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Floor mats are there to protect the car carpet and make it easier to keep the interior clean. They collect dirt and mud from your shoes along with food crumbs, drink spills, and more. In areas that get lots of precipitation, they collect the water that could cause harmful and smelly microbes to grow in the carpeting. You can simply remove the car mats and give them a good shake whenever they need it to eliminate loose dirt. But sometimes they need more. No matter how picky you are about your ride, spills happen, and dirt collects on the car mats. Regular vacuuming helps tremendously in keeping the interior looking good, but over time, stains and residue begin to build up. When it’s time to reinvigorate the interior, spruce up the mats by giving them a deep cleaning. How you do it depends on the type of mat: Rubber or carpet. Gather your gear When it comes to keeping your car mats clean, along with dozens of other messy jobs around the house, one of the best investments is a compact, powerful wet-dry vacuum, like this one. Use it to pre-vacuum to pick up the loose stuff and to pull out some of the excess moisture after washing the mats. You’ll also need a good garden hose with a multi-spray nozzle. Cleaning rubber car mats Got your gear together? Let’s get cleaning! · Remove the mats from the car: This job is wet and kind of messy. The driveway is a perfect place to do it. · Knock off loose debris: Shake and knock off any loose dirt before wetting the surface. · Dislodge sticky dirt and crumbs with clear water: Give them a quick rinse with a jet of plain water from the hose. · Scrub with warm soapy water: For best results, use a product like Careguys Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner/Conditioner that is specially designed for cleaning and conditioning rubber. · Rinse with clear water: Thoroughly rinse to remove all soap residue for a clear finish. · Air dry: Lay or hang flat in the shade. Cleaning carpet car mats · Remove them from the car: You probably need to vacuum beneath them anyway. · Vacuum top and bottom sides: Remove any dry, loose material before wetting. · Remove odors with baking soda: Dust liberally with plain baking soda and massage into the fibers with a soft brush. Let it stand for at least 30 minutes before proceeding to the next step. · Wash option 1: Hand-wash. Apply automotive carpet cleaner like Careguys All Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner to thoroughly wet the fiber, then scrub stains vigorously with a soft bristle brush. · Wash option 2: Most carpet car mats can be run through household washing machines. Use your regular detergent and normal cycle. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before proceeding. · Vacuum to remove excess moisture: This is not absolutely necessary but will help move things along more quickly. · Air dry: Lay or hang flat in the shade. A note on air drying For the best results, dry them in a flat position in the shade. Sun exposure leads to fabric color fading and cracks in the rubber. Laying the mats over a fence may cause them to take on a bent shape, causing a mat bubble on the floor of the car. Instead, lay them out in the driveway, use a clothesline with pins, or mount spring clamps to a wall or fence to hang them.  

Time and again, stainless steel kitchen sinks prove to be one of the most reliable, sleek, and modern additions to your kitchen. Whether you’re a novice home cook, a seasoned chef or you live by your favorite take-out spot, having a sink that’s easy to clean and disinfect can make or break your cooking experience. Like anything in your kitchen that’s used on the daily, your stainless steel appliances — whether that may be your oven racks, fridge doors or the kitchen sink —  need a little love. You can feel confident that a stainless steel sink will be affordable, durable, easy to maintain, and easy to clean. Without the proper care, stainless steel can lose its sleek and shiny appearance and develop some ugly water spots over time. With the right cleaning techniques, you can keep your sink looking polished and brand new, all year round. How to Clean a Stainless Steel Sink with Cleaners Commercial cleaning products are an easy way to keep your sink sparkling and germ-free, but not all cleaners are made the same. Some chemicals that can damage your stainless steel sink include solvents, chlorides, and acids. When in doubt, read the labels and ingredients in your products. This will help avoid unwanted reactions and permanent damage to your sink. Popular stainless steel cleaning products come in a variety of presentations. You can purchase cleaning wipes, sprays, or powders that help you get the polishing job done in a matter of minutes. Step 1: Start by grabbing a pair of gloves and a soft microfiber cloth Step 2: Scrub in the direction of your sink’s polish lines to avoid scratching or damaging your stainless steel Step 3: Rinse with clean hot water and dry the sink with a clean towel until your sink looks shiny and new How to Clean a Stainless Steel Sink With Vinegar Using common household products, you can give your sink a deep clean that’s effective, non-toxic, and ecological. Pro Tip: Grab a soft cloth and some olive oil to give your sink that extra shine that stands out. A few drops of olive oil should be enough to buff the entire sink surface. This handy hack also creates a protective layer to keep the sink clean for longer periods of time. But don’t use olive oil on your sink handles, because that’ll make them slippery and greasy. Step 1: Start by rinsing your sink with water from the faucet Step 2: Then, coat the sink with a thin layer of baking soda. This will create a paste that you’ll scrub in the direction of the sink’s grain Step 3: Spray the paste with vinegar and let it rest for 5 minutes Step 4: As bubbles start to appear, you’ll know that those tough sink stains are dissolving. Step 5: Rinse and repeat, as needed Step 6: When you’re done polishing, remember to dry your sink with a clean towel How to Clean a Black Stainless Steel Sink If you have a black stainless steel sink, you’re a pretty swanky fella. This trendy twist on the traditional stainless steel delivers a striking look and an extra layer of protection for your sink. That’s because these sinks are easier to clean and prevent corrosion better than the traditional metal finish. Step 1: Use a cloth and soapy water Step 2: Avoid abrasive cleaners, household products, or other tools that will create permanent damage to your sink Tips and Tricks to Clean a Stainless Steel Sink Prevention is part of caring for your stainless steel sink. To avoid scratches, never clean your sink with steel wool or steel brushes. These will damage its surface and leave you with unsightly scratches on the sink. While it may seem like a good idea to protect your sink with a rubber mat, they can lead to water accumulation and unattractive discoloration. A sink grid is a better alternative that allows water to evaporate and safeguards your sink from scratches. They’re especially helpful to protect black stainless steel sinks from scratches caused by silverware or jewelry. 1. Start with a damp sponge and wipe down any leftovers on your sink 2. Give your sink a quick rinse after every use 3. Using a gentle cloth, polish in the same direction of your sink's finish 4. Use a clean, dry towel to absorb water from the surface and prevent stains Materials to Avoid on a Stainless Steel Sink 1. Harsh soaps 2. Chemical cleansers with chlorides 3. Commercial products not formulated for stainless steel 4. Steel wool pads or brushes Routine cleaning ensures the durability of your sink and gently eliminates hard water stains without scratching. Whether you choose a soft abrasive cleaning product or make your own blend at home, a regular polish restores the shine of your sink and keeps it looking new.  

Granite countertops can easily elevate any room in your house. Glossy and luxurious, these popular stone countertops are high on the list when it comes to a home remodel. Regardless of the ever-changing interior design landscape, granite seems to remain king of the countertops for a good reason. It's important to clean and care for granite in a specific way so you don't damage it. An investment in granite countertops today will add value to the price of your home down the line, as long as it is still looking its very best. Taking the right steps to clean and care for your granite is the best way to protect your investment and be able to enjoy your kitchen countertops for many years to come. Benefits of Granite Countertops Granite is extremely durable and can handle all kinds of knives or wear and tear that might come its way. The sought-after stone also happens to be a heat-resistant option, and while you probably shouldn’t make a habit of it, a hot pan won’t do any damage. Let’s not forget that granite, like other natural stones, is porous with small holes throughout its surface. Porous materials like granite have a natural ability to protect against mold, mildew, and bacteria. So not only is your granite countertop beautiful, but it cleans up after itself, too. How to Clean Granite and Not Damage It Granite is relatively strong, but that does not mean you should clean it using rough and abrasive materials, such as a steel wool sponge, or with harshly acidic cleaners like vinegar. When cleaning granite, it's important to choose a very mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft microfiber or terry cloth. These are all very light cleaning mediums that will not scratch or damage your countertop or its sealant. Step 1: In a bowl, mix warm water with mild dish soap. Step 2: Soak a soft cloth in the mixture, wring it out, and then wipe the countertop with the dampened cloth. Step 3: Dry the entire countertop with a dry, absorbent cloth material. Be sure not to let excess water sit on top of the surface. How to Remove Tough Stains From Granite Surfaces Baking soda is a really wonderful ingredient that is extremely useful for removing stains from granite without damaging the surface with harsh and abrasive chemicals. Step 1: For cleaning oil-based stains, mix baking soda and water to form a paste. For water-based stains, mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Step 2: Apply a small amount of your paste to the stain and then clean it using the same mild dish soap and water solution that we recommend for cleaning granite. Step 3: If your stain is resistant, you can apply the solution and cover it with a piece of plastic wrap. Step 4: Leave the paste and plastic wrap in place for 24 to 48 hours with its edges taped down. Step 5: After 24 to 48 hours, remove the plastic and you're likely to find a clean and stain-free surface underneath. Step 6: Follow up by cleaning the granite surface as needed to remove any excess paste. How to Maintain Granite Countertops Did you know granite countertops can last for up to 100 years if properly cared for? The secret to maintaining and caring for granite is to clean it in a gentle and mild way, as described above. Beyond that, it's important your counter is resealed with granite sealant every two to four years, depending on how much you and your family are using it. If you are unsure about whether it's time to reseal your granite, there's a simple and handy test you can try. Step 1: Apply water to your counter and use a timer to see how long it takes to absorb. Step 2: If the water absorbs into your counter instantly, it's time to apply sealer now and you might consider repeating this test in about a year to see if an additional layer is needed. Step 3: If the water absorbs into your surface, but it takes 4 to 5 minutes to do so, your counter is well sealed but you can test again in 2 to 4 years to be sure an additional layer is not needed. Step 4: If the water absorbs after 10 minutes, your counter is well sealed and probably doesn't need an additional layer of sealant for 5 to 10 years or even longer. Step 5: If the water absorbs, but it takes up to 30 minutes, your counter is amazingly sealed and probably doesn't require additional sealant for more than 20 years.  

Cleaning your house or apartment may seem daunting. Whether you’re feeling less productive during the day because of the clutter around your apartment or if you have some last-minute guests coming over, you might assume that you don’t have the time or energy to clean your home. If you don’t have time for a deep clean, these tricks on how to clean your home quickly will work, especially if you anticipate having guests over. They will give the impression that you spent hours cleaning and tidying up when, in reality, you just gave your place a complete once-over. Cleaning essentials for your house or apartment Nothing expedites your last-minute cleaning efforts like the right arsenal of tools. We listed some of the necessary tools below, but the world of cleaning products is endless. Choose products that get the job done. We’re partial to eco-friendly products without harsh chemicals. · Disinfectant wipes · Glass cleaner · Toilet wand · Professional window cleaning tool · Vacuum · Broom · Mop How to clean your apartment or house on a tight schedule When you have 30 minutes or less to clean your house or apartment, you should always start your cleaning routine from the top down. This will make everything visually appear cleaner and eliminate any unnecessary extra steps. The first thing you do is dust any ceiling fans and cabinets. Then, you start cleaning the countertops, sinks, tops of dressers, and side tables. Once you have the top and middle surfaces clean, you can move on to vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping to make sure you pick up all the dust particles from the top down. Tips on cleaning your house or apartment Focus on important spaces If every room in your house is a mess, trick yourself and your guests into thinking your house is clean by focusing on the rooms that are in sight and being used. Your guests probably won’t be hanging out in your bedroom or your office space. So that means you can close those off. This will leave your focus on the rooms people will be gathering in, such as the dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. If you’re not having guests over, think about the rooms you frequent the most often. This might mean starting with your living space, bathroom, and kitchen, then leaving the bedroom and other rooms for when you have more time to do a deep clean. Declutter your countertops If there’s one thing you can do to make your house or apartment look clean in 30 minutes or less, clearing your countertops will make a huge difference. Clear off the countertops and tables, keeping them free of clutter, such as keys, mail, newspapers, or magazines. Decluttering your surface areas will make the room feel bigger and brighter. Your line of vision will be clear, even if your surfaces aren’t getting a deep clean. If you have friends coming over, guests will have a spot to put their drinks down on. Since you’ve done the work beforehand, cleanup should be quicker and easier. Clear the floor It may not be necessary to grab your mop and deep-clean your floors, but clearing clutter and debris from the floors will make a huge difference. Clean up the pile of shoes by the door, then make sure your clothes from the past week (or two) are either in the hamper or tucked away in your dresser. Make sure you throw out the garbage and give your floors a vacuum to clean the dust bunnies. Your house or apartment will instantly look cleaner. Focus on scent Smells are everything. A fresh scent can make your home feel warm and inviting. Even if there is some clutter around, try lighting a candle or plugging in a diffuser to freshen up your space. A scent spray can do wonders to a room as well. They may not be long lasting, but they will take the edge off. Clean and put away dirty dishes Dirty dishes — whether in the sink or around the house – create a physically unappealing atmosphere and a nasty health risk. One of the biggest must-dos to making your house or apartment clean in less than 30 minutes is making sure there are no dirty dishes hanging around. If the dishes are clean and put away, it will automatically make your home feel cleaner. How to clean different areas in your house or apartment Take full advantage of that urge to clean before you burn out. Start by tackling the most difficult room, then work your way down the priority list. Bathroom Bathrooms are typically some of the smallest areas in the home, but they can be the most time-consuming to clean, as well as the least desirable. Cleaning the toilet, shower, tile, and sink takes a lot of time, so you should knock those out first. Clean the toilet from top to bottom, as this is the area that can get the grimiest. Toss a self-cleaning toilet bowl tablet into the commode. While the tablet works its magic, wipe down the seat with your antibacterial wipes. Light a big candle and turn off the lights — a dimly lit bathroom looks cleaner than a regular one. Make sure to close the shower curtain before you leave the room. Kitchen Besides the living room, the kitchen is one of the most frequented areas of the home and needs continuous cleaning. Make sure to scrub the sink, wipe down countertops, and if you have time, sweep and mop the floors. If you’re up for it, clean the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher. These aren’t cleaned as regularly but should be completed at least once a month. Living room Next, head to the living room. Pick everything up off the floor and stash it in a closet. Make sure to clear off the coffee table and give it a good wipe down. Light a candle (we recommend these scented candles), and if your couch has some questionable rips, stains, or other unflattering marks on it, drape your nicest, cleanest blanket over it. Bedroom Next, if you still have time, head to the bedrooms. This typically doesn’t require too much of a lift. Put fresh sheets on your bed, put away stray clothes, and wipe down any bedside tables. Suddenly, this room will feel more like the bedroom sleep sanctuary that you need. Hacks for quick and everyday cleaning Here are some super-speedy cleaning hacks to get your space sparkling fast. Also, keep thee in mind for whenever you clean. · DIY magic eraser: Mix baking soda with a damp sponge for gentle scrubbing power on walls, stains, or scuff marks. · Stainless steel shine: A dab of olive oil on a microfiber cloth polishes stainless steel appliances to a gleaming finish. · Microwave mess buster: Cut a lemon in half, place it in a microwave-safe bowl with water and microwave it for a few minutes. The steam loosens stuck-on grime for easy wiping. · Blind date with rubbing alcohol: For dusty blinds, put rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and use a sock puppet (an old sock turned inside out with your hand in) to wipe each slat. · Coffee filter magic: Coffee filters are great for dusting delicate surfaces or electronics without leaving lint behind. · Dryer sheet love: Wipe down greasy stovetops or baked-on messes on casserole dishes with a dryer sheet. The anti-static cling will help grab grime.

Floor mats are there to protect the car carpet and make it easier to keep the interior clean. They collect dirt and mud from your shoes along with food crumbs, drink spills, and more. In areas that get lots of precipitation, they collect the water that could cause harmful and smelly microbes to grow in the carpeting. You can simply remove the car mats and give them a good shake whenever they need it to eliminate loose dirt. But sometimes they need more. No matter how picky you are about your ride, spills happen, and dirt collects on the car mats. Regular vacuuming helps tremendously in keeping the interior looking good, but over time, stains and residue begin to build up. When it’s time to reinvigorate the interior, spruce up the mats by giving them a deep cleaning. How you do it depends on the type of mat: Rubber or carpet. Gather your gear When it comes to keeping your car mats clean, along with dozens of other messy jobs around the house, one of the best investments is a compact, powerful wet-dry vacuum, like this one. Use it to pre-vacuum to pick up the loose stuff and to pull out some of the excess moisture after washing the mats. You’ll also need a good garden hose with a multi-spray nozzle. Cleaning rubber car mats Got your gear together? Let’s get cleaning! · Remove the mats from the car: This job is wet and kind of messy. The driveway is a perfect place to do it. · Knock off loose debris: Shake and knock off any loose dirt before wetting the surface. · Dislodge sticky dirt and crumbs with clear water: Give them a quick rinse with a jet of plain water from the hose. · Scrub with warm soapy water: For best results, use a product like Careguys’s Mirror Glaze Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner/Conditioner that is specially designed for cleaning and conditioning rubber. · Rinse with clear water: Thoroughly rinse to remove all soap residue for a clear finish. · Air dry: Lay or hang flat in the shade. Cleaning carpet car mats · Remove them from the car: You probably need to vacuum beneath them anyway. · Vacuum top and bottom sides: Remove any dry, loose material before wetting. · Remove odors with baking soda: Dust liberally with plain baking soda and massage into the fibers with a soft brush. Let it stand for at least 30 minutes before proceeding to the next step. · Wash option 1: Hand-wash. Apply automotive carpet cleaner like Careguys All Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner to thoroughly wet the fiber, then scrub stains vigorously with a soft bristle brush. · Wash option 2: Most carpet car mats can be run through household washing machines. Use your regular detergent and normal cycle. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before proceeding. · Vacuum to remove excess moisture: This is not absolutely necessary but will help move things along more quickly. · Air dry: Lay or hang flat in the shade. A note on air drying For the best results, dry them in a flat position in the shade. Sun exposure leads to fabric color fading and cracks in the rubber. Laying the mats over a fence may cause them to take on a bent shape, causing a mat bubble on the floor of the car. Instead, lay them out in the driveway, use a clothesline with pins, or mount spring clamps to a wall or fence to hang them. When to purchase new floor mats for your car Many automobiles do not come from the factory with floor mats. Some new car buyers opt not to add the expense, especially for fleet vehicles. Over time, mats wear out, especially in the driver’s heel area. If you purchase a car without mats, or if the ones in your car become worn out, it’s a good idea to purchase a new set to protect your interior. Dealerships offer both original equipment and upgraded mats, but there are many other options to choose from. Amazon offers a wide assortment of mats that fit a wide range of vehicles. WeatherTech offers custom mats to fit your car make and model. You may also find what you need at auto parts stores or general retailers. It feels good to drive around in a car that looks good. Keeping your floor mats clean and in good condition makes the car look, feel, and smell its best.

No matter where you hike or what you hike in, one thing is for sure: Hiking boots are supposed to get dirty. Your new boots might look fresh and clean right out of the box, and after that, every scrape and stain may be a badge of honor. But that doesn’t mean they should stay that way. Follow the tips outlined below to keep your hiking boots clean, functional, and ready to hit the next trail. How to clean your hiking boots Leaving boots damp and soiled with mud or caked-in dirt can lead to serious damage over time — the type of damage that goes beyond cosmetics and can impact performance and longevity. Plus, a quality pair of hiking boots can put you back a pretty penny, and a regular cleaning prepares them for the long haul. Clean the exterior First things first: Remove any mud. If your boots are saturated, try to get most of that off before heading inside. The best way to do that? Go ahead and slam those boots together — don’t worry; they can take it. Get as much of that mud off as you can with brute force, then switch to a good, stiff brush or slender rod. You should remove as much mud, dirt, leaves, and rocks as possible because the longer that stuff sits there, the longer it will keep the boots damp. Once you’ve removed as much mud as you can from the exterior of the boots, grab a bucket and fill it with some warm water and a little biodegradable dish soap. Remove the laces,and then dip the sole of your boots into the warm water and give them a good scrub. No need to completely submerge them. The bucket is handy because it allows the warm water to coat the boots (making the dirt easier to remove), and it collects the dirty water, which you can toss outside when you’re finished (saving your sink and drain). Try to prevent the insides from becoming too wet, as this could lead to mold and mildew issues. To avoid this, stuff your boots with a hand towel at the start of the washing process. Clean the interior Once your boots are looking as good as new from the outside (or at least close to it), it’s time to focus on the inside. The dampness your feet produce, along with any moisture from snow, fog, or rain, can damage the inside of your boots (especially salty sweat and saltwater). Pull out any insoles, wipe them down, then use a clean, lightly damp rag to wipe out the inside of your boots. Do this step before more extensive cleaning of the exterior, because once you get the insides dry, you want them to stay that way. Condition and waterproof If you’re going to waterproof and condition your boots, the best time to do it is right after they’ve been cleaned and while they’re still wet. Most hiking boots are pre-equipped with durable water repellent, but over time, this finish wears off and your boots will start to absorb more water. So, it’s important to re-treat your boots every once in a while. After you’ve cleaned your boots and before you leave them to dry, go ahead and apply your waterproofing product. There are different options for leather, suede, and synthetic boots, so make sure you’ve grabbed one that best suits your boots. If you have full-grain leather boots, you’ll want to condition them if they appear dry and cracked on the outside. To apply the conditioner, take a quarter-sized amount and apply it to the boots, rubbing in a circular motion. Allow the first coat to air dry before applying a second and third coat if necessary. Dry the boots While you might be tempted to place your boots in a warm, sunny location or next to an artificial heat source; think again. The best way to dry your boots is to place them in a cool and airy location; too much heat isn’t ideal as it shrinks leather and can lead to cracking. Using a hairdryer also isn’t ideal, as it can lead to further cracking and damage. To aid the drying process, you may want to stuff the boots with a couple of dry washcloths, socks, or anything else that’s nice and absorbent. Just be sure to remove and/or replace the stuffing every few hours or so because by that time they will have soaked up as much moisture as they can. You can also speed up the drying process by using a fan. Getting your boots completely dry — to the point where you can wear them again — will likely take a couple of days.  Once your boots are clean and dry, store them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Before you hit the trail Before you head out on your next hike, take a look at the condition of your hiking boots. If they’re still covered in mud from your last trek, it’s definitely time for a clean. It might be tempting to throw your boots in the washing machine, but that can do lasting damage to both the machine and your boots. So don’t do it! Do you find that your boots are past the point of no return? It happens. Go ahead and invest in a new pair of hiking boots, and promise yourself to do better next time. What is the best material for hiking boots? The best material for hiking boots depends on several factors, including the type of hiking you’ll be doing, the weather conditions you’ll be facing, and your personal preferences. Here are more details about the two most common upper materials for hiking boots. Full-grain leather Pros: · Very durable and water-resistant (especially with proper care) · Provides good ankle support and protection · Can form to your foot over time for a comfortable fit Cons: · Heavier than synthetic materials · Requires more break-in time · Not as breathable as synthetics Synthetic materials Pros: · Lighter weight than leather · Often more breathable and comfortable in warm weather · May dry faster than leather Cons: · Not as durable as leather (especially abrasion resistance) · May not provide the same level of ankle support · May not conform to your foot as well as leather

Your wardrobe is likely to be varied for different moments, events, and situations. With varied clothing, you will need a wardrobe of different types of shoes to accompany those looks and keep you looking and performing your best. Of course, there are more choices than you need, and every man has a different lifestyle that necessitates their own curated shoe collection. However, there are certain types of stylish men’s shoes that every man needs. And like always, we’ve collected a handy list for you to use. Here are the seven types of shoes for men to grab to complete their best wardrobe.     Black dress shoes The black dress shoe is your formal shoe. This will most likely be the shoe you choose when heading to weddings, funerals, or any other occasion where formal attire is required. Anything after 6 p.m. is perfect for this shoe. Versatility is something to keep in mind with all shoes when building a wardrobe. So, it is best to keep things simple. Opt for Oxford or derby shoes, embrace timeless classics, and don’t skimp on the quality.     Brown/tan dress shoes Brown dress shoes fare best in the office and most professional situations. They work exceptionally well with charcoal, navy/blue, and light gray suits or pants. When shopping for these shoes, remember you will likely wear them for 8 or more hours at a time, so focus on comfort. Of course, most dress shoes are not known for their comfort, so a more luxurious option is your best bet.   Chelsea boots You can thank the swinging 60s and 70s for the flourishing Chelsea boots. While they were made for royalty as far back as the Victorian era, the music royalty of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones brought them into fashion in the 60s. Even stormtroopers wore them in 1977’s Star Wars. Now you can find them in any color and in leather, suede, or canvas. Replace your sneakers with these to elevate any casual outfit to a sharper streetwear look. If you choose leather boots, you can pair them with a suit for a unique look. Here are some great options for you to experiment with.     Chukka boots Chukka boots are your midway point between dress shoes and sneakers. When you wear denim, the shoes can determine the outfit’s formality. There will be occasions where dress shoes or Chelsea boots are too formal, and sneakers are too casual. This is a job for the chukka. Originally worn by the British Army in the desert, these boots know comfort and movability. Pairing these shoes with denim or chinos sets your outfit up for virtually any top. An untucked button-down, a sweater, or a classic tee will feel perfectly suited for the chukka.     Rugged boots Sometimes, a man has to get dirty. Sometimes in a man’s life, he needs to feel manly simply for the sake of feeling manly. Fewer shoes give off masculine energy than a rugged pair of cap-toe leather boots. These are equally appropriate for walking the streets of New York City or getting lost in the backwoods of the Pacific Northwest. These boots will likely be the most comfortable of all shoes in your collection, but you will almost certainly feel the growing pains as they need to be broken in. These pair well with denim, chinos, or even work pants while you hike a trail or mow the lawn.     White sneakers Every guy reading this needs a pair of clean, white sneakers. They are an essential staple that will be your best friend. Whether planning an entire outfit around the shoes or throwing them on as an afterthought as you run out of the house, your white sneakers will never not work. And they will never not be in style. You can opt for canvas or leather, but either one will come with the same rub; they will inevitably get dirty, scuffed, or start to yellow. You will have to be dedicated to cleaning them often and being very careful not to wear them on rainy days when you can run into mud, or if possible, end up in a pickup football game.     Training shoes We, men, are active. We play sports — we lift weights, we build the world. Because of that, we will always need the right pair of shoes to keep us upright and on our feet as we do our thing. Whether they are a clean pair of Air Jordans that you wear on the basketball court or a durable pair of No Bull trainers that get you in the best shape of your life, you need the right pair of shoes to keep you going. With these seven cool shoes for men to stay on the right side of function and fashion, you will never be without the right kicks.

If you’re like us, you wear your favorite pair of shoes every chance you get. Night on the town? Slide on your best kicks. Got a formal event? Pull out the best dress shoes. Wanna make an impression on the first date? Perfect time for your best chelsea boot. Here is the rub, though: the more you wear your favorite leather shoe, the more you will crease or dent them. Wrinkles and dents are an inevitable part of enjoying your shoes. That is why it is important for you to learn how to uncrease shoes. Of course, figuring out how to get creases out of shoes is immensely valuable, but that is always the last resort. Like anything else in life, prevention is always preferable to correction. So, before we jump into the ways to deal with wrinkles, creases, and dents, let’s talk about how to keep them nice in the first place. Prevent the wrinkles   As we said, prevention is key. Leather will crease when you walk unless you never bend your foot. If that is the case, you have more problems than wrinkles. However, the longer you go without addressing the creases, the deeper they get and the harder they are to remove. Between your treatments, here are the best tips to keep creases at bay. Stuff them When you are not wearing the shoes, you should stuff them. Using a shoe tree to fill the shoe helps it keep its shape; avoiding the shoe collapsing will do wonders in keeping those dents from forming in the toe box. When you shop for shoe trees, stick to cedarwood. The wood keeps the shoes from absorbing moisture. Clean them This habit will benefit the shoe in many ways. It will help avoid creases, dents, and wrinkles, maintain the color and prevent the shoe from breaking down over time. Every time you wear them, you should use a brush to remove dirt and sand and a rag to remove anything else. Don’t let anything set into the shoe. Air dry Let’s face it: you’re going to sweat. As you wear the shoes throughout the day, you are going to put them through the ringer. Heat will build up, sweat will happen, and your shoes will take the brunt of it. The leather needs a breather as much as you do. Set them out and let them air dry so moisture and odors don’t set into them. Condition You should already be doing this to all of your leather shoes, but if you’re not, here is your reminder. Use waterproofing conditioner on your shoes to ensure they always stay healthy. It is especially important to condition your shoes after wearing them on rainy days or other wet environments. Now that we have addressed prevention, here are the best ways to remove the creases that you unavoidably will deal with as you sport your best kicks about town. Use an iron No, don’t iron the shoes. That’s not how you’re getting rid of wrinkles. But an iron is a great way to remove creases if you do it correctly. Here are the steps to making your shoes look brand new using an iron. Pro tip…this is especially useful when you are on the road and need to freshen up your kicks. 1. Remove the laces, place tissue paper in the toe box, and set the iron to the lowest heat setting (somewhere between sixty degrees and seventy-five degrees. 2. Wet a towel and ring it out until it is no longer dripping wet. Fold it in half so there are two layers of fabric between the iron and the shoe. 3. Place the iron over the towel for fifteen to thirty seconds (if the towel dries out, then wet it again and repeat). 4. Check your progress and repeat as needed. 5. Place a shoe tree in the shoe and allow it to air dry. Use a hairdryer A hairdryer is another good tool for returning your shoes back to mint condition. You need fewer items to make this one work, so it may feel faster. The main reason you want to do this one at home is because many hotel hairdryers have only one setting and you want to keep this heat lower. 1. Place a shoe tree or tissue paper (not newspaper or magazine pages, as ink can transfer) into the toe box to get the shoe as close to optimal shape as possible. 2. Put the hairdryer on the lowest setting and heat the area for about fifteen seconds. 3. Once the area is heated, massage the leather into the shoe tree. It is going to be better for your fingers and the shoes if you can wear some latex gloves to keep the oils from transferring. 4. Allow them to cool with the shoe tree or paper still inserted to keep the shape. Use a conditioner While you should end both of the above processes by conditioning your shoes, we feel the need to beat this horse to within an inch of its life. You can use conditioner to improve the status of your creases. And, of course, many other things. Be sure to choose a high-quality shoe conditioner with beeswax or natural oils (olive, coconut, almond, etc). 1. Remove the laces and stuff the shoe 2. Rub the conditioner into the creases (and might as well do the rest of the shoe 3. Allow them to air dry. Optional: If you want them to shine, rub them back and forth with a rag until they are gleaming.   There you have it, a foolproof set of habits that will keep your leather shoes looking brand new every time you wear them. Now, keeping those shoes from scuffs is on you. Wear them at your own risk and be careful.  

Sure, a solid leather jacket can make you look as cool as Indiana Jones or Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, but it isn’t the only kind of jacket that can give you the essence of coolness. A good suede jacket gives you the same silhouette and the same aura, only with a softer look. Of course, if you are going to pick up a suede jacket, you need to know how to care for it and clean it properly. We are here to tell you that you do not have to be intimidated by suede! You can keep your jacket looking fresh by following this simple guide, which shows you how to clean suede. With a couple of small tools, you can clean your suede jacket at home, saving time and money. These tools, designed specifically for suede, will also help restore the beautiful nap of your jacket that made you want to buy it in the first place. The best part about this guide is that you do not have to treat your suede with any chemicals beforehand for these tools to be useful. Weatherproofing chemicals can help protect your best men’s jacket, but they can also muddle that beautiful suede texture. They can also discolor the dye, and once they are applied, there is no way to get them off. Suede vs. Leather One of the more confusing things about suede is its relation to leather. While many people think they are completely different, suede and leather are actually very close to being the same since they are both made from animal hides. The smoothness of leather is due to it coming from the outer side of the animal hide. The softness of suede, however, is due to it being the inner side of the very same hide. While they are both produced from the same hide, leather and suede look and feel very different. Therefore cleaning suede and cleaning leather are very different processes. Using a suede eraser and brush Suede erasers and brushes are great tools designed specifically for cleaning suede. A suede eraser is a block of soft rubber that effectively works the same way as a pencil eraser on paper, rubbing stains off of suede. A suede brush is a very coarse brush, often made of nylon or sometimes horsehair and metal bristles. The brush wipes away particles pulled up by the eraser and restores the nap of the suede where it has been matted down. · Use the eraser on any visible stains or scuffs. Use medium pressure in small back-and-forth motions in the same way you would erase pencil from paper. · Use the brush to wipe away any dirt and debris pulled up by the eraser. Brush with broad strokes, using firm but gentle pressure. Too much pressure can scratch the suede. After focusing on the stained areas, brush the rest of the jacket to create an even texture. Treating liquid stains Liquid stains are a bigger issue for suede than dirt stains and scuffs but they are still treatable at home. All you will need is a good suede or nubuck shampoo. 1. Mix your shampoo in a small bowl using two parts warm water to every one part shampoo. Take the brush provided with the shampoo or your suede brush, if none was provided, and stir it the shampoo mixture until you have a lather on the brush. 2. Rub the stained area firmly enough to build up a foaming lather. Be careful not to apply too much pressure because you could scratch the suede. This step may be repeated until you see the stain fade. 3. The shampoo will darken the suede a lot at first but only slightly after it dries. You will need to scrub the entire jacket to create a uniform color. This will also help clean and treat the entire jacket. 4. Allow time to dry, then repeat steps 1 to 3 if necessary. Suede jackets are an excellent addition to any wardrobe. They’re versatile because they match practically everything and they single-handedly upgrade any outfit. A good suede jacket can be worn with slacks and a button-down to add complexity to a formal outfit or it can be worn with a T-shirt and jeans to add respectability to a casual outfit. There are countless uses. Once you learn how to clean your suede jacket yourself, you can wear it unburdened by the fear of stains. Mistakes to avoid As you can see, you need to be very careful when cleaning suede, and there are some things that you should absolutely not do when you’re cleaning a suede jacket. First and foremost, do not use water, not even a little bit on a cloth to get out a small stain. Water is suede’s archenemy, and even a little can damage it, with the potential of staining the suede permanently. It can also change the feel of suede, making it go from soft and supple to stiff and brittle. And it goes without saying that suede shouldn’t go in the washing machine, it’s that whole water thing again.

The car tires are often the most overlooked part of a vehicle. Despite being tasked with literally keeping your car on the road, most owners pay more attention to a car’s engine, fluids, or brakes. Without tires, your car wouldn’t be able to get down the road, making them just as important as gas and oil. Just like any other part of your car, tires need to be maintained. Luckily, tire maintenance is a DIY process that’s easy to do and can help you avoid tire repair service. If you’re the kind of person who changes your car’s oil, then you’ll probably have all the tools you need to maintain your car’s tires. Gather them after organizing your garage. You’ll want to get into a habit of regularly checking your car’s tires. Whether it’s after every car wash or every season, maintaining your car’s tires helps keep you on the road and out of a ditch.   What does the tire maintenance light mean? The majority of car owners won’t even think about their car’s tires until they get a warning light in the instrument cluster. The yellow exclamation mark in the middle of what looks like a teapot isn’t usually as bad as a check engine light, but you shouldn’t ignore the light for too long. The yellow light is a warning for your car’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). When the TPMS light comes on, it usually means one, multiple, or all of your car’s tire pressure is off. Some TPMS lights only come on when the pressure is low, while others come on when they’re low or high. Either way, the light is a warning to let you know you need to look at your tires. It’s dangerous to drive with under-inflated or over-inflated car tires. Overinflating your car’s tires can result in decreased traction, a poor ride, and premature wear, while under-inflated tires could mean decreased fuel economy, high tire temperatures, and less responsive tires. Sometimes, your TPMS light comes on when a TPMS sensor is malfunctioning. If that’s the case, you’ll need to get the culprit replaced.   What is proper tire maintenance? Proper tire maintenance is ensuring your car’s tires are in good condition. While that sounds simple, it requires a few steps. You’ll have to make sure your tires have the right amount of air, don’t have any signs of wear, your car’s TPMS light is off, and your tires are protected from daily use. Proper tire maintenance boils down to the following tips. Know how to read your car’s tires The first step of tire maintenance is to understand the numbers on the side of your tire. Most tires have a combination of 12 letters and numbers on the side that correlate to vehicle type, size, construction, diameter, load index, and speed rating. While your car can hit 155 mph, your tires may be rated at 100 mph. That’s a high payload capacity. It might not be that high with the tires your car has.   Check tire pressure To check tire pressure, you need a tire pressure gauge. If you want to make your life easier, you can get a tire inflator, which comes with a gauge and is a do-it-all machine to keep in your garage. It’s a good idea to get a traditional tire pressure gauge to keep in your car in case of an emergency. Look for signs of wear This step is fairly simple. All you have to do is look at your car’s tires and search for scratches, gouges, bubbles, or cracks in the sidewalls. Some are signs that your tires are old, while others point toward damaged tires. Either way, you’ll want to replace them.   Complete tire rotations Depending on where you get your new tires, you may be able to get a tire rotation for free. If not, you’ll want to follow your owner’s manual or tire manufacturer’s recommendation on when to complete tire rotations and what direction to rotate your tires. Usually, tire rotations have to be completed every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.   Use the right tires Getting the right tire sounds straightforward, and it is, once you know how to read the sides of your tires. However, where you live and your driving habits also play a large role in getting the right tires. If your car is primarily a commuter vehicle, you should find tires that hold up well to long highway treks. If you have a sports car and enjoy track days or racing down your favorite windy road, know that you’ll wear through your tires quicker and you’ll pay a higher price for sticky tires. Do you have to deal with snow and cold climates? Consider a pair of dedicated winter tires. Clean the sidewalls Cleaning your tires is an easy way to maintain them. Putting on a high-quality tire shine regularly is a good way to keep your tires protected from everything they come into contact with. From dirt and rocks to the sun, a good tire shine can keep your tires in good shape and looking good.   Keep an eye on tread depth Your tire’s tread depth is an indicator of how much rubber is actually touching the road. New tires have an average tread depth between 10/32 to 11/32 inches. As you drive, the tread on your tires wears down. States that have safety inspections have a minimum legal limit for tread depth. In most states, it’s 2/32 of an inch, which you can test with a penny or a tire tread depth gauge. Anything below that amount of tread and you’re gambling with your life.   Don’t overload your car Overloading your vehicle puts additional pressure on your tires. Keeping your load to what your tires can handle will help you maintain your tires.   Park in the shade Sun exposure isn’t good for car tires and will help accelerate the age of your tires. The sun’s UV rays can break down the rubber compounds in tires, making them brittle and prone to cracking. This can lead to leaks, blowouts, and even tread separation. The heat also accelerates the chemical breakdown process caused by UV rays. When parked in direct sunlight, tires can get much hotter than the ambient temperature, further increasing degradation.  So parking in the shade whenever possible is highly recommended.   Know what’s inside your tires If you have a green tire cap on your tires, it’s a good indicator that nitrogen is inside your tires. Even if you have nitrogen, you can put air into it, but try to find a place that has nitrogen for you to use if your tire is close to flat or needs a lot of air.   Don’t ignore a TPMS light or tire rating The numbers on your tires are crucial, as is your TPMS light. From the maximum weight the tires can handle to the highest speed you can safely hit, the numbers mean a lot and you have to respect them. You also have to respect your car’s TPMS light. When the light comes on, you have to see if your car’s tires are overinflated or underinflated. Ignoring a TPMS light can have some dramatic effects on your car’s handling, fuel economy, and performance.   Get your tires replaced when needed Yes, tires are expensive, but they’re the only thing keeping your car on the road. When it’s time to replace your tires, don’t hesitate to do so. And ensure you get the right tires for your vehicle and your driving habits. How often should you maintain your tires? A good rule of thumb for tire maintenance is every season or quarterly. Usually, your TPMS light will illuminate after a really cold night, as the tire pressure in your tires drops with the weather. That’s normal. What’s not normal is waiting for your TPMS light to come on to maintain them. Get into the habit of checking your tires regularly — after car washes, after oil changes, after you change your engine air filter, before a long road trip, or whenever you have a few minutes. At the least, you can check the tire pressure, look and feel around the tires for any problem areas, and put some tire shine on as part of a monthly maintenance plan. You should complete tasks, like tire rotations, on a strict schedule, but most service shops will complete tire rotations for free after you get new tires at the shop. Wheel or tire alignments should be done when you get new tires — yes, get it done, don’t be cheap — or when you notice your car doesn’t go in a straight line when you’re holding the steering wheel straight. Taking care of your tires is one of the easier ways to care for your car. For people who change their car’s windshield wipers, tire maintenance is a breeze. Maintaining your car’s tires will help you extend your tire’s life span, save you money on fuel, and keep you safe when you’re behind the wheel. More than anything else, a good set of tires will keep you on the road, but ignoring your tires could result in you winding up in a ditch. That’s a good enough reason to maintain them regularly.

Fall is on the way. Football is kicking off (pun intended), baseball is rounding third (again … pun intended), and we’re starting to get our first taste of back-to-school freedoms. A lot of things come along with fall, like changing out the decor around the house and swapping out the closet for the warmer clothes and packing away the summer threads.   Another place your wardrobe needs a little update is in the shoe department. Gone will be the sandals, boat shoes, and drivers to make way for the fall boots. If you’re anything like us, you use that excuse as an opportune time to shop the best new boots for men and give your collection a little boost.   The rugged boots for the pumpkin patch It is that time of the year, and your partner is going to want you to spend at least one Saturday strolling through a field drinking apple cider and eating apple cider donuts (we won’t pretend we don’t love every second of those two things). But somewhere between the hayride and the corn maze, you’ll be picking out a pumpkin or two in some sweet rugged boots — something like these.   Redwing Heritage Iron Rangers Redwing is one of the most well-known boot brands in the country, thanks to their high quality and legendary appearance. These were originally developed for coal miners in the 1930s, which means they are more than capable of handling anything you throw at them. They are also as stylish as they come, with their tan color going splendid with any jeans or chinos and a cap toe to bring the entire look together.   The winter boots for the early snow Fall can give us a false sense of security. We’re thinking about warm sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes (we won’t tell anyone that you got it for you and not your partner), and then the weather hits you with some unexpected early winter. You need to be prepared for the cold with some cold weather boots … and we have just the pair.   L.L. Bean Original Bean Boots … or Duck Boots If you don’t know about the classic elegance of duck boots, then you need to start reading up on just how underrated these boots are. Not only are they waterproof, but the flannel-lined boots hold up in some of the coldest temperatures. Unique looking and functional, you can’t go wrong with L.L. Bean’s Original Bean Boots, lovingly nicknamed, Duck Boots.   The dress boots for the holidays The fall is the beginning of the holiday season, which means you have party after party to go to. While many of the parties will be casual, some will be dress-up. That means you need something a little more versatile to wear on both occasions. Here is the pick we have that looks just as sharp with jeans and a sweater as it does with a jacket and chinos.   Ariat Benchmade Chelseas Chelsea boots have been having a moment for the last three-quarters of a century. So it’s no surprise that our pick for dress boots are Chelsea boots. However, the surprise comes with the idea that Western is having a moment, and these Chelsea boots from Ariat take you from the denim look to the chino look seamlessly. They are equally as strong on the street as they are at the holiday dinner table.   The casual boots for the foliage spectating Remember how your partner was going to make you go to the pumpkin patch while you secretly loved it? Well, that’s not the only fall occasion they’ll be dragging you to. One of the best parts of the changing season is the changing leaves. You need good casual boots to wear while you stroll through town, sipping your hot chocolate and watching the greens turn to fiery oranges and reds.   Bruno Magli Taddeo suede chukkas There is just something overtly fall about suede. Maybe it’s the heavier texture. Maybe it’s the way it seems to play well with corduroy, tweed, fleece, and flannel. In any case, we have a love for suede in the fall and this season it is the perfect time to pick up Taddeo chukkas from Bruno Magli. They look amazing with jeans and give us a very James Bond vibe when worn with chinos and a tweed sport coat.   The outdoor boots for hunting season OK, your partner is giving you a rest from your seasonal duties to get out early in the morning and have some time alone. Just you, nature, the crisp cold air, and your prey. Hunting season is upon us and whether you’re a seasoned veteran or you’re striking out on your first hunting trip, you need good boots for the experience. Here is the one we suggest.   Danner Cedar River Hunter Boots Hunting boots need a host of different qualities. Many of which make them suitable for all kinds of autumn activities. These Danner boots are lightweight and mobile. While they may be intended for chasing ducks or deer through the forest and fields, they do nicely in any of the above activities. Since they are made to be warm, they cover the early winter problem. And with their moc toes and luxurious tanned leather, they look as sharp as any. All that to say, these may be the boots you must get whether you hunt or not.

Cowboy boots aren’t just a fashion statement — they’re an investment. How can you make sure they stay beautiful? If you want to make your cowboy boots last for years, proper care is essential, and knowing how to clean cowboy boots with the right techniques and products can make all the difference. How to clean cowboy boots — your burning questions answered Whether it’s polishing them to a shine, conditioning the leather, or tackling stubborn stains, taking care of cowboy boots requires some know-how. This comprehensive guide will address some of the most commonly asked questions about cowboy boot care. From basic maintenance to advanced techniques, here’s everything you need to keep your boots looking their best for years.   How often should you clean and condition your cowboy boots?  Depending on how much you use your cowboy boots, you should clean them every three to six months. Regularly remove dirt and dust from your boots by gently brushing them with a soft-bristle brush or wiping them down with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the leather. The last thing you want is to do more harm than good when you’re trying to clean them.   What oil should you use to condition your boots?  There are many different kinds of oils you can use to condition your cowboy boots. One of the most common is mink oil. That said, you should be careful when using it because mink oil tends to darken your leather. If you don’t want that to happen, consider using neatsfoot oil or a leather balm that contains beeswax. Whichever one you choose, it’s always a good idea to test it first.  To condition your boots, apply a high-quality leather conditioner or boot cream to your cowboy boots. This will keep the leather moisturized and prevent it from drying out or cracking. Not just any conditioner will do, though! Choose a conditioner that’s the same color as your boots so they don’t turn out funky-looking by the end. For the best results, follow the instructions on the product.   Can you get your cowboy boots wet?  Prolonged water exposure can diminish the value of your cowboy boots because it can cause the leather to crack, warp, or stain. If you find yourself in a climate or season in which it rains often, consider purchasing a waterproofing treatment. This can help make your boots more water-resistant, which will protect them from excess moisture. Waterproofing technology has come a long way, so these kinds of sprays are great for your favorite jackets, too.    How to store your cowboy boots? When you’re not wearing your cowboy boots, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in plastic bags or airtight containers because this can trap moisture and promote mold or mildew growth. Instead, use a boot tree or stuff them with acid-free tissue paper to help them retain their shape.   How to get rid of stains on your cowboy boots? When removing stains from your cowboy boots, it’s important to take care and take your time. First, identify the stain. Mud, dirt, oil, ink, and water stains all have different methods for removal. Whatever stain you have, it’s important to act quickly. The longer the stain sits, the harder it can be to remove. · Gently clean the area using a slightly damp cloth or sponge, but avoid rubbing. This can make the stain spread or damage the leather, so be careful. Blotting helps lift the stain without pushing it into the material. · Next, mix a small amount of mild soap, like dish or saddle soap, with water.   · Apply the mixture with small, circular motions, being careful not to saturate your boot.  For oil and grease stains, sprinkle some cornstarch or talcum powder onto the stain and let it sit for a few hours. Water stains can be blotted out using distilled water, and ink stains can be removed with a little bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab.    If your stain or scuff mark is more stubborn than what you can handle, consider taking your boots to a professional. They have the expertise and tools to handle all kinds of complex cleaning and repair tasks, so let them work their magic.   Daily care tips A little regular maintenance can go a long way in helping preserve and protect your cowboy boots between the times you thoroughly clean and condition them. It’s a pretty simple thing to do, but if you give your boots some TLC after each time you wear them, they will last much longer. All you have to do each time you take off the cowboy boots is give them a quick once-over with a soft brush. This removes dirt and dust that may have accumulated on the boots during the day. Removing this dirt and dust prevents it from getting into the leather, which will damage the boots over time.   Final thoughts By following these care tips and incorporating them into your boot maintenance routine, you can extend the lifespan of your cowboy boots and keep them looking as good as new. Regular cleaning and conditioning, along with appropriate stain removal techniques, preserves the leather’s quality and prevent any unsightly marks.  Remember to choose the right products for your boots and test them in inconspicuous areas before applying them extensively. With proper care, your cowboy boots will continue to accompany you on all of your adventures as a stylish statement that will withstand the test of time.  

These are the mistakes to avoid when you wash your car       Believe it or not, there are specific skills you need to learn to allow you to give your ride the perfect car wash. It’s more than just washing your car with a wet, soapy sponge and rinsing it with water to get rid of the dirt. If you don’t clean your car properly, you risk damaging the paint, making it look dull, or causing rust buildup. However, car cleaning is not that complicated if you know the mistakes you should avoid. Even if you take it to a car wash, it’s better to know the things to watch out for. If you’re clueless about it, here are six mistakes you probably make when you wash your car at home and we’re here to remind you to avoid making them.    1. Using household cleaning products on your car First things first, don’t use any household cleaning products to wash your car. This includes dish soap, glass cleaners, abrasive household cleansers, and bleach.  Many household products have ingredients that will strip off the protective wax from your car, making it more exposed to scratches and damage. For instance, most glass cleaners contain ammonia, which can cause cracks in your car windows and mirrors. So, what is your best option? It’s simple, just pack your car cleaning kit (like these kits from Care Guys) with car wash products that are specially formulated to clean your car. More succinctly, if you want to clean your car’s body, use a car shampoo — and if you want to clean the windows, use car window cleaners.   2. Using the wrong material If you’re cleaning your car, avoid using old towels, rags, T-shirts, or brushes that are abrasive to your paint. Even cleaning the interior with paper towels wouldn’t be a good idea. Instead, it’s better if you use a microfiber cloth with no rough edges to clean your car. In addition, have different microfiber cloths or sponges for a specific purpose. In other words, use a different microfiber towel for drying your car and another one for waxing. Similarly, don’t make the mistake of dipping your microfiber cloths or sponge in one bucket — you should have at least two buckets, one for washing and rinsing.   3. Cleaning your car in direct sunlight The same reason you should avoid parking your car under the scorching sun also applies to why you shouldn’t clean your car in direct sunlight. For starters, you’re more likely to scratch the paint if you clean your car after the surface becomes heated by the sun. It’s also more difficult to get rid of bird droppings, mud, and dirt stuck on your car’s surface if they’re exposed to high temperatures. Beyond that, you could have soap residue and water spots if the soapy water evaporates before you’ve rinsed it off. If you can’t avoid washing your car in direct sunlight, it would be better to clean it after 5 p.m. or early morning before 9 a.m.   4. Forgetting to clean the interior If you’re doing a thorough cleaning of your car, we recommend you start with the interior. This is because you will keep dirt, dust, and debris from blowing back to your car’s exterior after you’ve cleaned it.  Here’s how to clean your car’s interior: Step 1: Remove any trash from your car. Step 2: Remove the floor mats to clean them. Learn how to clean your car mats here. Step 3: Vacuum the interior. Step 4: Use a microfiber cloth with dedicated car interior soap to clean the dashboard, center console, door panels, and steering wheel. Step 5: Wipe your interior windows using a microfiber cloth and a car window cleaner product. Step 5: Vacuum and clean your car seats with a dedicated cleaner. Here are some of the best car leather cleaners so you don’t ruin your car’s leather interior. But if your car seats are fabric, use upholstery cleaner. Step 6: Use an air freshener to make your car smell nice. Use some of these car air fresheners to refresh your ride.   5. Cleaning your car in the wrong order Before you start cleaning the exterior, rinse it with water to get rid of any loose debris and dirt. Next, wash the rims and tires using a dedicated brake dust and wheel cleaner so you don’t blow the loose debris and dust onto your car’s surface. Once you’re done with that part, clean your car from top to bottom, starting with the roof, while rotating the microfiber towels. Of course, don’t forget to clean your car windows, side mirrors, and rubber moldings during the process. To get your headlights clean and bright, use one of these two popular methods for headlight cleaning. Lastly, wax and buff your car — but be careful not to apply too much wax. 6. Taking your car to an automated car wash You probably don’t know this, but an automated car wash with brushes could scratch your paint. This usually happens when the automated brushes accumulate leftover dirt and debris from other cars passing through the machine. If you find the time, it would be better to wash your car at home — as long as you follow the right steps. But if you don’t have the time or the patience, a brushless car wash would be a better option than an automated car wash. That’s it! Now that you know the mistakes to avoid, you should find it easy to wash your car. Better yet, you can supervise the cleaning process if someone else is doing it for you. Just remember to use products that are specifically made to clean cars, and use plenty of microfiber cloths. What’s the difference between a car wash and car detailing? First of all, car wash and car detailing are not interchangeable. While a car wash is pretty self-explanatory, it’s just like it sounds, washing the inside and outside of your car. However, car detailing is much more than that. According to Carfax, a car detail does start with a car wash, but then it goes much further. A good car detailer will completely vacuum the interior of the car and then wash the floor mats, work on getting stains out of the seats and the floors, clean all the trim both inside and out, clean the wheels and hubcaps, and polish the outside of the car to make the paint as shiny as possible. In other words, it goes into much more detail than an ordinary car wash. You can do the detailing yourself, but keep in mind that professional car detailers have access to specialized equipment, which can be expensive. Unless you want to make a big investment, it might be better to have your car professionally detailed once a year.

Cleaning leather shoes While leather (or faux leather) is a fantastic sneaker material for those after an edgy look, it's sometimes a headache to clean. Leather stains easily and is also incredibly sensitive to abrasions of any kind, which warps the material’s natural patina. Whitney Tinsley, brand ambassador for American Leather, said the most important thing to do is spot clean stains as soon as you see them. Let's go over how to do that. Step 1: First, create a solution that’s three parts leather clener to one part distilled water. Step 2: Apply the mixture to the stain with a white cloth and rub until the stain has been fully removed. Step 3: If the mark is particularly stubborn, apply a leather conditioner with a clean cloth to the entire surface area of the shoe to even out the tone.  

  3 general tips for cleaning sneakers We know you don't always have the patience to spend extra time cleaning your shoes. So, before anyone starts deep cleaning specific sneaker materials, here are basic, easy tricks to spruce up your kicks in a jiffy.  Step 1: First is to remove any visible dirt. Do this with a clean towel. Wiping away dirt every time you take your shoes off will help prevent buildup, as well as curb more serious problems in the future. Step 2: Next, you’ll want to rinse off the soles with a wet towel or hose. Even if you were walking on a relatively clean surface, you’d be surprised by what gets stuck on the bottoms of your shoes. This doesn’t have to be too involved but don't skip this step. Step 3: Finally, spot clean any big stains. If the stain is large enough, remove it by quickly blotting it with shoe cleaner. Spot cleaning up front will save you a lot of time later on.    

Cleaning knit sneakers With their breathable, mesh-like exteriors, knit sneakers are cool, trendy, and susceptible to getting dirty. Unlike other types of fabrics, knit materials are porous by nature, so mud, dirt, sweat, and grime are prone to seep into their micro-grooves for a mess that seems impossible to remedy. Though knit shoes require more TLC than other sneakers, that doesn’t mean they can’t be coaxed back to perfection with a little patience and elbow grease.   Step 1: Fill a medium-sized bowl with warm water. Step 2: Add a splash of mild detergent or shoe-specific cleaner to the bowl and mix gently. Step 3: Once the solution is diluted, dip a clean towel into the bowl and apply liberally to the shoe’s surface stain. And don’t be afraid to really go for it here, as you’ll want to make sure you rub out as much of the stain as you can. Step 4: If it seems like the mess has lifted, grab another damp cloth (this time wet with only water) and apply to the surface of the shoe, making sure to wipe away all the excess shoe cleaner. Step 5: This should do the trick, but if there still appears to be grime stuck in the knit material, take a soft toothbrush to the shoe. Step 6: Afterward, let the shoes air-dry.

If you want to do a good job, you have to make good use of your tools. Before you start cleaning your shoes, please prepare the appropriate shoe cleaning tools and detergents so that you can get the right remedy for your shoes and make the cleaning more effective! 1. Selection of shoe cleaning tools There are hundreds of shoe washing tools, from toothbrushes and towels to specialized shoe washing brushes, how to choose the best? In fact, there is no advantage or disadvantage of shoe washing tools, depending on the material of the shoes and the cleaning part, it is recommended to use the appropriate shoe washing tools according to different needs, the following are the must-have shoe washing tools recommended by experts: Toothbrush: Suitable for deep cleaning of the inside of shoes, as well as small areas of tough stains. It is recommended to use a toothbrush with softer bristles to avoid scratching the shoe surface. Hard brush: The bristles are made of durable polyester fiber or nylon, which has good detergency and elasticity, and is good for cleaning the dust and sludge on the soles and edges of shoes. Soft Brush: The bristles are made of natural pig bristle or horse hair, soft and delicate, not easy to scratch the surface of shoes, suitable for cleaning the surface of shoes, especially suede and leather shoes that are afraid of losing color. Technology sponge: sponge has excellent water absorption, cleaning a wide range of shoes better than the general efficiency of the brush, especially suitable for large-scale cleaning of canvas, rubber material shoes. Towel: Choose microfiber soft cloth, light-colored soft towels, which can be used to gently wipe the shoes and absorb moisture. Shoe support: Shoe support can be used to maintain the shape of the shoe during the washing process, avoiding the upper from collapsing and becoming deformed or producing creases, suitable for mesh knit shoes and suede shoes with softer material, if there is no shoe support, you can also use a light-colored towel to insert into the shoe as an alternative. 2. shoe cleaner Choose a suitable detergent according to the material of the shoes to ensure that the shoes remain intact while washing away the dirt. If it is wear-resistant cloth shoes, mesh sports shoes, general sports shoes cleaner can restore clean; and need to be careful with special materials such as suede, leather, it is recommended to use a specialized shoe cleaner is better. Shoe cleaner: Shoe cleaners on the market can be divided into three categories: liquid detergent, mousse foam and shoe cleaning spray. Liquid detergent is suitable for cleaning a wide range of shoe surfaces and then rinsing with water, and it is commonly used for cleaning sneakers and cloth shoes, while mousse foam and shoe cleaning spray are suitable for cleaning localized stains and can be used with a soft brush and a soft cloth dampened with water to wipe, and its “no-water-washing” feature is especially suitable for suede shoes, leather shoes and other special materials. The “no-wash” feature is especially suitable for suede shoes, leather shoes and other special materials.

How to wash cloth shoes? Cloth shoes are a must-have classic on the street, especially canvas white shoes. However, if you wear cloth shoes for a long time, they will inevitably be yellowed or stained, but the good thing is that the tough and wear-resistant canvas material is relatively simple to clean, so master the following tips, you can make your favorite cloth shoes look brand new: 1. Clean up the toes and edges of shoes: rubber toes and edges are easy to be yellowed, use the “eraser” to wipe back and forth to restore the original white, or use a technology sponge with water to wipe the effect is very good. 2. The amount of water should not be too much: canvas is prone to color fading or yellowing creases when soaked in water, so avoid soaking the whole pair of shoes in water for scrubbing. It is recommended to use a soft bristle brush with appropriate amount of soapy water or cleaning solution to remove dirt, and then splash with water to wash. 3. Wrap paper towel to dry: After washing shoes, use white paper, kitchen paper towel, toilet paper to wrap the shoes completely, and then put them in a cool place to dry naturally, which is a great way to restore the whiteness of cloth shoes and small white shoes. How to wash mesh sneakers? Knitted mesh is the material often used in sneakers and sports shoes, with breathable, lightweight, and easy to clean features, but when washing shoes, you need to pay attention to a few key points, so that the shoes will not only get cleaner and cleaner, but also to maintain the stability and durability of the shoes: 1. Support: Knitted mesh material is relatively soft, so it is easy to collapse and deform when washing shoes, so it is recommended to put a towel or a shoe support inside the shoe to maintain the shape of the shoe. 2. Use mild detergent: It is recommended to use neutral detergent made of washing powder, soap and water to clean, avoid using bleach or strong alkaline detergent containing chemical ingredients to prevent the soft mesh upper from being damaged. 3. Brush gently: Use a soft-bristle brush to gently remove stains in the direction of the texture of the knit, avoiding hard friction that may cause the knit to unravel and pilling. How to wash suede shoes? The soft and delicate suede texture of suede has good water absorbency, but also easily adsorbs moisture and dirt, so you have to be especially careful when cleaning and maintaining them. Most suede shoes on the market have been dyed, so do not use general alkaline detergents to avoid abrasion or color loss of the suede. For different types of stains, such as water stains and oil stains, the following cleaning tips are recommended: 1. Brush away surface dust: Use a suede brush to gently brush away surface dust and dirt in the direction of the hair flow on the upper. 2. Remove water stains: Use a towel with water and pat the water stains on the suede shoes until the stains disappear. 3. Remove oily stains: Sprinkle a little talcum powder on the oily part of suede shoes, wait for the powder to be absorbed and then use suede brush to brush it gently. 4. Remove dark-colored stains: If the shoes are stained with red wine, coffee and other stains, you can use a towel dipped in 1~2 drops of white wine vinegar to wipe off the suede stains. 5. Maintenance: Spray the suede protectant at the end to maintain the color and texture of the upper. Suede is very difficult to maintain, if you make a mistake, it will be out of control. The Ultimate Guide to Suede Material and Shoe Maintenance: How to Properly Protect Your Suede How to wash artificial leather shoes? Artificial leather and synthetic leather is a very classic and common material, from the immortal sneaker king NIKE Air Force, to the metropolitan women must have Lefebvre shoes can be seen leather traces. Durable synthetic leather is relatively easy to clean and maintain, using general detergent or toothpaste can remove the stains, but to deal with the surface of the creases produced by wearing a long time, you have to send an “iron” to smooth out the wrinkles! Below are a few key points for cleaning sneakers and Louboutins: 1. Wiping instead of rinsing: For large-scale dirt on the upper, it is recommended to apply detergent or toothpaste, and then gently wipe with a soft cloth, instead of soaking or rinsing in a large amount of water, which may cause damage to the leather. 2. Use special cleaning agent: If there is a stubborn stain that is difficult to remove, use a microfiber cloth with an appropriate amount of leather cleaner to gently wipe the local dirt. 3. Iron to smooth the crease: soak a towel in warm water, wring it out and cover the crease on the upper, then iron back and forth.

1. How often are shoes washed? “It is a common stereotype that “shoes will only be clean if they are washed frequently”, but in fact, the frequency of shoe cleaning depends on factors such as the material of the shoe, the environment in which it is used, and the number of times it is worn, etc. In the case of fragile shoes, over-cleaning will result in loss of color and abrasion, which will shorten the life of the shoe. According to CARE GUYS shoe cleaner brand experts suggest that it is better to wash shoes once a month, and if they are special treasured shoes, cleaning and maintenance can be carried out every 2 weeks. 2. Can I wash my shoes in the washing machine? It is not recommended to wash shoes in the washing machine hastily because the agitation process will easily deform and damage the shoes, long time soaking may loosen the adhesive glue at the joints of the shoes, and the sand and dirt trapped in the shoes will also make the washing machine hygienic. However, some shoes made of more durable materials are labeled “machine washable” (e.g. canvas, nylon, polyester), in which case you can set the washer to soft-clean in cold water, with slow or no spin mode, and shorten the wash time. You can also use a thicker laundry bag or shoe bag to cover the shoes to avoid friction and collision, and add a couple of towels to balance out the weight of the machine. 3. Do I need to soak my shoes before washing them? Soaking shoes in water is a big no-no! Since the edges, soles, heels and other joints are mostly glued with rubber, soaking in water for a long time may cause the shoes to peel off the rubber, loosen, open mouth and smile, so that the life of the shoes is greatly reduced. Leather and suede shoes, which have good water absorption, should be avoided to avoid soaking in water, so as not to cause deformation or discoloration of the shoes. 4. How should shoes be dried? After washing shoes, it is recommended to put shoes in the shade and ventilation to dry naturally, and avoid the two major misunderstandings of “sun drying and hot air drying”! Many people think that air-drying shoes and clothes is the same as sun-drying to achieve the effect of disinfection and faster drying, but in fact the ultraviolet rays of the sun will accelerate the oxidation of moisture on the surface of the shoes, which will make the shoes easy to yellow. It is also not recommended to use a clothes dryer or hair dryer to dry shoes, because the high temperature of the hot air may make shoes hard and brittle, shrink and deform, or even fade and deteriorate.

China Daily-use Articles Commodity Fair understands that, with the improvement of global consumers' requirements on the quality of life and the continuous innovation and upgrading of daily necessities, the market scale of the daily-use articles industry has maintained steady growth. In recent years, the Asian market has grown particularly rapidly. At the same time, the development of e-commerce platforms allows consumers to conveniently compare prices and choose products, further promoting the expansion of the market scale. Daily necessities, also known as household goods, are items used by ordinary people on a daily basis, i.e., they are household goods, household food, household utensils and home appliances. According to the frequency or scope of use of the supplies are divided into: necessities, or daily necessities, luxury goods. According to the use of the division are: toiletries, household goods, cooking supplies. (There are categorized by kitchen and bathroom supplies) Decorative supplies, cosmetic supplies, bedding. Consumer demands are increasingly diversified and personalized. They are not only concerned about product quality and brand recognition, but also pay more attention to product functions and performance. For example, for household chemicals, consumers are looking for cleaning products that are efficient, convenient and quick to use, as well as personal care products that are tailored to specific skin types or needs. Meanwhile, environmental protection and sustainability are becoming more and more of a concern for consumers, who are more inclined to purchase certified green products. China's daily chemicals market has become a major growth component of the global daily chemicals market, with both scale and growth. Against the backdrop of increasing uncertainty in global economic development, the size of China's daily chemical market continues to rise. According to the data, the market size of China's daily chemical industry in 2021 year-on-year growth of 8.9%, higher than the global growth of 7.6% during the same period. China Daily-use Articles Commodity Fair learned that, with the consumer demand for daily necessities more vigorous, the phenomenon of cosmetic sharing more popular, more cosmetic purchasing platform is diversified, China's daily chemical industry in the future will maintain a steady development, while the cosmetics market is expanding more rapidly. Forecast online cosmetic trading scale will still account for a large part of the whole market share of cosmetics, and become a growth pole to pull the entire daily chemical industry. The retail market for daily necessities is highly competitive, with large general supermarkets, convenience store chains and e-commerce platforms being the main competitors. These companies have attracted a large number of consumers by offering diversified products, favorable prices and convenient shopping experience. At the same time, there are some segments in the market, such as household products and personal care products, which have different levels of competition. China Daily-use Articles Commodity Fair understands that with the improvement of people's requirements on the quality of life and the continuous innovation of daily-use articles, the demand for daily-use articles market will continue to increase. Especially in emerging markets and developing countries, with the acceleration of urbanization and the enhancement of consumers' purchasing power, the scale of daily necessities market will be further expanded. In the future, consumer demand for daily necessities will be more diversified and personalized. They are not only concerned about the basic function of the product, but also pay attention to the product design, quality assurance, environmental performance and other aspects. Therefore, daily necessities enterprises need to continue to innovate and launch new products that meet the needs of consumers to meet the diverse needs of the market. With the global environmental awareness, consumer demand for green products is also increasing. Daily necessities enterprises need to focus on the environmental performance of their products, adopt environmentally friendly materials and production processes, and launch products that meet environmental standards to meet consumer demand. With the rapid development of the Internet and e-commerce, online sales have become an important sales channel for the daily necessities industry. In the future, online sales will continue to maintain the growth trend, daily necessities enterprises need to strengthen the construction and management of online channels to enhance the ability and efficiency of online sales.