How to Clean Practically Anything

by Kevin McKean (editor)

Stain Removal Charts
Consumer Reports , November , 2006

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction

236 pages, Paperback

Reviews

[Lauren Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alright, I’m cheating here. I have the 1996 edition of How to Clean Practically Anything, by the Editors of Consumer Reports – WHICH I still use, and which was already in its fourth edition waaay back then. So the 2006 edition can only be even better. This guide gives advice for best methods of cleaning over 200 different household items, from leather furniture upholstery to the dishes. What it doesn’t provide is many tips for alternative products – you might not find any vinegar and baking soda recipes to unclog the drain, or the hint that toothpaste polishes the inexpensive silver.

What it does do is take the mystery out of commercial products – explaining, for example, why body soap usually has a fragrance, and revealing what might be misleading about the claims made about trash bags. For a small investment, that kind of information can be priceless.

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic reference that stands the test of time, this book will save you tons of time and energy when you need to know how to get something clean. Whether you are trying to avoid damaging a surface or appliance, or you are in a panic over a stain, this book has answers all in one place. Coming from the experts at Consumer Reports, a trustworthy source, this book should be a staple on your shelf. These types of reference books that come with your subscription to the CR magazine certainly up the value of the subscription.

The book is separated by parts of the house - from outside, to garage, to kitchen, to bedroom, and more, every area has its own peculiarities and problem areas. Within the area, specific cleaning tasks are organized in alphabetical order. Extra helpful tips are called out through boxes in the margin, and there is a complete index at the back, as well as some quick reference charts.

[Voracious_reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read. Fair amount of info. Well organized. Good reference book.