How to CLEAN ANYTHING

Follow these step-by-step guides from our GH Cleaning Lab pros to deep-clean often-overlooked spots.

- CAROLYN FORTÉ

Television screen

Delicate tech needs TLC to stay clean and dust-free. Follow these steps to be sure your favorite shows look clear and sharp.

1 Use a cloth.

The safest way to clean any screen is by wiping it with a dry microfiber cloth with millions of tiny surfaces, these cloths trap dust and nix smudges without scratching. Pick a large one to make cleaning a big-screen TV easier, and rotate the cloth as it picks up dust.

2 Choose a duster.

If your TV is wall-mounted or hard to access, a duster - especially one with an extendable handle and a pivoting head-may give you the longest reach. Dust vertically, then horizontally, across the screen. Don't forget the base, the buttons, and the back.

3 Remove smudges.

To prevent streaks, avoid using pretreated dusting cloths-made for dusting furniture, they contain oils that can mar electronics. For a stubborn smudge (usually noticeable when the TV is off), rub gently with a dry microfiber cloth, which also works well for zapping greasy fingerprints.

4 Spot-clean gunk.

For pesky or sticky spots that won't budge with wiping alone, try a premoistened electronics cleaning wipe, like those from GH Seal star Weiman. Make sure the wipe isn't overly wet, then gently dab the spot. Dry it promptly with a microfiber cloth.

Washing machine

Trapped water and residue in your machine can lead to mold and odors. Freshen it fast!

1 Use a machine cleaner.