Dear Heloise: I own a company that cleans office buildings and homes, and there are some small secrets to cleaning a place that some people don’t know. Perhaps I can save them time and money by sharing a few.

— First, most people use too much product to clean glass. Use a little less and you’ll avoid streaks. Better yet, we use car wax on large mirrors and glass. Apply it, let it dry, then buff it off. You get a beautiful shine.

— Never use bleach on laminated countertops. You’ll ruin them in a short time. Never use bleach on natural stone countertops, either. You’ll end up removing the sealant. Both countertops do well with hot water, mild dish soap and a clean sponge. Dry off after you wash it.

— Don’t use vinegar on grout. Sudsy ammonia is best for tile floors/counters/showers with grout. Vinegar will eventually eat away at the grout.

— If you want to clean your rugs, vacuum first, then use a steam cleaner afterward. However, never saturate the rug with water, or you’ll end up with mold and mildew. Remember, don’t use more soap than the instructions call for, or you’ll end up with a soap residue. If in doubt, hire a professional to do the job.

— Got a feather duster? Throw it out. It just moves dust around. And always dust before you vacuum. –George J., Quincy, Massachusetts

INK STAIN

Dear Heloise: My pen leaked in my shirt pocket, and now I don’t know how to remove the stain. Can you offer a hint on this one? — Thomas S., Wake Forest, N.C.

Thomas, soak the ink spot in warm milk before ink has a chance to dry. For a dry ink stain, rub in table salt and dribble lemon juice over the salt. Repeat if you need to, but this should do it!

For all of my readers out there, I have a pamphlet on removing odors and stains in my pamphlet Heloise’s Handy Stain Guide for Clothing. To get a copy, just go to www.Heloise.com, or send $5 along with a stamped, self-addressed, long envelope to: Heloise/Stains, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Make your life easier with this handy guide on stain removal. — Heloise

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.