The method: Press a foot-long stretch of tape onto the surface, then pull it back to pick up the grime. To get crumbs out of drawers, ball up the tape, leaving much of the sticky side facing out. Tap the ball onto the debris, applying extra pressure to catch stubborn pieces. —Maeve Richmond, founder of the organizational company Maeve’s Method The method: Using a formula of equal parts water and white vinegar, spritz the bottoms of a pair of thick, absorbent socks, then put them on. Glide one foot across the baseboards. Spritz again, then skate around the floor to pick up dust, starting with the farthest corner and working toward the entryway. When you’re finished, toss the socks in the washing machine. Need to save your socks for the gym? Try Evri-holder Slipper Genie cleaning slippers ($16, amazon.com). —Pam Young, founder of cluborganized.com The method: Clean the toilet to remove existing stains, then back the water out. This is easy: Shut off the water valve by turning it all the way to the right; flush the toilet, holding down the handle until most of the water flows from the tank; and pour a bucket of water into the bowl. Dry the interior with a cotton cloth, and use a separate cloth to apply the protectant. (Try 3M Performance Finish Synthetic Wax; $20, amazon.com.) Make sure to open a window for ventilation. Let sit for 10 minutes, then replenish the water by turning the valve left to open. For upkeep, every three months pour ½ cup of distilled white vinegar into the bowl to prevent water rings from forming. —Mary Findley, cleaning expert and owner of Mary Moppins The method: Apply a small dollop to a damp cloth. (Use a standard white shaving cream, like Barbasol Original, rather than a gel version.) Dab this onto the spot and let sit for 30 minutes, then blot with a clean, damp cloth. If any stain remains, reapply and let sit overnight. —Cheryl Sousan, founder of the lifestyle blog tidymom.net The method: After washing the containers in the sink with dish soap and warm water, place them on a clean tea towel in the sun. Let sit for eight hours. Rinse and let dry. —Donna Smallin Kuper, certified housecleaning technician and author of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness The method: Place yesterday’s news at the bottom of your trash bin with a plastic bag underneath, to keep the paper from sticking to the can. Discard it all when you toss the trash. —Tara Aronson, lifestyle expert and author of Simplify Your Household The method: Fill the blender halfway with water, add a few drops of dish soap, and blend on low for 10 seconds. Wipe down the upper area with the soapy water and a sponge, then rinse. —Marla Kabashima, organizing coach at Maeve’s Method The method: Using a vodka-filled spray bottle, spritz the mattress and pillows when changing the sheets. —Pam Young The method: Apply with a clean toothbrush, scrub gently, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. —Cheryl Sousan
