Verbs Related to Cleaning

not having any bacteria, marks, or dirt

He washed his hands to keep them clean.

to clean or dry a surface using a cloth, etc.

She wiped the kitchen counter with a damp cloth to remove crumbs.

to clean someone or something with water, often with a type of soap

I always wash my hands before eating.

to clean something quickly with water, often without using soap, in order to remove dirt or other substances

He rinsed the lettuce leaves under the faucet to wash away any dirt or debris.

a piece of equipment that flows water all over your body from above

She stepped into the warm shower, letting the water soothe her tired muscles after a long day.

to wash or clean the body by putting it in water or pouring water over it

Every evening, she likes to bathe in a warm bubble bath to relax.

to clean something thoroughly by scrubbing it hard with a rough or tough material

She scoured the pots and pans to remove the stuck-on food.

to destroy bacteria, virus, etc. by cleaning with a special substance

She disinfects kitchen countertops with bleach to ensure they are germ-free.

to remove all bacteria or other microorganisms from something

She sterilizes surgical instruments to prevent infections during procedures.

to clean something thoroughly to reduce or eliminate germs, bacteria, or other harmful microorganisms

After preparing raw meat, it's important to sanitize the cutting board to prevent cross-contamination.

to wash, clean, and iron clothes and linens

She laundered her clothes before packing for the trip.

to leave a place or situation suddenly or quickly, often due to danger or dissatisfaction

As the fire alarm sounded, everyone had to clear out of the building immediately.

to clean one's hands, face, or body, typically using water and soap

We should wash up before sitting down for dinner.

to make a place neat and orderly by putting things away, cleaning, or organizing

She tidied up the messy closet.

to remove or neutralize unpleasant smells from something

She deodorizes her shoes with baking soda to keep them smelling fresh.

to collect and remove dirt or trash, typically from the floor or a surface using a broom

The barista had to sweep the coffee grounds up around the espresso machine.

to completely empty or remove the contents of a space, container, or place, often thorough cleaning

Before moving out, they decided to clean out the entire apartment and donate unwanted items.

to clean something by using water to make the dirt or other substances go away

He used a power washer to wash away the graffiti on the side of the building.

to remove or neutralize harmful substances from something

The hazmat team decontaminated the area after the chemical spill.

to make a place, substance, etc. dirty or harmful by adding dangerous material

The factory's discharge pipes contaminated the river with toxic chemicals.

to damage the environment by releasing harmful chemicals or substances to the air, water, or land

Factories often pollute the air with emissions from burning fossil fuels.

to make a dirty mark by rubbing or spreading something on a surface

She accidentally smudged her lipstick while applying it.

to infect or dirty something with a disease or harmful microorganism

The outbreak taints the water supply with harmful bacteria.

waste such as bottles, papers, etc. that people throw on a sidewalk, park, or other public place

Please don’t throw litter on the sidewalk—use the bin.

a mark or spot on something or someone's skin that spoils the appearance

Her flawless complexion had no blemishes or imperfections.

to dirty something with a layer of dirt, grease, or filth

The mechanic grimed his hands while working on the car engine.