Household Cleaning Problems, Causes, Solutions and Preventative Measures

Household Cleaning Problems, Causes, Solutions and Preventative Measures

For best results, always read and follow label directions on cleaning products. Labels will give specific instructions for types of surfaces on which the cleaner should or shouldn’t be used, how much to use and how to use the product. Also, read and follow the use and care guides that come with fixtures, appliances and other surfaces.

Do not mix cleaning products. Products which are safe when used alone can sometimes become dangerous if mixed with other products.

A.   Porcelain Bathroom Fixtures

Problem: Coloured stains

Causes: Older porcelain fixtures may develop fine cracks, which can trap the dye in the abrasive cleanser.

Solutions: Brush the area with a stiff brush and flush the residue away with water. Several brushings may be required.

Preventive Measures: Flush area thoroughly after using abrasive cleanser.

Problem: Rust Stains

Causes: Iron in water

Solutions: Treat stains with a rust remover. If stains are in toilet bowl, use a toilet bowl cleaner that contains an acid.

Preventive Measures: For an ongoing problem, the installation of an iron filter in the water supply system may be necessary.

Problem: Soils and Stains

Causes: Fixtures not cleaned regularly

Solutions: Scour with a powdered oxygen bleach or use liquid household bleach (sodium hypochlorite).

Preventive Measures: Clean frequently to avoid a build-up.

B.   Porcelain/Chrome Fixtures

Problem: Dull, discoloured appearance

Causes: Hard water mineral deposits

Solutions: Treat with a hard water mineral remover.

Preventive Measures: In extremely hard water areas, the installation of a water softener may be necessary.

C.   Drains

Problem: Drain not cleared with use of a drain opener

Causes: Badly clogged drain or a solid foreign object may be lodged in the trap or in the pipe line.

Solutions: Repeat the application of a drain opener in badly clogged drain. If three applications of a drain opener fail to remove the clog, the services of a plumber are necessary.

Preventive Measures: At the first sign of a sluggish drain, use a drain opener.

Use a biological drain opener on a regular basis to help prevent build-up in the drain.

Problem: Hardening of a dry drain opener in the drain

Causes: Using an excessive amount of a dry drain opener and an insufficient amount of water.

Solutions: Let water trickle into the drain for an extended period of time to dissolve the product.

Preventive Measures: Read and follow package directions.