This is one space in the house where regular maintenance will keep out soap scum, mildew and ring around the toilet at bay.
- Toilet hard-water stains Shut the water off at the toilet tank and flush to remove as much water as possible. Pour white vinegar over the stains (figure A). Sprinkle borax over the vinegar and scrub the stain with fine drywall sandpaper, which looks like window screen (figure B). Depending on the stain, this step may have to be repeated. For regular cleaning, use the same steps, substituting a toilet brush for the sandpaper.
Dirty grout Mix 1 cup borax and 2 cups baking soda in a container (figure C). Add 1 cup hot water and mix to a spreadable paste consistency. Apply to grout with a brush and scrub (figure D). Rinse with water.Mold and mildew on grout Use a typewriter eraser to remove mold and mildew from grout (figure E). Keep the tip of the eraser clean to prevent smears. Or mix baking soda and bleach into a paste, apply to the grout, let soak for at least 30 minutes and rinse. Remember, when using bleach in a small space, even the fumes can bleach out any fabric in the room, so try to work in a well-ventilated space.
Tip: Got some mystery marble stains that need solving? Combine 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with cream of tartar and rub into the stain with a soft cloth until it is removed.
| 
)
)
)
)
)
