Refresh Any Room
Without Spending
A Dime
out how to freshen your place for free!
7 Fall Musts
Shades Of Fall: How To Use The Hottest Colors
Autumn Décor
Seasonal Home Care
Expert Cleaning Ideas
least amount of time with tried-and-true
cleaning advice from the experts
at SC Johnson.
Room Without
Spending A Dime
be expensive. Instead of spending big this fall,
find out how to freshen your place for free!
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Same furniture, new use. A dining chair makes a charming bedside table when you pile on books topped with a table lamp.
Use books. Stack your large and thick “coffee table” books to create an end table turned conversation piece. Your living room will have a new look, plus your guests are more likely to thumb through one of your favorite tomes if it’s in use in an unexpected way.
Closet conversion. Reuse everyday items to make a bedroom closet more organized: an over-the-door shoe organizer becomes a handy storage space for accessories. Or bring what’s inside out. Pretty scarves and necklaces add a gorgeous dimension to your décor when hung artfully on a rack or the wall itself. Bonus: they’ll be less likely to get wrinkled, tangled or otherwise damaged this way.
Air it out. Before you change your summer cotton sheets for fall flannel, put all bedding including down comforters, quilts and heavy blankets outside for two or three hours. Spritz lightly with linen spray and replace.
Clever kitchen solutions. Minimize drawer clutter (and loss) by bundling multi-piece kitchen tools, such as a cake decorating kit, inside clear plastic bags. Then rearrange the “junk” drawer into themes: string, tape and scissors go in one area, birthday candles plus a lighter in another. Keep everyday items in the front while seldom used utensils occupy less valuable space in the back. Your kitchen will never feel the same.
Rotate your art. Separate your art into piles for seasonal decorating. Hang paintings, prints and any other dark-colored wall covering now; save anything in a light-shaded décor to display next spring.
Beautiful blankets. In place of a traditional headboard, or in addition to one, hang your most beautiful blanket or quilt on the wall above your bed. Another idea: drape a pretty throw over your headboard instead of draping along the foot of your bed.
Eliminate hard-water stains. To help remove hard-water stains (white and brown spots that can appear around your bathtub, sink or bathroom fixtures), try specially formulated cleaners that are acid based, such as Scrubbing Bubbles® Orange Action™ Soap Scum Remover.
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Clear the clutter for a spa feel at home. Remove everything from your bathroom countertops and shelves, give each surface a good scrub and replace only those items that are essential– things you use on a daily basis. Everything else should be tucked away, given away or thrown away. Finally, add a favorite framed photo, decorative vase or candle but leave plenty of counter space for a clean and fresh look.
Move it. Now is the time to try a new furniture arrangement. Consider that you’ll be spending more time inside in the next few months, it’ll likely be dark out and most people will watch more TV and movies in the fall and winter. Try seating arrangements that allow for conversation, lighting that makes it easy to read and of course, a comfortable place to watch your favorite shows.
Deep clean fast. Use your vacuum and dishwasher to give your home a germ-busting scrub before cold and flu season hits. Vacuum everything you can, using attachments for furniture, walls and baseboards. Then throw anything plastic, metal or glass into the dishwasher. From toys to candle holders to vases and durable knick-knacks, you’ll be surprised at how many things easily stand up to the gentle cycle. It’s once-a-year cleaning done in an hour.
Reuse to refresh, literally! Give your kitchen garbage can a good scrub every month and apply an antibacterial spray every time you change the liner. For everyday freshness, keep your used dryer sheets to put at the bottom of the can. They’ll absorb spills and odors all day long.
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Stephen Saint-Onge, author of No Place Like Home. Simmer potpourri on the stovetop or use a scented oil diffuser to fill the room with the aroma of autumn.
This recipe is one of our fall favorites! The chicken, fruits and vegetables in this dish cook together. So all you’ll need is a side dish, such as rice pilaf, to round out the meal.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 turnip, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, peeled and cut into thin wedges
- 4 Tablespoons olive oil
- 4 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary or thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pounds of chicken pieces, about 4 large thighs and 4 large drumsticks
- 2 pears sliced into thin wedges
- 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
Preheat the oven to 375º F. In a small bowl, soak the dried cranberries in 1 cup of hot tap water for about 10 minutes; then drain the cranberries.
In a large bowl, combine the drained cranberries, parsnips, turnip and red onion with 3 Tablespoons of the olive oil, 3 Tablespoons of the balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of the dried rosemary or thyme, then salt and pepper to taste. Stir together with a spoon or use your clean hands to completely coat the vegetables and cranberries with the liquid ingredients and seasonings. Spread the mixture in an even layer on a large rimmed baking sheet or jelly roll pan and roast in the oven for 5 to 6 minutes until the fruit and vegetables are slightly softened.
Meanwhile, place the chicken pieces in a Ziploc® Brand Storage Bag with the Smart Zip® Seal and add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, 1 Tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme and salt and pepper to taste. Close the bag securely and mix ingredients by turning and shaking the bag to make sure the oil, vinegar and herbs are evenly distributed and coat the chicken pieces.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, take the chicken pieces out of the bag and place them directly on top of the vegetables and fruit mixture. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 35 minutes. Remove the baking sheet from the oven again and use a wooden spoon to shift the chicken pieces to the side. Then layer the pear slices on top of the fruit and vegetables on the sheet and use a spatula to carefully fold them into the mixture. Replace the chicken so it rests on top of the fruits and vegetables again. Return to the oven and roast for another 5 to 9 minutes. The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165º F when checked with a meat thermometer. Place the mixture, pears and chicken on a serving platter and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Chef's Notes
To core the pears, cut them in half vertically, from stem to base. Use a spoon or a melon baller to scoop out the core with the seeds. Then, using a paring knife, make a v-shape notch to cut out the line of tough core fibers that runs from the stem to the base of the pear.
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One of the fastest ways to decorate for fall is changing your color palette—but what’s the right way to do it? Here are seven can’t-miss ways to use color this season:
Eve Ashcraft, author of The Right Color. “This year it’s all about bright yellow and gray together.” Try this color combination with linens or picture frames, or keep it simple with a bowl full of bright lemons.
Flock Together
Best Branches
Line it Up
Collecting Cones
A Little Nutty
You don’t have to be a florist to have a fabulous centerpiece this fall. Here are ten easy ideas for tabletops everywhere.
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Flock Together
Switch things up from typical flowers and create “bouquets” of exotic feathers. Use glass votives and clusters of peacock fronds, or create height with tall vases and ostrich plumes. Add in a few select flowers, or let the feathers be the spotlight.
Best branches
For an over-the-top arrangement, cut large branches
(3 to 5 feet tall) off your favorite leafy tree and display in an oversized vase. Pussy willows or branches with yellow and red leaves are ideal.
Line it up
Skip the vase or bowl and create a statement by lining the dining table with gourds of all shapes, sizes and colors. Put them down the middle of your table then add battery-powered votives. A scattered or clustered design adds whimsy while a straight path makes it more modern.
Collecting Cones
A large basket full of pinecones is an easy and economical to boot. For a rustic look, simply pile the cones into the basket. To achieve a more polished presentation, fill in any gaps with Spanish moss or fall colored leaves.
A Little Nutty
Fill an oversized clear glass vase with unshelled nuts. Walnuts and almonds are almost always available this way; mix and match or try just one for a more elegant look.
Sweet treats
Pick your biggest clear vase—tall and skinny, short and round, even a salad bowl works—and fill it with one kind of candy such as candy corns or Hershey’s Kisses. Anything in one color or a single pattern will work.
Fun and fruity
Using whatever fruit is in season and available at your grocery store—figs, apples, grapes—arrange a large grouping in a shallow basket, bowl or cake plate with pedestal. One large bowl will make a bold statement, especially if you select only one type of fruit, while two or three small bowls clustered together will be dainty and sweet.
One and Only
If you’re doing flowers in a vase, choose a single color only. Vary the flowers and textures but keep the same shade for an effortlessly chic look. Another idea, opt for one bloom only, such as orange tulips, but get at least two bunches to maximize the impact.
Water works
Fill one, two or three large glass bowls (a trifle bowl is ideal) or vases with water, then float apples, oranges or pears. Pick just one type of fruit and use it in each bowl but vary the amount of water in each one. The different levels will add interest.
Special Place Settings
Instead of something big in the middle, dot the whole table with something special: Put a dark-colored napkin (burgundy, orange, brown) on each plate and set a miniature pear or apple on top. Write each guest’s name on a small slip of paper and pin it to the fruit.
Sweet Treats
Fun and Fruity
One and Only
Water Works
Special Place Settings
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Fall’s
Favorite
Flowers
Borrow a bit of fall fashion from the most beautiful blooms of the season. Steal these tips for decorating with fall flowers:
YOUR DOOR
FOR FALL
inside and out. Steal these ideas for
decorating your front door.
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Decorating
Ideas for Less
Than $25
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These twelve ideas will transform your place into the
comfiest house on the block.
Start outside. Make your family and guests feel cozy the second they walk in the door by adding a basket full of pumpkins or gourds by the door. Or try an autumnal garland or wreath. Either one will add ambience from the outside in.
In with the old. “Change accessories on the mantle, coffee table or side tables to have new things to look at,” says Stephen Saint-Onge, author of No Place Like Home: Tips and Techniques for Real Family-Focused Home Design. “In winter months, I like to have vintage things around like family photos, mementoes, etc. They just make you feel comfortable.”
Deep clean for real relaxation. Give your bathroom a fresh, new feel by scrubbing the often-overlooked areas including grout, behind the sink and toilet (if possible), windowsills and baseboards. Add a gorgeous-smelling candle, then take a long bath or shower in comfort.
Shop wisely. Select products that make daily or weekly tasks easier. Like Scrubbing Bubbles® Toilet Cleaning Gel, which does the dirty work so you don't have to—cleaning and freshening with every flush, and preventing the build-up of limescale and toilet rings.
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Twinkly lights. Fall means shorter days, so add ambient lighting by nixing the overhead lights and using lamps instead. The softer glow will make your rooms more comfortable. Make family dinners special by dimming the lights-the cozy glow creates a relaxed atmosphere.
Color combos. Every season has a natural set of shades, but for fall it’s all about a mix of yellow spice tones, says Christiane Lemieux, founder and creative director of DwellStudio and author of Undecorate. Saffrons and mustards are a fresh way to bring seasonal color inside.
Cozy critters. Splurge on a comfy new bed for your dog or cat, complete with a monogram, and put it in the room you use most. Make sure it comes with a removable cover, then pick two: one for the winter months and another for spring. Neither will get overused and both will stay looking new longer. Or, freshen up for less by just buying a new cover in lieu of a new bed.
Change your pictures. A fun and easy way to update your home this season is replacing framed snapshots with photos featuring friends and family in autumnal settings. From a favorite Halloween costume to autumn leaves or the first day of school, you’ll instantly create a fall feel.
Make seasonal updates. “A foyer might get new lamps in place of summer flowers,” says Saint-Onge. “The front door gets a drapery rod and heavy panels to keep out the draft at night. Pull it open during the day but there just is something about adding layers at this time of year.”
Scents of fall. Fill up on scented candles in pine, berry and fig, suggests Lemieux. “Or get a fire going in the kitchen instead. Nothing smells cozier than soup on the stove or veggies roasting in the oven.”
Calm in the kitchen. Make weekday meals easy by precooking family favorites over the weekend (or make a double batch whenever you prepare a crowd pleaser). From pumpkin muffins to split pea soup to macaroni and cheese—for a grown-up version the HGTV editorial team swears by, try two cups of pasta plus 4 oz. of Gruyere, 3 oz. sharp cheddar and 2 oz. blue cheese—choose foods that freeze well to reheat later.
Fall fast. For a cozy fall feel in seconds, simply add soft throw pillows and blankets—faux fur, wool or any other thick and rich fabric will do—then light a fire. No fireplace? A grouping of large candles will give you nearly the same glow. You’d be surprised by what even a single candle can do.
Windows
Blinds
Window Treatments
Furniture
Pet Supplies
Walls
Light Fixtures
Kitchen Cabinets
Refrigerator
Carpets
Closets
Fragrance
Spring isn’t the only time to deep-clean your place. Giving your home a once-over at this time of year will have you ready for everything from a cozy night in to holiday entertaining.
Explore the items to the left by rolling over them.
Wash windows
Inside and out and don’t forget to dust the frame. Quick tip: Try to tackle this project on a cloudy day when streaks are more visible.
Vacuum or dust blinds
Dust is one of the leading causes of allergies, which makes this task even more important. Use your vacuum attachments or a damp microfiber cloth.
Wash window treatments
Start by vacuuming to remove built-up dust. If they’re really dirty, wash according to instructions or consider a professional steam treatment.
Vacuum and spot-clean furniture
Remove all cushions, vacuuming each side and underneath too. Use upholstery cleaner where needed. Fluff, flip if possible, and replace.
Organize pet supplies
Sort through all shampoos, leashes, toys and accessories. Clean or repair anything in need and throw away damaged items and expired medicines. Wash nylon leashes and collars plus blankets, towels and bedding in the washing machine. Give plastic toys a good scrub in the dishwasher. Finally, reorganize into one big basket, box or trunk. Use clear plastic bags to group items such as medicines or treats and small wire baskets for toys, leashes and towels.
Clean the walls
Start in the kitchen where the messes are bound to be the biggest. Now is the time to get rid of all left-on grime, smears or nicks. Then walk through the house with a sponge or special anti-scuffing product to lift marks from the walls. Consider buying a pint of touchup paint as needed.
Dust lamps and overhead lighting
Even lightbulbs themselves need a quick dusting at this time of year. You’ll be indoors more and daylight is waning, but this simple step will let your lamps shine more brightly all season long.
Clean kitchen cabinets
Starting from the top, dust the tops of your cupboards, cupboard doors, and if you have time, clear out each one before wiping down, reorganizing as needed and replacing dishes. Do the same for all drawers. Give or throw away any gadgets you haven’t used in the last two years, and toss any damaged utensils.
Dust refrigerator coil
Gently use a feather duster, brush or vacuum brush attachment to remove all dust and lint; not only will you reduce dust and allergens in your home, but your fridge will function more efficiently too. While you’re back there, mop underneath the fridge and give the outside a quick cleaning. Don’t forget the top.
Clean the carpets
Rent a steam machine or have the pros come in. With wet weather and entertaining ahead, you’ll be glad to have your carpets starting the season fresh.
De-clutter the closets
While you’re switching out summer clothing and bedding, take a few extra minutes to donate anything you haven’t worn in the last year, make repairs to any damaged clothing and throw away stained or stretched-out goods.
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Yard Ready
for Fall
these simple steps will keep your yard in good
shape until next spring.
Rake leaves and moss from the lawn. Don’t let wet leaves rob your yard of much-needed oxygen this season. Rake them while they’re still dry and manageable. If your yard has moss growing under the grass, now is the time to rake it up too.
Aerate for health. Using a pitchfork or hollow tiner, create small openings in the soil allowing air to circulate. The rule of thumb is to add holes every four inches, every two years.
Dress, feed and sow. Apply a top dressing to your raked and aerated lawn, then work it in with a rake or broom. Add feed, fertilizer or mulch. Finish by seeding any bald spots; use half the recommended amount of seed for sowing new grass in the spring.
Add water. “Trees and shrubs need watering not just in spring and summer but now through hard frost, especially if conditions are dry, so that they enter dormancy in a well-hydrated state,” explains Margaret Roach, author of the blog A Way to Garden. “Evergreens (needled ones and broadleaf types like rhododendron, mountain laurel, boxwood, camellias and such) are particularly vulnerable to winter burn and harm from winds otherwise, particularly in cold zones.”
Make your own mulch. Fallen leaves are excellent as mulch, alone or in addition to compost, so don’t waste a garbage bag by throwing them away. Instead, use this natural source of nutrients as a warm blanket for flowerbeds or a dormant winter garden.
Yesterday’s news. Those old newspapers, catalogs and out-of-date magazines that have been piling up all summer long? Time to clear them out: stack and recycle them according to your neighborhood guidelines (and make a note in your calendar to remind yourself which days your regular recycling pickup takes place).
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There’s still time to plant. “Peak planting time for flower bulbs and for many trees and shrubs continues as long as the ground can be worked,” says Roach. “Make sure the additions include not just more springtime bloomers but also plants that will brighten up the off season of late fall and even winter: hollies, extra-early perennials like hellebores, witch hazels and such.”
Remove old blooms. Take out dead annuals and apply mulch to perennials says HGTV Master Gardener Paul James. Most annuals won’t last in frozen soil, but hardy perennials can make a springtime comeback if you add mulch this season. Apply mulch after the first hard freeze, but don’t cover the crown or center of the plant because that can lead to rot.
Feed the birds. Wash and fill the bird feeder for fall and get a benefit in return. Visiting birds will keep the number of insects in your yard at a reasonable level, explains James, which leads to another positive effect: you don’t have to spray or dust as often to control unwanted pests.
YOUR DÉCOR
Vacuum rugs regularly. It sounds obvious, but floors get hit hard during cool-weather months. Don’t give dirt and grime a chance to become ground into your rug or carpet’s fibers. Use the upholstery attachment at least once a month. Not only will your things stay clean longer but you’ll extend their life this way too.
Pile on a rug. In high traffic areas use an entry rug, area rug or runner to protect carpet or hardwood floors. Many fabrics are specially treated to resist stains, and any one of them will keep your floors looking good longer.
Spot treat stains ASAP. When it comes to spots on upholstery or carpet, here is the golden rule: The faster you clean a stain the more likely it is to come out. Time is of the essence, so arrange your cupboards with easy access to upholstery cleaner, spot and stain remover and a sponge.
Preventive Care.Keep furniture away from heat sources, such as radiators, registers or fireplaces. Even a sunny window can cause furniture to fade or dry out. Changes in humidity can also be tough on wood furniture. Try to keep your home's temperature at 70 to 72º F with a relative humidity of about 50 to 55 percent. The main idea is to try to avoid big changes. Try Pledge® Extra Moisturizing furniture polish with lemon oil. It moisturizes and protects wood from the harsh conditions that can cause it to dry out and crack.
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Steam clean. It’s a good idea to steam clean the carpet and rugs once a year. Do the same for stubborn stains on couches and chairs. Either rent or buy a machine or call in the pros. For a nearly new look, it’s the best bang for your buck.
Towel off. For pets with dirty paws, hang a towel or large rag on a hook by the front door. This way you’re able to wipe those paws before they hit your floors. Better yet, keep a basket of rags ready to go so you’re never at a loss for a quick cleanup.
Put a hard-bristled floor mat at every entrance. To protect all types of flooring (not to mention your furniture), limit exposure to dirt, salt, rocks and moisture. You might even add a sign: Please wipe feet before entering.
Air it out. Hardwood floors may benefit from a humidifier during winter months to avoid shrinkage or shifting.
Rain, rain go away. When wet-weather season hits, rearrange your entryway or porch area (or better yet, your mud porch) to accommodate a coat rack, umbrella stand and tray for muddy shoes and boots. Make sure everything is near the door for easy coming and going yet not tracking in the rain, salt and snow.
Cooler Weather
When the weather drops, don’t head for the house just yet. Extend your summer season with a few simple updates to your porch or patio.
surface
out
*Based on standard 30" x 40" window.
Efficiency of
Your Home
Insulate the attic. One of the easiest ways to conserve energy is adding insulation to your attic. It’s less expensive than installing insulation in walls, and this step alone will help keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Reduce drafts. Some experts say that drafts are the number-one culprit for energy loss (up to 35% of total home energy loss). Reduce this loss—and your energy bill—by sealing air leaks around everything from attic stairs and plumbing vents to wall electrical outlets and recessed lighting.
Let in the light. Brighten your windows so they let in as much light as possible, especially as daylight hours start to dwindle. Sparkling clean windows (Windex® Original Glass Cleaner can do the trick here) enhance the effect of golden rays streaming across a room, giving your rooms a special magic.
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Thermostat check. Install a programmable thermostat to keep temperatures low when you’re out of the house. This inexpensive unit (usually less than $15) should pay for itself with your first heating bill. And when you are home, try a sweater instead of turning up the heat. The rule of thumb is this: You’ll save 1% on your heating bill for every degree you turn down the thermostat.
Keep the heat in. Use heavy curtains or shutters to work with Mother Nature. Let the sun fill your windows during the day then close them off at night to keep in the retained heat. Also, close the doors and heating vents to any room you don’t use often, including the basement and attic.
Improve your existing appliances. Turn down your water heater to 120 degrees and add insulation to the tank. Clean your refrigerator coils and keep it at least half full to run it as efficiently as possible. And, of course, change those old lightbulbs to long-lasting fluorescents.
Plumbing
Electric
Masonry
Paint
Landscaping
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Circuit city
Simple fixes such as replacing light switches, lighting fixtures or power outlets can be completed by confident homeowners. But it’s time to call an electrician if the power dims when you turn on a major appliance, if you’re flipping the circuit breaker increasingly often and, of course, if you detect any burning smell. Also consider calling a pro for an electrical update if you’re overloading any one outlet with numerous cords and extensions.
Brick by brick
Got a leaky roof? If the water is coming in near the chimney, the mortar connecting the chimney to your roof might be damaged. Repairing brick or masonry work is possible for homeowners, but it’s a messy job that requires specialized tools and materials. For roof work or major projects such as replacing a fireplace or brick wall (inside or out), it’s best to get a professional who will be faster with more sturdy results.
Perfect paint
Generally speaking, any homeowner can paint. The question is whether you have the time, tools and skill to do it right. Again, it’ll likely come down to size: Small tasks such as a bathroom, bedroom or accent wall are easily accomplished. But tackling a home’s exterior is better for a professional who will likely get it done much more quickly with better results. To save on costs, consider prepping the job yourself.
Landscape design
Most homeowners can handle most yard maintenance, but when it comes to designing a new look—especially if you’ll be adding any major elements such as patios, pools, fountains, even large trees and rocks–it’s a good idea to at least consult a pro. A permit may be required in some cases. He or she can also advise on the right plants for your zone, soil and sun-to-shade ratio.
For slow-running drains, run warm water (not hot) through drain for one minute. Turn off water and pour one-fourth of a 64 oz. bottle directly into drain. Briefly run water again (approximately two cups) to activate and distribute formula along pipe walls. Allow enzymes to work overnight or while at work (six to eight hours) before running water in drain again. Repeat using two ounces every two to four weeks.
For more severe problems, follow directions above for three nights in a row, using two ounces of Drano® Max Build-Up Remover.
For slow-running toilets, flush four ounces down toilet for three consecutive days. Avoid flushing for six to eight hours after each treatment.
your home and keep your family safe
all season long.
Storm windows. In harsh climates it’s time to take down the screens and install storm windows again. Check your screens as you go for any holes or cuts and make repairs or replace before storing for summer.
Get the furnace ready. Test your thermostat by turning it up to 80 degrees. Warm air should start blowing within a few minutes. If not, call a repairman now, before the cold weather starts. Also replace the air filter and make sure all vents are clear of furniture or other obstacles.
Don’t overlook the details. Most likely, it’s the little things throughout your home that have suffered through an onslaught of fingerprints and smudges during the summer months. Now is a good time to work on returning the natural luster to doorknobs, remotes, light switches and telephones by removing dust and smudges. Pledge® Multi Surface Wipes are perfect for the job. They can be used across glass, wood and more, so you don't have to keep switching products to bring a quick clean to your entire home.
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Carbon monoxide check. With more time spent indoors using the heater, it’s more important than ever to check or install a carbon monoxide detector. While you’re at it, check all smoke detectors and replace as needed (usually after about 10 years).
Sweep the chimney. Any wood-burning fireplace or stove flue should be professionally inspected once a year.
Watch for drafts. Inspect the weather stripping and caulk around all doors and windows to prevent leaks and more, likely, energy-sucking heat loss.
Get the gutters. Clean out gutters, repairing as needed, and don’t forget the downspouts too. Watch for any tree branches that are close enough to touch the house and have them trimmed by a professional.
Prevent hungry pests. Don’t entice mice and bugs, which are looking for a warm home this season, with tasty treats. Organize all pet food into air-tight bins, store pasta, beans and grains in canisters and be sure to reseal all opened bread and chip bags with a tight plastic clip; better yet, double bag them or use a traditional bread box.
Store outdoor equipment. Clean and store patio furniture plus gardening tools. Drain and roll up garden hoses.
Your friends at SC Johnson are dedicated to coming up with ways to make cleaning a breeze. That means great products, for sure, but it also means they’ve discovered all sorts of tips and techniques that can make your job easier—in every room.
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BATHROOM
Get more from your bathroom rug. A bathroom rug does more than just provide a buffer between your feet and the cold bathroom floor. Using one can help soak up some of the excess moisture that causes mold and mildew stains.
A little routine makes a big difference. After your morning bathroom ritual, empty your trashcan and wipe down the mirror, sink and toilet. A quick everyday touch-up of your bathroom can make a big difference. Try Windex® Original Glass Cleaner on your mirrors and Scrubbing Bubbles® Antibacterial Bathroom Wipes on your toilet exterior and sink.
Vacuum the bathroom before cleaning. The bathroom has lots of corners and crevices that attract dust bunnies and dirt. Vacuuming before cleaning will make the cleaning process easier and faster. Use your vacuum’s crevice attachment to get into tight spaces and reach under cabinets.
Eliminate hard-water stains. To help remove hard-water stains (white and brown spots that can appear around your bathtub, sink or bathroom fixtures), try specially formulated cleaners that are acid based, such as Scrubbing Bubbles® Orange Action™ Soap Scum Remover.
Tackle soap scum the right way. Soap scum cannot be removed by simply rinsing your bathtub, so you should use a specially formulated cleaner—such as the Scrubbing Bubbles® Mega Shower Foamer—on a weekly basis. Scrubbing Bubbles® Mega Shower Foamer features a wide spray and a powerful, grime-busting formula that penetrates and dissolves soap scum.
Take care of your pipes. With a unique formula containing natural enzymes and bacteria, Drano® Max Build-Up Remover is good at preventing clogs from taking root in your pipes.
For slow-running drains, run warm water (not hot) through drain for one minute. Turn off water and pour one-fourth of a 64 oz. bottle directly into drain. Briefly run water again (approximately two cups) to activate and distribute formula along pipe walls. Allow enzymes to work overnight or while at work (six to eight hours) before running water in drain again. Repeat using two ounces every two to four weeks.
For more severe problems, follow directions above for three nights in a row, using two ounces of Drano® Max Build-Up Remover.
For slow-running toilets, flush four ounces down toilet for three consecutive days. Avoid flushing for six to eight hours after each treatment.
Keep your sink clean. A toothbrush is just the right size to scour around the faucet knobs on your kitchen sink, in the crannies of the drain, or along the seam where the sink joins the counter. If the grout around the sink has been discolored, brighten it up with your cleaning toothbrush plus fantastik® All Purpose Cleaner with Bleach to remove stains like those from food, greasy soil and mold and mildew. Since the toothbrush may cause splatters, be sure to wear old clothes.
Shop wisely. Select products that make daily or weekly tasks easier. Like Scrubbing Bubbles® Toilet Cleaning Gel, which prevents build-up of hard water, limescale and toilet rings for a week, keeping your toilet clean and fresh in between regular cleanings.
One-touch shower cleaning. Imagine waking up to a clean shower stall every morning. Start with a clean shower and then install the Scrubbing Bubbles® Automatic Shower Cleaner. After the last shower of the day, while the shower is still wet, push the start button and watch as the power sprayer sprays cleaning solution on all four shower walls and tub. With daily use, it’s a great way to eliminate buildup of tough soap scum and mold and mildew stains without scrubbing. Keeps showers clean from day one.
LIVING AREAS
Hearth healthy. The hearth is the heart of any room, especially in cooler weather. Give it some welcoming warmth by making tiles glisten, wood glow or stone sparkle. Don’t forget the pictures on the mantel or any mirrored surface that can reflect light. And stock up on firewood so you’re ready when the first cold snap arrives.
Dust runner. Allergen alert! This is the season for them. There are the obvious places to dust, like TV screens and lampshades where you can actually see the dust gathering. But don’t forget to take care of less conspicuous spots where dust and the allergens found in dust can accumulate: the tops of bookshelves, wall hangings, knickknacks, air vents and ceiling fans. (Use a Pledge® Multi Surface Duster to easily pick up dust and remove up to 90% of the allergens found in dust from pet dander and dust mite matter.)
Embrace the wet. Forget coasters! Let your guests enjoy refreshing drinks on your glass coffee table and keep Windex® Original Glass Wipes handy to clean up in a few swipes.
Let in the light. Brighten your windows so they let in as much light as possible, especially as daylight hours start to dwindle. Sparkling clean windows (Windex® Original Glass Cleaner can do the trick here) enhance the effect of golden rays streaming across a room, giving your rooms a special magic.
Pet pickups. Start by gathering scattered pet toys and putting them in one place. Shake out the dog bed and give it a thorough airing, getting rid of any lingering summer debris. You might wash the bedding now to give your pet a fall pick-me-up. Clean and sweep around litter boxes and cages, and don’t forget the pet door flap. Give everything a quick wipe-down with Windex® Multi-Surface Antibacterial and spray the air with a good air sanitizer like Glade® Tough Odor Solutions Air Sanitizer.
Give trim a glow. If you’re looking to add a little polish to your wooden trim, from baseboards to window frames, Pledge® Lemon Clean delivers on its promise. Plus, try a little Pledge® on the wooden edges of your double-hung windows for easier installation and removal when cleaning.
Don’t overlook the details. Most likely, it’s the little things throughout your home that have suffered through an onslaught of fingerprints and smudges during the summer months. Now is a good time to work on returning the natural luster to doorknobs,
remotes, light switches and telephones by removing dust and smudges. Pledge® Multi Surface Wipes are perfect for the job. They can be used across glass, wood and more, so you don’t have to keep switching products to bring a quick clean to your entire home.
Fragrance in a flash. Want a quick infusion of seasonal fragrance? The Glade® Fall Collection fragrances are available in sprays, scented oils and candles that can freshen up any room in your home in minutes or even seconds. Cashmere Woods™ is back by popular demand in 2011, joining the newest Glade® fall fragrance creation, Spiced Citrus Chic™.
Preventive care. Keep furniture away from heat sources, such as radiators, registers or fireplaces. Even a sunny window can cause furniture to fade or dry out. Changes in humidity can also be tough on wood furniture. Try to keep your home’s temperature at 70 to 72º F with a relative humidity of about 50 to 55 percent. The main idea is to try to avoid big changes. Try Pledge® Extra Moisturizing furniture polish with lemon oil. It has conditioning agents that nourish wood and enhance natural beauty.
KITCHEN/DINING ROOM
Don’t wait to clean kitchen spills. Grab a paper towel and Windex® Multi-Surface Antibacterial cleaner to clean up spills and drips as soon as possible. It’s much easier to get rid of them while they’re fresh than after they dry and need scouring. What’s more, even a splash of milk on the floor can turn the entire kitchen into a sticky mess once the kids or pets start tracking it around.
At the ready. Keep an all-purpose cleaner like Windex® Multi-Surface Vinegar on your kitchen counter for a quick spot cleaning of counters, appliances, etc. Not only will it remove those dirty handprints, it will leave a refreshing scent behind to lift your spirits.
Sparkling stainless steel. Whether it’s in the kitchen or the bathroom, Pledge® Multi Surface Everyday Cleaner promises to get the fingerprints, grime and dust off your stainless steel sinks, faucets and fixtures.
Old favorite, new shine. Have a vintage chandelier or other glass antiques you want to clean before company comes? Use Windex® Multi-Surface Vinegar to gently clean delicate glass while leaving a streak-free shine with no harsh vinegar smell.
OUTSIDE THE HOUSE
Last call for outdoor windows. In many parts of the country, fall is your last chance to clean outdoor windows before March or April. Cleaning outdoor windows is easy with the Windex™ Outdoor All-in-One Glass Cleaning Tool—you just attach, spray, wipe and rinse. No need to hand dry! The pole lets you reach up to 11 feet so you can safely tackle outdoor grime without the hassle of using a ladder. And you can clean up to 20 windows* with a single pad.
*Based on standard 30" x 40" window.
Secure the cracks. From skunks to insects to other critters, your home can fall prey to unwanted invaders. Before they start seeking shelter from the cold, inspect the perimeter of your house for cracks or holes where they could enter and then seal well. Clean and lubricate the garage-door hinges, rollers and tracks to make sure the door closes securely. If you detect evidence of animal activity, such as urine odors, unexplained gnaw marks, feces or footprints, consult an exterminator.
BEDROOMS/CLOSETS
Store clothes properly. After use, hang clothes in a dry, well-ventilated closet to prevent wrinkles and allow air to circulate through fabrics. Mildew can grow on moist clothes. Examine each garment as you hang it–if you’re in any doubt that the clothing is clean, wash it.
Coat closet overhaul. Look over those winter coats and jackets now. Fall is a good time to wash what you can, donate what you don’t wear and make any necessary repairs (check out linings and inside pockets) and send the rest to the dry cleaner. Gather up hats, scarves, gloves and mittens; then sort, match or discard.
UTILITY/STORAGE AREAS
Inspect the laundry room. Check your dryer's exhaust tube and vent for built-up lint, debris and even birds’ nests! Make sure the exterior vent is closed tightly when not in use. And refresh the air in your laundry room by using Glade® Tough Odor Solutions Air Sanitizer. It eliminates tough odors, especially those from odor-causing bacteria.
Yesterday’s news. Those old newspapers, catalogs and out-of-date magazines that have been piling up all summer long? Time to clear them out: stack and recycle them according to your neighborhood guidelines (and make a note in your calendar to remind yourself which days your regular recycling pickup takes place).
1. Attack spills immediately.
The longer a stain remains on fabric, the harder it will be to remove. Any spill should be dealt with immediately—take a minute to use a packaged laundry pre-wash product such as Shout® Wipes. If you don’t have Shout® Wipes on hand, douse a spill with cold water and then blot it dry. (If you don't know if a fabric is colorfast, test an unexposed seam with water or pre-soak first.) Wash the garment as soon as possible. This is true even for spills from light-colored liquids such as white wine, soda or fruit juice.
If not treated, these invisible stains will appear as yellow spots when exposed to heat or left over time. Spills that are mildly acid or alkaline can also cause fabric colors to gradually fade or change.
2. Don’t try to remove a spot by rubbing hard.
You'll destroy the texture of the material. Your first step should be to remove any raised stain particles gently with a dull knife. Then, blot lightly with a white paper towel before using a stain remover. For tough stains, try using Shout® Advanced Ultra Gel. It combines a thick gel formula with a built-in, stain-lifting brush to penetrate and remove stains. For more on how to get out heavy-duty stains, visit our Shout® Stain Solver at www.ShoutItOut.com/stain-solver.aspx
3. Take a targeted approach.
While all Shout® formulas are tough on stains, some formulas are especially effective on certain stains like grease, grass stains or motor oil. To find out which Shout® formula will work best on your tough stains, consult the Stain Solver section at ShoutItOut.com.
Here’s the best advice from the experts at Shout® for removing the most common stains from fall yard work and housework:
MUD AND DIRT STAINS
If the stain is still fresh (wet): Use Shout® Wipes according to label instructions to prevent the stain from setting in.
If the stain has already dried: Check your garment label to make sure it does not say “dry clean only.” If it doesn’t, and your item is a colorfast washable, pre-treat the stain with Shout® Trigger or Citrus Action. Just rub Shout® in to penetrate the stain, wait 1-5 minutes, and then launder your item with detergent in the warmest water recommended on the garment label. When using Shout® Advanced Ultra Gel, do not pre-treat bright, khaki or fluorescent colors for more than a few minutes before laundering or color may be affected.
GRASS STAINS
For grass stain removal, check your garment label to make sure it does not say “dry clean only.” If it doesn’t, and your item is a colorfast washable, pre-treat grass stains with Shout® Trigger, Advanced Ultra Gel, or Citrus Action. Just rub Shout® in to penetrate the stain, wait 1-5 minutes, and then launder your item with detergent in the warmest water recommended on the garment label. When using Shout® Advanced Ultra Gel, do not pre-treat bright, khaki or fluorescent colors for more than a few minutes before laundering or color may be affected. If some of the grass stain remains, treat with Shout® again and re-launder. Or if the garment is bleachable, you may re-launder with bleach and detergent.
TAR AND ASPHALT STAINS
To treat tar and asphalt stains, first remove any excess. Place your garment face down on a clean, absorbent material, such as a white paper towel. Sponge the backside of your garment with turpentine or paint thinner, replacing the paper towel frequently. Then rinse your garment with water.
WARNING: TURPENTINE AND PAINT THINNER CAN DAMAGE SOME FABRICS. TEST ON A HIDDEN AREA FIRST. DO NOT USE ON DYNEL, ACETATE OR SPANDEX.
CAUTION: USE SOLVENTS IN A WELL-VENTILATED ROOM AS FUMES CAN CAUSE ILLNESS. DO NOT USE SOLVENTS NEAR AN OPEN FLAME OR AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET. CLOSE CONTAINER SECURELY.
After you’ve applied paint thinner or turpentine, check your garment label to make sure it does not say “dry clean only.” If it doesn’t, and your item is a colorfast washable, pre-treat the stain with Shout® Advanced Stain-Lifting Foam according to label instructions, and then launder your garment with detergent in the warmest water recommended on the garment label. If some stain remains, you may want to try dry cleaning your item.
SOOT AND SMOKE STAINS
Check your garment label to make sure it does not say “dry clean only.” If it doesn’t, and your item is a colorfast washable, pre-treat the stain with Shout® Trigger or Citrus Action. Just rub Shout® in to penetrate the stain, wait 1-5 minutes, and then launder with detergent and a few drops of ammonia in the warmest water recommended on the garment label. When treating set-in stains, let Shout® Trigger or Citrus Action set overnight or longer before washing. Repeat as necessary.
