Used when referring to physically scrubbing or removing unwanted substances from objects or surfaces. After the picnic, I cleaned off the dirt from the blanket.
Pro Tip 2/3
Surface Focus
Emphasizes that the cleaning is on the surface of an item, not the whole object. She cleaned off the chalkboard, leaving no text visible.
Pro Tip 3/3
Complete Removal
Suggests that the item is thoroughly cleaned, with no residue left. Make sure to clean off the grease from the stove completely.