A full clean can wait for the weekend. A short wipe-down after dinner keeps counters and tables pleasant in between, and it takes less time than finding the remote.
What you need
One spray and one good cloth. We use All-Purpose Cleaner, Citrus Oasis and a cotton waffle cloth, which picks up crumbs in its raised weave and dries quickly.
Minute one: clear
Move everything off the surface. It is faster to wipe a clear counter than to clean around jars and chargers.
Minutes two and three: spray and wipe
Mist the surface lightly, then wipe from the back towards you in overlapping strokes so crumbs end up at the edge, not on the floor. For dried-on spots, spray and leave for about 30 seconds before wiping.
Minute four: the details
Run the cloth over tap handles, the kettle and the fridge door. These are the places hands touch most often, and a damp cloth with a little spray is usually enough for all of them.
Minute five: rinse and hang
Rinse the cloth in warm water, wring it out and hang it to dry. Wash cloths regularly with your towels, and skip fabric softener so they stay absorbent.
A note on surfaces
Our all-purpose cleaner suits most sealed surfaces. On natural stone, unsealed wood or anything delicate, test a small hidden area first.
This article is general information about household cleaning. Always follow the directions on the label, keep cleaning products out of reach of children and pets, and spot-test on delicate surfaces first.
