Articles Relating to Cleaning
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – May 2021
How to Remove Wax from Surfaces Wax is a big part of everyday life. You use candles to add a nice warm glow to your home, and to add a pleasing scent as well. You wax your car to give it a nice shine. You use wax to remove unwanted hai… oops, let’s not get too personal. But you get the picture. Wax is beneficial, handy, it has many uses, but when it is spilled onto a surface by accident, it can be a tough challenge to clean up. As you know, when wax is spilled, it is hot and can really stick to surfaces, especially fabric like carpet or upholstery. Here are a few useful tips you can implement when cleaning up wax. Carpet, furniture, and fabrics There’s no point in hurrying. Once it hits the surface, it hardens up faster than ice cream disappearing in front of a teenager. But once it hardens, you may be able to break up the wax and pull it off the fabric. BE CAREFUL not to damage the fabric, especially furniture. You can choose cold or hot treatment. You can freeze the wax with ice cubes and break it off, or you can warm it up for removal. You can do this with a hair dryer, clothes teamer or even a clothes iron if you use the lowest setting and keep a damp towel between the iron and the surface, and just dab at it to transfer the wax. If you can warm up the wax to melting temperature, you can remove it. The color left behind will most likely need the attention of a cleaning company. Hard surfaces This is easier. You have several approaches. Whether glass, wood, tile, or other hard surfaces, simply scrape (be careful not to scratch the surface) the wax off. If stubborn, you can also warm up the wax with a hair dryer or clothes steamer and then wipe it off. An oily residue may remain, and you can use a hot detergent and towel to remove that. Some recommend rubbing alcohol as the solvent of choice. Prevention – and the best cure Of course, being careful not to spill the wax is the smart thing to do, but accidents do happen. And when they do, and you need help, reach out to your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro. 
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Art- MZ article – Cleaning – April 2021
Dive into Spring Cleaning When the temperature is climbing up to an acceptable level and flowers are flexing their muscles, when the birds are singing and you are in a (generally) better mood, that just might mean that spring has arrived. And with that comes the unignorable urge to clean everything in sight. Spring cleaning is an age-old tradition that grips virtually everyone with a home or apartment. It’s that annual event likened to a pilgrimage that means you discover all kinds of things, such as “What in the world has been growing behind the refrigerator?” and “Just how many spiders lived in our basement this winter?” Spring cleaning needs to be strategic, not a haphazard running around the house with a feather duster in one hand and the vacuum in the other. The first step is to prioritize. Which areas of the house need attention first? Which will take the most time? Which will make the most impact (positive) on creating a cleaner, healthier home? Make a list. What you will do with the high-touch points, dusting, vacuuming, moving furniture, special tasks such as window washing or oven cleaning. Also add in what you need professional services for, such as carpet and furniture cleaning, hard floor care, and similar tough jobs that give you a migraine just thinking about them. Create a schedule. While some may have a few days they can put against spring cleaning chores, many must split it up. Make it manageable. After you create your list and priorities, get out the calendar and map it all out so your plan gets some life to it. Nothing feels as good as checking off those cleaning tasks over a period of time. Take your time. When dusting, vacuuming, or another cleaning task, don’t hurry through it. There’s nothing as valuable as a thorough, diligent cleaning of surfaces. Moving that vacuum slowly over the carpet means you are pulling more dry soil, which means less dust “coming back” after spring cleaning is over. You will also be “getting rid of stuff” during the spring-cleaning process. Sentiments may come into play. Although that elephant shaped planter in the back corner of the basement came from a favorite third cousin (what is her name, anyway?), you have never introduced anything resembling live growth to it. Maybe just get rid of it, along with all that other stuff that you know you won’t use in this lifetime. And when it comes time to get some expert help with your cleaning tasks, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – March 2021
The Tenacity of Soap Scum Soap scum is an irritating by-product of cleaning, especially in tubs, showers, and sinks. It’s ironic that a product you use to clean with creates problems on surfaces. And besides just soap buildup, what’s encased in the soap scum includes body oil, dead skin, bacteria, dirt, and more. This is why you may notice a foul odor as the soap scum gets thicker over time. Using liquid soap instead of bar soap will hinder soap scum buildup, because bar soap contains products that tend to create a film. Wiping down surfaces in your tub, shower, and sinks after you use them also helps. And there are specialty products you can mist onto surfaces routinely that will hinder the buildup of film. But when soap scum strikes, here are a few easy steps to follow to remove it. Mix up equal amounts warm water and white vinegar and add a small amount (just a drop) of dish detergent. Use a spray bottle and liberally apply to the soap scum, give the solution several minutes to work, and wipe it off. Keep repeating until the soap scum is gone. The small amount of dish detergent acts as a surfactant and penetrates the soap scum, and the water/vinegar mix helps break down the elements that created the scum. Mixing up a paste of baking soda and vinegar also works. Use about a half cup of baking soda in a small bowl, add just enough white vinegar until it becomes a paste. It will fizz for a while, and once it is done fizzing, apply to the areas you wish to treat. This is especially effective in areas such as where you leave a bar of soap and the scum is really thick. There are some cleaning products you can purchase at your favorite department store that also work on soap scum. They are applied directly to the surface and bubble and fizz and make removal much easier. All three of these solutions will work for you, but as with all cleaning activities, it takes time, elbow grease — aka scrubbing — to get the job done. Rinse it all off and wipe dry to really see how effective you were in removing the soap scum. But when you really need some cleaning help and tips, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – February 2021
Removing Spots and Stains from Clothes Life comes with all kinds of surprises, and one unpleasant one is when you put on a freshly laundered shirt and discover a spot or stain didn’t come out. The offending visual takes center stage when you venture out in public. While your regular laundering of clothes should remove most spots, some of them can be stubborn and, of course, stains need special treatment. The first step in better spot and stain removal is to act fast. If you can get your clothes into the washing machine immediately after the spill or whatever activity created the issue, your odds of success increase dramatically. Deal with any spot or stain issue as early as possible. Here are a few tips that will help you become a spot and stain removal expert, and keep your clothes looking their best all the time. Pretreat Even if you have a fresh spill, and can put it directly into the washing machine, it is still important to apply some spotting solution and work it into the spot. This gives you a head start on removing the spot. Some spills, such as coffee, tea, and red wine have tannins that don’t wash out that easily. Do your best to not allow a spot to dry out. If laundered when wet and fresh, it will come out easier. Temperature Use the hottest temperature you can for the type of clothing to be washed. Whites can be washed in super-hot water, while dark colors can bleed or lose dyes in hot water. This is especially true with newer clothing that hasn’t been laundered that often. Boost the chemistry Adding an oxygen booster to your washing machine will also help safely bleach away spots and stains. Many laundry detergents come with oxygen boosters, which are hydrogen peroxide-based products. Build your spotting kit It is a good idea to have on hand a few spotting solutions to use on your clothes, especially for stubborn soils. Grease, oil, ink, and paint are examples of types of soils that need a dry-based solvent. While normal pretreat products are good for general spots, there are times when a specific type of cleaning product will save the day for you. Of course, when it comes to all things cleaning, talk to your favorite cleaning company. They have the answers and can give you great advice. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – January 2021 – CLEANING
Dust(less) Best Practices Dirt and grime can be found in most places and are part of life. The goal most of us have is to keep all of it outside, where it belongs. But inside it comes, sometimes with a vengeance. In the air. On shoes. Tracked in by pets. But what about dust? Is dust a simple type of soil that floats in the air, that you can see hanging in the sunlight coming in a window? That’s a common belief, yet you would be surprised at what composes dust in your home. Dust can be pet dander, skin cells, dust mite excrement, flooring materials breaking down, and, of course, just regular fine soil that has made its way into your home. Much of this may be allergen triggers for those in your household, so keeping your home as dust-free as possible is important. It’s a simple matter to dust a surface, but another one entirely to do it thoroughly and to remove dust from those hard-to-reach areas. Sometimes, our dusting efforts actually create more problems, as we might simply put the dust in the air or just move it around. Here are a few best practices to consider. As you work, think of your own lungs and perhaps wear a mask appropriate for dusting. If you have allergies, this is very important. Tip #1: To keep dust in its place, start at the top of a room and work your way down. Top to bottom. If you don’t collect all the dust with the cleaning cloth you are using, it should fall down, and you can get it as you keep working. Tip #2: It’s always best to use a moistened cloth rather than a dry cloth, if the surface can be cleaned with moisture. This way you easily collect the dust as you work. Turn the cloth over or rinse it out often. You want to remove dust, not redistribute it. Tip #3: For hard-to-reach areas, many might just skip cleaning. Don’t do that. Think smart. You can use long-handled dusters that collect dust and don’t sweep it away. You can use flat-mop type dusters for the sides of appliances. Also, think about vacuums with attachments to suck up the dust under furniture or behind heavy items that can’t easily be moved. Of course, the best option is to call your favorite cleaning company and let them handle the entire job, giving you time to do something you enjoy. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art- MZ article – Cleaning- December 2020
Wonderful Wood Floors Cleaning and maintaining hard surfaces is a task that can really enhance the appearance and value of your home. While most hard floors respond well to routine cleaning and maintenance, there are still challenges inherent with natural wood flooring materials that require your special attention. The first challenge is a gritty one. Speaking of soil, of course. Any type of soil on a surface acts as a natural “sandpaper” and slowly but surely damages the surface as it is walked on. This can happen to carpet and hard floors, but it’s the appearance of hard floors that will show the damage. Imagine putting some sand on plexiglass and walking on it for a long period of time. The surface is going to get scratched and you will see it. The same is true of hard floors. Carpet may hide the issue to some degree — hard floors do not. The key to protecting your wonderful wood floors is daily maintenance. Don’t let a day go by without sweeping or, even better, using a dust mop on the floor. It doesn’t take long to do this, just a few minutes, but keeping that gritty soil off the floor will protect it. Choose a quality dust mop wide enough to make quick work of the chore, but not too wide that you can’t get into tight areas or corners. There are special vacuum cleaners for hard surfaces that work great as well. At least once a week, completely clean your wood floors. This means after removing the dry, gritty soil, deep clean the floor with warm detergent solution. Choose a detergent for your type of floor. A quick online search should provide you with the best product type. Keep moisture to a minimum but enough to dampen the floor as you clean it, removing oils and contaminants as you work. Rinse out and repeat several times until you are confident your wood floors are “squeaky clean.” When you come across specks or soils that stick to the floor, scrape them off with your fingernail or a sharp blade, but be careful not to scratch the floor. Of course, the best way to care for your wood floors is to use experts who know exactly how to maintain them. Contact your favorite cleaning company today. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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How to Remove Adhesive Residues
When something is stuck — and you don’t want it to be stuck — that can be a problem. This is especially true when it comes to tape, glue, and other sticky stuff we use all the time in our homes and businesses. You can use soap and water, you can scrub, you can get red in the face… but when it comes to proper adhesive residue removal, there is a better way. Scrape it off If the adhesive residue is on a flat, hard surface, using a straight razor blade can remove the majority of the residue. It basically slices it off the surface. But be careful you don’t scratch the surface, especially wood and natural materials. If that happens, you have permanent damage. After scraping, you will still need a little dry solvent, such as rubbing alcohol or acetone, to remove what’s remaining. A few seconds of contact time is all that is needed. Dissolve and remove If the adhesive residue is on a soft surface, such as carpet, furniture, or clothing, you can’t scrape it off. You need to dissolve the residue and then blot or rinse it away. This isn’t easy. If you apply too much dry solvent (rubbing alcohol, acetone, etc) you can delaminate the fabric if it has a backing. You can also dissolve glues that are part of the fabric. It’s best to add a small amount of dry solvent to a white, cotton cloth that you can dispose of, and blot at the residue. Several applications will be necessary, depending on the type of residue. The challenge is the adhesive residue does not dissolve in anything but a dry solvent. Yes, you can use high heat and hopefully soften the residue for removal, but that is problematic at best. One big issue is when tape is used on carpet. Even if you remove the tape and clean the residue, over time, that sticky residue remaining will collect soils, such as from foot traffic. A dark line will form. Repeated cleanings will help, but this is an often-frustrating task. The real solution is to get some advice from your favorite cleaning company. Carpet and furniture cleaning companies deal with adhesive residues every day and know what to do. Let them handle this for you. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art- MZ – Cleaning – October 2020
How to Find the Very Best Cleaning Company Most of us are very busy people and must prioritize our activities. One necessary activity is cleaning our homes. Sometimes, we rush through it and don’t do the best job possible. Life happens… but a lack of time doesn’t mean you have to put up with dirt, grime, and clutter. The best solution is to find a cleaning company to handle challenging cleaning issues you face, such as carpet cleaning, furniture cleaning, hard floor care, and more. Professional cleaners understand the proper procedures for disinfecting, as well. When looking for a professional cleaning company, whether for regular housecleaning services or specialized cleaning, such as carpet or furniture care, there are a few specific strategies you should implement. Referrals One of the best ways to find any company to do anything for you is by referrals, such as from family or friends. This process automatically filters prospective companies for you, as referrals are provided to you by those you trust and have similar interests. After all, when you enjoy a nice meal at a good restaurant or have a great experience with a service company, what is your natural inclination? You want your friends and family to have the same, great experience. So you tell them about it, and they trust that what you are sharing with them is true. Ask around. Inquire of your family and friends in your local area who they use for cleaning services and ask for their honest opinions. The information will be invaluable. Reviews Second to referrals are reviews, usually online reviews such as with Google or Yelp. This is a proven way to filter out the good from the bad and find companies that usually treat their customers the way you want to be treated. Be sure to use companies that have several reviews, over a long period of time. A long track record is best. Interview them Don’t be afraid to get a prospective company on the telephone or have them out to your home and ask questions, such as with any unique guarantees they might offer. Don’t look for the cheapest deal. Look for quality. Discuss with the company owner or manager what they can do for you. Let them know you are seeking out a quality company. All of this takes time, but the end result is you will find the very best cleaning company for your home. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo Cleaning article – September 2020
The Often-Forgotten Vacuum Bag Vacuum cleaners are an integral part of life for any family and a common tool used daily in commercial buildings. While the vacuum hums along doing its job, picking up dirt, grit, debris, and potential contaminants, there is a part of the vacuum we might not think about that often. You usually can’t see it… but it’s right there, inside your vacuum cleaner — the bag. The vacuum bag is the repositor of all substances that the vacuum collects through the beater bar or suction assembly and hoses. Unless you use a bagless vacuum, and there are some on the market today, all air goes from the surface being vacuumed and through the vacuum bag. The air you breathe around a vacuum is partly the air that has passed through the unit. Problem detected You know you have a problem when you turn on the vacuum cleaner and notice a foul odor. What you are detecting is the result of organic and inorganic matter inside the vacuum bag that has had time grow microorganisms that create odors. A vacuum bag that has sat a long period of time without being changed or cleaned can produce significant bad odors. While your vacuum cleaner manufacturer will have recommendations on the frequency of changing the bag, those are simply general recommendations. Professional carpet cleaners recommend changing a bag when one-half to two-thirds full. Is that enough? The nose knows In addition to following a schedule, use some common sense. Remember that a vacuum bag in the dark that is stuffed with organic soils will quickly become an odor-causing source. If you vacuum every day, you may not notice it. But give it a week or two, and the odors become evident. At the first hint of an odor, change the bag. Even if you vacuum once or twice, and put the vacuum away for several days, it may be good to change the bag before using it again. Bags are cheap. Your health is not. Professionals cleaners often change the vacuum bag and clean all equipment before going from one home to the next. The do this to avoid cross-contamination. Their basic principles of equipment maintenance keep you and your family safe. When it comes to the absolute best cleaning of all surfaces, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo Restoration article – September 2020
Should You Test for Mold? Recently, we discussed mold that can be found in unlikely places, such as in the bedroom, bathroom, and the kitchen. After all, most report mold in basements or crawlspaces, but mold can actually grow virtually anywhere. There is one thing we can all agree on. You do not want hidden mold growing in your home. If there is mold somewhere, anywhere, with the potential of causing health issues with your family, you want to know about it so you can remove it and keep everyone safe. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has much to say about the need for mold testing. “In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary,” according to a statement on the EPA website. And what the EPA says makes sense. If you can see the mold, you do not need to take samples and run tests because you know the mold is there. The professional restoration company that removes the mold will figure out what type it is and proper procedures for your specific case. But what if you can’t see the mold but you feel something is there? Then it’s time to engage mold sampling and testing. According to the EPA, surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Who should do it? Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations, says the EPA. Regulations and guidelines Standards or threshold limit values (TLVs) for airborne concentrations of mold, or mold spores, have not been set. Currently, there are no EPA regulations or standards for airborne mold contaminants. But if you have mold, you no doubt aren’t driven by regulations or guidelines, or lack thereof. You want to know if there is mold and if there is, what you can do to remove it. One option is to purchase a do-it-yourself mold testing kit, something that you test surfaces with and send in for testing at a laboratory. Another is to contact an industrial hygienist who is an expert with issues such as this, and have professional testing conducted. No matter what you do, if you do have mold growth, do the right thing. Turn the work over to your favorite restoration company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo Cleaning article – August 2020
Cleaning Supplies Everyone Needs Cleaning is an important part of our lives. It’s in our DNA to keep things as clean as possible, although some of us might be accused of allowing a bit of clutter at times. What makes life easier is when we have the best cleaning and equipment supplies for the task at hand. You not only want to do the best cleaning you can but also keep productivity high and save time. Cleaning high touch points Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the topic of cleaning and disinfecting high touch points was at the forefront. To do this, you need appropriate cleaning solutions partnered with an EPA-approved disinfectant, the ability to deliver the products to the surface, and a way to wipe or clean the surface. Purchase your products in spray bottles or put your products into quality spray bottles, but as always, follow directions from the manufacturer. If you transfer products, be sure to properly label everything so there is no confusing what is being used. Store all products out of the reach of children. Quality cloths, such as from cotton or polyester microfibers, help pick up and remove soils and contaminants from high touch points. Maintaining the floors Make sure you have quality brooms and mops for cleaning your floors, along with a floor cleaning solution. The bristles of your brooms should be small in diameter and packed tightly, so debris doesn’t get left behind as you work. Flat mops can be used for sweeping as well; you have plenty of options. Investigate how modern mop heads have improved over traditional string mops. Purchase quality products, and yes… you will pay more, but it will be worth it. Your vacuum cleaner should be high quality as well, with HEPA filtration abilities. Empty your vacuum after each use if you use a bagless cleaning unit or change your vacuum bag when ? full or less. Change it if you ever notice a bad odor coming from the vacuum. Odds and ends A wide array of brushes, scrub pads, cleaning cloths, and cleaning solutions for all surfaces are what smart cleaning enthusiasts have at the ready. A spotting kit for your carpet and upholstery will come in handy. Of course, the best thing is to call your favorite cleaning company to do it for you. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – July 2020
How to Remove Nail Polish The job of nail polish is to go onto the appropriate surface (fingernails, toenails) and stick. The problem is when nail polish gets onto unintended surfaces, especially on carpet, upholstery, or clothing. It can be nearly impossible to remove. Aggressive efforts on your part, rubbing or scrubbing, and using harsh chemicals can damage the surface while the nail polish still lingers. Removing nail polish, while one of the toughest cleaning chores, can be made easier with these tips. Let’s assume the nail polish has dried, since very fresh nail polish is fairly easy to remove with a typical nail polish removal product and white disposable towels. The right stuff Obviously, nail polish remover is the best choice for a cleaning solution. Using a non-acetone solvent product is safer for some fibers and less aggressive, but your results may be limited. Using an acetone-based fingernail polish remover will have more noticeable effect, but also will dry out your fingertips. This type of product will evaporate very quickly, so when using it realize the contact time must be limited. You can also use other solvents to remove nail polish, and most professional cleaning companies have an arsenal at their disposal. You may be limited to what you can get at the grocery store. That being said, pure acetone is usually the best solvent choice for the impact it has on dried nail polish. When applying your solvent, put it on a disposable white paper towel or cotton towel, and dab at the nail polish. You should see transfer to the towel. Keep at it, but don’t rub or scrub, and don’t spread the stain. Do your research on the type of surface you are working on. Acetone will dissolve some fibers. It will also remove paint, furniture finish, and many other finishes. Remaining color After you have removed as much of the nail polish as possible, you will probably notice some remaining color. This is where you have to be careful about your next product. Using some regular household hydrogen peroxide is safe on most surfaces, but there are no guarantees. After all, if it removes color from nail polish, it can remove other colors as well. But it is a last resort way to continue to work on the stain after other attempts. The best choice Your favorite cleaning company has removed many tough stains just like nail polish. If you want the very best results, do the right thing. Give them a call. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ Cleaning article – May 2020
The Smelly Mattress Mattress cleaning, due simply to the bulk of what needs cleaned, is not an easy task. Yet it is one that must be done occasionally. There is nothing worse than putting your sleepy head into the mattress and be woken up. Besides the typical use of a mattress, which to everyone who loves to sleep is very important, you still want to keep things healthy. There are all types of issues with mattresses, from pet accidents, food and drink spills, dust mites, and more. So here is what you want to do. Strip the bed It makes sense to strip the bed of linens and blankets. If you have a mattress pad, even better. Do this on a weekly basis, at minimum. Keeping a mattress pad on at all times is smart. You must also consider the bulk of the material and do your cleaning accordingly. Sad to say, this may not be possible to do yourself, without much effort. One thing you can do is take the mattress outside and, on a nice day, allow the air to help refresh your mattress. Use peroxide A natural disinfectant that not only make things healthier but that removes stains, peroxide is a great solution. It adds oxygen to the surface and removes not only stains but also odors. Baking soda Some say and claim that baking soda is a solution. The benefit of baking soda is it absorbs odors, much like what you experience with putting an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator. Enzymes Enzymes are great options that can help with stubborn stains, such as blood, urine, and more. They attack substances and remove not only spots and stains but also odors. When in doubt, do the right thing. Call your professional cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo article – Cleaning – June 2020
Wax Your Way to a Beautiful Floor No matter how beautiful a surface in our home might be, the natural tendency is to improve it, especially when it comes to hard floors. Hard flooring can be manufactured from many types of materials, from expensive natural stone to hard wood to synthetic blends, and more. You choose them based on your own tastes, your preferences, and no doubt by doing some research in what is best for your home. One natural chore you may consider is actually an old term. You may want to “wax” your floor. Many years ago, natural wax was used, and it still may be used in some applications today. But the vast majority of products you would use to apply to and protect flooring is actually a synthetic floor “finish.” But for the information here, we’ll use the old term, “wax.” Think before you wax Not all flooring types need or require waxing. Some can even become damaged if you wax them, because of incompatibilities of substances. So do your research. Make sure that the flooring type you have installed in your home requires or can benefit from a coat of wax. Tips for successful waxing Before doing any type of waxing, it’s important to clean your floor completely and remove any old wax as well. A floor stripping product is required, follow directions completely, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (which may include gloves, face mask, etc), and be thorough in the process. Rinse all residues and dry the floor. With your new floor wax product in hand, review the directions. Make sure you know all the steps to take because when you begin the process, it’s not easy to stop. Use a new wax applicator or a new mop, applying the wax as directed, and work slowly and carefully to get an even application, spreading the product with your applicator or mop. Keep it manageable by working in sections and be careful not to work yourself into a corner. Allow the product to dry completely and apply second and third coats if the directions indicate additional applications. Let a pro do it As with many home projects, consulting a cleaning professional is a smart idea. And why not just let them do the job? You may avoid frustrating issues if you do. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – March 2020
Removing Hard Water Stains Unsightly hard water stains can affect many surfaces and can be a challenge to remove. Hard water stains are based on the mineral content of the water in a building or home. It all comes from the ground, so if mineral content is high in ground water, then mineral content in the water you use is going to be high. Water softeners will solve this issue, but without a water softener system, you will occasionally deal with hard water stains and the challenges inherent with removing them. Typical spot removers or household cleaners will not affect hard water stains, because they are mineral based. Here are some tips to remove them safely and enjoy a household free of hard water stains. Identify You will see hard water stains on sinks, around faucets, and even on textiles that are affected by a plain water spill. They are usually white but can be colored stains as well. If the stain is significant, you can even feel the texture of the stain. This means a bit more work may be involved removing the stain. Remove If the surface allows it (make sure you don’t scratch a hard surface and damage it) try scraping away the bulk of the hard water stain, if it has built up enough for you to do this. For a cleaning agent, start safe and use plain white vinegar. Apply the vinegar to the surface and allow several minutes dwell time, remembering that vinegar can temporarily adversely affect copper surfaces. Scrub carefully and see if the vinegar is reacting with the hard water stain. This may remove most hard water stains. If that doesn’t work, obtain a stronger acid, such as from your hardware store, that is for cleaning purposes. Wear safety gloves applicable for strong acid cleaners. Apply carefully and this should remove the hard water stain. You can keep increasing the strength of the acid cleaner until the stain is removed, but always be careful with skin contact and vapors. Follow manufacturer directions. Neutralize As with any strong cleaning agent, neutralize after cleaning. This can be with a water rinse and drying with a towel. Very strong acid cleaners should be neutralized with a product for that specific purpose. But when cleaning challenges are beyond your abilities, do the right thing. Call a professional cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo article – CLEANING – April 2020
The Battle Against Refrigerator Odors It’s no surprise when you notice a nasty odor from your garbage can, especially when it’s full. But it might be a surprise when you get a whiff of a nasty smell emanating from your refrigerator, which should normally be a haven of delicious foods and enticing aromas. Your refrigerator naturally fights off offending odors because of the cold temperature, which limits bacteria growth. Most bacteria growth is pretty slow and not as offensive as others. But depending on the source (meat, milk, proteins are quick to become offensive), the resulting odors can be powerful and require immediate action. Simple and easy A complete cleaning of the fridge with hot detergent and water naturally removes some odors. Get into those crevices where liquids from food might have invaded. You might have to wet those areas with hot water and detergent and let it dwell for several minutes. Many nasty odors can come from small amounts of contaminants. For lingering odors, leaving a container, small cup or bowl, of white vinegar in the fridge will continue to neutralize bad odors. For this to continue to work replenish the vinegar every few days. Eventually, you can stop using the vinegar treatment. Some recommend wiping down all surfaces with vinegar as well. And, of course, there is the proven method of leaving a box of baking soda open in the fridge, which absorbs odors. It does this due to the ability of sodium bicarbonate to attract odor causing molecules and holding onto them. Stirring the baking soda around occasionally or replacing the box is necessary. Tough situations You must also realize is that removing odors from a fridge in use is much different from one that has been sitting unused for a period of time. If odors are severe, such as from an unused refrigerator being put back in action, you might have to resort to ozone generation. You can buy or sometimes rent the equipment. Using them is simple. Put them inside the fridge, keep the door shut as much as possible, and let it run for the recommended period of time for that generator. The odor will most likely be magically gone! Of course, the best thing to do for all your cleaning needs is call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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Art-MarketingZoo article – January 2020 – Cleaning
Cleaning Grease Your appliances all play a vital role in the household, and especially more so during winter and the holiday season. With family, friends, and others close to you all gathering together and enjoying both festivities and home-cooked meals, your appliances can take a beating that requires regular attention and the occasional dreaded “deep cleaning” chore. From the toaster to the coffee pot to the stovetop and deep inside the oven, you may have noticed grease build-up that a simple wiping off doesn’t handle efficiently. Add to all of this the fact that hot cooking grease at certain temperatures becomes airborne and lands on all surfaces in the kitchen. The amount of greasy soils that can accumulate can be tenacious if you don’t stay in front of it. So — what’s your game plan? Cleaning products What your need is a degreasing product, something that breaks down congealed grease on the surfaces of appliances, countertops, everywhere. While you can purchase products from your favorite store, you can also make your own. If you take ¼ cup of dish detergent, add in 1-2 ounces of ammonia, and mix it all with 16 ounces of hot water, and for a bonus add a scoop of baking soda, you have an excellent tool to fight grease. Application Now it is time to go to work. Get your cleaning solution ready and start scrubbing. Let the product do the work. If needed, wet out the areas of concern and allow the solution to do its job. Keep wiping, keep soaking up the grease, don’t spare those paper towels! A better idea While everyone wants to do is simply buy a miracle ingredient from their grocery store and just get the job done. While that might work, it’s not always the best option. It takes much more to keep your home grease and soil free and healthier for your family. Do the right thing When in doubt, think about the experts you can use. Let them handle your toughest cleaning challenges, especially those that involve grease, appliances, and what you care about most – your home! After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MarketingZoo-Cleaning-February 2020
Stinky Garbage Disposals Your garbage disposal is probably one of the devices in your home you seldom think about. After all, it’s hidden from view, you activate it with a simple flip of a switch, and it does its job. But if it ever fails you, it quickly jumps to the top of the list of things you value most. Your garbage disposal is, obviously, fitted to the drainpipe of your kitchen sink, and it grinds up all kinds of food waste, gunk, and more. It works diligently to gobble up and push into the sewer system what you should put and what you should never put into a disposal, which shortens the life of the device. Safety first It should be obvious to most that putting your fingers into the garbage disposal is a bad idea. Even when the unit is turned off, never reach in an attempt to dislodge or remove something that is hindering the garbage disposal’s efforts. And when working in the disposal unit, always unplug or turn off the power before proceeding. It’s always best to call a pro in those circumstances when a simple, quick fix is not an option. Disposal tips While your garbage disposal might seem like a superhero, it is not. You can put many food and other items down through the disposal, but some will create future problems. And the following advice will be tempered or adjusted by the type of garbage disposal you have. Some find their disposal will dispose of anything. Others find they have to be very selective on what they put into the disposal. Smaller portions are better. Avoid greasy foods, fruit pits/seeds, bones, pastas and rice, nuts, coffee grounds, and any other substances that might build up in your sewer system. Maintenance Taking care of the health of your garbage disposal is important. Weekly — and no less than monthly — let your disposal while running gobble up some baking soda and vinegar. You can put both down the drain slowly and if you see foam develop, that’s fine, it’s normal. Alternate disposing of ice and also hot water. This helps with removal of the different types of debris that may attach to the blades of the garbage disposer. There are times when advice is just not enough. Do the right thing. Call your professional cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – November 2019
The Basics of Vacuuming If you have carpet or rugs, you have a vacuum cleaner. A vacuum is absolutely necessary to keep your valuable carpet and rugs clean of particulate or dry soil. While vacuuming may seem like a basic housekeeping chore and simple to do, the biggest challenge is getting out the vacuum and actually putting it to use. Frequency How often you vacuum depends on the size of your family, and this includes pets. As a general rule, you should vacuum the main areas in your home, such as the living room, hallways, and other high traffic areas, one time each week per occupant. For example, if you have four people and one dog in your family, vacuum five times per week, in those high traffic areas. For low-trafficked areas, once per week should suffice. This might seem extensive and perhaps unnecessary, but it keeps your carpet and rugs virtually free of dry soil buildup. How to vacuum You might be thinking, “You just plug it in and push it across the floor.” Which is basically what you do. The problem is how fast you move and how much overlapping you cover when running the vacuum. While you may push the vacuum forward fast, slow down when you pull it towards you. This way the beater bar, if your vacuum has one, has a chance to work loose the soils. Also, overlap several inches from side to side so you have complete coverage of the floor. Choosing the best vacuum Quality matters when choosing a good vacuum cleaner. The cheaper ones at department stores may work fine for a while, but they quickly lose efficiency and often break down. Look at the reviews of any vacuum cleaner you are contemplating and spend a few more dollars on a superior model. Your carpet and rugs will be better off in the long run. Choosing a vacuum with a beater bar is smart. Especially with thick pile carpet, it helps remove more dry soil. Some choose vacuum cleaners with a bagless option. If you use a vacuum cleaner with a bag, change it out when about half full, for maximum efficiency. Purchase plenty of replacement bags and have them on hand for this purpose. Get with the pros Cleaning companies, especially those who specialize in carpet and rug cleaning, can help you choose a quality vacuum. Get their input. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Art-MZ article – Cleaning – December 2019
The Nooks and Crannies Your home has plenty of areas for dirt and grime to hide. Locating them may seem easy. Cleaning them effectively is something else. Most homeowners spend plenty of time sweeping, vacuuming, scrubbing, and cleaning areas that are obviously soiled and become soiled daily. There are areas that can really get gross in a short amount of time. Your bathroom “work stations” — also known as vanity cabinets — are prime locations for soil buildup. Let’s spend some time on how to tackle the chore of cleaning the bathroom vanity. One area of the home easy to ignore. After all, who looks in there besides the person searching out some face cream or hand lotion, among other items? The buildup of residues can wreak havoc over time. Think of hairspray that you use daily and that ends up on the top of the cabinet. It may be easy to clean when fresh but give it 10 or more applications and you have a “goo” that’s not giving up its tenacious hold on the counter. This isn’t to even mention toothpaste and other necessary items that get smeared on the same surface. Take some time each day — perhaps just a minute or so — to quickly wipe up any residues that land on the surface. Then, take some time each week — perhaps just five minutes or so — to open up any cabinet doors or mirrors that house storage behind them, remove all objects, and use a household cleaning solution to wipe down all surfaces. After a week, you will still be amazed at how much residue has built up in there. Imagine what could happen after a few months! And once a month, give your entire bathroom a close scrutiny and look for all those nooks and crannies that can be the host of soil. This could be behind the toilet, in the corners of shower stalls, where the soap resides on the bathtub edge. All these areas could use a good scrubbing each month, if not more frequently. And all this is besides the typical routine cleaning you no doubt give all your bathrooms. But when you need some real help, from your favorite cleaning service, do the right thing. Give them a call today. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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The Battle Against Garbage Can Odors
There’s nothing too exciting about garbage cans, except how you feel if you pull a full trash bag out and it bursts and spews all kinds of undesirables all over the kitchen floor. If you have garbage, such as limp lettuce, fermenting flounder, greasy goat cheese, and much more, you will have odors from it. Odors naturally occur from bacteria, which is what grows quickly on organic material. And then you have mold adding to the issue. All this fermenting in a dark, damp playground known as your garbage can. Even if you have a secure trash can lid, the odors have a mind of their own and an evil intent to escape. There are several things you can do to limit the effect of garbage can odors. Take out the trash It may seem simplistic, but most of us wait too long to take out the trash. A smell garbage can inside is terrible – the one outside waiting to be hauled away isn’t much better, but at least it is outside. Make it a practice to take out the trash before the bag is full. Use quality scented bags By quality, we mean bags that have a thicker mil rating, as they won’t break as easy. Yes, they cost more and use more plastic. Look at keeping the mil for your trash bag at 2 or above. The scented bags really do a great job hiding, not removing, odors. They mask bad odors and give you more time between taking out the trash before you start to notice odors. Use baking soda Baking soda is a typical household fixture. By sprinkling baking soda in the bottom of your garbage can and even in the bag, it helps to limit the odors caused by bacteria. It does this by absorbing odors instead of them being released into the air you breathe. Give it a hosing Like all things, garbage cans need to be cleaned. You might say, “I use bags!” but that doesn’t matter. Odors build up no matter what you do, and a good cleaning with baking soda or other cleaning products, and hosing or rinsing out the can, will help keep lingering odors at bay. And like all things, quality cleaning of the surfaces in your home are better performed by the pros. Do the right thing, call your favorite cleaning company when you need help. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Removing Blood and Biological Spots and Stains
It’s not a pleasant task, but it’s one that must be handled, and quickly. Removing blood, vomit, urine, feces, and other biological spots and stains is a fairly easy chore if the issue is caught quickly. But allow the substance to dry, and your job becomes much more difficult. What impacts the success of removal of blood and biological substance is what it is on. If on carpet or upholstery, the removal is much more challenging as flushing out the contaminant can actually cause irreversible damage to the fabric. But if on clothing or other washable material, the job can be handled easily. Here are some tips to remove biological contaminants from clothing and other washable fabrics. Don’t delay Once you discover there is a biological substance on the fabric, scrap away any excess you can and get it into the washing machine. Remember, something fresh is probably just a “spot” — which is on the outside of the fiber. Give it time, or don’t remove all the substance when cleaning, and that spot becomes a “stain” — which is inside the fiber, and very challenging to remove. Pretreat the area You do this all the time. Pretreating spots means easier removal during washing. For biological substances, this is important. A quality preconditioning product worked into the fabric, and allowed to dwell for several minutes, means the washing cycle will be more effective. Control the temperature You might have heard that hot water can “set the stain.” Not always true. The problem is using hot water opens up the fibers and allows staining substances to penetrate. Incomplete cleaning does this as well. To be safe, keep the temperature warm or cold when washing fabrics with biological spots or stains. Don’t dry After washing, you may notice the spot or stain is gone. Don’t assume that is 100% true. When wet, the fabric may be hiding the spot or stain. Allow it to air dry. Do not put it into the drier. Hot air during the drying process can set any remaining spots or stains. Once dry, inspect carefully. If you see any remaining spots or stains, launder the item again. As with all cleaning chores, there comes a time when it is time to throw in the towel and call the pros. Do the right thing and let your favorite cleaning company do the work for you. After all, it pays to call a pro! 
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Be a Dust Handler
Dust. It’s everywhere. Want proof? Reach over to a cabinet top, a window sill… just about any surface. Rub your finger on them and see what you get. While dust occurs naturally in homes and buildings, there are some practical steps you can take to minimize how much dust affects the cleanliness of your home but also how much it negatively affects health of your loved ones. Exhaust fans Talk about something you might never inspect, unless you think about it. Give it some thought now. In your bathrooms, look up at your exhaust fans — assuming you have them. Look closely. They are probably covered with dust and hair and other debris, and perhaps the circulation openings are completely clogged up. Use a vacuum to remove as much as you can, and when there is air flow into the fan, use some compressed air to finish the job. Loosening up the dust means the fan will move it on out. Area rugs While you vacuum your floors and area rugs on a scheduled basis, you never get as much dust out of area rugs than taking them outside and giving them a good “beating.” Of course, the area rug has to be of a size and weight you can handle. But if you get them outside, drape over a fence or patio chair, and go at them with a broom or tennis racket, you will get much more dust out of them than if you vacuumed alone. High areas Like your exhaust fans, other areas you might not inspect can be dust collectors. Think about your ceiling fans, trim around doors and windows, pictures and ornaments, any area above typical eyesight. Your favorite department store or online store will have a variety of dusting devices you can use. They also have products meant to, while you clean, attract dust, dander, and debris so you aren’t just moving it around. The main thing is to buy them and use them on a regular basis. Maintenance As with any task, performing what needs done on a schedule is important. Keeping a house clean and tidy is a task that never ends. From dusting to carpet cleaning, to hard floor care, and more, the best way to keep it all in perfect shape is to use a quality and professional cleaning service. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance
The job of the vacuum cleaner, whether in a home or office, is to pick up dirt, debris, particulate soil, hair, dander, virtually anything that lands on the carpet and must be removed. In the process, your vacuum cleaner eventually ends up needing a little cleaning attention itself. When you empty the vacuum collection chamber or replace the vacuum bag, all of that dust, dirt, debris, and hair went into the port that contains the beater bar, and then through a hose, and most likely also through a filter or two. Keep your vacuum cleaner in great working condition with these simple maintenance tips. Keep it safe and anytime you are working on your vacuum, make sure it is unplugged. The bag or bin Some vacuums have a chamber or bin that collects the dirt. If you have that type of vacuum, remove it and empty it frequently, even after each use. Wipe it out if you can and if the type warrants it, rinse it out with water and detergent. If you have a vacuum with a bag, keep an eye on how much dirt it is accumulating. It’s best to replace it when about half full, never more than 2/3 full. If your vacuum bag gets too full, the efficiency of the machine is drastically reduced. The beater bar Turn the vacuum over and inspect the beater bar and vacuum inlet assembly. This is where things might get a little gross as you have to physically pull and remove all the hair that has rolled up on the beater bar. Wear gloves. Pull the hair off and keep turning the beater bar until it is completely clean. Use scissors or a small, sharp knife if the hair is difficult to remove with just your bare fingers. The filter(s) You may need to refer to your owner’s manual for this. Find the filters and inspect according to manufacturer recommendations. Some filters need to be replaced; others can be cleaned. Air must pass through the filters so keep them in good condition. High-efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) might need more attention than typical filters. One great way to ensure vacuum cleaner efficiency is to have your favorite cleaning company inspect it the next time they work in your home. Call them today. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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Organizing & Cleaning the Bathrooms
Besides the kitchen, your bathroom is one of the most popular and trafficked rooms in your home. Keeping your bathroom organized, clean, and tidy can be a daunting chore. And your work increases tremendously if you have more than one. Many homes have several bathrooms. That’s a lot of cleaning and organizing to tackle, especially if you let too much time pass without giving them some attention. It’s easy to see several days, a week, even more pass without a close scrutiny of the condition of a bathroom—and then all of a sudden you are amazed how all the nastiness snuck up on you. The way to tackle all of this is with a plan—a cleaning plan, which includes organizing all bathroom content as well.
And that’s just to keep everything clean. What about organizing the contents? Open up the drawers, cabinets, check the inventory of what is in your bathroom. You will be amazed at the number of toiletries, medications, cosmetics, lotions and potions you have amassed over the years. Many of them are no doubt expired, some by many years unless you have kept up with what you stock your bathroom with. Take the time to look at expiration dates and start throwing out what has expired. Some products will last for years. Others just a few months. Even cosmetics have an expiration suggestion. Also consider better organizing, using shelving or organizing products such as bins that can be stacked, to help you keep it all in its proper place. And, of course, when you need some professional cleaning done in your home, whether routine cleaning or deep cleaning such as for your carpet, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
3 Best Ways to Kick Off Spring
As winter rolls into spring, you may want to concentrate on fixing, organizing, and cleaning what’s outside — after all, most say that working in the sun is better than working under a light bulb — but there are some tasks inside that just shouldn’t be ignored. Here are a few that will help your indoor air quality the minute you handle them. Dusty decisions A cold, hard winter means the house has been closed up and not aired out. The natural tendency is to think there is no dust coming in. That’s not true. Spring is a good time to thoroughly dust your entire home, picking up small items off table and desktops, cleaning off the tops of window frames, and don’t forget the baseboards. Dust the entire home. Be sure to use rags or towels that will collect the dust, instead of spreading it around or pushing it off surfaces onto the floor, where you will just walk on it and kick it around. All this work means you will be rewarded with less exposure to indoor airborne allergens. Ducts and vents Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system works hard to keep you comfortable, and while it does that, the ductwork gets dusty and dirty. You don’t see it, so the tendency is you don’t worry about it. Take off a vent or two and inspect. Get out the flashlight. Take a white towel and push it into the ductwork. Does it come out brown? While you can clean the vents, it’s virtually impossible to clean the ductwork yourself. You need to call a professional for the duct cleaning work. Vacuum and sweep This is a good time to get out your vacuum, inspect it thoroughly and clean it up, and start vacuuming everything. Every square inch of carpet you can get to and move as much furniture as you can. You would be amazed how much dust can build up under furniture over the winter. Besides vacuuming the carpet, get a vacuum tool that can handle the hard floors as well. If you use a regular broom, you will stir up the dust and put it up in your breathing space. If you must sweep, find a tool that doesn’t “whisk” the dust up. A real clean When you realize the job is tough and you are ready to throw in the towel, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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How to Take Care of Your Outdoor Grill
There’s nothing more enjoyable to food lovers everywhere than firing up the gas grill and creating some delicious meals, whether steaks, burgers, bratwursts or healthy home-grown vegetables. Keeping that gas grill in good shape is, therefore, paramount to happy outdoor barbecues and family gatherings. And here’s something we all know: Outdoor gas grills don’t clean or take care of themselves. It takes determination on your part to keep them working for you, meal after meal after meal. Here are a few easy steps to keeping your gas grill in good shape. Step 1: After cooking your favorite treat on the grill (after removing all the food to a platter, of course) keep the grill on. In fact, turn it up a bit, and let all the bits of meat and drippings burn to a crisp so after everything cools you can scrape them off the grill grate. If you don’t do this, the next time you fire up the grill means you will be dealing with the remnants of the previous meal. That’s not tasty. Step 2: Look underneath… no matter the quality of your grill, if you have a storage area for pans, spatulas and the propane tank, food drippings and debris can quickly create a problem. Clean out that storage area on a regular basis, keeping everything neat and ready for the next meal. Step 3: Don’t ignore the exterior of the grill. Washing the outside of the grill with warm, soapy water keeps grime from building up. Step 4: When not in use, keep everything covered up. Some feel that with warmer weather, they can leave the grill exposed to the elements. Hey, it’s meant to be outside, right? Yet keeping the grill under a quality grill cover can add years of life to your trusty outdoor cooking partner. Of course, with outdoor grilling comes greasy spills that can spot and stain your carpet. Nearly everyone has dropped a burger or a hot dog on the floor when bringing the food inside. Even worse is when your tasty treat is covered with mustard or ketchup. Do your carpet a favor and call your professional carpet cleaning company when that happens. |
Should You Wash Cushion Covers?
It’s a very easy thing to do… you notice your sofa cushions are a little dingy, which is perfectly normal with kids, pets and normal usage. So you decide to do-it-yourself and wash the cushion covers. They come out looking nice. But you also notice a little problem. The colors aren’t as bright as they used to be, and it takes a lot of effort to get the covers back over the foam cushions themselves. In fact, for one cushion, you can’t even get it zipped up all the way. The reason is that cushion covers are not designed to be washed like normal laundry. “But it has zippers!” you exclaim. That’s for the convenience of the furniture manufacturing company or the upholsterer. Keep these points in mind if you are tempted to wash your cushion covers:
So while you may do this, remove your cushion covers for laundering, keep these points in mind and be very careful with your valuable furnishings! Do your furniture and all upholstery fabric a huge favor: Call your cleaning professionals today! |
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Always Do This When Cleaning
Taking care of cleaning chores around the house is something homeowners have engaged in since houses were invented. Not much thought goes into it other than it just needs done. However, some specialized tasks, such as removing a spot from a carpet, getting rid of an irritating pet odor from the family dog or trying to find the best cleaning solution for the toughest jobs can actually end up causing more harm than good. Spot removal When we find a spot on the carpet, there are two things we tend to do. The first is to put way too much cleaning solution on the spot, saturating it and even getting the padding wet. This just spreads the spot and causes trouble in the future. The second is we tend to scrub way too long and way too hard. This can fray the fibers and you can’t fix that. So when you get a spot, put some solution on a white towel and blot. Never scrub or rub. Odor removal The biggest question when Fido or Fluffy does their thing on the carpet is “How do I get it out?” That’s not always easy unless you get to it right away. Urine will penetrate into the carpet, the padding and even the subfloor, and when it dries, over time it becomes sticky and smelly. Some will put powdered carpet deodorizers on those spots, which only gums up the carpet and creates a residue very difficult to remove. Like with spot removal, blotting the area quickly is usually the best remedy for the do-it-yourself types. Using products When one product works well and you find another one works well, too, the tendency is to mix them. Remember, never mix ammonia and bleach. Both are effective products on their own, but mixed together, they become deadly. Other products on your shelf could, if mixed together, create toxic fumes that can cause harm to your family. Always follow directions. How can you avoid all these problems and challenges? It’s simple: Call your cleaning professional today. They’ll be right over to save the day. |
Three Steps to Cleaner Clothes
“Doing the laundry” — it’s a common phrase and chore in virtually every household. Here are three easy ways to cleaner, fresher clothes. #1. Pre-treat spots and stains: Any textile is porous, which means staining substances can penetrate into the fibers and become very difficult to remove, and can sometimes become permanent. Remember, there is a difference from a spot to a stain. Any visible spot should be pretreated with a laundry pretreatment product. Without this step, spots can work their way into the fibers and become stains. #2: Sort it out: Separating delicate clothes, dark clothes and white clothes means you have a little more control over how aggressive your laundry is cleaned. Delicates should usually be cleaned in colder water, with a shorter cycle. Consider air or hang drying all delicates. Dark clothes might bleed, so washing them separate is smart, and also on colder water (to be safer.) White clothes definitely show more dirt but often are also more durable. You can use hot water on most whites. Always look at the tag on each item as there’s nothing more frustrating than a sweater coming out three sizes smaller than when it went in. #3: Boost your cleaning power: When you have really dirty or smelly laundry, sometimes the normal soap doesn’t do the trick. There are laundry boosters available that do what the name implies: They boost the cleaning power by using oxidizing solutions that aren’t as strong as chlorine bleach, which can easily remove color. A booster really does the trick on tough dirt, spots, stains and odors. Follow the manufacturer directions carefully. Besides clothes, what about your carpet or furniture? There’s no washing machine big enough! Do the smart thing and call your favorite carpet and furniture cleaning company. |
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The Myth of the Vacuum
You would be hard pressed not to find this noisy, electrical and often-underused mechanical device in any home, apartment or business. What is it? The vacuum cleaner. You know, that silent sentinel in your closet that comes to life when you plug it in and push the power button, and it buzzes all over the carpet as you chase it around the house. The problem with the vacuum cleaner is we trust it too much. No, we’re not saying you shouldn’t vacuum your carpet. You should vacuum once per week per occupant, on average, for the main areas. You might vacuum the bedrooms less frequently. We all know that proper vacuuming is important in caring for the carpet. But some feel that vacuuming the carpet is equal to carpet cleaning. That’s a myth and it is simply not true. Professional carpet cleaning removes so much more than a vacuum can remove. Yet it has been reported that consumers feel that frequent vacuuming removes the dust and grime from their floors and they can either skip or prolong regular carpet cleaning. That’s not the case. A good vacuum, no matter how powerful or advanced, removes only dry soil. The stuff that is tracked in every day and should be removed every day, as well. Vacuums don’t remove the sticky, greasy soil stuck to the carpet fibers. You need professional cleaning to remove those soils. Compare this to washing your car with a dry rag… or brushing your hair and skipping the shower and shampoo… or — well, you get the point. You need quality cleaning, deep carpet cleaning, to get your carpet thoroughly cleaned. Do yourself a favor. Keep that vacuum cleaner working, use it all the time, but also use your professional carpet cleaning pro. He knows what it takes to remove ALL the dirt! |
Making Better Decisions
Imagine… You are shopping for new carpet, perhaps just a few rooms. Two of the rooms are bedrooms, which don’t get as much foot traffic as the entryway, living room and hallway you also need to replace. It’s been nearly 10 years since you had new carpet. You go to a local carpet retail store. The carpet salesman has a great deal for you: A virtually stain-proof carpet with vibrant colors and also soft to the touch. You put your fingers into the carpet pile and love how it feels. You order the carpet for all the rooms you need to replace. In a week or two, on the scheduled installation day, you remove all the furniture from the rooms and the installation pros show up and remove the old carpet and pad and put in the new. It looks great! A year later, when you decide it’s time to have the carpet cleaned, your carpet cleaning pros show up and do a great job removing the dirt. Even the spots come right out! However, there is a “worn” area in the living room and down the hallway, but not in the bedrooms. You ask your carpet cleaning pro why that is. He performs a fiber identification test and informs you that you purchased polyester carpet, which tends to matt down and look somewhat soiled just because of wear. He then kindly informs you that if you had purchased nylon, a more durable carpet fiber, this likely wouldn’t have happened. You are upset. Don’t you hate it when you purchase something and it doesn’t perform as promised? But remember, carpet salespeople may not be your best consultant when it comes to fibers. So before you go looking for new carpet or furniture, give your carpet and furniture cleaning pro a call. Ask which fiber is best for each application in your home. Yes, polyester may be soft and colorful, but it may be best to keep it in the bedrooms and use durable fibers, like nylon and wool (which is expensive), in the high trafficked areas of your home. |
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A Weekend Lost
You work hard all week and look forward to the weekend, a time to relax and enjoy family and friends (but you still have to mow the grass!) You work hard all week and look forward to the weekend, a time to relax and enjoy family and friends (but you still have to mow the grass!) But, sometime during the week, you look down. You aren’t happy with the condition of the carpet. So you make a decision to rent a do-it-yourself carpet cleaning machine from your local grocery store. That’s right… you are going to clean your own carpet. Your goal this weekend is to create a nice, fresh and clean carpet and enjoy a healthier home. Friday evening arrives. Off you go to your grocery store and you find yourself in front of a bunch of do-it-yourself cleaning machines and the various cleaning solutions available. There are products to put on the carpet before you clean it. There are products to put in the machine with the water. There are other types of products for all kinds of spots and stains. Still others for pet odors. You aren’t sure which ones you will need, so you grab a selection of them and take them to the front of the store to pay. At the register, while paying for the daily rental of the carpet cleaning machine, you discover the cost of all those cleaning products is about what you spend on food for the family for an entire week. But you aren’t deterred! You are going to clean your carpet. Nothing will stop you. So you go home with all your cleaning stuff and get started. It takes all your Saturday and, sad to say, part of your Sunday as well. It’s backbreaking work. You had no idea what sweating was really like. Yet… it looks pretty good when you are done. The bad part is it takes a few days to dry and you yell at the kids to not walk on the carpet. Maybe you thought they could float over it? Within two weeks, though, the carpet starts to look worse than before it was cleaned. Uh oh… what happened? You didn’t call your carpet cleaning pro! You know, those who have the training and the very best equipment and cleaning solutions to get the job done right. Don’t ruin another weekend. Do the smart thing and hire a professional to do what he does best: Clean your carpet. |
Fabric Protection that Really Works
DID YOU KNOW that one of the best ‘feel good’ experiences you can enjoy is having freshly-cleaned carpet or furniture? And one of the most frustrating experiences you won’t enjoy is when, within just a few days, something like red wine, coffee or tea is spilled on that freshly-cleaned carpet or furniture. This is not good! So you feverishly apply all kinds of household cleaning products and scrub in desperation. That spot does look a little better but it is still there. You have an important appointment so you give up. When coming home a few hours later… it has grown! (This is another mystery and you might want to ask your carpet cleaning pro why this happens.) All of this drama could have been avoided if you had asked for fabric protection when you had your carpet or furniture cleaned. You know, like Scotchgard or Teflon or some of the other products available to consumers. Yes, fabric protection does cost a little bit more but… it’s worth it! How does it work? Fabric protection is quite a mystery to many, but basically what it does is act as a kind of invisible shield that repels most substances that are spilled. You might compare this to waxing a car. You are providing protection to your paint job by applying an invisible shield, and you know it is working because you can see water beading up on the surface. Carpet and furniture fabrics need the same type of protection. Besides the obvious immediate benefit of cleaning up fresh spills, you can rest assured that a protected carpet or piece of furniture is going to last longer because when something is clean, it performs better and increases the lifetime of the fabric. This doesn’t mean you can skip regular cleaning. Anything that is dirty will wear out prematurely. Fabric protection enhances a good cleaning. It’s an added step that you want for your carpet and furniture in your home. So you want peace of mind? The next time you have your carpet or furniture cleaned, ask for protection. You will like it… and so will your carpet and furniture. |
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Dust Mites and You
No matter who you are, no matter where you live, you never sleep alone. But don’t panic…those sleeping with you are somewhat peaceful. And not really that noticeable, until the “Welcome” sign goes up and they start inviting a bunch of guests over. Once the invitation goes out, there can be millions that end up in one mattress alone! Yes, we are speaking of dust mites, those super-tiny eight-legged creatures that live in every house and take up residence in virtually every pillow, mattress and other comfortable abodes in the world. Commonly called the “house dust mite,” (there are a couple of different types known to inhabit various parts of the world) this little creature feeds on flakes of shed human and animal skin and known to be a cause of asthma and allergic reactions. Dust mite feces contain a powerful digestive enzyme that causes all kinds of breathing problems — if there are enough of the creatures in your home. Some people are highly sensitive to dust mites, while others never have a reaction. What can you do? First of all, like we already said, don’t panic. Dust mites are everywhere, and there’s nothing you can do about that. What you can do is keep things clean. Dust mites reproduce quickly in mattresses, beddings, pillows and other areas because these absorbent items take up moisture, such as saliva, perspiration and blood, from body contact. Dust mites prefer those warm, moist environments created by sleeping bodies. Besides moisture, they need food. Dust mites are like any living creature. They need to eat. The skin flakes, dander and other protein sources are food for dust mites, so regular vacuuming is smart, especially using one with HEPA filtering. And running an air cleaner in your home with HEPA filtering will help, too. Professional cleaning is a good investment for your home. Deep cleaning all fabrics on a regular basis means you are taking food away from these unwanted tenants. Logically, this equates to fewer dust mites coming over to party at your house. So be a smart homeowner. Keep things clean and keep some of the pests away! Call your cleaning pro today. |
How Long to Dry?
DID YOU KNOW that when you have your carpet professionally cleaned it can take as little as one hour to dry — and, according to some reports, as long as THREE DAYS to dry? According to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC, the certifying body for professional carpet cleaners, carpet should take about six to eight hours to dry, and never longer than 24 hours to dry because after that amount of time, microbial growth (like mold and mildew) can begin to grow. No one wants that! This is why you need a complete carpet cleaning system that guarantees your carpet is dry fast. How fast? It depends on the carpet type you have and also the weather conditions the day you have your carpet cleaned. Sad to say, some experience really long drying times when they have their carpet cleaned. Who knows why this happens, except that it never should happen! One thing is for sure, having your carpet cleaned should be a pleasant experience and after it is clean, you should be able to get back onto the carpet and back to a normal family routine quickly. Some companies don’t have the powerful cleaning machines necessary for doing the best work, and some don’t have the training they should. When you have your carpet cleaned, or your furniture or hard floors like wood, granite, marble and all the different surfaces you may have, you deserve complete satisfaction and the best cleaning you will ever see. Remember: Clean and dry – that’s the goal! |
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Your Rug Deserves Some Pampering
DID YOU KNOW that a valuable area rug in your home is virtually crying out for some comfort? When people start installing more hard floors in homes, the first thing many of them do is cover those floors with soft area rugs. Some of these rugs cost thousands of dollars, and they need their own special protection. A rug pad designed and sized specially for your area rug (or rugs, if you are fortunate enough to have several in your home) is the protection they need and deserve. Why go with a quality rug pad? Because they: 1. Add cushioning and comfort for you 2. Can add years to the life of a rug 3. Protects the flooring beneath the rug 4. Prevents the rug from slipping and you from falling! Besides a rug pad, your area rug needs regular cleaning. Don’t wait for your rug to cry out, “Please help!” It needs a pad of its own, right now. Give it the protection it needs, and enjoy that rug for many years to come. |
Guilty! (but it will be OK)
DID YOU KNOW that the devastation of spilling something like grape juice, Kool-Aid and other fruit drinks doesn’t have to be that… devastating? So you have kids, grandkids, or some other kids come over, and they want something to drink. They surely don’t want water from the tap. That’s pretty boring stuff. They want something fruity, sweet, and with lots of color. Like deep blues, or reds. You know, the stuff that can really stain a carpet or piece of furniture. And the inevitable occurs. The kids enjoy what you give them, but after all, they are kids. So something gets spilled. For some weird reason, this never happens on a hard, tile floor. It happens right on the carpet. What to do? Step #1 First of all, don’t panic. Gather your senses and realize this isn’t the end of the world. Step #2 Start blotting. You want to use white cotton or paper towels, with no print or dyes, and blot – blot – blot! Most of any spotting or staining substance will come right out because the towel you are using is more absorbent than the carpet the drink was spilled on. Step #3 It may be appropriate, with some coaching from your carpet cleaning pro, to do some spotting. Use a spotting product, like a mild neutral detergent spotter, recommended by your carpet pro. Apply a small amount to the spot and keep blotting. Never scrub. Scrubbing can damage the carpet fibers and you can’t fix that. Keep blotting. Step #4 Did we say keep blotting? Keep it up! You may need to apply more approved mild detergent spotter. One thing you do not want to do is apply too much moisture, as that gets into the backing of the carpet and into the padding, creating additional problems. Step #5 Once the spot is gone, it’s time to dry the carpet. How to do this? Keep blotting, of course! But also aim a fan on the spot and let the air current remove more moisture. Is the spot still there? It may be a stain, very tough to remove. It is definitely now time to call your carpet cleaning pro! Best case scenario When anything happens, like spilling grape juice, red wine, mustard or other tough-to-remove substances, call your carpet and furniture cleaning professional. He has what it takes to get the job done right the first time. Make that phone call especially for pet “accidents.” Your carpet cleaning pro knows exactly what you need to keep your home spot and stain free! |
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Commercial Facilities and Vacuums
Often under specified and misunderstood is a commercial office vacuuming program. If most of the soil in the carpet can be removed by vacuuming, whose responsibility is it to remove that soil? Should it be done by the outsourced carpet cleaner or the in-house facility provider? With what frequency should it be performed? What type of vacuum should be used? Professional cleaners have the information necessary to ensure optimum appearance and life of the carpet in a commercial building. The plain fact is that most buildings’ RFP (request for proposals) may include how often the carpet needs to be vacuumed, but little is stated or defined about how it is to be performed. If you are a facility manager in a commercial building, this is information that should be spelled out in advance. If fact, rarely do RFPs specify different CRI (Carpet & Rug Institute SOA Green Label Program) approved vacuums for different types of carpet or traffic areas in facilities. This is because little is known by the average property or facility manager about the difference between a backpack vacuum, counter rotational brush machines or beater bar vacuums. The problem with the vacuum cleaner is we trust it is being used properly. No, we’re not saying your facility is doing something wrong. We are merely pointing out the facts. Depending on traffic and the type of commercial building daily, weekly and monthly vacuuming using several different types of vacuum cleaners may be necessary. You might vacuum the cubical or offices less frequently than a high traffic area or an entrance area. We all know that proper vacuuming is important. Removing soil from your carpet improves indoor environmental air quality, protecting occupants from potential harmful contaminants. Specifying the proper vacuuming frequency and vacuum machine is very important to the success of your integrated carpet and building maintenance programs. Talk to your commercial cleaning professional. They have the answers you need! |
Cleaning Wool Carpet and Rug: Good News? Or Baaaad?
DID YOU KNOW that choosing a wool carpet or rug for your home is both good news… and sometimes bad? The good news is choosing wool, which is a high quality fiber but not really that popular because of the higher price, means your carpet or rug will last longer, look better and retain value. The bad news is choosing wool means you won’t see as much dirt on it, and so you may not vacuum or clean it that often — which means your nice, wool carpet or rug may prematurely wear out. Why is that? Most consumers base their cleaning frequencies on appearance. That can be dangerous for any carpet or rug, or any surface, for that matter. With wool, the physical makeup of the fiber has the characteristic of hiding dirt, especially those tiny, gritty particles that wear on the fibers. You might compare this to putting sand on a piece of Plexiglas and walking on it. The sand will act as an abrasive, damaging the surface. While wool fibers won’t damage as quickly as other fibers, such as nylon, polyester or olefin, any type of dirt or soil on them isn’t good news at all. What you should do is talk to a cleaning professional about cleaning based on frequency, not appearance. Get your cleaning scheduled on a regular basis, and remember that not every situation is the same. Your home may not need as frequent cleaning as another; that’s why a professional opinion is smart. Yes, wool is good… or baaaad… depending on how you treat it. |
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Carpet: It's Just Good for You
Everyone is concerned about better health. We shop for healthy foods. We take our vitamins. We visit our doctor on a regular basis. We drink filtered water. What we might not appreciate is the value of filtered air. How do you effectively filter the air in your home? You are right… changing the filters in your furnace system on a regular, scheduled basis. If you wait too long, you know it because the filter is just so darned dirty. It makes a mess when you change it. So you vow to do it more often, and maybe you even put it on your wall calendar so you don’t forget. You might even pick up a better quality filter, such as one that uses HEPA standards. But what about the biggest filter in your home? Wonder what it is? Just look down… if you have carpet, that’s the filter that often gets ignored. If you don’t have much carpet, odds are you have area rugs covering those hard floors. Those area rugs are filters, too. Carpet in a home is a protection for you, because it traps all kinds of allergens that can be the bane of asthma sufferers. Carpet is a filter and, like all filters, has to be either changed or cleaned. It’s not practical to change your carpet every year or so (heck, no one could afford that!) but you can — and should — have it cleaned. Remember, allergens are very light and float in the air, and are respiratory concerns, especially for allergy and asthma sufferers. Carpet helps to keep those particulates to a minimum. There are many documented studies about how homes and facilities, such as schools, are healthier because of carpet and regular cleaning schedules. So enjoy your carpet… and have it cleaned by your favorite carpet cleaning pro! |
How to Keep Dust Out!
It’s one of the most frustrating things… moving an item on a bookshelf only to see a clear outline of where something was sitting. Or how about moving a piece of furniture and discovering a herd of “dust bunnies” has taken up residence. Dust happens to everyone, even those who attempt to keep their homes spotless. While you can’t keep every last speck of dust out, you can greatly reduce the amount of dust that finds its way into your home. Here are just a few ways to create a healthier (and more dust-free) home. Run the HVAC While you may enjoy having open windows when the weather is nice, using your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is actually better for keeping dust out. As long as you make sure your filters are changed on a regular basis. Door mats While dust can become airborne, most soil comes into the home from shoes. Having quality door mats to catch the dirt means less build-up of soil and debris in the home, reducing dust particles as well. Leaving shoes on the door mats or at the door is another smart idea. Cleaning Yes, you clean on a regular basis, but some extra effort with the details will help keep the dust out. When dusting tables, desks, bookshelves and other surfaces, use microfiber cloths to better grab the dust. When sweeping the hard floors, follow up with a damp mopping. It will really grab the dust sticking to the floor. Be sure to vacuum not only the top of your area rugs, but also turn them over and vacuum the backs. And for your wall-to-wall carpet, vacuum several times a week, especially in high traffic areas and entryways. For cleaner homes, call your cleaning pro! |
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Tossing in the Towel
It happens all the time in a typical household. You grab a paper towel — or two, or three — to wipe up a mess when something is spilled. That’s what paper towels are for, right? But something else you might have experienced using paper towels is for polishing your nice granite countertop, rubbing and scrubbing but still seeing streaks on the surface. You keep going until you have exhausted not only your stock of paper towels, but your own energy as well. And what about the mirrors and windows in your home? Have you ever sprayed them with window cleaner and no matter how much you rubbed and scrubbed with a paper towel, you still saw those little swirly marks? Of course. Happens all the time! We have nothing against paper towels. We all use them and need them. But there is a better choice when it comes to cleaning many of the surfaces in your home. What’s that better choice? A “microfiber” cloth or towel, and it solves all kinds of cleaning challenges. Microfibers are amazing things. They are normally made from polyester, sometimes with other fibers added, and can be reused again and again and again with normal laundering. (Just don’t use fabric softener as that leaves a residue on the towel.) The word “micro” is key: Tiny filaments that act like thirsty grime-seeking sponges. Microfibers are soft and eagerly grab dirt, spills and more, leaving the surface sparkling clean. Those shiny surfaces in your home are perfect for microfibers. Bonus: Anyone who believes in cleaning “green” and recycling should consider using microfibers. They are environmentally a superior choice. You can purchase them from virtually any store that sells cleaning products. Try them out. So toss in the towel — the paper one, anyway. |
The Best Tech
DID YOU KNOW that one of the biggest decisions you will ever make involve whom you invite into your home? No, we aren’t speaking of dinner guests or your next son or daughter- in- law. Yes, they are important… but what we are speaking of is something you might do without giving it much thought. What is it? Inviting a service company into your home. You have to do it from time to time. But you need to be extra careful of whom you invite. Remember, this is your home, your private domain, and you want only the best. Sad to say, many service companies today are a disappointment when it comes to providing customers what they really need and want: Good, quality workmanship combined with top-notch customer service. Your choice in a carpet cleaner or water damage restoration pro should be the best choice. What should you expect when you hire a cleaning or restoration company to enter your home and do work for you? The Top Three 1. Quality work: When you call a company to do work for you, it is assumed they will do what they say they will do, such as clean the carpet, clean the tile and grout, or remove the water that flooded your basement. 2. On time: They say they will be there between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. but if they are there at 2 p.m., what does that do to your schedule? A reputable company will be on time and respect your own schedule. 3. Appearance: A quality cleaning and restoration company should look like professionals. Anyone coming into your home should make you feel comfortable. After all, if they can’t keep their trucks and technicians cleaned up, can you expect them to really clean up your home? After all, it is your home. When looking for the best in cleaning and restoration, remember you deserve the absolute best! Call a quality cleaning and restoration pro! |
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Man's Best Friend
DID YOU KNOW that man’s best friend can actually become your worst nightmare? That’s right. He’s cuddly, cute and you love him, but sometimes he has a problem with “accidents” and pretty soon, you start to notice the… ummm… odiferous situation. Besides the obvious occasional accident from Fido, his hair can also be an issue. Once he shakes a bit off, it goes into the carpet and furniture and sticks to it all and it can be quite a problem. Then you have the issue of “I want in. I want out. I want in.” You know it… Fido is always on the move and the constant going outside and then back inside brings in all kinds of dirt. What can you do about all this? 1. Clean messes up quickly. Once you discover an “accident,” it’s important to grab a few paper towels and blot up the mess before it sinks down into the padding of the carpet. A good enzyme deodorizer like you might get from the vet helps with lingering odors, but of course it’s best to have a professional carpet cleaner come over to handle these odor challenges. 2. A hairy situation can be tamed by brushing your dog often. Loose hair that’s about to go into the carpet and furniture can be easily pulled from Fido with a good grooming brush. And guess what? He probably likes the attention! 3. While you may not have the time to wipe off Fido’s muddy paws each time he wants back inside, it is a good idea to place mats inside and outside the door. When Fido want’s back inside, let him beg a little bit on the outside mat because some of that dirt is definitely going to come off. Do all of this and man’s best friend is going to be a dream to live with, not a nightmare! |
How to Take Care of Your Outdoor Grill
There’s nothing more enjoyable to food lovers everywhere than firing up the gas grill and creating some delicious meals, whether steaks, burgers, bratwursts or healthy home-grown vegetables. Keeping that gas grill in good shape is, therefore, paramount to happy outdoor barbecues and family gatherings. And here’s something we all know: Outdoor gas grills don’t clean or take care of themselves. It takes determination on your part to keep them working for you, meal after meal after meal. Here are a few easy steps to keeping your gas grill in good shape. Step 1: After cooking your favorite treat on the grill (after removing all the food to a platter, of course) keep the grill on. In fact, turn it up a bit, and let all the bits of meat and drippings burn to a crisp so after everything cools you can scrape them off the grill grate. If you don’t do this, the next time you fire up the grill means you will be dealing with the remnants of the previous meal. That’s not tasty. Step 2: Look underneath… no matter the quality of your grill, if you have a storage area for pans, spatulas and the propane tank, food drippings and debris can quickly create a problem. Clean out that storage area on a regular basis, keeping everything neat and ready for the next meal. Step 3: Don’t ignore the exterior of the grill. Washing the outside of the grill with warm, soapy water keeps grime from building up. Step 4: When not in use, keep everything covered up. Some feel that with warmer weather, they can leave the grill exposed to the elements. Hey, it’s meant to be outside, right? Yet keeping the grill under a quality grill cover can add years of life to your trusty outdoor cooking partner. Of course, with outdoor grilling comes greasy spills that can spot and stain your carpet. Nearly everyone has dropped a burger or a hot dog on the floor when bringing the food inside. Even worse is when your tasty treat is covered with mustard or ketchup. Do your carpet a favor and call your professional carpet cleaning company when that happens. |
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How to Remove Blood Spots from Carpet and Furniture
Blood spots on your carpet or on your furniture… what a terrible thing. Hopefully when it happens, it’s not from a very serious accident. But when it does happen, you must remove it quickly. Blood spots can be removed fairly easily if you get to it quick enough. Of course, if there is a fair amount of blood, more than just a few spots, it’s best not to do anything except call a pro. For a small amount of blood, though, you should be able to handle the task of removing the spot if you follow some simple, safe procedures.
Phew! That’s a lot of work. And it might do the trick, but it might not. You could set the blood and it could become a difficult stain if you aren’t careful. So if you don’t like to live dangerously and would rather play it safe… call your favorite carpet and furniture cleaning company. They know exactly what to do and they have the tools and cleaning solutions to do it right! |
Washing Your Dishes (like a pro!)
Washing dishes may seem like a pretty easy chore. But many skip a few steps, thinking they can just get it done quickly. Washing dishes is a task that no one really enjoys. Here are a few tips to consider to make it a little bit easier and also more effective.
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The Shower Dilemma
The job of your shower or bathtub is to keep you and your family clean… yet you might have noticed that the shower or bathtub themselves are in need of attention from time to time. The problem is a common one. You combine soap residue with hard water and the resulting challenge is a build-up on the walls of the shower, the fixtures and more. It can be an ugly, difficult-to-clean mess! Sometimes, the shower and bath seem to be dirtier than you… The solution is also a common one, pretty easy to accomplish, if you have the right tools. A somewhat misleading concoction some think works for cleaning shower stalls and bath fixtures is to mix vinegar with ammonia and add a few other ingredients. The problem with that is the vinegar and ammonia cancel each other out in regards to the acidity and alkalinity of the products. Remember that the “crud” on the tile and tub need acidity to remove them… thus the idea of using a vinegar or acidic solution. The solution? Create your own cleaning agent using vinegar, a drop of Dawn Dish Soap (or similar product) with super-hot water. You will need a trigger sprayer or small pump-up sprayer. Apply the home-made concoction liberally over all the areas that need to be cleaned. Allow at least 5 minutes of contact time (the more the better) and then rinse. You may need to repeat the application of the vinegar, dish soap and hot water. Using vinegar is safe. Don’t use a harsh acid (such as a rust removing product) in place of vinegar. The chemical reaction and resulting residue from using a strong acid can be harmful to your skin or the skin of your family. Don’t forget that a little elbow grease may be necessary to get the job done right. The soap scum and mineral deposits can be very tough to remove. But with the right amount of cleaning solutions along with your own scrubbing efforts, your shower dilemma will be over. Of course, for all your cleaning needs, from carpet to upholstery to tile floors and more, call your favorite cleaning pro! |
Bed Bug Myths Debunked
There’s virtually nothing more disconcerting than an infestation of the bed bug in homes… and in the past few years, bed bugs have been making a comeback. Yet just because you find a bed bug (or several) in your home doesn’t mean you aren’t keeping things clean. Contrary to popular opinion, bed bugs aren’t picky. If they get into your home, they are looking for one thing: Food. That means, unfortunately, you are on the menu. And when they take a bite out of you, the emotional impact can be severe. Bed bugs can be hard to find. Besides the tell-tale bites and itchy reactions, you have to go hunting to find their nesting ground. This can be in folds of blankets on your bed, in dresser drawers and in electrical outlets, just to mention a few. Bed bugs are sneaking critters. The good news is that when you travel, and you encounter what you think are bed bugs, it’s not automatic that they will ride home with you. As a precaution, keep your suitcase on a table and avoid putting clothes in dressers. If you are careful, you can keep those critters at bay. And when you arrive home, if there are any concerns about bed bugs hijacking in your suitcase, put your clothes in the washing machine and then in the dryer. This should take care of the pests. Of course, when in doubt, do what’s safe: Call a pest control expert! |
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The Basics of Spot Removal
It’s a good feeling. You have a beautiful home, you spend time keeping it in perfect shape, and your brand-new carpet is the icing on the cake. It’s soft, comfortable and clean. Then one day, you notice (gasp) a spot right in the middle of the living room. There’s no way you can live with that eyesore. It has got to go. What do you do? Here are a few tips to basic spot removal. Don’t forget that a spot can really be a stain, which needs professional attention. Identify Do your best to visually identify the spot. Some spots are easy; others are pretty tough. It’s not always possible to identify the spotting substance in the carpet. Yet, a little sleuthing on your part can get you close. Where is the spot? Is it near the dining room or where those in the family might eat? Odds are, it’s food related, and you might find success with a spotting solution for sticky residues. Is it in a bedroom? Could be cosmetic, shoe polish or other substance common to getting ready for the day, and you might find success with a dry solvent spotter. Apply product When you have figured out as best you can the type of spot you have, choose a reputable product for that particular spot. Some of the best spotting solutions can be obtained from your carpet cleaning company. Ask them what they recommend. Blot Next comes removal. Carefully blot the spot. Do not scrub. You will damage the tips of the fibers and there’s nothing short of replacement to fix that. Keep applying and blotting product until the spot is gone. Remember, if you do your own spot removal, there is some danger of removing original fabric color and causing other damage. Take your time and do it right. Pretesting fiber and solution compatibility is always recommended. And when in doubt (or when a spot stumps you) always do the very best thing: Call your cleaning professional right away! |
Taking On Holiday Stains
It’s that time of year when you start planning for family and friends to visit and, since you are hospitable, you start thinking of all the delicious meals, snacks and beverages you will serve them when they arrive. Despite the very best attempts of you and your guests to keep things on the plate, in the bowl, in the glass and on the spoon or fork, the inevitable happens: Food or drinks spill, and for some reason they always spill on the carpet. Usually white carpet. There is no need to panic, but there is a need to gather your thoughts, keep your cool and not overreact to the situation. That is difficult when you witness a full glass of merlot splashing onto your white, wool rug in the middle of the living room. Your first reaction might be to grab a random cleaning product from the collection underneath the kitchen sink. This can be a mistake. Some consumers have been known to use window cleaner, bathroom tile cleaners and other products on carpet. Instead, keep things simple. Use these three, easy-to-remember procedures: 1. Scrape and Blot: If the spill is food related, scrape up as much as you can. Then, using white, disposable paper towels or white, washable cotton towels, start blotting up the spill. Keep at it until the area you are working on is fairly dry and you have removed as much of the spot as you can. Then… 2. Add product: Using a flip-top or trigger sprayer application, apply small amounts of a product manufactured specifically for carpet fibers. The best products for this can be obtained from your carpet and furniture cleaning company. Blot in between applications, and when the spot is gone, use a little warm water to help remove the cleaning residue, blotting as you do so. Then… 3. Blot some more: When the job is complete, and you are happy with the results, blot until all moisture seems to be removed and then leave a white, absorbent towel on the spot with a weight on the towel, so any remaining moisture wicks up into the towel. Leave the towel in place for several hours. But when the occasion occurs (and it will) and the spot just won’t come out, stop your work to avoid damage to the color texture of the carpet and “setting” of the spot or stain. Quickly call your carpet and furniture cleaning specialist. |
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Detergents, Soaps and More
When it comes to your home, you usually have two prime, important goals in mind: Keep your home clean and keep your home healthy. Family is important to you. To do that, it takes a lot of thought. Not about your cleaning technique… but about the products you choose to do the cleaning. When you wander the cleaning supply aisle at your favorite department or big-box store, the options are endless. The list of ingredients is long and the descriptive words are confusing. While a scientist working in a laboratory knows what those ingredients are, it’s not your fault that they mystify you. What do you really need to know? The basics. Here they are. Detergent versus Soap Most of the products you use are “detergents” — in that they are man-made or synthetic. They clean great, and usually don’t leave a sticky residue. Soap, on the other hand, is natural, clean great as well, yet can leave a sticky residue if not rinsed off completely. Choose either one, but keep in mind the residue issue. You don’t want to clean a surface and then have the sunlight shine on it and show you a white, sticky residue. Surfactants This weird word you might have heard of is the active cleaning agent. It stands for “surface active agent” and in layman’s terms it “makes water wetter.” Think of a waxed surface. The water beads up. Yet if you add a little dish detergent, which has surfactants, the water spreads out. Surfactants allow water to penetrate surfaces, which is how we clean. pH pH can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. It is simply a measurement of alkalinity and acidity. Consider a lemon. It’s acidic. So is coffee, tea and most foods. Most of your cleaning products are going to be alkaline, the opposite of acidic. When you have an upset stomach, you reach for an antacid, because the alkalinity in the antacid will counteract the acid that is upsetting your stomach. Cleaning is like that, balancing pH, in addition to using surfactants so water can do its job. But the bottom line when it comes to choosing products? Choose a reputable brand. One that has good consumer reviews. And when you really want to know what’s best for your home when it comes to cleaning… contact your favorite cleaning company. They have the intel. |
Mattress Matters
Thinking about the care and cleaning of a mattress may not be on everyone’s minds, but when you consider you spend six, eight or even more hours with it every day… you should take good care of it. Some people notice that over time, perhaps just a year or two, they suffer more from allergies and other conditions. It is possible an unclean mattress could be the culprit. This is not saying there are issues with anyone’s hygiene. Mattresses are like any other surface and they need regular cleaning — yet when you cover them up with clean sheets on a regular basis, not many give it much thought. Dust mites (which are in every bed), their fecal matter, dead skin cells and more all add up over time and can cause a host of health issues. There are many steps you can take to keep your mattress clean and healthy:
Those are pretty basic steps, but ask yourself… “Am I doing them?” If not, start now. You will have a healthier sleeping environment that not only gives you peace of mind, but also relief from some allergic reactions and other issues that you may have been suffering from but didn’t know the source. Don’t forget, there are professional service companies that can periodically give your mattress a deep cleaning. Just as with all your carpet cleaning and furniture cleaning needs, call your favorite professional cleaning company to care for your mattress. And then you can do what everyone wants: Get a good night’s sleep! |
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Clogged Drain Dramas
It sits in the center of every sink, at the end of every bathtub, and could be anywhere at the bottom of a shower stall… that’s right. You see them all the time. Drains that faithfully work to take away soapy water, food waste and more. So when they slow down or even quit working entirely, it is very frustrating and annoying. Your first inclination is to grab a plunger, which might work but more than often… it doesn’t work at all. But you have to try! Sometimes, a connecting drain to the plugged one allows air to escape and the plunging action is worthless. You can plug the second drain with a towel or cloth, and that might help with the plunging action. If typical plunging doesn’t work, consider these steps to enable a drain to do what it’s supposed to do. Step 1 The drain could be plugged with something that could be melted, dissolved or moved by super-hot water. Boil an entire pot of water and (very carefully so you don’t get burned) pour it into the drain. It might be enough to clear the drain. Step 2 Often, protein matter, such as hair, plugs up drains, especially in sinks, tubs and showers in bathrooms. Carefully pouring chlorine bleach into the drain, enough to fill the drain, and then allow the solution to work on the hair will work. Chlorine bleach is very inexpensive but very powerful. It will eat its way through a drain blocked with hair and clear it out so it drains effectively. Step 3 It’s time to get physical. Unclogging a drain with an auger, also known as a “snake” will move what’s stuck. You can purchase a tool like this at your local hardware store. Carefully insert the end of the snake into the drain and push and pull until you move the blockage or can pull it out. You can do this from the drain itself or from the pipe below if accessible. Sometimes a clogged drain creates a big mess. When that happens, and for all your cleaning needs, call your cleaning pros for help. |
Closet Cleaning & Organizing
Although traditionally a spring cleaning chore, cleaning and organizing a closet can be done any time of year. And no, keeping the door shut isn’t the best solution to a messy, disorganized closet, although it may give you moments of sanity that quickly disappear when you venture inside for that favorite pair of pants you haven’t seen in months. Here are a few quick tips on cleaning and organizing your closet.
Closets are very important real estate. Take advantage of them and keep them all neat, clean and organized. Imagine… going into a closet that doesn’t scare you as you select your favorite sweater to ward off a cold evening chill. Nice thought, right? |
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Avoiding Wood Deck Woes
Wood decks can be beautiful things, add value and enjoyment to your home. Unless they are ignored or neglected, of course. Like any surface in your home, a wood deck needs some special care. While a lower-cost alternative to pavers, concrete and other hard surface materials, wood decks are very attractive, especially if you chose a color tone that matches your home and is one you enjoy. But after a year or two, aging happens and dirt and grime accumulates. Stains as well. You start to wonder what you can do to bring back to life the deck you admired so much. You can do quite a bit, actually. Just take a few minutes out of your busy schedule and put to practice these short, easy steps to revitalize your deck. Wood deck maintenance tips The first smart action to take is to keep the deck as clean as possible at all times. Sweep or wash it off with a garden hose on a regular schedule. Debris left on the deck can cause uneven weathering and staining. When you do wash the deck, let it dry and inspect it. If there are stains, use an oxidizing cleaning product that comes in powder form that you mix with warm water. Do not use chlorine bleach. Apply the solution to the deck and work it over the surface with a brush, allow approximately 15 minutes of contact time, and rinse it all off. The oxidizing cleaning product is similar to what you find in laundry detergents, so it is fairly safe to use. Do NOT use chlorine bleach! If that doesn’t do the trick, visit your favorite hardware store and ask about stronger wood cleaning products, but be sure to mention the type of wood your deck is made from. That may affect the type of product you should use. Follow the directions carefully. Of course, your cleaning pros have the best advice on how to clean virtually any surface. Do the smart thing and give them a call! |
How to Remove Deodorant Stains
It can be very embarrassing, especially if it happens at a business meeting or social event. When it does happen, you may wish you could crawl into a hole. What are we talking about? When you raise your arm for something and show off an unsightly deodorant stain on your shirt, blouse or other item of clothing. You know people notice because their eyes are drawn right to your armpit, and there is never a hole close enough to crawl in to. This type of stain builds up over time. When you perspire, some of the deodorant transfers to your clothing and each time you do the laundry, some of it sticks. However, removing deodorant stains can be accomplished with a few simple steps. Plan ahead Before putting your clothes in the laundry basket, spray or rub areas of concern liberally with a product designed for treating laundry spots and stains. Your regular laundering will be much more effective. Pre-treatments Before laundering the offending garments, fill a sink or, if you have a lot of clothes, a bathtub with hot water and add a small scoop of laundry detergent and mix it up until completely dissolved. Put the clothes in and let them soak for 30 minutes, and then launder them right away. Color-safe bleaches As you would do with pre-treating in a sink or tub, instead of using laundry detergent, add a scoop or two of a color-safe bleach, best known as OxyClean at your grocery store. Follow directions on the package and allow plenty of dwell time for this oxidizing bleach to work. Chlorine bleach This is a last-resort attempt to remove deodorant stains. Chlorine bleach, such as found under the name “Clorox” at your grocery store, is an oxidizer but very aggressive. Use with care. Follow directions on the bottle when you use this type of product either as a pre-treatment or in the washing machine. And when you need something cleaned you can’t do yourself, such as your carpet, tile and grout, furniture or other surfaces, don’t forget to call your cleaning pros. They know how to do it right! |
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Removing Rust from Driveways
While the flooring in a home is what many look at and judge cleanliness on, the same could be said for areas outside the home. Especially the driveway. A nice, clean and neat driveway, swept free of dust and debris, is noticed by everyone. So is one that has ugly rust stains. Especially when moisture has spread rust stains down the drive. If you have rust stains on your driveway, you might wonder… What causes them? Driveways are typically concrete or asphalt, neither of which should rust, right? Wrong! Rust can develop from residues, such as those deposited on your driveway from your vehicle, from lawn care products and more. Also, the construction of your driveway, especially if concrete, contributes to rust stains. The rebar in the concrete can be close to the surface and rust can develop. There could be particles in asphalt that will rust as well. No matter the cause, what you should be concerned with is prevention and, of course, removal of rust stains. Preventing them is difficult. Keeping everything clean is the first step, so rust doesn’t develop at all. Steps to removal For smaller rust stains, a little lemon juice or vinegar often does the trick. Apply when the affected areas are in the shade, or do it in the evening, because the sun will dry everything out too quickly. Work in the juice or vinegar with a brush. Rinse away any residues and reapply if you see some improvement. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to get more aggressive. Visit your local hardware store and purchase a rust stain removal product and follow the directions. Be sure to note any precautions such as respiratory and contact issues. And if that doesn’t work, it’s time to get really serious. At that same hardware store, you can purchase a stronger product, such as muriatic acid, and apply to the rust stains. But you must be very careful with strong acids as they can burn your skin and much worse. Also remember that stronger acids can damage the actual driveway material so be careful how you apply it and how long it dwells on the surface. Some have found that stronger acids negatively affect asphalt driveways. Be careful! What’s best? Calling your cleaning pros, who know all about rust stains and how to remove them. Do the right thing. Give them a ring |
Urine Odor Removal 101
Phew! What is that smell? You might have uttered those words a few times, and when it happens, it is often from pet urine in carpet or perhaps some clothing attacked by a baby or toddler. When left untreated, many problems can arise, the most noticeable being by the nose. With carpet and other surfaces in the home, one of the toughest chores in urine odor removal is the first one — finding the location of the odor. Following your sense of smell often helps, and keeping an eye on the offending pet(s) and tracking them to the source can also work. Professionals, like your favorite carpet cleaner, have special detection devices that locate exactly where urine contamination is located. Then you must clean and treat the area. A small spotting machine with water and a small amount of detergent can remove what’s in the carpet pile, but there’s really no way to get deep down in the backing or pad where some of the urine might have penetrated. That’s something only the pros can do. But getting to a urine spot while still damp and using lots of blotting with disposable towels is a great urine removal 101 tip. Once it dries, it becomes much more challenging. Remember this: If left untreated, especially if the pet continues its accident-prone activities, and urine builds up in carpet, it doesn’t really dry out. Urine crystalizes and a salt-like substance forms, which attracts moisture from the air. That’s why you notice urine odors in the summer more so than in the winter, because winter air is drier. What about clothing? If fresh, a normal laundering should suffice. You might want to wash separately from other garments. Wash with cold water if colorfastness is a concern, although hot water does clean better. But occasionally, urine odors can persist in clothing because of the age of the contamination or other factors. When this happens, a pre-soak is necessary. Fill a sink or tub (or use a bucket if the item will fit) and fill it up with hot water. Add ¼ cup of white vinegar per gallon of water that you are using. Soak the clothes for two hours. The vinegar, being acidic, will counteract the aging urine salts that have built up. Bottom line? Fresh urine contamination in carpet or clothing is easy to remove. Get to it quick. Blot the carpet, rinse with a spotting machine, but never apply products to the area because that can just make it worse. Don’t be tempted by those products on the shelf at your grocery store. For clothing, put it in the laundry right away. But if odors persist and urine contamination and related odors are ruining your day, it’s time to get some help. Don’t delay — call your cleaning experts today. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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Floor Cleaning Basics
Floors. You can’t avoid walking on them. You can’t avoid looking at them, either. The condition of your floors really affects the appearance of your entire home. When you have visitors, they notice…whether your floors are clean and tidy and in good condition, and if they are soiled and dirty and in need of repair. There are all types of flooring in homes today, from carpet and rugs to ceramic tile, luxury vinyl tile, natural stone, wood and more. It’s generally accepted by most that carpet and rugs are easy to care for, regarding routine maintenance. Regular vacuuming does the trick. As a basic rule, vacuum your heavy-use areas once per week per occupant. Yes, your pets count as occupants. That means if you have a family of five with a dog and a cat, you would vacuum every day. Not the entire house, so don’t panic, but perhaps the living room and any other common-use areas that are trafficked each day. The other rooms can be vacuumed perhaps twice per week. Ceramic tile is also easy to maintain. It needs swept and mopped frequently to avoid soil build-up. Use neutral cleaners and follow directions. If you notice any streaking after you clean, follow your normal cleaning with a clear water mopping and get it as dry as you can. Luxury vinyl tile, or LVT, can be cleaned like ceramic tile, but consider a two-bucket system. One with neutral detergent and another with clear water. Wood flooring is another matter. Be safe and obtain an approved wood cleaning product from the manufacturer, or you can inquire of your favorite cleaning service as to what you should use. After cleaning, you may need to do a light buffing with a soft cloth, especially high traffic areas. Wood is a bit more sensitive than other flooring types, but small surface scratches can often be buffed out. Larger scratches and damage might need to be professional repaired. There are other flooring types, of course, and each one will respond well to proper cleaning. Floor cleaning can be challenging, as well as hard work. Why not leave it to the pros and spend your valuable time doing something else you enjoy? Call your professional cleaning service today. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
Clean It — Don’t Cover It
Odors. They are everywhere. When pleasant, we might call them “scents.” When not-so-pleasant, we might call them malodors. Odors are caused by a variety of sources. Some odors are pleasant, welcoming, such as from a fresh-cut batch of flowers or a nice, home-cooked meal. Others are not pleasant, “malodorous,” such as from an unattended cat litter box or rotting garbage left too long in a trash bin. And when something is malodorous, you must do something about it. Sometimes, the urge is to just cover it up. That can be a very bad idea as odors just keep getting worse and worse and you eventually have a difficult situation to deal with. You want your home to be neat, clean, and odor-free, except for odors (scents) that you introduce because they are pleasant and welcoming, such as air fresheners, perfumes, scented candles, etc. A rule of thumb is this: When it is clean and dry, there should be no odors. Your carpet, furniture and other absorbent materials in your home, over time, become soiled and often collect odors. Normal “dusty” odors are part of life between cleaning, and routine chores keep them manageable. Yet odors from urine, feces, body perspiration, and other sources are offensive and must be removed. There are three principles to follow when it comes to keeping your home clean and odor-free. Remove the source When something is deposited, spilled, or has come into contact with a surface, the first step is to remove contamination. This means scraping, rinsing or otherwise removing any odor-causing sources. The sooner you do this, the easier the job will be. An example would be blotting and removing a fresh pet “accident”, as odors will quickly become worse over time. Clean affected areas Once the source is removed, there is still some contamination on the surface. A thorough cleaning is important to remove any residual matter that can cause odors. Using hot water is best, if the surface can handle higher temperatures. Some furniture fabrics are heat sensitive, for example. Deodorize and disinfect Now it’s time to use odor-removing products, such as an approved deodorizer and/or disinfectant. This should be the final step in odor removal. Follow manufacturer directions exactly, as using too little or too much product can be counter-productive. And never forget, your favorite cleaning professionals know how to clean and tackle tough odors. Let them do the dirty work. It pays to call a pro |
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Brighten Up Those Lights!
While most people concentrate on cleaning floors, counter and table tops, bathroom fixtures and often-used areas of the home, one surface can often be ignored. And it’s the brightest surface in the home! That’s right. Light fixtures. Many homeowners spend lots of time (and money) choosing the best fixture for each particular room. Some of them are subdued; others are extravagant. No matter which type you have, when a light shines on or shines through a surface, the dirt shows up and is often magnified. It can look worse than it really is. So take a minute… look up, and inspect your light fixtures. Do they need some attention? If so, here are some quick tips to handle those shiny surfaces. Of course, be sure to turn off the lights so the bulbs can cool, and it wouldn’t hurt to disconnect the power for some light fixtures. Dusting: A simple dusting and dry wiping of glass surfaces can do wonders. Using a duster or cloth treated with a product designed to attract dust helps transfer dust to the cloth. Washing: If the glass fixtures can be complete removed and separated from the electronic components of the light, you can wash them in a sink of hot, soapy water like any other glass object. Be sure when you do this that you carefully rinse the fixtures and dry them completely, holding them up to light to make sure you remove any streaking. Reinstalling: This is the opportunity to look for more dust and debris. Look for cobwebs, bugs, and other debris that might be on fixture surfaces separate from the glass. Again, be safe! Make sure the power is off to any fixture you work on. When everything is clean, neat, and tidy, turn on your lights. You will be amazed how great everything looks. Of course, when you have any cleaning questions or need in-home cleaning such as for your carpet, furniture, hard floors, and more, don’t forget: It pays to call a pro |
Breathe Easy with Better Indoor Air Quality
As you start reading this, do a quick exercise. Breathe in, really deep… go ahead, fill your lungs. Feels good, right? Taking a deep breath of air, especially outdoors after a thunderstorm or when the air is crisp and clean, smells and feels good. It’s refreshing. But taking a deep breath of air inside, such as in a home or commercial building, can be a different matter altogether. The air you breathe, you innocently assume, is clean and healthy. That may not always be the case, as reports of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) prove that not every indoor environment can be considered healthy. When indoor air quality is poor, there can be issues for many people, especially those who suffer from allergies, asthma, respiratory illnesses, among others. The list can be quite extensive. Poor indoor air quality doesn’t mean just “stuffy” air, the type that can build up in a home that doesn’t have sufficient air exchanges during the day. Although that can contribute to poor health for some individuals, what really causes health concerns is excessive dust, pet dander, pollen, mold, and other pollutants. While these pollutants are often indoors, they can also be outdoors, and you must recognize the affect they have on your health. For instance, you may decide to stay indoors when you hear of an outdoor poor air quality report on the news. What you can control, though, at least to some degree, is the indoor air quality in your home. What can you do? It’s simple. Keep things clean. Change your furnace and air conditioning filter on a regular basis, according to the manufacturer. Use a quality vacuum for your carpet and furniture and use it weekly, and more often if you have a busy household. Those hard floors? They need cleaned as well, as dust can easily build up and become airborne from those surfaces. When you dust surfaces, such as shelves or countertops, use a soft cloth that will hold the dust instead of pushing it off onto the floor. And, of course, have your carpet and furniture cleaned based on the recommendation of your favorite cleaning company. In fact, isn’t it time you had your carpet and furniture cleaned… right now? Do the best thing, make the call today. After all, it pays to call a pro |
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The Chewing Gum Dilemma
We’ve all had this happen. Walking along and enjoying the day and we notice a bit of stickiness underfoot. We stop, awkwardly lift the affected foot and inspect the bottom of our shoe. Yep, there it is. A glob of chewing gum. It has attached itself and has seemed to have taken up permanent residence underfoot. Getting a bit of gum on the bottom of our shoe may be a common occurrence and yes, it is a little gross as well, considering it spent many minutes in someone’s bacteria-ridden mouth. Hey, we all have bacteria! But the procedure for removal is easy, as you grab something to scrape it off and no doubt just go about your business, with the friction of the show hitting the ground eventually removing the residue. However, when gum gets into clothing or other fabric, that’s a different challenge. Removing gum when it is warm or room temperature is very challenging. Without special solvents that the professionals use, you might just make a mess of the chore. So you make the best of what you have. And that’s something cold. With gum in carpet or an area rug, use an ice cube in a small, zip-lock bag. Rub the ice cube on the gum until it starts to harden and when it seems hard enough, break the gum off the fibers. Just don’t force the issue as you could physically damage the fibers. If you are successful in removing most the gum, you now need to deal with the residue. A very small amount of dry solvent, such as rubbing alcohol, on a white cloth can help remove the residues. Contact your favorite carpet cleaner for complete advice and to avoid damage. For clothing or garments, you can be a little more aggressive. Put the affected item in a bag and stick it in the freezer for several hours until completely frozen. Immediately after removing the item from the freezer, break off the gum. Any remaining residue can be removed with typical laundry pre-treatment products and then, of course, put the item in the washing machine. Upon removal, before drying, make sure there is no remaining sticky residue. If there is, use a dry solvent on the spot and wash again. Sounds like a lot of work? It is. That’s why when you need anything cleaned, it pays to call a pr |
Hazardous Waste
Where’s is that trash can? You know where it is. It’s in the kitchen, the bathroom, the garage. Trash cans (or garbage bins) are everywhere because in our normal routine during the day we generate waste. A lot of waste. Most items we toss into the trash can are supposed to go there. Normal debris, paper items, leftover foods, among others. You know what we mean. Items like that paper filter full of coffee grounds that you just tossed a few minutes ago. However, there are some items that shouldn’t automatically go into the trash can. Things that can contribute to the global issue of “hazardous waste.” No, not the nuclear or radioactive type. The hazardous waste that we all generate and should dispose of properly. Common items that fall into this category are found throughout your home… in basements, under kitchen sinks, in the garage, in closets, and other places. These items can include cleaning products, paints, varnishes, automotive fluids, pesticides, batteries… even electronic items such as old computers that haven’t worked for years. A quick internet search shows a huge list of potential items you might toss in the trash can but should give second thought to doing so. Some leftover household products that can be considered hazardous waste contain corrosive, toxic, flammable or other reactive elements. You might have, in the past, just thrown them away, to get rid of them. That’s human nature. You figure the disposal company knows what to do. You are right. But they don’t know what’s in the bags you set out. This means you can help by being a smart consumer. Before throwing away items that could be potentially hazardous, think about how you can determine the best way of disposal. One way is to review labels on items you are throwing away. They should indicate the type of danger they pose and might even have disposal instructions. If the item recommends you wear gloves or eye protection, that’s a clue it could be hazardous waste. Another option is to ask your waste disposal or recycling company for instructions or perhaps contact information for appropriate local government agencies that can provide you with detailed information not only on what is common hazardous waste, but also on local disposal options, including locations you can use to take hazardous waste materials. One thing you can be sure of. Your favorite cleaning company uses only safe, effective cleaning products when in your home. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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Is Your Microwave… a Crud Collector?
It’s fast. It’s easy. It’s super convenient. Without it, some of us couldn’t survive in the kitchen. No way. Yes, the microwave oven is an indispensable appliance. The microwave oven is a modern invention. The first microwaves were around in the mid 1940s, but were mainly for restaurants and reheating food on airplanes. They were massive devices that had to be cooled continuously by water flow. By the 1950s they were introduced to homeowners and some did indeed purchase them, but they were approximately $12,000 in today’s dollars. The popularity along with more affordability began in the 1980s and microwaves as a common fixture in the kitchen is now here. Virtually everyone has one. If you don’t, you are in the minority. What all microwave users have in common is cleaning up the mess that inherently comes with using these handy ovens that can cook snacks or complete meals in seconds or minutes instead of hours. To ensure your microwave oven not only looks good but also operates efficiently, you must keep it clean. Here’s how. Scrape it As with any cleaning task, scraping up as much as you can before applying cleaning agents is smart. Food particles and residue that resulted from an “explosion” of food can easily be scraped away from the walls and ceiling of the inside of the oven. Spray it When you have scraped up as much as possible, use an appropriate cleaning solution and liberally spray the interior of the microwave. Give it some time for the solution to work, perhaps five minutes, and then wipe away the grime. But if there is a lot of grime, continue reading and do this… Steam it Fill a microwave-safe bowl about two-thirds full of water. Put it inside the microwave and heat it up on high for about three to five minutes, or until it is boiling. Don’t open the door! Let the bowl sit in there for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the steam to loosen up the grime. Then… Wipe it Spray the moist interior of the oven with more cleaning solution, and use paper towels to wipe all interior surfaces. Even the toughest grime should come off after all your prep work. Other dirty surfaces Microwave ovens aren’t the only grimy things that can be part of the modern household. When you need any of your surfaces cleaned, such as carpet, furniture, hard floors and more, call your favorite cleaning company. It pays to call a pro! |
How to Remove Hard Water Stains
Spots and stains, no matter where they land, are unsightly and ugly, and you work hard to remove them. A spot is easy to remove, as it is a deposit of substance that sits on top of a surface. Examples include chocolate, milk, or ketchup. A stain is a different challenge altogether, as it means the substance has penetrated or is strongly attached to a surface. Examples include mustard, curry, or Kool-Aid. Hard water stains are common occurrences, yet often challenging to remove. And if you don’t get to them quickly, they can become even tougher to tackle. What are they? Hard water stains, often called lime deposits, are basically limestone, calcium and magnesium, among other mineral substances. They all come from ground content. The more minerals in the ground, the harder the water. Certain areas of the country have more mineral content than others, and without a water softening system in a home or business, the result is a buildup of hard water stains anywhere water stands and dries, such as around sinks, underneath water fountains, and on bathroom floors. They can also be a problem in toilets and other receptacles that hold water. Mineral deposits can also affect appliances, such as coffee pots. If you have ever washed dishes, your car, or other shiny surfaces, and the water is hard, you can easily see the issue. White “scales” of minerals are a problem. How to remove them Obviously, the best way is prevention. Wiping up water from surfaces before it dries keeps water stains at bay. But when they do occur, you need to consider which type of cleaning product will react with the mineral stains. The most common mineral stain cleaning product is white vinegar, which is acidic. Since mineral stains are alkaline, like rust, an acid-based cleaning product is required. White vinegar is safe, easy-to-use, and effective for most mineral deposit issues. Use it as you would any cleaning product. Apply, allow a minute or two of contact time, and wipe away. But if the mineral deposit is heavy, and white vinegar doesn’t do the trick, then a formulated product from your department or hardware store is your next choice. These are stronger acid products and you must follow directions when using them. Applying them to certain surfaces can damage those surfaces so be sure to read the fine print. Always wear protective gloves and glasses, as skin and eye contact with any cleaning product can be hazardous. And, as you know, when you have cleaning questions or need professional cleaning services in your home, do the smart thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro |
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Clean Car Catharsis
There are so many things to clean up after a long, messy winter, and bringing your vehicle back to life is probably at the top of the list. Running it through a car wash occasionally helps keep the grime from building up on the exterior of your vehicle, but you want to give some attention to the entire car, inside and out. A clean car makes you feel really good. Until you encounter the next mud puddle, of course. So as you stand there looking at your really dirty car, the question that might be on your mind is, “Where do I start?” Outside It makes sense to washing the exterior completely, using a sudsing detergent and water. Mix up your solution in a bucket, using warm or hot water if possible, and apply the sudsy mix to the exterior and allow it a few minutes to soak. Then scrub with a soft sponge or cloth, and rinse. If your water is hard, you will need to hand dry after washing. The toughest part of cleaning the exterior of often the front of the vehicle, such as the bumper. Bugs, road tar, and other debris can build up and be really challenging to remove. Use your cloth vigorously, along with some dry solvent solution for the tar, but be very careful not to rub too hard or use too strong a solvent as that can damage paint. When the car is clean, consider a wax treatment, following manufacturer directions. The tires will need some special attention. A dishwashing sponge with a handle is a good tool to use to get in the tight areas in wheel hubcaps and other sections of the tire. Following cleaning, you can use a tire shine product to really make your car look sharp. Inside This is where cleaning gets rough. All those details in the car need cleaned. That’s why they call it “automobile detailing” after all. Start off with a thorough vacuuming of everything. The seats, carpet, nooks and crannies, under seats, between seats. You get the picture. A lot of stuff will be in there, and a vacuum with a crevice tool is the best way to reach debris. Lay out your car mats and vacuuming them with an upright vacuum, as that will break free and remove more dust. Mix up a sudsing detergent solution in a bucket, and using soft cloths, begin to clean all hard surfaces. You will need dry cloths as well, as you work through the vehicle. Some cotton swabs will work for reaching in smaller areas, such as air vents. After all that is done, it’s time to do the windows. Use lint-free cloths and window cleaner, and inspect with a flashlight to see if there are any streaks remaining. There’s more you can do, obviously, such as shampooing the fabric and cleaning any leather you may have. But these basic steps will get you started on your pathway to clean car catharsis. And remember, your favorite cleaning company knows all about how to clean any surface, including your car. Call them today. After all, it pays to call a pro |
Caring for the Commode
It’s no fun. It’s un-delightful. But someone must do it. Cleaning the commode — aka “the toilet” — is a task that must be done on a regular basis, because if you don’t do it… well, you know. Over time, grime can build up but also very-difficult-to-remove hard water, lime, and calcium deposits. Rust stains can also accumulate. And there is no “one way” to take care of each situation. Frequency of usage, the quality of your water, and other factors can dictate more frequent or less frequent cleaning. The first rule of thumb is clean based on appearance. Don’t wait until you notice the commode needs cleaned. Schedule it and clean it even when it doesn’t look like it needs it. This may be weekly or bi-weekly. But put it on your calendar to-do list. The first item you need is a good quality toilet cleaning brush. If your water quality is considered “hard”, purchase one that can provide some mild abrasion, such as a wire brush. This will help with the difficult task of removing mineral deposits. But don’t overdo it; you can scratch the surface of the commode, inside the bowl. Now you need a quality cleaning product. This is where you really need to consider your best options. A commercial-grade cleaning product is obviously the best choice, as it will handle most residential cleaning challenges with ease. There are no doubt some supply houses in your area that have these types of products, and most big-box stores also carry similar brands. If you neglect cleaning for a period of time, you will need one of these stronger products, usually a potent acid-based cleaner. If you keep your commode clean on a schedule, a milder household product should suffice. Choose a cleaning product that has a spout you can use inside the bowl, applying the product up high under the rim of the bowl. Grime and mineral deposits like to hide there. Apply your cleaning solution thoroughly, using your brush to agitate the surface inside the toilet, and allow a few minutes of contact time for the product to work. Then agitate again and flush. Inspect, re-clean if needed… and you should be happy with the results. As always, using cleaning products is partnered authomatically with a few warnings. Don’t allow it to contact your skin, so use gloves. And don’t forget the eye protection glasses or goggles. Safety first! Never forget, however, that the absolute best cleaning of your home, whether in the bathroom or the living room, from hard floors to carpet, and more, let your favorite cleaning company do the work. After all, it pays to call a pro |
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Cleaning the Air Conditioner
It’s summertime. And if it isn’t that hot yet, it will be really soon. If hot weather isn’t in the forecast right now, give it time… it will warm up. When hot weather strikes, most people work hard to be comfortable, and that means turning down the air in the home, using their trusty air conditioning system. For some, that means 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For others, 70. Others… like it even colder. It’s all about personal preference. But when your air conditioner doesn’t perform adequately, or even worse, stops completely, panic strikes as the heat and humidity increases. How can you avoid a sluggish or broken air conditioner? A few preventative maintenance steps can help tremendously. Keep it simple — and clean! Any part of your air conditioning unit, whether it is a portable window variety, mini-split, or central air, it’s important to keep all working parts, filters, everything clean of dust and debris. All this means is a regular inspection, perhaps twice a month, and taking steps to clean dirty areas. If your air conditioner is portable and has a water collection tank, empty it regularly. What comes in handy for removing dust and debris, especially from filters you can’t remove and aren’t washable, is a can of compressed air, such as you might use for your computer. But remember that when you blow dust off one surface, it will land on another. And, if you aren’t sure about filter location or any aspect of your AC unit, ask a professional and take notes so you can refer to them in the future. Call the pros As with any electronic and complex piece of equipment, there are limits to what you can do yourself. Consider calling a professional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning company come in annually and perform an inspection. These are usually very inexpensive and, if you ever need repair service, they will respond faster if you are a regular customer (usually). Once in a while, an air conditioning unit malfunctions or spills over, making a big mess. If that ever happens, it’s time to call your favorite cleaning company to take care of the issue. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
Cleaning Up ‘Accidents’
Our pets. We love them. No matter what. No matter if they hack up hairballs. No matter if they barf up their breakfast. No matter if they mistake the corner of the living room for the litter box or the grass patch outside. Dogs, cats, gerbils, hamsters, birds… the list goes on as to the types of pets that people have in their homes and subsequently treat like family. Or even better than family. With owning a pet comes responsibilities. Some obligatory, such as taking them to the vet for annual checkups. Others more of a necessity, such as cleaning up after they make a mess, from turning over the food dish to the previously mentioned hacking or barfing — or other issues that create a smelly, visible mess that must be dealt with. Pet accidents. They happen to every pet owner. And are they really “accidents” — as if the pet didn’t really mean to do it? That’s another story entirely. Here are a few basic steps to consider when cleaning up “accidents”. Scrape or wipe it up — all of it No matter the mess, whether tossed up tidbits from the food bowl to a hacked-up hairball to urine or feces in the carpet, the first order of business is to clean up excess residue. There’s no point to applying cleaning product or deodorizer to substance that you can remove with a few paper towels. Blot and blot… and blot some more Now is the time to get as much moisture (gross!) out of the carpet or off the flooring material, or even off furniture. Using white, absorbent paper or cloth towels, push down on the affected area. Do not scrub. The idea is to absorb as much contamination as you can. Apply product — and clean! The final step is to clean up all remaining residues from the surface. Always pretest colors and fabrics before adding cleaning products, although most surfaces are fairly durable and can handle mild cleaning agents. Get some ideas for the best products from your local carpet cleaning company. Control the amount applied with a flip-top bottle or adding the product to a white, absorbent paper or cloth towel. Work into the area and clean away the contamination. If you remove it when fresh, there should be no residual issues. Sounds easy, right? It’s not always this easy. When you have difficult cleaning challenges, do the right thing. Call your professional cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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A Clean Kitchen the Easy Way
Here’s an easy quiz for you: What’s the most popular room in your home? If you guessed “the bathroom” you wouldn’t be totally wrong, as it might be the most frequented room in the home. But hands-down, the kitchen is the most welcoming, most enticing room in your home, because of what happens there. Delicious food preparation, nice conversations, a general gathering place for family and friends. With that comes much usage and the need for cleaning. To make the unwanted task of cleaning a little easier, here are some simple maintenance tips that will save you time. Above the floor The sink, countertops, stove, cabinets and other areas above the floor get heavy use, and the residue can be sticky and challenging to remove. The most aggressive cleaning is probably in the sink, where grime can build up that isn’t always that apparent. Use cleanser and a sponge or cloth, apply the product and clean multiple times, rinsing often. It should actually squeak when you run your fingers over it. The other areas should be cleaned with an all-purpose, milder cleanser, misting it on and wiping it off with soft cloths. A final wiping with a cloth with warm water will remove any cleaning residues. You do this every day or so, and you will never notice a buildup of grime or dirt. The floor Sweep and mop on a schedule before it looks like it needs it. A dust mop might be OK, but a regular broom with soft bristles often picks up more debris. Hot water and a detergent for the type of flooring you have is recommended, but don’t overdo the concentration as it can leave streaks. Odds and ends Something often neglected are the drawers, especially those that hold small items like cooking utensils. Take a look at the drawer that holds your silverware, pull out some forks or spoons, and you will see bits of all kinds of food and debris hiding underneath. Every week, plan on cleaning just one drawer and they will all stay nice and neat. But when you need a complete, thorough cleaning and don’t want to tackle it yourself, call your professional cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro |
Fixing Those Irritating Dents
When you think of a dent, you might reflect on that small golf-ball sized one on the fender of your car, or the front or side of an appliance that got squashed when moving it in. But dents can happen to floors as well. You might be thinking of certain hard floors that can be damaged by falling objects. But it happens to carpet most often. “What? How can a carpet get dented?” you ask. Just move a heavy piece of furniture, and look where the legs were. That is a carpet dent, or indentation, and you might try to fluff up or pull up those carpet yarns that have lost their resiliency. They are stubborn, are squashed down into the backing of the carpet, even crushed into the carpet padding, and with fight off the most valiant efforts you put forth to resurrect them. Dent removal tips So you got ambitious last week, and moved your furniture around, and now you can see a few dents that just have to go. One of your options is to simply wait. In time, most carpet dents (and the squashed padding underneath them) will work their way back up. But this could take months, even a year, depending on the carpet fibers, as some are more resilient and can bounce back faster. One popular way to remove a carpet dent is to add moisture to the area, but slowly. Putting an ice cube in the dent can do the trick, but you have to help it along. Get a screwdriver, kitchen fork, or other sharp object and, as the ice melts and the fibers absorb some of the moisture, start working the carpet yarns back out and up and give them a gentle grooming. This should help remove most of the dent. When the carpet is dry, put your vacuum cleaner to work, using just the suction hose. Vigorously work the hose cuff over the dent and use the vacuum’s force to finish the job. Dent still there? Do the ice trick again; it might take a few attempts. If you still have carpet dent challenges, and can’t live with the issue, don’t despair. A thorough steam cleaning by your favorite carpet cleaner should finish the job. Give them a call and explain the issue. Their specialized equipment partnered with their expertise and years of experience have the power you don’t. After all, it pays to call a pro |
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The Nooks and Crannies
Your home has plenty of areas for dirt and grime to hide. Locating them may seem easy. Cleaning them effectively is something else. Most homeowners spend plenty of time sweeping, vacuuming, scrubbing, and cleaning areas that are obviously soiled and become soiled daily. There are areas that can really get gross in a short amount of time. Your bathroom “work stations” — also known as vanity cabinets — are prime locations for soil buildup. Let’s spend some time on how to tackle the chore of cleaning the bathroom vanity. One area of the home easy to ignore. After all, who looks in there besides the person searching out some face cream or hand lotion, among other items? The buildup of residues can wreak havoc over time. Think of hairspray that you use daily and that ends up on the top of the cabinet. It may be easy to clean when fresh but give it 10 or more applications and you have a “goo” that’s not giving up its tenacious hold on the counter. This isn’t to even mention toothpaste and other necessary items that get smeared on the same surface. Take some time each day — perhaps just a minute or so — to quickly wipe up any residues that land on the surface. Then, take some time each week — perhaps just five minutes or so — to open up any cabinet doors or mirrors that house storage behind them, remove all objects, and use a household cleaning solution to wipe down all surfaces. After a week, you will still be amazed at how much residue has built up in there. Imagine what could happen after a few months! And once a month, give your entire bathroom a close scrutiny and look for all those nooks and crannies that can be the host of soil. This could be behind the toilet, in the corners of shower stalls, where the soap resides on the bathtub edge. All these areas could use a good scrubbing each month, if not more frequently. And all this is besides the typical routine cleaning you no doubt give all your bathrooms. But when you need some real help, from your favorite cleaning service, do the right thing. Give them a call today. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
The Dreaded Litter Box
It’s part of the home that you try to hide. It’s one that you hope no one stumbles across and, of course, hope no one sniffs and notices it is there. If you have cats, you know exactly what we are talking about. If you have cats, you either train them to go outside (unlikely) or use the toilet (as seen on YouTube) — but most resort to the standard litter box for their feline friends to do their “business.” As much as you would like anyone else but you to take care of cleaning and maintaining the litter box, if you are the owner of the cat, it’s probably your job to do. Here are some simple tips to do it faster — and better — and keep things a little more sanitary as well. Keep it contained One thing most hate is when the cat (or cats) leave the litter box and bring those tiny litter particles with them, tracking them all over the home. Placing a cat litter mat under the cat box and some type of carpet remnant where the cats step out on helps reduce the amount of litter tracked through the home. Protect yourself Litter boxes are festering tubs of bacteria and other contaminants that need to stay right there in the box. But a cleaning must happen, usually every day, to keep the clumps from taking over and becoming difficult to scoop. Wear a proper pair of gloves, and even a dust mask, to keep yourself healthy and safe when doing the scoopin’. Fresh is best Besides daily scooping, adding some litter every few days is smart. When the litter gets low, add a little more to keep the litter box sufficiently full so your cats can easily cover over their “deposits”. You don’t want to give them any excuse to skip the litter box for a more convenience area to use, if you know what we mean. And each month, empty and completely wash the pan, and add fresh litter. The inevitable One thing that cats may do from time to time is “miss” the litter box, creating nasty odors, especially in carpet. That’s when you need some real help, from your favorite cleaning service. Do the right thing. Give them a call today. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
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How to Protect Your Tile Floors
No doubt in your home you have both carpet and hard floors, and probably a good bit of tile flooring. Tile floors are great because they are fairly easy to maintain, and if something is spilled, easy to clean. Some homeowners prefer tiles floors over other types because of their durability and longevity. While soft surfaces like carpet tend to show wear areas in just a few short years, tile floors are quite durable. Mistaken assumptions Tile floors, while easy to clean with simple cleaning steps, such as sweeping and mopping, are still subject to issues that take a little extra thought and effort when it comes to maintenance. One issue many have is with any grout lines in the floor. While tile is fairly non-porous, the grout is not. Light-colored grout lines can soak up spills and staining substances and be very difficult to clean. One way to prevent this from happening — although nothing is 100% foolproof — is to protect the grout. You can do this with a quality protective sealant, which you can obtain from the same store you purchased your tile flooring. Most big box stores carry quality grout protectant products. The time to apply this is when the tile floors are new or after they have been thoroughly cleaned, preferably by a professional cleaning service. With proper application of a quality grout sealant product, you have time to clean up spills before they soak in and stain the grout. Physical damage Everyone moves things around, such as their appliances, especially when it is time to do a thorough cleaning. When that happens, your tile floors are in danger! Sliding a heavy refrigerator or range can scratch and scrape tile floors, leaving unsightly marks. Unless the feet of your appliances are soft, such as coated with rubber, this is something to be aware of. When moving heavy appliances on tile floors, putting small squares of carpet — upside down — under the front legs will keep damage from happening. Then, as the appliance is pulled out, put squares of carpet under the back legs. If the squares of carpet aren’t visible just leave them there and you won’t have to worry about this issue in the future. As with any flooring issues you have, from tile floors to carpet, call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro |
Get Your Streak Off
Everyone loves cleaning their windows in their home. Right? Maybe not. But when you have to do it, it sure is easier if you have some window-cleaning best practices in mind. You may choose the very best window cleaning solution, the most lint-free cloths, but often you end up with streaks that just won’t seem to go away no matter how much you rub and buff. Here are some tips to ensure a complete window cleaning job — without those pesky streaks. Choose your solution You can, of course, purchase a quality window cleaning solution from your favorite grocery or department store. Another option is to make your own, using the power of vinegar. Vinegar is inexpensive and helps kill germs on contact. For spraying on windows, it’s non-toxic and safe (although sometimes a little smelly). Vinegar breaks down soils and films that cause streaking, so it’s one way to limit streaks after the cleaning is accomplished. But don’t use just vinegar; that’s too strong and unnecessary, and you need to boost the power of vinegar with other solutions. It’s best to mix your vinegar (1/3) with water (2/3) and add a tiny drop of dish detergent. This has a two-fold effect: You are getting a little more grease-cutting power, and you can better see the progress as you clean your windows. The cleaning process The traditional method of window cleaning is to spray the solution (either store-bought or home-made) onto the glass, and then wiping it off with paper towels. If you use paper towels, choose a high-quality brand that doesn’t leave lint. Even better would be lint-free cotton towels. Do the cleaning in two steps. The first is to apply a heavy amount of window cleaning solution to the glass and remove with the towels. Do it again with a light missing of solution and clean and polish until the window looks great. The first, heavier application removes virtually all the soil and film, and the second finishes it off nicely. It’s best, when working the towel on the glass, to use consistent circular motions or go in the same direction. When cleaning the opposite side, do the opposite of what you did on the original side. And don’t forget, for all your cleaning needs, from floors to furniture and more, do the right thing. Call your favorite cleaning company. After all, it pays to call a pro! |
Jeff Cross: Editorial Director of ISSA MEDIA and creator of Totally Booked University. Nationally recognized cleaning and restoration trainer. Scuba diver extraordinaire.
(740) 973-4236 |
Gary Arndts: Award winning copywriter. Cleaning and restoration SEO expert, DIY website trainer, author and creator of the Internet marketing service firm, BlueRaptor.
(765) 935-1127 |