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You’ll often find mildew and soap scum in the same place, but they are very different substances. Mildew is a substance composed of living fungi, whereas soap scum is primarily an accumulation of mineral deposits. Mildew needs chronic moisture to thrive, while soap scum is unaffected by damp conditions (though it is a residue left behind by the water).

The most effective toilet tank cleaners include commercial cleaning products, but for DIY purposes, white vinegar is best. Vinegar can help kill bacteria and remove mineral buildup from your toilet tank, but it won’t harm the necessary bacteria in your septic tank as some commercial products can. For the best clean, hire a professional to choose the most aggressive cleaning product that’s still safe for your septic tank, or use white vinegar and a scrub brush to do the cleaning yourself.

You should declutter first, then clean, especially when sorting through an entire estate. Decluttering reduces the number of items to clean and clears space to make cleaning easier. Once all items, such as large furniture, are relocated, you'll be able to clean efficiently. You can also hire a move-out cleaner to do a professional deep clean before you sell the home.

Various mites can cause health problems for people and pets, such as allergies, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. Some mites, like scabies and chiggers, can transmit diseases or bacterial infections. Other types, such as dust, mold, and spider mites, also pose risks. Spider mites, for example, can quickly spread to and damage houseplants. It is best to eradicate any type of mite from your home and seek medical care if you experience symptoms.