Hello Nic, We are more likely to say 'clear up 'a situation - this means to make something clear or resolve a difference. Best wishes Bob

We would tend to say "clean up" a situation. This would be something like cleaning up a proverbial mess that someone has left behind, like fixing or mitigating the embarrassment caused by a colleague who went to a client's meeting drunk or something like that. Your office sends you the next day to clean up the awkward situation that your colleague has caused for your company. :) There is also "clear up" a situation. This would be when there is an ambiguity that needs clarification or explanation.