All Type Cleaning Tips
-Dirty neck rings - around shirt or blouse collars can be removed by putting shampoo on them. Rub the shampoo in like you were washing your hair. Shampoo is specifically made to remove body oils. A cheap bottle of shampoo kept by the washing machine is handy for all kinds of stains in clothing. Don't forget this trick when you are traveling. Miami beach Maid 786-683-6089
Cleaning Scuff MarksUse 3 tbsp. Of TSP (trisodium phosphate) to a gallon of water to clean scuff marks or crayon marks off walls. TSP can be found in the paint department of a hardware store. Wear gloves and do not use on semi-gloss or gloss paint or wood surfaces.
Removing Blood from FurnitureUse hydrogen peroxide to remove blood from clothing or furniture. Rub gently.
Dusting TipUse paint brushes to dust cracks and hard to reach places in telephones, stereos, etc.
Make a ScheduleSet aside a regular short period of time each week for the family to straighten up the house. It teaches good habits to the kids and gives the family a project to do together. Everyone will feel better when the job is done, and might just look forward to the day when they know things are going to be neat and organized. 786-683-6089 call us
Listen to Books On Tape to Help You CleanHaving trouble finding time to read these days? You can rent great books on tape from the library to listen to while you're cleaning7and doing chores. It helps to pass the time, keeps you working a little longer and lets you catch up on those mysteries you've been wanting to read.
Removing Candle Wax from WallsCandle wax can be removed from walls or other surfaces with an iron and facial tissue. Set the tissue over the wax and gently iron. When the wax seeps through or the tissue begins to brown, apply a new tissue.
Cleaning ChromeClub soda or seltzer water will clean chrome.
Removing Blood StainsCorn starch can remove blood stains. Rinse the stain in cold water, then rub in moistened cornstarch. Place the item in the sun.
Removing GumGum can be removed using ice to harden and a dull knife to remove.
Removing Magic Marker InkHair spray will remove magic-marker ink from surfaces.
Cleaning Window ScreensNylon covered sponges are great for cleaning window screens.
Removing Smoke OdorPlace a bowl of vinegar out to absorb smoke odor.
Unstick That DoorCar wax applied to a sticking door will ease opening and closing.
Repairing Cigarette Burns in CarpetsCigarette burns in carpeting can be repaired by cutting the blackened fibers from the hole. Squeeze liquid glue into the hole and fill with fibers trimmed from carpet remnants.
Repairing Small Holes in Window ScreensClear nail polish will repair small holes in window screens.
Killing FliesHair spray will kill flies.
Window Painting TipNewspaper strips when wetted can be used around windows when painting, in place of masking tape. Remove strips before they dry out.
Drying Out Wet Magazines or BooksPlace paper towels on both sides of a wet page to absorb the moisture and prevent wrinkling.
Organizing Tips
Cleaning Scuff MarksUse 3 tbsp. Of TSP (trisodium phosphate) to a gallon of water to clean scuff marks or crayon marks off walls. TSP can be found in the paint department of a hardware store. Wear gloves and do not use on semi-gloss or gloss paint or wood surfaces.
Removing Blood from FurnitureUse hydrogen peroxide to remove blood from clothing or furniture. Rub gently.
Dusting TipUse paint brushes to dust cracks and hard to reach places in telephones, stereos, etc.
Make a ScheduleSet aside a regular short period of time each week for the family to straighten up the house. It teaches good habits to the kids and gives the family a project to do together. Everyone will feel better when the job is done, and might just look forward to the day when they know things are going to be neat and organized. 786-683-6089 call us
Listen to Books On Tape to Help You CleanHaving trouble finding time to read these days? You can rent great books on tape from the library to listen to while you're cleaning7and doing chores. It helps to pass the time, keeps you working a little longer and lets you catch up on those mysteries you've been wanting to read.
Removing Candle Wax from WallsCandle wax can be removed from walls or other surfaces with an iron and facial tissue. Set the tissue over the wax and gently iron. When the wax seeps through or the tissue begins to brown, apply a new tissue.
Cleaning ChromeClub soda or seltzer water will clean chrome.
Removing Blood StainsCorn starch can remove blood stains. Rinse the stain in cold water, then rub in moistened cornstarch. Place the item in the sun.
Removing GumGum can be removed using ice to harden and a dull knife to remove.
Removing Magic Marker InkHair spray will remove magic-marker ink from surfaces.
Cleaning Window ScreensNylon covered sponges are great for cleaning window screens.
Removing Smoke OdorPlace a bowl of vinegar out to absorb smoke odor.
Unstick That DoorCar wax applied to a sticking door will ease opening and closing.
Repairing Cigarette Burns in CarpetsCigarette burns in carpeting can be repaired by cutting the blackened fibers from the hole. Squeeze liquid glue into the hole and fill with fibers trimmed from carpet remnants.
Repairing Small Holes in Window ScreensClear nail polish will repair small holes in window screens.
Killing FliesHair spray will kill flies.
Window Painting TipNewspaper strips when wetted can be used around windows when painting, in place of masking tape. Remove strips before they dry out.
Drying Out Wet Magazines or BooksPlace paper towels on both sides of a wet page to absorb the moisture and prevent wrinkling.
Organizing Tips
- Add another shelf between the present one and the ceiling if you can and store things like seasonal shoes you don't need to get to often.
- Use the door - add hooks for belts, ties or shoe organizers.
- Keep shorter items such as shirts on one end of the closet to give more floor space.
- If space permits, add a bar beneath the present bar for shirts or folded slacks.
- Purchase the hanging plastic bags with small compartments for jewelry, stockings or other items that tend to get cluttered.
- Hang clothes by style (shirts, skirts, etc.) and color. They'll be much easier to find and to coordinate into outfits.
- Use shelf organizers to keep things neat up top.
- Get rid of clothes you haven't worn in over a year.786-683-6089 call us
- Take clothes you can't decide about and "put them away" for six months. If you haven't missed them, get rid of them.
- Put a small drawer unit in the closet to add more storage space. It can be an inexpensive one, even one of the sturdy cardboard type, since no one sees it.786-683-6089 call us
- Store out of season clothes in another location.
- Take a rainy afternoon to try on those clothes you can't seem to get rid of. Once you see them on, you'll be better able to decide about them.786-683-6089 call us
- Try to get over the sentimental attachment to things you'll never use. Your Aunt Mary isn't going to know you threw out the shirt she gave you ten years ago that you've never worn.
- Take clothes out of dry cleaner bags. Changes in humidity can cause yellowing.
- Put a light in the closet and leave it on for short periods of time in humid weather. Leaving it on too long can cause discoloration. Use a low-wattage bulb (40 or 60 watts.)
- Let clothes air out before re-hanging. Moisture from your body gets trapped in them when they get back in the closet and may cause mold growth.
- Don't let cedar chips touch your clothes as they may cause yellowing.
- Invest in good clothes hangers. Wire hangers leave marks on the clothes and don't give good support.
- Keep your shoes well-polished. They look better and last longer. Once every few months take them to have them professionally polished.
- Rotate shoes if possible. Shoes worn every day wear out much quicker.
- Let clothes air out before re-hanging them in the closet. This will keep them clean and fresh longer and save on dry-cleaning billOrganizing Your Tie RackOkay guys - admit it. Your tie rack is a mess. Take these simple steps to straighten it all out.
- Get two plastic bags - one for Discard and one for Donate.
- Lay all your ties out on the bed or floor.
- Discard ALL that are stained, torn or discolored.
- Donate ALL that: - Don't match any of your clothing- Are really out of style for good- You haven't worn in a year- Who knows? When you get through, you might be glad to get a tie for your next gift!
- Get three plastic bags - one for Discard, one for Donate and one for Repair.
- Untangle everything and group like objects together.
- Discard ALL the pieces that are broken beyond repair.
- Discard ALL single earrings.
- Put the pieces that you always wear in one spot.
- Put all the valuable or sentimental pieces in one spot.
- Be very critical of what is left. Donate what you know you'll never wear.
Organizing Photographs- Love those photos of all the family but just have too many lying around? Here's some tips for enjoying them more.
- Buy acid-free archival binders for your photos and have a few empty ones around all the time.
- Put photos into binders immediately. Once they get in a drawer, they most likely won't come out again.
- Make little notes about the occasion and the people for reminders in years to come. It makes for a much more interesting book when there's a story behind the picture.
- Add making scrapbooks to the things you do with your kids on a rainy day. You'll all be laughing till the sun comes out again.
- Buy photo books and fill them up for friends and relatives at gift time. With little added notes, it's a personal gift everyone will love.
- Removing Stickers
- If you remove as much of the sticker as possible, you can remove the rest with a little Ben Gay ointment and a blow dryer set on the low heat setting. Also works on carpet
- Other products that have been known to remove stickers include WD-40, Oops brand latex paint remover, De-Solve, fingernail polish remover, rubbing alcohol and even peanut butter!
- Puts kids' stuffed animals inside a pillow case, tie a knot in it and wash them in the washing machine.
- You can also freshen the animals by placing them in a paper sack with baking soda and shaking them up good.
- If the animal is stuffed with natural fibers it should not be immersed in water, but can be wiped off with a soapy cloth, followed by a clean wet cloth.
- Make sure the animal doesn't have torn seams before you put it in the washing machine.
- Look for plastic parts before tossing a stuffed animal in the dryer.
- Make sure the animal doesn't have a "sound box" or other mechanical parts before you put them in the washing machine and dryer.
- Put away half of your kids' toys and switch them around every few months. They'll have plenty to play with and their room will stay cleaner.
- Label boxes, baskets, milk crates, plastic tubs - anything they might store toys in - to teach them how to sort toys and keep them off the floor. Let the kids decorate the containers they use so they will be personal and fun.
- Set a short period of time each day or each week that kids have to straighten up their room. Make a game out of it with a timer and give rewards to all kids for jobs well done. It will become a good habit and they'll have fun.
- Get the kids to go through their toys periodically and pick out some things that they don't play with anymore. Pack them up and take them somewhere where there are kids who don't have enough toys.
- Put bookshelves in every available place where the kids can stack their toys, books, etc. Anything to keep the floor clean.
- Teach kids good cleaning habits by being neat and tidy yourself. Hanging up clothes and putting things away after you use them sets a good example.
- Assign specific chores to kids and set a limit on when the chore has to be done.
- Put hooks and pegs on the backs of room door and on the insides of closet doors for quick hangups when the kids come in.
- Let the kids do some "adult" clean up jobs. Sometimes loading the dishwasher or helping mom clean up after a baking session is fun, especially for smaller children and it teaches good habits.
- Let kids listen to whatever they want to while they are cleaning. A little noise will be worth a clean room!
- Assign each child a towel and make sure they hang it up every day. This saves unnecessary washing.
- Helpful Hints
- Always keep an all-purpose cleaner and a sponge in the guest bath so you can sneak away and clean up when unexpected company shows up.
- Keep a squeegee in the shower so everyone can wipe it down when they are done (this will help prevent mildew).
- Steam helps to loosen build-up so why not clean while you're in there?
- Disinfectant can be used on everything in the bath except the mirror.
- Don't forget doorknobs and switchplates.
Easy Bathroom CleaningClean after a steamy bath or shower. The walls, fixtures, etc., will be much easier to clean because the steam will have loosened the dirt.
Cleaning the Sink- For light stains, rub with a fresh cut lemon.
- For dark stains (like rust) rub with a paste of borax and lemon juice.
- To avoid bathtub rings, don't use oily bath preparations. Use a water softener if you live in a hard-water area. Rinse the tub immediately after bathing.
- If a ring does form, wipe it off with undiluted ammonia (wear rubber gloves) or a wet sponge generously sprinkled with baking soda. Rinse clean and wipe dry. For a more stubborn stain, scour with automatic dishwashing detergent or rub with a cloth dipped in vinegar.
Cleaning Toilet Bowl- Clean the toilet bowl while you're away by pouring in 1/4 cup bleach and leaving it until you return.
- Keep the toilet bowl ring-free by pouring a half-gallon of white vinegar in it once a month. Let it soak overnight before flushing.
- Don't use bleach if you're already using a tank-held cleaner that's released when the toilet is flushed. The two may react chemically.
- To avoid clogging and odors, pour one cup baking soda down the bowl weekly.
Small BathroomsIf you have a small bathroom or a tile entrance and don't have time to bother with a scrub bucket, just use an all purpose spray cleaner and a damp sponge for quick clean up.
MildewTo remove mildew from the corners of the tub, dip cotton balls in bleach and let them sit, when you finish cleaning the bath, remove cotton and rinse well. The mildew will be gone.
DisinfectantClean with a disinfectant to kill germs. Everything in the bathroom except the mirror can be cleaned this way in just 3 or 4 minutes a day. Keep cleaners in bath for a quick job when unexpected company drops by.
Shower TileRemove soap and hard water buildup on shower tile with tile cleaner. Then apply a good paste wax and buff with a dry cloth to deter future water spots.
Air FreshenerFor immediate air freshener in the bath, place a fabric softener sheet in the wastepaper basket or add a dab of fragrance on a light bulb. When the light is on, the heat releases the aroma.
Freshen DrainTo freshen drain, pour 1/4 to 1/2 box of baking soda down the drain, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Cover drain tightly for a few minutes and flush with cold water.
Shower Doors- Rub glass shower doors with a white vinegar-dampened sponge to remove soap residue.
- To clean shower track door, pour full strength vinegar into the track, let soak for a few minutes, then rinse.
- A coat of acrylic floor finish gives new shine to fiberglass shower doors and makes water spots disappear. Club soda will give new shine to your counter tops.
- Before hanging shower curtains, soak in salt water solutions to prevent mildew.
- To remove mildew, wash in hot soapy water, rub with lemon juice and let the shower curtain dry in the sun.
- For plastic curtains, clean with laundry pre-wash spray. Spray along the top, letting it run down to cover the curtain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off.
- Cleaning Rusty TileRust stains on tile can be removed with kerosene.
Cleaning Ceramic Tile- Before cleaning bathroom tiles, run the shower on hot for five minutes to steam the dirt loose.
- For stubborn stains, apply a paste of scouring powder and water and let sit for five minutes. Scrub with a nylon scrub pad, rinse and wipe dry.
- To keep the grout joints on tile countertops clean longer, wash with a solution of 1 to 2 tablespoons chlorine bleach in one quart of water. Dry thoroughly, then apply an acrylic sealer or three coats of lemon oil. Let dry one hour between coats.
- Remove mildew and make tiles sparkle by sponging with a solution of ammonia and water.
- Remove soot from fireplace tiles with a mixture of lemon juice and salt, then wash.
- If bathroom walls are dull, wash the tiles with a solution of vinegar and water. Polish with a towel.
- Has a tile come loose? For a quick fix, put a little piece of chewing gum on each corner, use a warm iron to press it back into place.
- Coffee StainsTo remove a coffee stain from fabric or a rug, try one of these methods:
- Dip a white cloth into a beaten egg yolk and rub the yolk into the stain. Then rinse with clear water.
- Work denatured alcohol into the stain, then rinse with water.
- Apply a solution of 1/2 teaspoon mild detergent in a pint of water. Blot with a white towel. If the stain remains, apply a 50-50 solution of water and white vinegar and blot.
Cleaning Vinyl FloorsMop with a mild detergent and wait awhile to allow it to penetrate the ground-in dirt.
Cleaning Safety TipDon't mix cleaning products like ammonia and bleach. They can be toxic.
Cleaning with Automatic-Dishwasher Detergent.Automatic-dishwasher detergent works well on refrigerators, stoves, floors, walls and glass.- Dissolve 1/4 cup in one gallon of very hot water.
- Wipe with a dry cloth afterward.
- Wear rubber gloves and test first to make sure that what you're cleaning is colorfast.
- Use the bartender's method for speedy stemware washing. Holding the base, pump the glass vigorously in very hot sudsy water, then quickly put it in hot clear water (cooler water may shatter it) Dry upside down on a cotton towel.
- For extra-shiny, streakless glasses, add a little vinegar or borax to the final rinse water.
- If glasses have hard-water stains, rub them with a scouring pad dipped in vinegar.
- Never use hot water, harsh soaps, ammonia or washing soda on silver or gold-rimmed glasses.
- A well-lathered shaving brush cleans deeply etched or hobnailed glass especially well.
- If eggs have dried on your patterned glass tableware, rub off the residue with a slice of lemon.
Garbage Disposal Tips- If you've ever switched on the garbage disposal instead of the kitchen light, mark the switch with a dab of red nail polish - anything to stop that grating noise.
- If your dishwasher drains through your garbage disposal, switch it on when the hot soapy water is running through is so it gets a good cleaning.
Heel MarksUse a pencil eraser on black heel marks.
Dishwasher Soap FilmRun a cup of white vinegar through the entire dishwashing cycle in an empty dishwasher to remove all soap film.
Refrigerator Odors- A little vanilla poured on a piece of cotton and placed in the refrigerator will eliminate odors.
- After cleaning the refrigerator add a dash of lemon extract to the rinse water for a fresh scent.
Handy Tie - Clean WindowsWash windows on a cloudy, but not rainy day. Working in direct sunlight causes streaks because the cleaning solution dries before you can wipe it off. This is the best time to vacuum the frames and sills. Cool, clear water is the choice of most professional window washers. If windows are very dirty you can add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vinegar per gallon of water. Use horizontal strokes on the inside and vertical on the outside so you know which side the streaks are on. for drying windows, a wad of crumpled newspaper works just as well as expensive paper towels. Wear rubber gloves to keep your hands free of ink.
CountertopsFirst remove everything. Then vacuum or dust off all crumbs. Then wet a white nylon backed sponge with dishwashing detergent solution and use the sponge side to go over the counter, including the backsplash. Let the solution set on the surface for a few minutes to soften hard droplets. Then, use the nylon side of the sponge as necessary to remove any stubborn stuff. Buff dry with a clean, lint free towel. If your countertops have lost their luster, try furniture polish or club soda to give a temporary shine to your kitchen.
Feeling the Urge to Clean?Look at each room and identify specific tasks. Make a list of cleaning priorities. Share the fun with family members.- Kitchen: wash and wax wood floors and mop vinyl floors. Clean out refrigerator and pantry. Change shelf-liners. Straighten junk drawer Wipe down cabinet.
- Bathroom: Use lint-free cloths or a squeegee to wash windows inside and out. Dust the sill. Vacuum the window well.
- Window Treatments: Vacuum draperies. Wash blinds. Replace heavy drapes with lightweight or sheer curtains.
- Furniture: Polish furniture, wash upholstery, vacuum between cushions. Clean behind and under sofas and cabinets.
- Closets: Give old clothes and furniture to charity. Vacuum floors. Dust shelves. Hang cedar blocks to freshen the areas.
Best Way to Tackle Cleaning- Always start at the top of the room and work your way down.
- Always clean top to bottom. When you dust, start at the top and work down.
- Take all your cleaning tools with you into each room to avoid unnecessary trips back and forth.
- Unplug the phone and the turn off the T.V.
- Eliminate clutter. An uncluttered home looks better than one that is dust-free but strewn with odds and ends.
- Clean as you go! It takes a lot less time to remove new dirt than old, and to clean and put away stuff as you use it, than to clean and store the pile-up you can accumulate.
- A house that smells fresh will give the impression of cleanliness. Leave baking soda on carpeting for the night to absorb musty odors, vacuum in the morning.
- Keep a big astro-turf mat on the porch to cut down on tracked in dirt.
- Keep a basket in the kitchen for the mail, newspaper, car keys to help with clutter.
- Keep a hamper in every bathroom.
- Make everyone in charge of making his or her own bed and picking up their stuff.
- Always pickup the T.V. room before bedtime and start the dishwasher.
- Prioritize, if your time is limited decided what is most important.
- Delegate, get the entire family involved.
- Make a checklist, when a job is completed, check it off - you'll feel as though you are really accomplishing something.
- Put a paste of water and cornstarch, cornmeal or talcum powder on fresh spots. Let dry and brush off.
- Cover fresh or dried stains with meat tenderizer and add cool water. After 15 to 30 minutes, sponge off with cool water.
- Fresh blood on leather? Dab on a little hydrogen peroxide. After it bubbles, wipe it off.
- If you get blood on fabric, quickly wet a long piece of white cotton thread with saliva and place it across the spot. The thread will absorb the blood.
Removing Heel MarksTake pencil eraser and rub them off.
Quick fix for shiny wood floors.Put a piece of waxed paper under your dust mop. Dirt will stick to the mop and the wax will shine your floors.
Cleaning Windows- If necessary, dust off the window and sill with a clean paintbrush. Excess dust and water can cause mud.
- Use a professional-type squeegee available for about $20 at a janitorial supply store. Forget the cheap brands you find at the grocery store. They are not as effective, and you have to replace the whole thing once you get a nick in the blade.
- Don't clean windows while they are in direct sunlight. Your cleaning solution will dry too fast.
- Dip a 100% cotton cleaning cloth in your solution. Wring out the excess and then wipe the window to loosen dirt.
- Grab your squeegee. Start each squeegee stroke in a dry spot. Wipe a strip with a cleaning cloth to get started.
- Squeegee in a pattern from top to bottom, or side to side. If you clean the outside and the inside, Work top to bottom on the inside and side to side on the outside. By doing this, you'll be able to identify which side any streaks left behind are on.
- Keep the squeegee blade dry by wiping it with a cleaning cloth after each stroke.
- Replace the blade when necessary. Even the smallest nick can cause streaking.Miami Beach maid 786-683-6089 call us
- Don't have a squeegee? Use newspaper for drying freshly washed windows. It's cheaper and leaves no lint behind.
Cleaning Window SillsTo remove spots rub the surface with rubbing alcohol.
Removing Tar SpotsUse paste wax to remove tar from floors. This works on shoes too.
Candle Wax- For spilled wax on carpets and upholstery, put a brown paper bag over the dried wax and run a hot iron over it. The bag will absorb the hot wax.
- Dried wax on wood floors can be removed by softening the wax with a hair dryer, then removing with paper towels. Wash spot down with a combination of vinegar and water.
Cleaning Combs and BrushesUse a combination of baking soda and hot water to clean hair brushes and combs.
Removing Deodorant Stains from WashablesSponge area with white vinegar. If stain remains, soak with denatured alcohol. Wash with detergent in hottest water safe for fabric.
Cleaning Glass Table Tops- Clean by rubbing with a little lemon juice, dry with paper towels and polish with newspaper for a sparkling table.
- Toothpaste will remove small scratches from glass.
Polishing Furniture- Carved furniture- dip old toothbrush into furniture polish and brush lightly.
- To remove polish build-up mix one cup water and one cup vinegar. Dip soft cloth in the mixture and wring out before wiping furniture. Dry immediately with another soft, dry cloth.
- Clean with the dust-brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
- Remove stains and dirt with mild soap and water. Don't let the tiles get too wet.
- To dust papered walls, tie a dustcloth over your broom and work from the top down.
- To remove pencil marks and other non-greasy spots from non-washable papers, use an art-gum eraser or a slice of fresh rye bread.
- To remove greasy spots, crayon marks and food stains, apply a paste of cleaning fluid and fuller's earth, cornstarch or whiting. Let dry and brush off. Repeat the treatment until the spot is gone.
- Wipe off fingerprints with a damp cloth, then sprinkle the moist area with fuller's earth. Let it dry and then brush it off.
- To prevent splash marks when you're washing baseboards or other woodwork, mask wallpaper with a wide ruler, venetian blind-slat or a piece of rigid plastic.
- When you save scraps of wallpaper for patching, tack them to a wall in the attic or closet. When you use them for repairs, they won't look so brand new.
- If the fabric is non-washable, gently scratch off the stain (which is made up of mineral deposits) with your fingernail. Still there? Hold the spot over a steaming teakettle until well-dampened. As it dries, rub the stain, working from its outer edges toward the center.
- Remove hard-water stains from glasses and bottles by rubbing them with steel wool dipped in vinegar.
- Cover hard-water stains on bathroom fixtures with a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Then drape with a terry clot towel and let stand for about an hour. Wipe off, rinse and dry.
Cleaning Miniblinds- Slip your hands into a pair of socks for cleaning the miniblinds. Dip one hand into a bucket of warm, soapy water and hold the blinds between your two hands. Rub back and forth until you've cleaned the whole surface. Then reverse sides so the dry sock dries the blinds.
- Wipe miniblinds with damp fabric softener sheets to eliminate static that collects dust. The same trick works for your T.V. screen.
- Take the blind down and take it outside.
- Lay it on an old blanket preferably on a slanted area of the yard.
- Let the blind out all the way and make sure all the louvers are flat.
- Mix up a bucket of all-purpose cleaner or ammonia solution.
- Scrub with a soft brush then turn it over to do the back side.
- By now the blanket is wet and is helping to clean the blind and protecting it.
- Hang the blind on a clothesline and hose it off.
- Gentle shaking will help it begin to drip dry.
DoorknobsAlways disinfect doorknobs, switchplates and telephones. They collect germs from everyone who touches them.
Clean MirrorsRemove hair spray from a mirror with a little rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth.
Linen ClosetsLinen closets can be a jumbled mess, especially when you have children making their own beds. Organize bed linens in sets. Fold flat sheet in half twice lengthwise, then fold fitted sheet the same way and lay it on top of the flat folded sheet. Add one or two pillow cases folded long ways and roll them all together into a neat roll. Whoever is making the bed can grab only a roll instead of rummaging around and making a mess.
Dusting TipSpray broom or dust mop with you favorite furniture polish and the dust and dirt will be easier to collect when you sweep.
Fresh CurtainsFreshen curtains in the dryer with a fabric softener sheet and a damp towel.
CobwebsIf you can't reach the cobwebs with your feather duster, use the detached vacuum wand as an extension.
AshtraysSpray furniture polish on hard to clean ashtrays. Ashes then dump out without sticking.
If You've Got Allergies- Air condition your home.
- Keep bathrooms free of mold and mildew.
- Avoid pets or restrict them to certain areas.
- Damp mop hard surfaces regularly.
- Enclose your fireplace.
- Fluff drapes and rugs in dryer to remove dust.
- Use your exhaust fans.
- Vacuum mattresses.
- Don't allow smoking in your home.
- Replace furnace filters frequently.
- Vacuum everything once a week.
- Invest in an ozone-free air cleaner.
Mix Your Own Cleaning Solutions- Ammonia, diluted with 3 parts water in an empty spray bottle can be used to clean windows, appliances and countertops. Full strength it can remove wax build-up from the kitchen floor.
- An excellent way to scour copper and brass is 1/2 cup vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon salt.
- Full strength pine oil is great for deodorizing garbage cans, and scrubbing the kitchen and bathroom floor.
- Baking soda can be used instead of scouring powder and also removes stains and odors from refrigerators and coffee pots.
- A sprinkle of dry baking soda before vacuuming will freshen the carpeting. Try it as a deodorizer for diaper pails and kitty litter.
- Wood FloorsIt's always a good idea to check with a flooring specialist for information on cleaning wood floors because certain treated flooring requires specific cleaning methods. However, one general wood-floor cleaner is a solution of 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar in 1 gallon of warm water. Use a soft cloth with most of the moisture squeezed. Get on your hands and knees and wipe the floor without getting it wet. Then buff with a soft dry cloth to bring out the luster.
Vinyl FloorsSweep and damp mop using a gallon of water and a dash of dishwashing detergent, regularly to keep abrasive soil off the surface. Scrub as needed with a white nylon backed sponge to loosen stubborn, ground in soil. Nothing cleans as well as doing it on your hands and knees when you have time. Even no-wax floors eventually need waxing, this will help to prevent further deterioration - CARPET CLEANING BASICS
Carpet is everywhere! People who understand carpet know that its immense success and consumer acceptance is not due to chance. Few construction materials offer the advantages that carpet does. Carpet is colorful, comfortable and yet easy to maintain. Even though it appears expensive, it is often the most economical choice for floor covering. Carpet and rugs found on the floors of residences and commercial buildings still represent a substantial investment. In light of this, is it not wise to maintain them correctly?
Like all textile materials, the beauty and life of a carpet depends largely on the care that it is given. Proper maintenance can add years of attractive life. Specific maintenance procedures for carpet are determined by where the carpet is installed. In general, proper maintenance involves regular vacuuming and periodic cleaning by methods such as hot water extraction, shampooing, bonnet cleaning, foam cleaning, etc.
Regular vacuuming is essential as it removes particulate soil that damages the fibers. Vacuuming maintains the surface appearance of a carpet and keeps the level of soil in the pile at an acceptable level. Vacuuming should be done at least once every two weeks, preferably once each week and even twice per week in soiled or heavily trafficked areas. It is important to use a well-maintained, good quality vacuum. Vacuuming removes only particulate soil and surface dirt; therefore, other methods of cleaning are periodically required to improve the appearance of the carpet. Wet cleaning methods are better for removing oils, greases and other forms of matter that cause soiling on carpet. These methods are mostly used by professional cleaners and trained personnel, but smaller, less powerful units, can also be rented for use by customers.
Brief Description of Carpet Cleaning Methods
It has been said that ignorance is bliss. Sometimes, maybe, but not always. Before having a carpet cleaned, you may find it helpful to understand some of the carpet cleaning methods. The best method for cleaning a particular carpet is dependent on a range of factors. All carpet cleaning methods offer various advantages, but also have some limitations. No single method is superior to all others. Properly performed under appropriate conditions, each method can provide satisfactory results. Often, several methods can be combined to achieve the desired results. The following are some of the more prevalent carpet cleaning methods. (Note: There is no significance to the order in which these techniques are presented.)
Hot Water Extraction or "Steam" Cleaning
In this method, hot water cleaning solution is sprayed on the carpet and immediately extracted (along with the dissolved soil) by a wet vacuum. Extraction equipment can be portable or truck-mounted, the latter being more powerful in terms of spray pressure, heating capabilities and power of the vacuum pumps. Hot water extraction is often referred to as "steam" cleaning. In actuality this is a misnomer as the temperature of the heated solution never reaches the point to generate steam.
Shampooing
In this process, the cleaning solution is showered onto the carpet through several openings in a circular brush. The rotary action of the brush whips the detergent into a foam and provides agitation or rubbing action on the carpet. This suspends the soil, and the wet/dry vacuuming that follows removes it.
Bonnet Cleaning
This method resembles the shampooing process described above. It employs a rotary floor machine on the bottom of which is attached a round absorbent pad (shag pad). The detergent is sprayed directly on the carpet. As the machine is operated, the shag pad rotates on the carpet. This removes the soil as it is absorbed on the shag pad. The shag pad can also be moistened with detergent. When one side of the pad becomes soiled, the pad is reversed until both sides are soiled, at which time it is replaced.
Foam Cleaning
This system uses detergent in the form of a foam. Machines are available that generate foam, which is agitated on the carpet by brushes. The foam is then removed, with trapped soil, by an extraction-vacuum pickup.
Dry (Absorbent Compound) Cleaning
In this process the cleaning agent, an absorbent dry compound (containing solvents and detergents) is sprinkled on the carpet and worked into the pile by a machine. It is vacuumed off after about half an hour, removing the soil suspended by the compound.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD CARPET BE CLEANED?
As explained earlier, vacuuming alone, although essential, cannot maintain the appearance of a carpet at an acceptable level for long. Depending on various factors, the appearance of any carpet will ultimately reach an unacceptable level. At that stage, cleaning is necessary by one of the methods mentioned above. The frequency of such cleaning will depend on a carpet's use conditions, soil conditions, fiber type, constructional specifications, color, etc. In general, residential carpet requires cleaning within one to one and one-half years; certainly before two years of use (and possible abuse).
When deciding to have a carpet cleaned, consumers have two basic choices:
1 clean the carpet themselves by D-I-Y (do it yourself) rental units or consumer products, or
2 have the carpet cleaned by a professional/specialist in cleaning and restoration.
Do-It-Yourself Cleaning
Like most decisions, the choice between having a carpet cleaned professionally and D-I-Y cleaning is based frequently on financial considerations. Electing to use a rental unit rather than a professional cleaner may be penny wise and pound foolish. Before deciding to do it yourself, several points should be considered.
Contrary to common belief, carpet cleaning is an intricate process. When spots, stains and traffic patterns have made carpet unsightly, cleaning by D-I-Y methods may not enhance the appearance to the desired level. Consumers in most cases have had little or no previous experience operating the machines. Therefore, there is a good possibility of misuse and/or overuse. Machines can be rented for D-I-Y cleaning that utilize one of the various methods already mentioned (shampooing, hot water extraction, dry absorbent compound, etc.). Shampooing machines, for example, leave some residue on the carpet. If the carpet is shampooed many times the residue can accumulate leading to various problems, such as severe foaming on later cleaning, stickiness etc.
Rental machines that use hot water extraction ("steam") cleaning are the most popular for residential use. Successful cleaning by these machines is largely dependent on the experience of the operator. Improper use can leave the carpet overly wet, causing possible backing delamination, odor from development of mold-mildew-fungi, cellulosic browning, color run, shrinkage, and other related problems. This can happen especially in areas of repeated, high volume use, or "traffic lanes". One or two passes of the cleaning wand may not be sufficient to enhance the appearance of such areas. Attempts to clean them over and over again can cause overwetting and its attendant problems.
D-I-Y cleaning by the dry-absorbent compound method will not cause such problems as overwetting, color run, shrinkage, etc. But it, too, can mean some headaches. If the final vacuuming operation is not thorough, some of the powder will be left in the carpet pile. With repeated cleanings, enough cleaning compound can accumulate to cause some discoloration by its own presence.
The obvious conclusion is that carpet cleaning by D-I-Y methods is not a substitute for professional cleaning. It can, at best, merely postpone the need or reduce the frequency of professional cleanings. Rental units lack adequate power, and consumers usually lack the expertise to succeed in properly maintaining carpet and prolonging its attractive life.
Selecting the Right Carpet Cleaner
Having established that professional carpet cleaning is essential for extending a carpet or rug's attractive life, the next question is how does one go about choosing the right person or firm to do the job?
There is no magical, single method for carpet cleaning. All methods have advantages as well as disadvantages. Moreover, different people can achieve different results while cleaning the same carpet with identical equipment. No method can compensate for an inept operator. Therefore, it is more important to select the right cleaner than the right cleaning method.
Not all cleaners are alike. In fact, the difference in the quality of service from one cleaner to another can be astounding. However, with so many claims, counterclaims and a diversion of equipment and technology available, how do you go about choosing the right person or firm? It can be difficult because there are so many choices available. There are a few guidelines to follow that can help you make the correct choice.
1 Affiliation with Professional Organizations
Carpet cleaning is an ever-changing field. Each year new cleaning systems, cleaning chemicals and extra services are introduced. Good professional cleaners keep abreast of such changes and constantly improve the services they offer. It's much like medicine. Would you like to be treated by a doctor who is not aware of the new medications and advancements in their field.
Affiliation with professional trade associations goes a long way.
2 Recommendations
Ask the cleaner for names of previous customers. Gauge how reluctant or eager they are in granting your request. Call the references and find out about their cleaning experience. Ask about the cleaner's appearance, their manner of presentation, the condition of their equipment, their ability to answer questions, etc. Find out if the overall cleaning experience was pleasant and if they would go back to the same firm.
3. Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Check with the local BBB to find out if any complaints are registered against the firm you are considering. If yes, how good and efficient was the firm's response to the complaint? Did they remedy the problem to the consumer's satisfaction?
4. Watch Out for the Low End
Misleading advertising and glib sales tactics leave cleaners who offer quality service at a disadvantage. Advertisements promising carpet cleaning at unbelievably low prices (like $5.95 a room; or two rooms for $10.95) are prevalent these days. If you think they are too good to be true, you are probably correct.
Have you been left with an overwet and still dirty carpet? Have you ended up paying several times more than what you thought you would be paying? If yes, then you have had firsthand experience with such cleaners.
Quality service requires investments and takes time. It is not possible to offer good service at ridiculously low prices. Do not fall victim to low pricing or Bait and Switch tactics.
5. You can Contribute to the Success of a Cleaning Job
Cleaning chemicals and procedures can be altered to fit the specific needs of the carpet being cleaned. Describe the use and conditions of the carpet and all previous home and professional cleanings to your professional cleaner. For example, if the carpet has been shampooed several times before, it is reasonable to expect the presence of some detergent residue. With this information, your cleaner may change the cleaning solution to compensate for this.
If your carpet has stains, point them out to the cleaning crew. Tell them how long the stains have been there and what may have caused them. Some spots and stains, such as those from bleaches, urine, mildew, etc., may be impossible to remove even by the most proficient cleaner. Knowing about them will prevent disappointments resulting from unrealistic expectations.
Do not remove furniture protectors placed under furniture legs until the carpet is completely dry. Mahogany, redwood and other kinds of wooden furniture can bleed color onto carpet. Metal legs may rust if placed on the floorcoverings that are still wet.
Remember, if properly selected, your cleaner is an expert professional, so follow care instructions he leaves behind after cleaning. In order to insure the best appearance retention of your carpet, we recommend that you follow these simple suggestions:
1. Circulate the air to speed up drying time. If possible, slightly open a window to let in fresh air.
2. Do not allow children or pets to crawl or walk on cleaned carpet for at least 24 hours- preferably longer - until carpet is thoroughly dry.
3. Do not walk on freshly cleaned carpet for at least 4 hours or more until dry to touch.
4. Do not remove aluminum or plastic pieces that have been placed under legs of furniture until carpet is absolutely dry.
5. Vacuum after carpet is dry and then vacuum on a regular basis.
Protect Your Investment
Carpet, rugs, upholstery, and draperies are probably among your most important possessions. Chances are you have spent a good deal of money acquiring them. Protect your investments. Take the time to find the right cleaner. You will be surprised at the number of problems that can develop from a poorly performed cleaning job. Even though choosing the right cleaner won't guarantee the complete absence of problems, it will greatly reduce the chances. Selecting a good cleaning firm will insure the highest level of satisfaction.
Cleaning Carpets- If spot is wet, blot it, don't rub. Rubbing spreads the soil.
- If spot is dry, loosen soil and vacuum away prior to moistening it.
- Always rinse cleaned area thoroughly. If not removed, cleaning products may cause the cleaned area to attract soil.
- When taking out stains, always use a white cloth.
- Clean spots and stains immediately. You will have much better chance of removing them.
- When using any cleaner, dilute according to direction. A mixture that is too potent may cause damage.
- Not every stain can be removed. Consult your ServiceMaster professional for cleaning options.
- Always pre-test the surface to be cleaned. Apply cleaning solution to an inconspicuous area of the same material. If, after five minutes, the material's color transfers to towel, try another product.
- Carpet shampoo is good to have on hand and is available at most hardware stores.
- A mild mineral spirit solution is useful for many household cleaning applications.
- For wax dropped on carpet or upholstery, set a clean, absorbent cloth over the wax stain and hold a hot iron on it. Lift cloth away and the wax should be removed with the cloth.
- Scrape off any solids. Blot up liquids quickly, dabbing lightly with a clean white towel or paper towel.
- To remove greasy stains, apply a nonflammable dry-cleaning agent to the spot with a white towel. Work from the edges toward the center. Don't scrub. Dab gently until the spot comes clean. Always pretest any cleaning agent on an inconspicuous part of the carpet and let it dry before continuing.
- Coat less stubborn greasy stains with aerosol shaving cream or carbonated water. Use a hair dryer to speed dry. Then vacuum.
- Sprinkle a greasy stain with baking soda, cornstarch, cornmeal, or talcum powder. Leave on at least 6 hours, then vacuum.
- To remove water-soluble stains, apply some detergent solution (1 1/2 teaspoon mild detergent per pint of water), working from the edges to the center of the stain. Place several layers of white tissues or paper towels over the spot and weight down with books or pots and pans. Let stand about one hour. Replace with fresh tissues or towels and leave overnight. Then fluff up the carpet pile with your fingers.
Nail polish
Follow the tips listed below (in order) until stain has lifted from your carpet: Apply small amounts of the cleaning solution with a clean, white, absorbent towel. Continue to apply and blot frequently until the staining material is no longer transferred to the towel.
Tip 1:
Apply a small amount of dry cleaning solvent or alcohol (available at grocery, drug and hardware stores). Use small amounts to prevent possible damage to sizing, backings or stuffing materials. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid or other flammables.
Tip 2:
Mix one-half teaspoon of white neutral detergent (a mild dishwashing dish washing detergent containing no strong alkalis or bleaches), with a cup of lukewarm water.
Tip 3:
Mix one-third cup of white household vinegar with two-thirds cup of water.
Tip 4:
Mix a solution of powdered enzyme laundry detergent following the label or box instructions. Allow the solution to remain on the stain for the length of time recommended by the manufacturer.
The final step is to blot any remaining moisture or cleaning solutions by pressing or padding the area with absorbent towel. Weight it down and allow at least six hours to dry.
Shoe polish
Follow the tips listed below (in order) until stain has lifted from your carpet: Apply small amounts of the cleaning solution with a clean, white, absorbent towel. Continue to apply and blot frequently until the staining material is no longer transferred to the towel.
Tip 1
Apply a small amount of dry cleaning solvent or alcohol (available at grocery, drug and hardware stores). Use small amounts to prevent possible damage to sizing, backings or stuffing materials. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid or other flammables.
Tip 2
Mix one-half teaspoon of white neutral detergent (a mild dishwashing dish washing detergent containing no strong alkalis or bleaches), with a cup of lukewarm water.
Tip 3
Mix one tablespoon of household ammonia with one-half cup of water.
The final step is to blot any remaining moisture or cleaning solutions by pressing or padding the area with absorbent towel. Weight it down and allow at least six hours to dry.
Furniture stain
Follow the tips listed below (in order) until stain has lifted from your carpet: Apply small amounts of the cleaning solution with a clean, white, absorbent towel. Continue to apply and blot frequently until the staining material is no longer transferred to the towel.
Tip
Apply a small amount of dry cleaning solvent or alcohol (available at grocery, drug and hardware stores). Use small amounts to prevent possible damage to sizing, backings or stuffing materials. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid or other flammables.
Tip
Mix one-half teaspoon of white neutral detergent (a mild dishwashing dish washing detergent containing no strong alkalis or bleaches), with a cup of lukewarm water.
The final step is to blot any remaining moisture or cleaning solutions by pressing or padding the area with absorbent towel. Weight it down and allow at least lest six hours to dry. - Cleaning Up After PetsAnimal antics
As much as we love our household pets, they can create cleaning headaches. Between muddy paws, fur on upholstered furniture, odors and occasional accidents, we could spend quite a bit of time cleaning up after our furry friends. Since pets will never be able to clean up after themselves, t
Minimize the mess
Cleaner pets mean a cleaner house. Bathe and brush your pets regularly to minimize the amount of pet hair and pet dander, and to help with odors. Keep keep a lint brush or damp sponge handy to quickly pick up loose pet hair. Unless your pet has dietary restrictions, a light mist of spray-on cooking oil on your pet's dishes will make them easier to wash out and will add shine to his or her coat.
Removing pet hair
On carpeting, use a vacuum with a good beater brush or brush roll. Plain vacuums don't generate sufficient lift to pick up all the pet hair from the floor.
Speed removal of pet hair from fabrics and upholstery with a pet rake, a brush with crimped nylon bristles. Use light, even strokes to remove the hair. Velour brushes, tape rollers and even tape wrapped around your hand also will work. Both pet supply and home stores sell "pet sponges," which are used dry on both upholstery and carpets. They can be an especially good option for hard-to-reach corners and edges where hair tends to collect. As long as dampness won't harm the fabric, you can also use a slightly dampened sponge or even the rubber bottom of a clean tennis shoe.
Lifting stains
To remove a pet urine stain, dilute the spot using a cloth dampened with water. Then, clean the area with an acid solution consisting of one quart water mixed with one teaspoon white vinegar.
If necessary, you can apply a pet bacteria/enzyme digester according to the directions. You can find these products at any pet store; they effectively counter both the stain and the odor. Even if the stain has disappeared or our human noses can no longer smell anything, a pet will repeatedly return to the same spot if he can still smell his own odor. Here are some other hints:- Be sure to use enough bacteria/enzyme digester to penetrate the carpet and pad.
- Keep in mind that digesters work well but slowly. Leave the solution on as long as indicated.
- After applying the solution, cover with plastic and step on the spot several times until the area is well saturated.
- Keep the plastic on the entire time the digester is working to make sure the spot doesn't dry out.
If the stain is older, it may be nearly impossible to remove, but try the digester. If the site has seen multiple accidents, the bacteria breaking down the stain may actually create a superalkaline state that interferes with the digester's intended action. In this case, follow these steps:- After the bacteria digester has been working for about four hours, neutralize the spot by mixing a solution of one cup of vinegar to a gallon of warm water.
- Rinse the area with the vinegar solution.
- Apply a fresh batch of bacteria/enzyme digester solution.
Stomach trouble
If your pet has an upset stomach on your carpet, cleanup may be trickier. The extremely acidic nature of vomit can cause the acid dyes in the carpet to move, permanently damaging the carpet. Dyes in your pet's food or medicine may also combine with the strong stomach acid to stain your flooring. That's why it's essential to neutralize or at least dilute the acid as quickly as possible to minimize damage. To bring the carpet back to a neutral pH:- Treat the affected area using a professional carpet detergent.
- Rinse the area with clean hot water.
- Extract the soiled solutions away from the carpet.
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