Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[brinlong]

As the title implies, I have these unusual black stains spread over my house, usually on molding or linolium. They won't come up with regular cleaning, but if I get down and use my nails, it'll start to come away. However, as I don't want to spend 16 hours trying to scratch off a handful of stains, anyone recognize this and have a solution? I almost want to say its shoe rubber or polish, except no one here polishes their shoes, and I instituted a no shoe rule a while ago.

Also, there is a disgusting brown crud building up in the bottom of both my shower and tub. I'm a bachelor with two bachelor roommates, but even still its becoming horrific. I'd post a picture, but I don't want the CDC to visit my house. Same problem. Nothing, no spray or mop stuff or anything will get it off, but I can scratch it up with my nails. I don't think its soap scum or hard water stuff, but I don't know. Any thoughts, or am I down to may nails and prayer?

[mrscleannw]

Hi Brinlong,

If the black stains on the linoleum are not mold stains you could try a magic eraser you can purchase at a grocery store. I really love this product and it will wipe a crayon mark right of the wall with one swipe. This may help in getting the black marks off the moulding or linoleum.

I'm betting the tub and shower stains are mold. There are a number of solutions you can try on the brown stains in the bathtub and shower. They range from acidic fruits to industrial strength acid.

Try the following solutions in the following order (weakest to strongest):

--Vinegar. This mild acid is often used in degreasers and stain removers. It will not do much for lightening a stain, but the acid will kill and inhibit future mold growth. Use full strength and rub it vigorously over the stains. Wait a minute or two, rinse and check for results.

-- Bleach. This is not only a potent antifungal, antibacterial, and germicide, but it lightens stains and will stop mold in it's tracks. Apply full strength to the stains with an old toothbrush and scrub. Rinse thoroughly and check for progress. Note that bleach will crack or otherwise degrade silicone caulking when used over time. So do rinse thoroughly.

-- Calcium Lime Rust, also called CLR. Some stubborn brown stains appear to be mold, but are actually caused by hard water stains. CLR is a liquid product specially made to treat calcium and lime buildup and rust stains. Glove up and use safety glasses for this one. It can be tough on your hands.

If the stains still remain, you can treat them with muriatic acid. This product is caustic and will burn the skin. Make sure to wear heavy rubber gloves, eye protection, a long-sleeved shirt and pants for protection when using this product.

In all cases follow mfgr's instructions and test in an inconspicuous place first. Let me know how this goes for you.