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Whether you need to leave your home after a termite treatment depends on the method used, and your pest control expert will provide specific instructions. For basic treatments like bait stations or traps, you typically don't need to vacate, but you should keep children and pets away from them. If the treatment involves indoor pesticide spraying, you will likely need to leave for three to five hours. For a full fumigation, which involves tenting the house, you must vacate the property for 24 to 72 hours (approximately three days). If you have any concerns, you can consult the National Pesticide Information Center for guidance.

No, you should never use isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to clean flat paint or paint with any other finish. Isopropyl alcohol works similarly to a paint thinner, so it’s likely to liquify the paint on your walls and leave damaged or bare areas. For stubborn stains, try mixing one cup of vinegar or baking soda into a bucket of warm water and scrubbing very gently with a soft sponge. If the stain or soiling is pervasive, touch up the area by repainting the affected areas.

It's not a great idea to clean gas stove grates in the dishwasher. Most iron grates, even with a protective coating, can corrode when exposed to the heavy washing process. Instead, soak your stove grates in gentle soapy water for up to 30 minutes, and remove any grease and grime by hand to be safe.

If you’re hiring someone to clean an empty and tidy house before you move in, there’s little prep work to do. Make sure to discuss your goals with the cleaning service, arrange entry to the house, and communicate any problem areas or special requests. If you’ve already moved into the house, or if it’s messy, it’s best to complete the following tasks before the cleaners arrive:

• Declutter things like clothes, toys, or cardboard boxes

• Do the dishes

• Put fragile items in a safe spot where they can’t be accidentally broken

• Keep pets away from cleaning areas