DEAR FRED: I have wood flooring in my house and it is starting to look dull and faded. I have had it for some time and have always cared for it using only water and wood soap. We wash it once a week. Is this too much? What can I do to restore the finish?

DULL IN

THOUSAND OAKS

DEAR DULL: Unfortunately, not all cleaning problems offer a simple solution. I never recommend using water to care for wood. I only recommend caring for wood with a product that does not contain wax, oil or soap. Water can cause the dulling and in severe cases can also cause your floor to buckle. Wax, oil, and soap-based products can leave your floors slippery or sticky. When caring for wood floors I first recommend always keeping them free of dust. This can be done by either using a vacuum that has no brushroll or a dry micro fiber mop. For cleaning, try the blue Bona-X hardwood floor cleaner. It is safe on all types of wood floors. Just spray directly on the floor and go over with your micro fiber mop. For tougher stains such as food or scuff marks just spray the product directly on the stain and wipe off. For restoring the shine to your floors, use Bona-X Hardwood Floor Refresher. This can be easily applied with their special applicator pad. Your floors will look much better. In severe cases a professional wood restorer may have to be called. Good Luck.

DEAR FRED: Is there an easy way to get the grout in my shower clean. The tile is about a year old and is in desperate need of a good cleaning. I have seen some cleaning products at the market but they all smell soooo strong. I am afraid I would either choke to death on the smell or break my neck while attempting to scrub. Do you have any recommendations?

AFRAID IN

AGOURA

DEAR AFRAID: I have just the products for you. My PTC will remove hard water, soap scum, and mildew from your shower tile, grout and glass enclosure easily. It has a wonderful minty scent and contains NO bleach. This can be applied with my extendable tile scrubber safely and easily from outside the shower. You will love how fast your shower will sparkle like new!

Check us out at www.freds finecleaningcenter.com. All products are available on the web, at Fred's Fine Cleaning Center, or by calling (818) 706-FRED (3733).

Fred Maunu, owner of Fred's Fine Cleaning Center in Oak Park is an expert in vacuum sales and service as well as all aspects of cleaning and maintenance. He has been serving the community for over 17 years. Fax your questions to Ask Fred (818) 706-3055 or go by and see him at 706 Lindero Canyon Road. (818) 706-FRED