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Signs your couch needs cleaning include a buildup of crumbs or pet hair, unsightly stains, grimy discoloration, or bad odors. Your couch typically needs deep cleaning every six to 12 months, but a weekly vacuum helps keep it crud-free. Cleaning schedules vary depending on the couch fabric and color, and one that accommodates shedding pets and careless kids will need cleaning more frequently.

Hydrogen peroxide is usually better for getting rid of urine smells on hardwood than vinegar. Unlike vinegar, hydrogen peroxide is odorless. This can be advantageous if you have a dog that likes to mark areas with a strong scent. Also, hydrogen is a strong oxidizer that can break down bacterial odors, and it is less likely to remove the finish on hardwood flooring than vinegar. Never mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. This creates corrosive and toxic peracetic acid.

You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.

No, it works best under synthetic carpets in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas. Avoid using moisture barrier padding under natural fiber carpets like wool, which need air circulation. The barrier can trap the moisture against natural fibers and cause problems. Also, you can skip it in low-risk areas like upstairs guest bedrooms, where the extra protection often isn't worth the added cost.