS TO GO: If your bird is frozen, now is probably the time to defrost; keep it in its original wrap and place on a large tray (to catch all the yucky drainage); then place in the refrigerator to thaw (NEVER on the counter)!

THANKSGIVING: Now that the bird is in the oven, wipe up the turkey area like you did before it went in the fridge. And look at that great space that you have for leftovers!

1. Break down the clean-up: Identify all of the tasks like clearing the table, cleaning the plates, packing up left overs, handwashing and dishwasher loading, cleaning serving dishes, pots and pan duty. Getting overwhelmed yet?

2. Assign Roles: you know which guests will be best for what task. And don’t be afraid to ask everyone to do a little bit.

3. Ask for Help Directly: For the most part, people want to help! They won’t be offended. And if they are, perhaps they can sit at the kids table?

4. Make it Fun: Put on some upbeat music. Get everyone moving. They’re going to want to after all that food!  

5. Be Prepared: Have a clear area for dirty dishes, a drying rack, and plenty of sponges, VERY Skrubby scouring pads and TADA! Dish towels ready. Making it easy for others to jump in and help is key 

Let’s face it. The pantry collects all kinds of goods - probably many that you have no plans to use in the immediate future. Time to purge and clean it up!

1. Remove all items; sort into keepers, expired goods (toss those) and donations
2. Vacuum (yes, vacuum!) all shelves, removing dust and crumbs
3. Using your SKURA sponge, scrub sticky messes with a deodorizing solution of baking soda and warm water. Wipe surfaces with dampened WIPE ENVY. You may need to do this a few times to remove all the residue
4. Group remaining items, labeling them if necessary, and place back on shelves
5. Now take the donation pile to your local food bank

By following these steps, you can keep your glassware sparkling clean, free of streaks, and safely intact for longer use.

1. Use Warm, Not Hot, Water
  - Water that’s too hot can cause glass to crack, especially if it’s thin or delicate
  - Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Don’t rinse glassware with cold water right after washing it in hot water. It can cause the glass to shatter
2. Use Gentle Dish Soap
  - Use a gentle dish soap that cuts grease without leaving residue. Too much detergent can leave a film on glassware, so use sparingly
3. Hand Wash Glassware
  - Wash separately to prevent breakage
  - Do not stack or place glassware near heavy pots or pans
  - Use a Skura sponge to clean the glass
  - Clean the inside of glasses thoroughly, especially around the rim
4. Rinse Well
  - Rinse glassware thoroughly in warm water to remove any soap residue, which can leave spots or a cloudy film
  - If the glassware looks cloudy after washing, rinse it in a mixture of warm water and a splash of vinegar to remove mineral deposits or soap scum
5. Dry Gently
  - The best way to dry glassware is to place it on a drying rack to air dry. Or towel dry with a Towel TA-DA! using the flat lint-free side to shine the glass
6. Handle with Care
  - When handling delicate glassware, such as wine glasses, always hold the glass by the base or bowl, rather than the stem
  - Once washed and dried, handle glassware minimally to avoid smudges or fingerprints
7. Store Properly
  - Store glassware upright to prevent any chips or damage to the rims
  - Avoid stacking glassware, as the weight can cause cracks or chips

1. Use Oven Liners: Place a reusable oven liner or a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom rack to catch drips and spills. Avoid placing liners directly on the oven floor, as it can affect heat distribution.
2. Cover Dishes: Use lids or aluminum foil to cover foods that may splatter, like casseroles or baked goods, to prevent spills from reaching the oven walls.
3. Cook with a Baking Sheet: Place a baking sheet underneath dishes that may bubble over or drip, especially when baking items like pies or lasagna. And remember, your Skura Style VERY scouring pads will help keep your baking sheets looking new.
4. Wipe Up Spills Right Away: Clean up any spills or splatters immediately after the oven cools down to prevent them from baking on and becoming harder to remove.
5. Regular Use: Regularly use your Skura sponge and wipe down the interior of your oven with a mild cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to remove grease and prevent buildup.

After an amazing meal, the last thing you want lingering in your kitchen is the smell of cooking. For a quick and natural fix, turn to a tried-and-true combo: vinegar and baking soda.

1. Pour white vinegar into a small bowl and leave it on your countertop. The vinegar will absorb and neutralize lingering cooking smells overnight.

2. For any remaining odors, lightly dust baking soda on your countertops or surfaces.

3. Use your Skura Style sponge to wipe away the baking soda, leaving your kitchen fresh and odor-free.

First line of stain removal is dish soap on the stain and let it sit for at least five minutes. If it’s still there, then do this:

1. Create a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
2. Smear the paste on the stain and let it sit for at least an hour
3. Rinse and wipe with your Skura sponge
4. If there is still a stain, repeat the paste smearing, then cover with plastic wrap and let it sit overnight. Sometimes it just takes a little longer and a few times!

1. Clean Daily: At the end of each day, clean your sink with warm, soapy water and your Skura sponge. This removes food particles, grease, and grime that can attract bacteria.
2. Disinfect Regularly: Use a disinfectant at least once a week, or more often if needed. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain along with 1/4 cup white vinegar. The combination will create some foaming. Let sit for a few minutes, then run warm water. Alternatively, you can use a bleach solution (1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water) can be effective
3. Rinse After Each Use: Rinse the sink with hot water after each use to remove debris and reduce the buildup of food particles
4. Dry the Sink: After cleaning, use a WIPE ENVY to dry. Keeping it dry helps prevent water spots and reduces the chance of bacterial growth
5. Avoid Leaving Dirty Dishes: Don’t let dirty dishes sit in the sink for extended periods, as they can harbor bacteria and lead to unpleasant odors
6. Change Your Skura Sponges: When your Skura sponge fades, it’s time to change!
7. Polish the Sink: For stainless steel sinks, consider polishing them with a small amount of olive oil and a WIPE ENVY. This not only makes them shine but also creates a protective barrier against bacteria
8. Keep the Faucet and Handles Clean: Wipe down the faucet and handles daily with a disinfectant and your WIPE ENVY, as these are frequently touched and can harbor germs
9. Use a Sink Strainer: Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and debris. Empty and clean the strainer daily to prevent buildup and odors.

By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can keep your kitchen sink clean, fresh, and free of germs, contributing to a healthier kitchen

1. Clear your countertop of any clutter and wipe down the surfaces with your Skura Style sponge. Ensure there are no food crumbs or spills left overnight. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevents pests.
2. Wash any last minute dishes that are lingering in the sink. Clear sink=clear mind.
3. Leave a bowl of white vinegar on the counter. It soaks up any leftover cooking odors
4. Wipe the handles of the fridge. Who likes grabbing the handle and feeling yesterday’s gunk on it?

1. Using too much soap: Overusing soap can make rinsing difficult and leave a soapy residue on dishes, which can affect the taste of food and beverages
2. Washing in cold water: Cold water is less effective at cutting through grease and killing bacteria. Hot water helps to better sanitize dishes and remove food residue
3. Not changing dirty dishwater: Continuing to wash dishes in dirty, greasy water can spread food particles and bacteria, making dishes less clean
4. Ignoring the order of washing: Washing the dirtiest items first can spread grease and grime to cleaner dishes. It’s better to start with glasses and cutlery, then move to plates and bowls, and finish with pots and pans
5. Using a dirty sponge: Sponges, as you know, can harbor bacteria if not replaced regularly. While Skura Style sponges harbor 99% fewer germs, they should still be replaced when the monogram has faded!

Fill your dutch oven half way with warm water. Throw a dishwasher pod into the water. It can be the powder or the gel/powder combination. Boil the mixture for five to ten minutes. Then discard the mixture. Rinse the Dutch oven with warm water, using your Skura sponge or a VERY SKRUBBY scouring pad to finish the job.  

1. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of half white vinegar and half WARM water
2. Spritz your cabinets and let sit for a few minutes while the solution attacks the grease
3. Wipe away the grease build-up with your Skura sponge
4. Use a WIPE ENVY or other soft cloth to dry and shine

• Sprinkle baking soda over the burnt and grimy areas
• Spritz enough white vinegar on top to soak through baking soda
• Allow to dry for about 8 hours (overnight)
• Scrub with a VERY SKRUBBY scouring pad and some warm water
• Repeat as needed
• Do this on both sides and it will keep looking new
  

1.   Line a glass baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure the shiny side is facing upwards
2.   Sprinkle 3-4 tablespoons of baking soda on the foil, then carefully pour about 2 cups of boiling water on top
3.   Immerse your silver (do NOT stack or overlap), let soak for 3 minutes, and remove with tongs
4.   Use your WIPE ENVY to buff and shine

1. Wipe up loose ashes and food
2. Soak a pressed powder dishwasher pod (not a gel pod) in a bowl of warm water for a few seconds, just until moistened
3. Use the pod like you would a sponge to wipe down your oven - including glass doors
4. You might need a VERY SKRUBBY for tough areas
5. Rinse and wipe clean with warm water and your Skura sponge

Wash your knives by hand with warm water, soap, and your Skura sponge

Never put your kitchen knives in your dishwasher. Doing so will damage the handle

Rinsing or washing your knife after a task, while you’re cooking, helps to keep them clean and sharp. It also helps to minimize cross-contamination

Use your knife on a wood or plastic cutting board. It’s safer and keeps your knife sharper longer

Always wash your cutting board immediately after using

Deodorize Your Disposal
Make a tray of ice cubes using white vinegar and small pieces of lemon put two down the disposal and turn it on!

Get Rid of Sink Odors
Run super hot water down the drain to flush it out then pour a cup of baking soda down it. Finish it off with about a cup of white vinegar. Let the fizzing begin and when it’s calmed down rinse with more hot water.

Stainless Steel Sinks Polishing
Wash and dry the sink. Sprinkle the the entire surface with flour (yup). Start buffing (with a WIPE ENVY) and watch how sparkly it gets. Rinse and dry.

Faucets
Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the base of the faucet to tackle the gunk that can accumulate there. With an old toothbrush, work out the gunk. Rinse off and wipe. For the faucet, wet a WIPE ENVY with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar and wipe down (make sure the patina on your faucet can handle white vinegar). Polish the faucet with dry WIPE ENVY.

A stock pot is not a Dutch oven. It’s a tall pot with a flat bottom that generally has a thin bottom. It’s used to cook stocks and soups as they can handle a large amount of liquid that need to be simmered for longer periods of time. Cooking soups and stocks can start with browning ingredients first and those browning bits can get stuck on the bottom of the pan.

Because these pots are thinner than regular pots, it’s necessary to be gentle with them and avoid heavy scrubbing.

Add equal parts of white vinegar and water to the pot filling it up about half-way. Then add two lemon halves and bring to a boil and simmer for half an hour. You’re basically making a cleaning stock! Let it cool and then use your Skura sponge to attack the food bits on the bottom to gently lift them off. Then wash.

Create a paste made from baking soda and a little water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit on the stain for a couple of hours. Don’t scrub the stain with the paste since it’s and abrasive and may scratch your countertop. Wipe off gently after you have let it sit with a WIPE ENVY.

If you use plastic storage containers to keep berries, they are likely to get stained from those delicious juices. Soak the container in distilled white vinegar making sure to cover the stain. Rinse clean. Don’t worry about the vinegar fragrance. It disappears. Or you can also make a paste of dish soap and baking soda and coat the stain. Use your Skura Style sponge to apply some pressure to rub the stain out. Rinse and repeat if necessary.

Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the stained area — the non-gel kind. Very gently rub in with your fingers, pressing it into the stain. Rinse with water. Gone!

Stainless steel sinks and appliances can’t help but get annoying streaks and water spots. Make them shiny again with shaving cream! Simply dampen a WIPE ENVY microfiber cloth — make sure it’s not super wet. Just damp. Then apply shave cream to the cloth and rub into the stainless steel. With a dry WIPE ENVY polish off the residue to make it shine. You can also do this on your faucets!

Plastic containers are great. But they can get to looking nasty and not so clean with the stains left from the food that was being stored. Here’s how to bring them back to life so you’re not tossing them out so fast.

Make a paste of baking soda and water and spread it over the bottom and sides of the container. The consistency of the paste should be like toothpaste. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then use a damp WIPE ENVY (or other soft cloth) to tackle the stains. Rinse and wash with dish soap and warm water.

Washing dishes is our favorite pastime. And we find washing by hand (old school) is actually cathartic

1. Always rinse your dishes before washing them to loosen dried-on foods. Pre-soak pots and pans separately
2. Make sure the monogram on your Skura sponge is still visible. If not, toss and pull out a fresh one!
3. Fill the sink with hot, hot water. Add a couple of teaspoons of baking soda in the water along with your liquid detergent to help with stubborn messes
4. Use rubber gloves to tolerate the temperature - and save your manicure in the process!
5. Wash the cleanest and most fragile items first to avoid breaking or spreading germs and food particles
6. After a cleaning each piece, check for remaining residue. Use the scrubby side of your Skura aponge to eliminate the stickier particles
7. When rinsing dishes, continue to use hot water. It’s better at melting any grease and soapy residue away
8. Dry as soon as the items are clean to avoid exposure to bacteria. A clean TOWEL TA-DA! absorbs water and doesn't leave lint
9. Now use a clean TOWEL TA-DA! for drying and making sure glasses are lint free

The following are a big no-no in your dishwasher. These must be hand washed instead.

•   No Cast Iron Cookware. It can strip away the seasoning and cause rust.
•   No Nonstick Pans. The coating can deteriorate over time from the dishwasher’s high heat and harsh detergents.
•   No Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards. The heat and water can cause wood to warp and crack.
•   No Crystal and Hand-Painted Glassware: These items can become cloudy or the paint can wear off.
•   Soft Plastics. Tempting to put these in there - but they can melt or warp from the high heat.
•   Knives. The dishwasher can dull the blades and the handles can get damaged.
•   Aluminum Cookware. It will discolor and become dull due to the dishwasher’s detergent and heat.
•   Copper and Brass Items: They can tarnish and lose their shine.
•   Insulated Mugs. The vacuum seal can be damaged by the heat and water.
•   Delicate Ceramics and Antiques. They can crack or the patterns can fade.

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific items to determine if they are dishwasher-safe.

We rely on our dishwashers to make our dishes sparkle, but these workhorses need some cleaning too!

1. Remove the bottom rack and check the drain area for debris; wipe the drainage area using a dampened WIPE ENVY
2. Pour one cup of white vinegar into a mug (or other dishwasher safe vessel) and place on the top rack of your emptied dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle. The vinegar will remove grease, residue and stubborn grime
3. Make sure to wipe the inside of the door as well
4. Wipe down the outside and make sure to get the buttons clean. For stainless steel, spritz a tiny bit of olive oil on a clean WIPE ENVY and polish the outside

While you’re running a load of dishes, add these items!

• Toys (no batteries or glue). Bathtub toys, pool toys, play toys. Whatever will fit on the top shelf
• Dog toys. Oh yeah. And these too
• Flip flops. On the top shelf only
• Golf balls. Love this one. Find a way to place where they won’t fall through. And keep these on the top shelf as well
• Refrigerator shelves and drawers. Make sure they are at room temp before running the dishwasher so nothing cracks or breaks
  
  
  

Did you know that greasy range hood filters are a fire hazard and should be thoroughly cleaned?

1. Pop them out and drop in your sink with the drain plug closed
2. Pour boiling water, a squirt of dish soap and ¼ cup of baking soda on top of the filter(s). Swish around with tongs (or other utensil) and let them soak for at least 10 minutes
3. Make sure the water has cooled down and use a VERY SKRUBBY to remove the last bits of gunk
4. Rinse clean and dry. Pop back into the hood

We'll be reminding you to do this again in the fall!

Does the interior of your microwave look like a Jackson Pollock painting? We’ve been there…

1. To remove messy spills and splatters from your microwave, combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda and one cup of water in a microwave-safe mug (for easy handling); place in microwave
2. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, and carefully remove the hot mug
3. Using the dense steam to loosen up the grime, grab your SKURA sponge and wipe all interior surfaces for a good-as-new shine

Remove Grease Buildup from Kitchen Cabinets

1. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of half white vinegar and half WARM water
2. Spritz your cabinets, and let it sit for a few minutes while the solution attacks the grease
3. Wipe away the gunk with your SKURA sponge

You might not like this because it's a lot of work and time consuming, but it's really the best approach to getting the hardware on your drawers and cabinets super clean

1. Remove the handles from drawers and cabinets. Screwdriver will be needed. Keep the screws
2. Make a solution of equal parts hot water and white vinegar. You will need enough solution to completely cover the hardware in your soaking container
3. While the hardware is soaking be sure to use a damp WIPE ENVY to wipe the screw holes on the outside and inside
4. Remove each knob or handle individually and use your SKURA sponge to wipe it down. Use the scrubby side to get any debris still on the handle
5. Rinse, dry and reattach to drawers and cabinet

We’re talking paste here — not gel. These are a few places where it can be applied:
 
1. Stainless Steel Appliances: Toothpaste along with WIPE ENVY can polish and remove smudges from stainless steel surfaces like the fridge, oven, or dishwasher
2. Sink: It can help remove stains, soap scum, and grime from stainless steel or porcelain sinks. Apply some to your Skura Style sponge to clean
3. Faucet and Handles: Dab a little on a WIPE ENVY to make faucets shiny by removing water spots and mineral deposits
4. Cutting Boards: Toothpaste can help deodorize and remove light stains from plastic cutting boards (not recommended for wood)
5. Cookware: Toothpaste can help remove burnt-on residue from non-stick pans or polish stainless steel pots and pans. Apply a little on the scrubby side of your Skura Style sponge and work it into the area
6. Glassware: It can remove water spots or film from glass dishes and cups. So amazing — apply and sponge away. Rinse and dry with your TA-DA! Dish towel
7. Stovetop: Clean tough spots or stains on a glass or ceramic stovetop. Make sure to check your manufacturer to follow their cleaning steps.
8. Countertops: Toothpaste can be used on non-porous surfaces like quartz or laminate to lift stains.
9. Plasticware: Love this! Remove stains or lingering odors from plastic containers by applying on your Skura Style sponge and washing them clean.

Painted walls and the area around door knobs just can’t avoid getting lots of finger prints and dirty wear and tear. Get them looking fresh with — shaving cream. Yes, that stuff that is probably in your bathroom and gets used religiously. Here’s what you do:

- Dampen a WIPE ENVY
- Apply a dollop of shaving cream on the cloth
- Rub the shaving cream onto the spots and gently scrub away   the prints, smudges and marks
- Use a dry WIPE ENVY to wipe up the residue

Shaving cream is designed to lather up and penetrate an area and delivers moisture. This is great on on tough stains. So when you have a spot on your carpeting, apply the shave cream. Let it sit on the spot for at least 30 minutes. Then wipe/blot it with a damp Skura Sponge and then let it dry. If there is dry residue, simply vacuum.

It’s been another long winter and a lot of people are hanging around on the comfy couch or chairs

1. With a clean SKURA sponge, wipe the upholstery to pick up animal hair and lint. If there are fabric pills, use the scrubby side of the sponge to scrape them from the fabric. If you have white-ish fabric and you have dirt stains, try using an art eraser to tackle the stains
2. Remove the cushions and repeat the above to get the surface below the cushions clean. Feel free to keep anything you find
3. Vacuum the cushions
4. Fluff up and flip the cushions. Find a place to store the winter throws

Your iron (you read that right) can remove water rings on your wood furniture (and floors). This will work well on stains that are still damp as it effectively pulls moisture from the surface.

Lay a clean cloth over the mark. We suggest a WIPE ENVY or the terry side of a TA-DA! Towel.   Make sure there is no water left in the iron and set it to a low temperature. Set the warmed iron on the cloth over the water stain. Lift the iron check the stain. If it's still there, repeat steps until the stain is removed.

Water stains and rings on your wood furniture? Reach for white toothpaste (no whitening or gel versions) and a WIPE ENVY. Dab a generous amount of the toothpaste on the wipe and then buff the toothpaste onto the stain. When the stain is removed wipe away any residue with a clean cloth.  

Water stains are almost unavoidable. Get ready for this one!

1. Cover the stain with a clean, soft towel large enough to cover the stain and accommodate a clothes iron. A Towel TA-DA! would be ideal
2. Heat a clothes iron to a low temp. Make sure there is no water in the iron
3. Iron the towel (stain underneath) for several seconds. Let it cool
4. For tougher stains, you may need to repeat

Nicks and scrapes will happen. To get the wood looking like new do the following:

1. Reach for a nut. Not your significant other. A walnut
2. Rub the nut into the area that needs repair for several seconds. Let the oil do its thing with the wood for a few minutes
3. Buff the spot with a WIPE ENVY to polish the area

Your TV is probably just dusty - or perhaps has acquired some residue if you have a fireplace. But it's super-easy to clean. The biggest thing *not* to do is use a glass cleaner!

1. Dust the TV screen in a circular motion using a clean WIPE ENVY
2. Create a cleaning solution of warm water with a drop of dish washing liquid in a spray bottle
3. Dampen the WIPE ENVY with the solution and using the same circular motion, wipe down the screen one more time. Let it dry
4. Take the dry WIPE ENVY and dust the back if it’s accessible

Remote controls can be nasty. People rarely sanitize their hands before using it! So wipe down remotes with a WIPE ENVY that has been dampened with some white vinegar

Ceiling fans are dust collectors, but they also send that dust everywhere when they’re in use. Make sure you give them a good cleaning!

1. If there are pull chains, wipe them with a dampened WIPE ENVY
2. Affix a clean WIPE ENVY on your flat mop and spray with your fave all-purpose cleaner
3. Now glide your flat mop across the top and bottom of all blades to remove the dirt, dust and grime accumulation
4. You can add this to your regular dusting duty, using a dry WIPE ENVY

Did you know WIPE ENVY fits perfectly on your Swiffer?

1. With a dry WIPE ENVY attached, dust your walls. You may have to take down some wall hangings — but you can certainly work around them too
2. Create a mixture for the washing. In a bucket, combine 8 cups of really hot water. Add about three tablespoons of dishwashing liquid. Then add about 1/4 cup white vinegar. Get to work while the water is hot
3. Dampen a clean WIPE ENVY with the cleaning solution you just made and attach it to the Swiffer. Start mopping your walls. We always suggest starting with an area to test — in an inconspicuous place
4. Let them dry. What’s great about this is that not only are they clean — but they have a new fresh smell!

We all want to look in the mirror and like what we see. We got you!

1. First, wipe surface dust from your mirror with a dry WIPE ENVY to prevent a smeary mess of dirt and glass cleaner
2. Opt for a cleaner sans added soaps and scents - they will leave behind residue-causing streaks. The best solution is a DIY mix of half white vinegar and water
3. Spritz fluid directly on your mirror, and wipe with a clean WIPE ENVY from side to side, starting at the top and working your way down

Let's bypass the old way of taking blinds down, soaking them and re-installing them. Instead, try this:

1. Grab your kitchen tongs and wrap a WIPE ENVY around each side of the tong by fastening with rubber bands
2. Spritz a DIY household cleaner of half white vinegar, half water to the cloths
3. Grab each individual blind with the tong and swipe all the way across; repeat on each slat

To clean moss and mold from outdoor furniture, mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution generously on the affected areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Scrub the surface with the skrubby side of an about to retire Skura sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe down using the foam side of your sponge. Allow the furniture to dry completely in the sun to help prevent future mold and moss growth.

Picnics are one of the pleasures of the summer months whether it's at the beach or a park. Spruce up your basket and get out there for a fun afternoon. Here’s how:

1. Grab a dry WIPE ENVY and wipe off surface dust from the inside and outside
2. If your basket is not picnic-ready just yet, dampen the WIPE ENVY with white vinegar and blot the basket weave gently to give it a deeper clean. Do not ever immerse the basket in water as it may remove the patina, or cause warping
3. Leave the basket to air dry completely before filling with goodies for your afternoon out
4. And always keep a WIPE ENVY and Skura sponge in your basket for clean-up

Cleaning BBQ grates is a messy job. However, this is an interesting and fun way to get them shining again - and ready for the next batch of burgers.

1. Heat your grill on high to burn off any remaining food on the grates
2. Cut a large onion in half and affix on the end of a grilling fork
3. Scrub the grates with the halved onion facing downwards to remove built up grit and grime. (The onion's acidity and fluids will help to release stuck-on food, dirt and greasy residue)
4. For super-stubborn messes, mix a paste of baking soda and water, and then scrub the cooled grates with your VERY SKRUBBY

If you want great tasting barbeque, you need to keep the grill grates clean. This is an easy - and surprising - way to do it, especially if your grates have not gotten super greasy and grimy from your last grilling session:

1. Let the grates cool, and place them face down on the grass overnight (we kid you not!) The enzymes in the dewy grass will work to loosen up greasy residue
2. In the morning, hose them down. Grab your VERY SKRUBBY and scrub remaining stuck-on gunk away!

You probably put the grill away last year with the grates needing a good cleaning. Let's kick off the season with clean grates for the FCOTS (First cookout of the season). We have a ‘grate’ way to get the grates sparkling before your next cookout

1. Mix a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water in a bowl
2. Using a VERY SKRUBBY and some elbow grease, get scrubbing. (It’s a messy job, so you’ll definitely want to wear your rubber gloves for this event)
3. Rinse clean, and dry (TOWEL TA-DA! is perfect here)

Bring dirty wood or wicker furniture back to life with these tips:

Wood and Wicker:
1. Mix a mild oil-based soap (like Murphy Oil Soap) mixed with warm water and a few tablespoons white vinegar and one quart of warm water
2. With a SKURA sponge, wipe down the furniture--- getting between all of the crevices
3. Wipe dry with a WIPE ENVY to collect more embedded grime

Resin and Plastic:
1. Make a mild cleanser by mixing 1/4 cup white vinegar with 1-gallon warm water. You may need several gallons depending on the size and amount of your furniture
2. With your SKURA sponge wipe down the furniture with the solution
3. If you run into a stubborn stain, dampen a WIPE ENVY with white vinegar and use on the specific spot. If it's still there, apply baking soda to the spot and then use the vinegar cloth to work out the spot

It’s so easy to restore the original shine to your outdoor lights!

1. Make sure the lights are shut off and remove the bulbs
2. With your WIPE ENVY dipped in a half white vinegar and half warm water solution, clean all glass surfaces, inside and out, making sure not to get any liquid in the light socket
3. Move on to the metal frame by cleaning with a WIPE ENVY dipped in warm water and dish soap. Avoid scrubbing metal areas with anything abrasive to prevent scratching

Before you head out to rent a power washer, try cleaning your concrete patio like this:

1. In a bucket mix one box of baking soda with two cups of vinegar. This will create a lot of foaming action which will settle and you will be left with a paste. Depending on the area you are cleaning, you may need to mix more
2. Spread the mixture over the concrete with a sponge mop. And let it set for at least 30 minutes
3. Scrub the concrete using a bristle scrub brush -- but one with a long handle
4. Rinse and then let the patio air dry before putting furniture back

Keep your gardening tools clean and they’ll make it through more than one season!

Remove soil from them by blasting them with water from your garden hose. There’s bound to be some dirt that doesn’t come off so be sure to scrape that away..

Fill a bucket with hot water and add a small squirt of detergent. Add your tools and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.

Rinse every tool with cool water and dry with a WIPE ENVY.

Inspect the tools closely for rust. Use a VERY SKRUBBY scouring pad to scrub away any rust. Coat the tool with vegetable oil to aid in loosening the rust while you scrub.

Are your tools still sticky?

Make a mixture of 1 tsp vegetable oil and 2 tsp of baking soda. Spread a thin mixture over the sticky area. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Then wipe away with a WIPE ENVY.

First, UNPLUG your treadmill, bike or elliptical machine before you start cleaning. Concentrate on the areas that are most touched — like the handles, buttons, screens and seats. Use a WIPE ENVY that has been spritzed with a disinfectant to make sure you are getting rid of germs as well as dust. Apply the disinfectant to the wipe and not directly to the machine. Wipe down the tread of the treadmill as well as bike pedals since they are the most susceptible areas for dirt. Always check your machine manufacturing instructions. When you’re vacuuming, use hand attachments to get dirt close to the machine and under it.

It’s inevitable - your sneakers are going to get dirty. They’re on your feet, after all. But don’t start sneaker shopping just yet. Periodic hand washings will keep them looking (and smelling) their best. Here’s how to get them clean without damaging them:

1. Remove the laces. If they’re white, send them on a trip through the wash with some bleach in a mesh laundry bag. If your laces are colored, you can hand wash them with some mild detergent and water. Rinse and air dry
2. Back to the sneakers. Brush off surface dirt and dust with a dry brush or old toothbrush to get into all the little grooves
3. Make your own sneaker soap by combining 1 teaspoon toothpaste (the non-gel kind), 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon mild dish soap
4. Scrub the lower soles with a VERY SKRUBBY dipped into your cleaning solution. Get into all the nooks and crannies of the sides and bottoms working the sneaker soap into the shoe. Dry with a fresh WIPE ENVY
5. Using the same cleaning solution and a WIPE ENVY, wash the upper part of your sneaks and the insoles. Wipe with a clean and dampened WIPE ENVY and let them air dry. You’ll want to make sure that the insoles are fully dry before putting them back in the shoes, too!
6. If you still feel that your sneaks could use more work, some people recommend putting them into the washer, one cycle and cold setting, after this process has been followed. Let them air dry. (Do not do this if your shoes are suede)
7. Final/final. Once the process is completed, consider sprinkling some baking soda onto the insoles to absorb the new odors they will inherit

Your yoga mat picks up oils from your skin, not to mention who-knows-what kind of bacteria and germs from the gym or studio. Wiping it down after each use is a good routine using a disinfectant wipe or a solution of water and white vinegar which can be applied with a WIPE ENVY. In addition though, you really should give it a good bath about once a month.

1. Roll your mat out into the bathtub
2. Add tepid to warm water (not hot) and a squirt of dish soap - but not too much soap - just a squirt will do
3. Let it soak for five minutes
3. Rinse with clean water
4. Then allow it to air dry

Here are a few ways to keep your linen closet smelling fresh - especially important in the summer months when things can get musty.

• Baking soda. Keep an open box of baking soda (just like you do in your refrigerator) or put in a bowl in the back of the closet
• Coffee grounds. They absorb odors. So put some grounds in a plastic container with a lid. Poke several large holes in the lid. You’ll want to replace this every 4-6 weeks
• Vinegar and water. If linens have become musty, use an equal mixture of water and vinegar in a spray bottle to mist the linens and get them smelling fresh
• Spray a favorite fragrance on tissue paper. Let the paper dry and then strategically place in the closet
• Scented soaps and candles. Keep them stored in the linen closet and let their fragrance do their thing (Don’t light the candle, duh)
  
  

Guests are coming! Here are some tips to create a cozy bed for weary travelers:

1. First thing's first: strip the bed down and clean up that mattress. Pour some straight vodka in a spray bottle (no, it’s not cocktail time). Spritz it directly on the mattress to disinfect it, then let it air dry
2. For an extra-special touch, iron some freshly-cleaned sheets and pillow cases
3. Now to make the bed: the first layer should always be an appropriately-sized mattress protector to guard against dust, spills, etc. Next, the fitted and flat sheets (brush up on your hospital corners), and then a blanket and cozy quilt or comforter (make sure these are freshly washed too)
4. Lastly, add extra fluffy pillows for coziness. Lightly spray them with a relaxing lavender mist to help your guests easily drift off to sleep

Your guests deserve a home-away-from-home. Treat them to a clean and tidy guest room.

1. Start by completely dusting every surface with a WIPE ENVY cloth. Include walls and baseboards by wrapping a WIPE ENVY around a flat mop and zooming along
2. If you have carpeting or rugs and they haven’t been cleaned in a while, consider a professional deep-cleaning. If they’re in good shape, vacuum thoroughly, making sure to get under the bed
3. On to the windows!
a. Curtains are dust magnets. Take them down and wash them (make sure to check the care label first - they may require a trip to the dry cleaners instead)
b. To clean blinds, use our fave hack of wrapping a clean, dry WIPE ENVY around each side of kitchen tongs, grabbing each blind individually and swiping from one side to the other. Work from top to bottom to avoid spreading dust
c. Clean your windows and sills using a WIPE ENVY dampened in white vinegar.
4. To make sure your guest room smells fresh and clean, open the windows ahead of time, and put a fan in the doorway. Use a light-scented air freshener if necessary

These finishing touches on a guest room will make your guests extra comfy - and they may never want to leave!

1. Provide a hotel-style essentials basket with fresh towels, a toothbrush and a travel-sized toothpaste, lotions, shampoo, conditioner, cotton swabs, etc. Get creative!
2. Leave a note with your WiFi password. If you have extra charging cords, leave them too
3. Add a drinking glass (or two) and a carafe of fresh water to the nightstand in case your guests get thirsty. Replenish each evening
4. Make sure the room is comfortable in temperature. Provide a space heater or fan - or give guests access to your thermometer
5. Lastly, you don’t have to do it all to be a great host. If your guests ask to help, let them! Have them make their bed each morning, throw their towels in the laundry or make a meal - whatever will help you most

1. Sprinkle 2 cups of baking soda into the drum of your washer and shut the door
2. Run a wash cycle (Normal or Tub Clean indication on your dials) with the hottest possible temperature
3. After that cycle, pour two cups of white vinegar into your dispenser trays. You can add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) to the vinegar
4. Run a second wash cycle. Again, on the hottest temperature using a Normal or Tub Clean indication on your dials)
5. Finally, after both cycles have run, create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and dishwashing liquid in a spray bottle. Maybe make about one cup of solution.
6. Spray the solution on the glass (inside the machine) of a front load washer. Wipe clean with a WIPE ENVY.
7. Now spray the solution over the rubber gasket — underneath and on top. Wipe clean with the WIPE ENVY.

We recommend repeating 6 and 7 after every laundry routine. And leave the dispenser tray and wash door open to allow for drying and ventilation.

This is a classic sponge cake recipe — and only 4 ingredients.  

6 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder

Beat 6 the eggs for 1 minute on high speed with an electric stand mixer. With the mixer on, gradually add 1 cup sugar and continue beating 8-10 minutes until thick and fluffy. (Aren’t you glad you’re not using a hand mixer!)

Separately, whisk together the flour and the baking powder and then then sift this mixture into beaten egg mixture one third at a time. Fold with a spatula with each addition just until it’s incorporated. Scrape spatula from the bottom to catch any pockets of flour and stop mixing when no streaks of flour remain. Do not over-mix or you will deflate the batter.’

Divide evenly between two prepared cake pans or a loaf pan. We recommend using parchment paper on the bottom for easy removal.  

Bake at 350˚F for 23-28 minutes for the cake pans and 28-35 minutes for the loaf pan. The top should be golden brown.

Remove the cake from pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool.  

Frost or don’t. Top with berries and whip cream. Toast a slice in the morning with your coffee or tea. YUM!

PRO CLEANING TIP: Immediately wash the cake pans in soapy water and use the scrubby side of your Skura sponge to get into the corners and edges of your cake pans.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 teaspoons maple syrup

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• Confectioners' sugar

  Preheat oven to 300°. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Add syrup. Combine flour and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.

Divide dough into eight portions. Roll each portion into a 9-in. log. Place 3 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cut into 1-in. slices. Remove to wire racks. Dust with confectioners' sugar.