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As a general rule of thumb, avoid handwashing dishes whenever possible—especially if you have a full sink. Using a dishwasher saves water and better sanitizes your dishes. However, if you have delicate dishwear, high-end glassware, or fragile plastics, you should opt to handwash it to avoid cracks, chips, or warping from the high heat of a dishwasher.

Onions, peppers, fish, broccoli, and fried chicken taste great—but the leftover smells can be less than appetizing. Even if these foods are cooked perfectly, the odors they leave behind can linger well beyond the dishes being cleared and washed. Fortunately, you can use the same tips to get a burnt smell out of the house and remove stubborn food odors. In addition, make sure you’re keeping your fridge clear of odor-smelling foods for too long to keep the stench from invading other foods. 

To maintain your mattress and keep it fresh, you should aim for a deep clean at least twice a year. However, if you have allergies, pets, or sweat heavily at night, you may want to clean it more frequently, such as every three to four months. In between deep cleanings, it's a good practice to vacuum the mattress surface regularly and spot-clean any stains as they occur. Using a mattress protector can significantly help by minimizing the buildup of allergens, dust mites, and bodily fluids, which can make your cleaning routine more effective. Remember to launder the protector regularly, as some dirt and sweat can still get through to the mattress.

Before hiring a cleaning service for your home, it's wise to ask several questions. Find out what services they offer, whether they work alone or with a company, and if they can provide references. It's also important to ask if they conduct background checks on employees. Inquire about their scheduling, availability, and when they can provide an estimate. Confirm if they have insurance, offer a guarantee, and bring their own cleaning supplies and equipment. You should also clarify if you need to be home during the cleaning, what arrangements are necessary for pets, and if there is a written contract. Finally, ask how they set their rates and if they are available for emergencies and what those charges would be.