To remove dried cheese, you'll typically need to rehydrate it and then gently lift or scrape it away. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Preparation:
- Gather your supplies: You'll need warm water, liquid dish soap, a sponge or soft cloth, a dull knife or scraper (like a plastic spatula), and clean towels.
2. Softening the Dried Cheese:
- Create a cleaning solution: Mix one tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with two cups of WARM water.
- Apply the solution: Sponge the affected area with the solution, thoroughly wetting the dried cheese.
- Let it soak: Allow the solution to sit for several minutes (5-10 minutes should be sufficient) to soften the cheese. The longer it sits, the easier it will be to remove.
3. Removing the Softened Cheese:
- Gently scrape: Use a dull knife or scraper to gently lift and scrape away the softened cheese. Be careful not to scratch the surface you are cleaning.
- Wipe clean: After scraping, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.
- Repeat if necessary: If the cheese is particularly stubborn, repeat steps 2 and 3 until it is completely removed.
4. Final Steps:
- Rinse: Once the cheese is gone, rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining soap residue.
- Dry: Dry the area thoroughly with a clean towel.
Alternative Methods (Depending on the Surface):
- For fabric (clothing, upholstery): After soaking and scraping, you may need to launder the item according to the garment's care instructions. Check for any remaining stain before drying, as drying can set the stain.
- For delicate surfaces: Use a very soft cloth and avoid harsh scrubbing. You might want to test the cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.
Important Considerations:
- Act quickly: The sooner you address the dried cheese, the easier it will be to remove.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage some surfaces. Stick to mild dish soap and warm water unless absolutely necessary.
- Be gentle: Avoid excessive scrubbing, which can scratch or damage the surface.
