How to Clean Switchboards, Bathroom Tiles and Kitchen Grime with a Magic Sponge

Switchboards, bathroom tiles and the kitchen backsplash collect the most stubborn everyday grime. A melamine sponge handles all three with water and a little patience. Here's how to do each one safely.

Switchboards and switches

Safety first: switch off the power at the main switch or MCB before cleaning electrical fittings.

1. Squeeze the sponge until it is only slightly damp. It must never drip into a socket.
2. Rub the plastic plate and switches gently to lift the grey finger marks.
3. Wipe with a dry cloth and let it dry completely before switching the power back on.

Never push the sponge into socket holes or behind the plate.

Bathroom tiles, taps and buckets

1. Wet the sponge and rub the hazy soap scum on tiles, plastic buckets and mugs.
2. For grout lines, use a small cut piece of sponge along the line.
3. Rinse with water and wipe dry to prevent new water spots.

On chrome or highly polished taps, test first. Very shiny finishes can lose a little gloss.

Kitchen tiles and backsplash

1. Wipe away loose oil with a paper towel first.
2. Wet the sponge and rub the sticky grime. For heavy oil, add one drop of dish soap to the sponge.
3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry.

Skip non-stick pans, glossy laminate cabinets and polished stone counters, which can dull or scratch.

Keep it clean longer

A quick weekly wipe of switchboards and the backsplash stops grime from building up. Keep a small cut piece of the Hello Tidy magic cleaning sponge near the sink for two-minute touch-ups.