Phililadelphia PA House Cleaning Services | Maid Services

Keeping Your House Clean

2011-04-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

No one in this world would ever like to live in a dirty house. When you enter your house after hours of work at the office, your mood will be refreshed if you have a clean house. Otherwise, the thought of a tough cleaning process at home will surely spoil your mood. House cleaning is not a one time process and it should be followed frequently to keep your house clean.

Create a timetable for house cleaning work. It is not that you always have to wander around the house with cleaning supplies to keep it clean. Spotless and perfect house is not possible to maintain, however, you can keep your house clean enough. Try to involve your family members to help you clean the house.

Clean different parts of the house during different days. The whole cleaning process cannot be completed on a single day. You can consider cleaning toilets on one day and furniture on the other. This way, you can split the burden of house cleaning and enjoy the process.

You need essential cleaning supplies to clean your house. For every part of the house such as toilet, closet, windows, and furniture, you need different types of cleaning solutions. You need to have appropriate supplies to clean the house perfectly. If you don’t have any supply, take some time to buy it before you start the cleaning process. You can look for quality products that save money.

Organizing clutter is the first step to clean the house. If you have a mess in any room, you must first sort out the things that are to be thrown. This way, you can control and organize clutter. The best way is to prevent things from messing up. However, if you have playful kids, mess at home cannot be avoided. Keep garbage bins at easy reach and tell your kids to throw the garbage into the bin.

After you finish cooking in the kitchen, wipe out spills and remains in the kitchen appliances. If you are free, enjoy music while you clean the kitchen shelf and unused jars. Clean your refrigerator and throw all those stuffed products that are past expiration date.

Every time you wash your face or shave before the mirror, use a clean paper towel to wipe away drops of water on the mirror. This will prevent streaks on the mirror and make it easy to clean. When you are on wait on your phone, utilize the time to sort out magazines and catalogs that are outdated. You can also use the time to scan junk mails and throw them to garbage bins.

Try to clean spills and stains when they are fresh. Furniture with delicate fabric and fine wooden cabinet will look ugly if there are stains on the surface. While at home, it is unfair to restrict the activities, you must take steps to clean the stains immediately. This will save your time, as the spills are easy to clean when they are not dry. Train your kids and other family members to clean the mess they have created.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sanjana_Antony

Prevent Problems with Your Toilet and Kitchen Sink Drain

2011-04-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I’ve had some interesting conversations with plumbers of late. The first one cleared the drain in our kitchen sink. His advice was three-fold:

Use an enzyme product (available at most any hardware store) once a month to keep things running smoothly.
Never put onion skins, celery, rice or pasta down the disposer. Pasta is absolutely the worst offender as it really “gums up the works.” He estimates that half of the jobs he does on kitchen sinks are due to pasta overload!
And do sharpen the blades of your disposer by feeding it chicken bones, broken glass or ice cubes as often as possible. Of course, the racket is horrible, but gotta keep those blades sharp.

A week or so later the toilet in our office spontaneously overflowed. The plumber on this case worked and worked, but was really having a hard time getting it cleared. At one point he asked us if we put dental floss down the toilet. “Dental floss??! What in the heck does dental floss have to do with a stopped-up toilet,” we laughed. He did not return our laughter. Plumbing, it seems, is very serious business to Charles the Plumber. (I would think he would grab any opportunity to laugh in his line of work, but that’s just me). Anyway, he was very clear that nothing was to ever be put in the toilet that would not disintegrate like toilet paper. No wipes of any kind, no make-up remover pads, and, no, not even dental floss–nothing that doesn’t disintegrate. Got that?

You’ll be relieved to know, perhaps, that we were vindicated as to the dental floss matter. The stringy stuff was…are you ready for this…tree roots growing up the pipe toward the second floor. I don’t even want to think about it!!

Do You Use Microfiber in Your House Cleaning Business?

2009-07-28T19:16:00.002-07:00

Microfiber cleaning towels have been around for about ten years now. When I first heard about them they were being sold through distributors in an MLM business. Since my business was professional house cleaning, I couldn't see how they could benefit me due to the high cost.

But I've been wondering more and more, could these really benefit the professional cleaners? So I've been doing some research and what I found should certainly be shared.

What is Microfiber? It is an ultrafine synthetic fiber that is very strong and lint free. Each fiber is split during manufacturing, providing specific benefits. The density of the fibers make the product very absorbent with the ability to hold up to six times its weight in water, and the microbifers have a positive charge that attracts dirt and dust, which has a negative charge. Not only do the micrifibers attract dust and dirt, they hold it tightly so that it is not redistributed while cleaning.

Does Microfiber Really Work? Absolutely! Not only are the microfiber towels available, but now you can purchase microfiber mops to replace both your dry and wet mops.

I purchased a mop that came with three removable mop head pads. These pads are attached to the mop with velcro. The mop has a swivel base that allows it to get under and around furniture. I have wood and vinyl flooring in my house and found the microfiber mop to work very well and it was easy to use.

While dry mopping, I was able to pickup not only dust but small debris from the floor and it was not moved around; it actually was held in the fibers. Due to the swivel mop head, I was able to get into corners and along baseboards.

I prefer cotton string mops for cleaning floors, but I found an immediate benefit to the microfiber. No bending over the water bucket, no wringing out the mop head and no fibers getting caught around table legs or split wood edges on cabinets. And I could still use the figure eight back and forth motion that I use with string mops. In fact, I found that I could mop standing up straighter because the mop is lightweight and maneuverable. Great benefit here to eliminate back pain, shoulder, elbow, wrist and finger injuries.

The microfibers can hold a lot of water without dripping thus leaving the floor cleaner with less standing water. The floor dries much faster, reducing the chance of slipping and sliding. In fact I used a very dry mop head when mopping the wood floor and could see the water evaporating as I mopped.

These microfiber mop pads are very durable and are estimated to last ten times the normal life span of cotton loop mops used in professional cleaning.

So with all these benefits, are there any areas of concern? There are a few: initial investment, cost versus quality, not appropriate for mopping up spills or floods, cannot remove or spread wax, cannot be washed with lint producing items, cannot be laundered in industrial washers and some brands are not recommended for the dryer.

If you're managing teams or a high number of employees, the initial investment can be double or even triple the cost of cotton loop and string mops. And you won't be able to launder these with your terry towels or use a commercial laundry service.

To determine if you should convert your house cleaning business to microfiber, you'll definitely need a cost benefit analysis to see the cost tradeoffs. If your Workers Comp costs are running high, is it due to scrubbing or mopping? Microfiber mops could possibly reduce the costs related to mopping injuries.

You might also want to consider the use of microfiber as a partial or total replacement for terry towels. Or even just using microfiber for cleaning glass and mirrors. They have the ability to clean and shine without using chemicals. This could possibly also reduce your product cost.

You can purchase microfiber towels on the Internet and also at your local depot and automotive stores in the automotive section. But be aware that all microfiber towels are not equal. There are companies that make only one kind and other companies that have a specific microfiber towel for different tasks.

I would definitely recommend more research into quality and cost before investing in microfiber for your house cleaning business.

Ensure Your Home is Well-Maintained With Exterior Cleaning Services - Gutters, Windows, and More

2009-07-28T19:16:00.001-07:00

Ensure your home looks great with professional exterior cleaning services. Offering a full range of cleaning services, these experts can keep your home in tip-top shape. And, even though many homeowners assume cleaning is just an aesthetic issue, many cleaning chores can actually help prevent damage to your home.

Pressure Washing Services

If the exterior of your home or business has started to look a little dingy, it's time for a thorough pressure washing. With both high and low power washing available, it's the ideal solution for blasting away stains, dirt, and unsightly mold and mildew-just about any exterior grime can be washed off! Most pressure washing services can clean your roof, siding, fences, decks, masonry, and sidewalks and driveways. And keep in mind that mold, mildew, fungus, and lichen growing on your home, deck, or driveway not only detract from your home's lovely appearance, but they can also cause building materials to degrade and negatively impact their lifespan. So for aesthetics as well as preventative maintenance, it's important to call your power washing contractors today to remove stains, mold, and grime.

Window Washing Services

Window washing is one of those chores that homeowners dread, but you can avoid it altogether with professional window washers. Let them get your windows sparklingly clean while you sit back and relax! Pollen, dirt, rain spots, and other grime can build up on your windows, creating an unsightly mess and making your whole home look unkempt. But window cleaning professionals can get your windows clean, no matter what type of windows you have. From standard double hung windows to large picture windows, your window washers have the skills, tools, and expert knowledge to efficiently and effectively make your windows glisten once again. Save yourself the hours of hard work by calling the professionals.

Gutter Cleaning Services

You may be surprised to learn that gutter cleaning is about more than just aesthetics. While clean gutters do tend to look better (no weeds growing in them, etc.), they also ensure that rainwater is directed away from your home. If your gutters are clogged or overflowing, it can actually lead to moisture problems in your foundation and basement. Gutters catch the rain flowing off your roof, diverting it away from the foundation, but when they're not working properly, all that rainwater has nowhere to go--except into your house! Moisture in your basement can cause structural issues as well as encourage mold and mildew growth, so it's important to keep your gutters in great working condition. Professional gutter contractors are your answer for getting those gutters clean without having to tackle the dirty, strenuous cleaning yourself. Your gutter cleaning service can ensure that any debris is removed, downspouts are unclogged, and water is flowing freely through your gutters for optimum function.

Even if you don't have the time or tools, it's important to ensure your exterior maintenance chores are taken care of. Not only will your home look better, it will be protected from potential damage as well. Save yourself even more hassle down the line by taking care of your exterior cleaning before problems develop. Contact your local exterior cleaning specialist today!

Maid Service Business in Philadelphia

2009-06-25T12:47:00.001-07:00

They need to streamline the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia whereas we synergize my Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. They would drive your value-added Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia after the enterprise Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphias might leverage my Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. Nevertheless, even if they constructed your 24/7 Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia, the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia revised the B2B Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. I need to maximize the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia unless the granular Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphias should evolve the real-time Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia.

We can drive your web-enabled Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia wherever I integrate your vertical Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. We can enhance your Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia while my virtual Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphias might seize the out-of-the-box Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. We need to mesh my enterprise Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia while we reinvent my Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. Nevertheless, I ought to optimize the virtual Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia since the compelling Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphias could synergize your Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia, though the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia is coordinated.

Consequently, the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia is encouraged even if they qualified my integrated Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia, still my Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia is tested. The Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia is delegated while I appraised my vertical Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia. They will utilize the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia so that they empower your ubiquitous Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia, yet the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia is excelled. Consequently, I would strategize the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia even though they incubate your B2B Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia.. hire-maid.info

What You Need To Do When Starting A Carpet Cleaning Business

2009-05-28T04:35:00.001-07:00

Business with carpet cleaning services can be proved as a well profit business if you live in some heavily populated area. A number of people now-a-days rely on carpet cleaning companies to do the job for them because they do not have enough time to clean up their own carpets. A carpet cleaning business may just be the right business for you, if you are one of those enterprising people who would like to start you own business and be financially independent. This is not a hard process to go to star some carpet cleaning business. On the other hand, you should first study the business well before starting a carpet cleaning business, because there are already a lot of carpets cleaning companies out there.

Getting Started with this

First of all you need to study the market before you actually go to invest something in the carpet cleaning business. You should know how much of this demand is still not served, regardless of the doubt that there is a strong demand for carpet cleaning. You may need to draw out statistics, to get this done.

You need to match the number of people that are in your area that needs some carpet cleaning services and for those companies that offer these services there. You can make your assumptions very conservative and avoid being too optimistic when determining how much share of the carpet cleaning market is open to you. Always remember that when it comes to starting a carpet cleaning business, anything can happen especially during your first few months of operations.

Like every business, there is always a risk that you will not make your business targets so do not set your hopes too high if you do not want to be severely disappointed. However, you should not also set your targets too low because this can cause you to be less productive than you should be. In other words, you need to strike a balance between reality and expectations.

There are some steps that you need to take before you actually start the business. The first step includes that you see carefully about your opponents. Expert say that if you want to have a good grip on whatever business you are going to start, then you need to study and know the secrets of the well-known and well establish companies that are in the relative field for a long period of time. You can learn more about the business, by studying your competitors. If you have a model organization that you can get some ideas from, then it will always be easy for you to start any new business. On the other hand, you should be careful when it comes to follow business strategies of your competitors. Keep one important thing in you mind that when it comes to starting a carpet cleaning business, what works for other companies may not really work for you

Remove Pet Urine From Carpets

2009-05-28T04:34:00.001-07:00

As a carpet cleaner we get asked many questions all the time. The number one carpet cleaning question we get is how to remove the urine smell from carpet. Even after you have your carpets cleaned many times people find the urine ordor coming back on those hot summer days. The reason for this can be many reasons.

When an animal urinates on the carpet many times they move around and spread the urine out over the top layer of the carpet. When a carpet cleaner cleans the carpet they stand a good chance of getting all the top urine out.

Some times animals do not move and when that happens a large amount of urine soaks in on one spot. When this happens the urine sinks down into the foam padding underneath and it can be very difficult to fully remove even if you clean the spot right away.
So how do you remove the urine Odor from carpet?

The good news here is you can still get the odor out but it will cost you for the cleaning solution. We use an enzyme that actually eats urine and then dies off after the urine is gone. The product we recommend out can only be bought online to the best of our knowledge and is called antiickypoo. I know it is a funny name and why it is called that I could not tell you. The cost is far more then any normal store product but that is because it works. It’s not a bad idea to have this stuff on hand if you have a pet because you never know when an accident will happen. You can also do a search on www.Amazon.com for carpet injection kits that go with antiickypoo. CLICK HERE to learn more about antiickypoo.

We would also recommend using their Anti-Icky-Poo P-Bath Pre-Treatment as well as the antiickypoo product. Be sure and follow the directions to the tee as they have a set process that works very well.

This is the same product that many carpet cleaners use. It works great but it can take a few days for solution to fully work. You should also be aware that the enzyme that eats the urine does release small amounts of ammonia into the air. While this is still perfectly safe even for small children you should closing off the room to birds. I do not know of any bad stories from this product and have used it for years on end but you just never know.

Remove Wax from Carpets

2009-05-28T04:33:00.002-07:00

Many people spill wax onto carpets. This is one of those things that is sure to happen to any candle lover over the long run. Just feel blessed that your house did not burn down and all you have to worry about is how to get that wax out of the carpet.
This guide was written for the common person so we are not going to use fancy chemical names or hard to use methods.

The first thing to do is to grab a carpet pick and try to gently scrape off most of the wax. If you do not have a carpet pick then consider using a regular comb or fork as a last result. Just take caution not to damage or pull up the carpet fibers. If you have loops in your carpet you will want to take extra caution not to break or pull at the loops.

Once you have removed as much of the top layer as you can we are going to use something referred to as the Heat Transfer Method. Please read this full guide first people jumping into this method. You will need a clean terry clothe towel that you do not care about. An iron and a piece of white paper, brown paper bad or card board.

First get the towel slightly dam. It does not have to be that most. Then heat the iron on the lowest setting. Place the piece of paper over the wax and then the towel over the paper. Then working in a circular motion apply the heated iron to the towel. The object here is to heat the wax and make it stick to the paper. You may have to play with the settings on the iron to get it hot enough. Whatever you do, DO NOT place the iron right on the paper or the carpet. The heat can damage the carpet fibers so we want to take a little caution. That is why we are using the towel. In most cases people are able to melt all of the wax onto the paper. You may need several sheets but that all depends on the amount of wax you have. If not all of it comes up then while the wax is still a little hot you may be able to pick the rest out with a comb or carpet pick.

Because most candles now a days are synthetic and have colors to them you may have some dye that bled into the carpet. In most cases you can use any spot cleaning solution like resolve to fully remove the spot. If you have never used the particular cleaning agent on your carpet before then BE SURE TO TEST IT FIRST. Go into a closet and in the very back corner test out the product and wait ten minutes. This is to ensure you do not stain or bleach your carpet. In most cases you will be fine as long as you are not using some cheap cleaner that you found at the dollar store.

Remove Gum from Carpets

2009-05-28T04:33:00.001-07:00

Removing gum from carpets can be a huge pain. Other adhesives such as duct tape residue and the like can be just as hard. I have even had to remove bikini wax from carpets and can tell you straight up you have a bit of work ahead of you.

Here are the initial steps you can take to help remove gum and other adhesive products.

First try to scrape most of the gum off the carpet. You can use a metal carpet pick or even a comb. Removing the larger solid chunks will make the rest of the process that much easier. If you are having issues removing the larger chunks you can try to freeze them with ice or try to heat them with hot water. You can also use this Gum Remover product to help remove the gum from the carpet.

Keep in mind that even if you remove all visible evidence of the gum or adhesive, chances are that spot will come back in a few days because not all of the adhesive residue is gone from the carpets.

How to remove the left over adhesive residue.

Getting the gum chunks off the carpets can many times be the simple part of gum removal from carpets. The harder challenge is removing the rest of the material.

Often times high heat help. One such tip is to take a clean damp terry clothe towel and double fold it over the spot. Then taking an iron and heating it up to it’s lowest heat setting. Now with the DAMP terry clothe towel double folded over the spot work the iron over the gum in a circular pattern. DO NOT place the iron direct on the carpet as it will only burn and singe the carpet fibers. Once the gum is heated you should be able to remove the rest of the gum from the carpets.

Once this is done you can take a carpet cleaning solvent like the Un-Du 4 Ounce Adhesive Remover to remove the rest of the gum or adhesive from the carpet. When ever you use any cleaning product on your carpets it is better to test it out first in the back corner of a closet or some were out of sight. This test is to ensure the product does not stain your carpets.

Whatever method you use keep in mind NEVER use a cheap cleaning product from the dollar store. All too often people avoid paying the 8 bucks for a good product and purchase the cheap one. This often times leads to very bad results and carpet stains.

How to clean hardwood floors

2008-10-07T00:17:00.001-07:00

Cleaning your hardwood floors can become a nightmare if you don’t maintain them. Truth be told, if you want the finish on your hardwood floors to last, you need to keep up with all of the dirt, food, and water that makes it’s way onto the floor throughout the day. To help keep your maintenance to a minimum, I suggest you either enforce a “no shoe” rule in the house (except when you have company over) or in a less drastic measure place thick rug near ever entryway to the house. If everyone gives a couple of wipes on the rug before stepping onto the hardwood floor, there will be less debris on the bottom of their shoes that could end up on your floor.

Follow these tips to keep your hardwood floors looking great:
# Clean up any spills immediately.
# Using a swiffer or a vacuum do a quick pass over the floor every other day.
# Always clear all debris from the floor prior to wet mopping.
# When wet mopping, make sure to only use products recommended for use on finished wood floors.

Wet mopping tips:
# If it’s your first time using a cleaning product, always test it out in a small area in a corner first.
# A little bit of cleaner goes a long way. Don’t over do it with the cleaning product and follow the labels instructions. Murphy’s Oil Soap recommends diluting 1/4 cup to 1/2 a cup of Murphy’s Oil Soap in a gallon of warm water. If you use more than this, it’s likely you end up with slimely floors and have to mop it two or three times.
# Do not use Pine-Sol, as it is not recommended for use on wood floors.
# Depending on how dirty your floors are, you may need to use two or three fresh buckets of cleaning solution. If the water is black, chances are you’re just reapplying dirt and debris back onto your floor.
# Always ring out your mop before applying it to the floor. You do not want to end up with puddles of water sitting on your floor.
# Once you are done wet mopping, attach a microfiber cloth or even a terry cloth to a Swiffer and do a quick pass over the hardwood floor. This will help the floor dry faster, and help prevent streaking.

The Best Maid Service in Philadelphia

2008-10-07T00:13:00.000-07:00

At hire-maid, we strive to be the best maid service in Philadelphia and the surrounding area. This takes hard work, dedication, and most of all great customer service. If you hire Maids Our Us, you’ll quickly see that a maid service can be professional, reliable, and affordable without sacrificing quality.

Urine Stain and Odor Removal from Wood Floor

2008-08-23T23:50:00.001-07:00

The ideal solution for removing a urine stain from a wood floor is to sand and refinish it, since it is very difficult to match up the floor finish once you have treated a urine stain in the wood. However, you can still try. To remove urine stains and odors from your wood floor, first blot the area with an absorbent cloth to remove any excess urine. The newest technology uses peroxide and detergents to penetrate the soiled area to remove the stain and deactivate the odor. Simply spray a product such as PAWS - Pet Accident Washup Solution on the soiled area, and then allow it to penetrate for approximately five minutes. Wipe clean. Another option to try is to wipe the stained area with cool water; blot dry. Next, blot the stained area with undiluted white vinegar. Wipe again with cool water and blot dry. With either of the above methods, do not saturate the wood or allow any liquid to stand on the surface for any length of time. Wipe with cool water and blot dry.

If the stain remains, you can buff with super fine 000 grade steel wool and floor wax. Rub with the grain of the wood. If the spot begins to blend with the finish, continue the wax and steel wool treatment until the appearance of the wood is restored. If the stain persists, place a paste of either pumice powder or rottenstone and vegetable oil on the spot. Using a clean, soft, absorbent cloth, gently rub the paste into the spot, following the grain of the wood. When the stain is removed, rub the surrounding area of the wood gently with the abrasive and oil paste to prevent spotting.

If the stain is still visible, the urine has probably penetrated the finish and marred the wood, in which case it is necessary to remove the finish and refinish the surface. You may be able to use super fine 000 grade steel wool and a small amount of mineral spirits to remove urine stains, but afterwards you will have to refinish the area by waxing and buffing and even then it will be difficult to match the treated area with the rest of the floor.

Paint Removal from Windows

2008-08-23T23:48:00.000-07:00

Before you set about painting your window frames, be sure to properly prep the windows with tape or vaseline. If you don't you're creating a window cleaning nightmare. No one wants to scrape paint from glass. If you do get paint on the windows however, try this window cleaning tip: Wet the paint with some soapy water ( a mild dishwashing liquid works fine) or vinegar. Whent he paint is softened, scrape away with a razor blade, being careful not to scratch the glass.

Window Screen Cleaning

2008-08-23T23:47:00.002-07:00

Screens are not the most attractive part of window cleaning. They're dusty, they have dirt and debris stuck in their little holes. They can honestly present a window cleaning challenge. They can also be a lot of fun to clean if you use the right window cleaning equipment. Try taking them outside and cleaning them with a garden hose. Saved for a hot day, cleaning the windows can cool you off as well! Hose down both sides and leave in the sun to air dry. Here's an additional window cleaning tip: The hose attachment on a vacuum cleaner will get dirt out of all of the little holes and crevices.

Aluminum Window Frame Cleaning

2008-08-23T23:47:00.001-07:00

When we're cleaning our windows, there are areas we don't forget. We like to make sure the glass shines. We'll also clean the sills and the frames. The inside tracks however, are a whole other story. The window cleaning supplies needed to clean aluminum window frames are liquid dishwashing soap, a scouring pad, and a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to clean the inside corners. After the window frames are clean, rub the area with a little mineral oil (food oils can turn rancid) or even baby oil to keep the window moving smoothly.

Cleaning Window Blinds

2008-08-23T23:46:00.001-07:00

Cleaning Window Blinds

Many people find their window blinds extremely difficult to clean but it shouldn't be that hard if you know what you're doing. First of all, how you clean the blinds depends on exactly what kind cleaning you wish to do. For:

* Light, routine cleaning: First make sure your blinds are lowered and the slats are closed. Wipe the blinds gently with a damp rag. When you are done with one side, close blinds the other way and wipe the other side.
* Deep cleaning: You must remove the blinds from the window and lay them outside on a cloth that can get dirty. Then spray the blinds with an all-purpose cleaner and allow them to sit for a few minutes. Scrub the cleaner into the blinds with a soft-bristled brush in a parallel motion to the slats. Do this on both sides of the blinds and then rinse with a hose. Allow the blinds to dry outside before re-hanging.

Get Out More Dirt

2008-08-23T23:40:00.001-07:00

The most important part of carpet maintenance is
removing and disposing of accumulated dry soil. The
removal of dry soil will improve the air quality
indoors, extend carpet life, and help to maintain
the carpet. Keeping regular maintenance on your
carpet is one thing, although being sure you have
the right equipment on the job is another.

The Green Label
For vacuum cleaners, the CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute)
has developed a Green Label testing program. The
CRI developed the performance protocol with the
goal of protecting indoor quality, keeping all
surfaces as clean as possible, and all without
putting dust back into the air.

The Green Label program helps to identify vacuum
cleaners that meet three different types of criteria:
1. Removing soil.
2. Keeping dust out of the air by
containing it within the filtration bag and the
machine itself.
3. It doesn't damage the carpet and helps
to keep the appearance looking good.

The tests for determining the certification of a
vacuum cleaner were developed by carpet and vacuum
experts and reviewed by scientists with experience
in maintenance and the quality of indoor air.

Soil removal
The soil removal protocol will require that the
vacuum cleaner remove a specified quantity of soil
from the test carpet in four passes.

Dust containment
The protocol for dust containment will dictate the
total amount of dust particles that are released
into the surrounding air by the action of the
brush rolls, through the filtration bag, and any
leaks that come from the vacuum system. with this
test, the vacuum cleaner can't release more than
100 micrograms of dust particles per cubic meter
of air.

Carpet retention
The testing protocol for appearance retention will
require that the vacuum cleaner not adversely
affect the appearance of the carpet, based on
a year of normal usage.

If a vacuum cleaner meets all three of the above
requirements, the manufacturer may then display
the official CRI Green Label on it's brand of
vacuum cleaner. The CRI tests canister and upright
vacuums, wide area vacuums, and even walk behind
types as well.

Matching machines
Looking for that important Green Label is the first
step to providing longer carpet life and cleaner
air for your home or office. The next step is
selecting the proper vacuum cleaner for a specific
area. You can think of vacuum cleaners like
screwdrivers, as you wouldn't want to use a Phillips
head screwdriver to remove a flathead screw.

In the bigger, more open areas, a wide are vacuum
cleaner or sweeper can produce excellent results,
as well as an increase in productivity. The
average 14 inch upright vacuum can clean at a rate
of 3,000 square feet per hour, while the average
walk behind can clean at a rate of 40,000 square
feet per hour, and also lift the pile of carpet in
high traffic areas where the carpet fibers are
subject to crushing and matting.

The two motor upright vacuum cleaner is an excellent
choice in areas such as executive offices, lobbies,
conference rooms, and break areas. A two motor
upright can provide grooming of the fibers in the
carpet and removal of the dry soil. Most uprights
with two motor setups will also have a removable
hose and on board accessories for cleaning other
areas as well, such as vents and chairs.

Along with the type of area, you should also give
some thought to the needs of the operator. If
you are a manager, you should look for vacuums
with ergonomic features, especially if the vacuum
will be used for long periods of time.

If it isn't ergonomically designed, it could result
in injury to the operator. At the very least, the
cleaning operator might want to avoid using
vacuum cleaners that could result in injury.

Choosing The Right Vacuum Cleaner

2008-08-23T23:39:00.002-07:00

As history indicates, the first model vacuum cleaner
wasn't even a vacuum cleaner at all, more of a carpet
sweeper. This was invented by a man named Daniel
Hess, who in 1860 patented a machine that featured
rotating brushes on the bottom and bellows that
helped to create suction.

However, there is no evidence that this very machine
was ever produced. Some 40 years or so later, in
1908, James Spangler of Canton, Ohio received a
patent for the very first portable electric vacuum
cleaner. It was in fact his cousin in law, William
Hoover, who lent his name to the legendary company
that produces quality vacuum cleaners even today.

For more than 150 years, the vacuum cleaner has
been improved upon greatly. From doing your weekly
vacuuming of your home, doing a spring cleaning,
or simply leaving the vacuuming up to the robot,
there is a vacuum out there suited to your needs.
With upright, canister, HEPA filtered, bagged and
bagless, there is always a vacuum cleaner for your
needs on the market.

There are actually 2 ways in which a vacuum cleaner
cleans. The first, and the way we rate a vacuum
on most is how debris and dirt is picked up off
of a carpet and the floor. When you are searching
for a vacuum, keep in mind the power of the
suction motor, as this is very important for getting
good performance.

The second reason, one that isn't often thought
about, is how well the vacuum filters the air and
puts it back into the home. Those with allergy
problems will find a HEPA vacuum to be the best
choice. There are some models of HEPA vacuums
that can filter out 99% of pollens, dust, and
other common household allergens.

There is also the choice of canister or upright
vacuum, as this is more or less based on personal
preference. Both vacuum types have their pros and
cons. The heads of canister vacuums are able to
reach under your furniture, also making it easier
to vacuum the stairs as well.

Canister vacuums on the other hand have a retractable
electric cord, which is much more convenient than
wrapping the cord back around the neck of the
vacuum. It is often times easier to push the light
weight canister vacuum head as opposed to pushing
a canister style vacuum.

When you choose your vacuum cleaner, keep in mind
what you plan to vacuum. There are several designs
and types intended for different uses. If you have
hardwood floors, you obviously wouldn't want to
use a carpet vacuum.

The little things such as this will be a huge factor
in selecting your vacuum cleaner. If you play
your cards right, you'll have the perfect vacuum
cleaner for your home - and other areas as well.

Choosing Canister Vacuum Cleaner

2008-08-23T23:39:00.001-07:00

The major criteria involved with choosing a canister
vacuum cleaner is what floor surfaces you plan to
clean versus the power of the vacuum. Almost all
canister vacuum cleaners offer 3 choices of tools
for the surfaces of floors:
1. A bare floor hard plastic brush that's
about 10" - 12" wide with soft bristles.
2. Turbo brush that features a spinning
drum roller with harder bristles.
3. A power head brush that is similar to
the turbo brush although it is powered by a seperate
motor.

Both the turbo brush and power head brush vacuums
have a spinning drum roller with bristles that
resemble that of an upright vacuum cleaner. While
the brushes look and perform pretty much the same,
the power head brush vacuum has a smaller seperate
motor that turns the brush on the bottom of it,
therefore making it more powerful and much more
aggressive than the turbo type brush that is
turned by the flow of air being pulled past it.

These types of brushes will snap the fibers of
the carpet and allow the air to get beneath the
dirt particles. If you can't get air to go under
these particles, then you won't be able to suck
them out, regardless of how much suction power you
are able to apply with a vacuum cleaner.

When you purchase a turbo or power head vacuum
cleaner to be used primarily on carpet surfaces,
you'll also receive a brush for bare floors as
well that is perfect for areas without carpet.

The rule of thumb as to which model of vacuum
cleaner you should choose is:
1. The bare floor model of canister
vacuum cleaners are perfect for smooth surfaces
with no expectation of having rugs or carpeting.
The best choices for bare floor vacuum cleaners
include Eureka Oxygen 6992 and the Miele Solaris
Canister.
2. Turbo types of canister vacuum cleaners
are best for scatter rugs and low pile wall to
wall type carpeting. The best picks here are the
EIO family vacuum cleaner, the Miele Solaris, and
the Sebo Turbo canister vacuum cleaner.
3. The power head brush types of vacuum
cleaners are great for wall to wall carpeting and
very important if you deal with pet hair. The best
picks here include the Sebo Canister 3.1, the
Miele Silver Moon, and the Eureka Oxygen 6996.

Some of the other important features for canister
vacuum cleaners include reliability, purchase price,
HEPA filter and sealed unit, the cost of replacement
filters and bags, weight, storage and quality of
tools, control locations, noise, adjustable wand,
retractable cord, ease of changing attachments,
bag change indicator, filter change indicator, swivel
hose, and other extra features such as dirt alerts.

Almost all canister vacuums are similar in size,
offer similar radiuses of cleaning, and come with
the same tool attachments.

Carpet Cleaning Machines

2008-08-23T23:38:00.001-07:00

With the creation of the carpet, the invention of the
carpet cleaning machine wasn't far away. The very
first hand held carpet cleaner was designed and
tested in Chicago in 1860, while the first power
operated vacuum cleaner was invented in the 1900s
by Cecil Booth.

Around the same time Cecil Booth finished his
invention, a man by the name of James Spangler came
up with his own invention - a vacuum cleaner that
he later sold to his cousin Hoover. As everyone
knows, Hoover has since became one of the most
dominant names in the world of vacuum cleaners and
is certainly one of the most popular household
names in the world.

For many housewives, the vacuum cleaner was deemed
a blessing, as it helped to keep the house clean
in a fraction of the time. From the beginning,
vacuum cleaners were only able to suck up dust and
dirt, although with modern technology these days,
inventors are able to design wet cleanes that can
steam carpets and kill germs at the same time.

Carpet is capable of covering the floor of a
house, flat, or bungalow and keeping people's feet
warm in the winter. Years ago, people needed to
sweep their floors or carpets, but with the
invention of the vacuum cleaner, people could
easily detract the dust and dirt from their
carpets with less effort. It was also determined
that businesses, corporations, and apartments
would need someone to clean their carpets as
well, so the invention of the commercial carpet
cleaner wasn't far away.

Vacuum cleaners operate by using a pump system.
The pumping system will suck up the air from a
hose, which will in turn suck up the dirt and
dust from anything that stands in front of the
house opening. On the inside, the vacuum cleaner
is a filtering system that will collect the dust
and dirt that can later be placed outside in the
garbage.

Right now, there are seven main types of vacuum
cleaners - the upright, canister, back pack style,
built in, robotic, hand held, and the wet/dry
vacuum cleaners. These different types of vacuum
cleaners are available in a variety of different
styles, sizes, and offer various voltage and
power sizes as well.

One of the most significant developments in
vacuums has been the invention of the very popular
cyclone carpet cleaner. Unlike the previous
vacuum cleaners, the cyclone collects dirt and
dust in a large cylinder. The cyclone operates
using a central air force and number of filters.
The filter will filter the dust and dirt into
stages, so that the air being sucked up into the
cylinder can be cleaned then released back into
the air through a central outlet.

Buyers Guide

2008-08-23T23:37:00.000-07:00

Deep cleaning vacuums
The typical features with these types of vacuums
include rotating brushes that agitate the carpet
pile and loosen the dirt for better clean. There
are some models that offer a handy automatic tool
conversion button or switch that you can push or
flip as you move from carpet to hardwood floor.

Hand held vacuums
Hand held vacuums are light weight, can be corded
or cordless, and you can even mount most of them
on the wall if you prefer. The performance of the
cordless models will depend on the charge of the
battery, as the battery power drops, so will the
suction power.

The two types of hand held vacuums include straight
suction and suction with a power brush. If you
are considering a hand held vacuum cleaner, you
should consider its primary purpose, if you plan
to use it on a regular basis or occasionally on
smaller jobs.

Broom vacuums
Stick or broom vacuums are great for smaller type
apartments, quick clean ups in the kitchen, or
a family room. The benefit of a broom vacuum is
the light weight. If you have trouble pushing
your heavier upright around, the broom vacuum
may come as a relief. You'll also have the option
of getting your vacuum corded or cordless.

They usually weight 2 - 7 lbs. and allow you to
easily store them in the closet, as they take up a
minimum amount of space. For quick disposal of
the dirt and debris, most models are also bagless
as well.

Wet or Dry vacuums
The wet/dry vacuum combination may very well be the
most versatile vacuum cleaner on the market today,
with numerous attachments and functions it is a
very handy machine to have around your home. The
canister types can vary from the smaller 6 gallon
sizes to the larger 22 gallon sizes.

The HP ranges as well, from 2 to 10 HP. You should
always try to match the size of the unit to the
size of the job and frequency of use.

Upright vacuums
One of the most popular features of an upright
vacuum cleaner is the bagless system. In addition
to the increased performance, there is no need
to purchase any bags. Emptying the canister can
be a little dusty, although it's still better than
messing with bags.

Most upright models come with a standard set of
attachments that may even include an upholstery
tool, a crevice tool, and even an extension wand.
A retractable cord and manual or automatic pile
adjustments are other common features. A HEPA
filter is another common and popular feature found
with most upright vacuums.

Canister vacuums
Canister vacuum cleaners normally include retractable
cords. Considering the fact that most cords are
around 25 foot in length, this feature will prevent
you from having to drag the cord around and
possibly damage furniture. A push of a button or
a slight tug on the cord will retract it into the
canister of the vacuum.

The nozzle can be one of two types, nozzle or
power nozzle. To get your carpet as clean as
possible, it is recommended that you use the power
nozzle, which will agitate the carpet and loosen
up the dirt for deeper cleaning.

Another feature worth looking for is a suction
control switch, as this allows you to adjust the
flow of air for cleaning delicate material such
as upholstery and drapery.

When choosing your vacuum cleaner, you should always
choose the one you like best. The best vacuum for
the job is the one you should choose, as things
will work out much better that way.

Removing Urine Stains and Spots On Carpets and Clothing

2008-08-21T22:45:00.000-07:00

Though not the most pleasant of substances to think about, it's surprising easy to remove. Urine contains various chemicals including uric acid. Most components of urine can be washed away in the normal course of laundering. Uric acid presents problems in stain removal. If you heat uric acid crystals, they will become fixed on the fabric. The effect will be permanent. Insoluble uric acid crystals are difficult to remove with normal cleaning solutions like bleach.

Uric acid crystals stick to any surface including smooth surface like tiles and porcelain. These crystals have to be physically removed by mechanical means like scrubbing etc.
Pet Stains On Carpets:

Pet urine stains on carpet should be removed as early as possible. Any delay will cause the uric acid to crystallize on the rug and carpet. The effect will be permanent on the carpet. So take a quick and immediate action. The following course of action is recommended

1. Blot up the urine immediately. Keep the stained area wet with a damp cloth
2. Use the liquid shampoo for the rugs.
3. Work from out side to center to avoid spreading the stain.
4. Rinse with cloth dampened with water.
5. Clean and wring the cloth as often as possible
6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 until you see that the stain is gone.
7. Dry the rug as early as possible.
8. During the drying process if you find that the stain is not gone, repeat steps 2 to 5 until you see the result. Do not wait until the rug has dried completely.

Dried Urine Stains:

If the urine stain has dried repeated applications of detergent, white regular household vinegar, and household ammonia will have to be done until the stain has been removed. The mixture of detergent may be made by mixing one teaspoon of a mild non-alkaline and non-bleaching detergent with 1 cup of warm water. The mixture of vinegar may be made by mixing one third cup of vinegar with two third cup of lukewarm water. The mixture of ammonia may be made by mixing one teaspoon of the ammonia with half cup of cold water.

Do not use hot water or heat steam-cleaning method on urine stains. This will have exactly the reverse effect. As soon as you apply heat in any type to urine stains, it has the effect of fixing the stain instead of removing the stain.

Pet Urine Stains:

Pets can sometime leave urine stains on the floor and the odors from these stains unfortunately persist. To remove the odor and the stain, use the following procedure.

* Use your nose. Find the affected area. This can be done with your sense of smell and sight together
* Clean the area completely of odor and the stain
* The wooden floors will need enzymatic cleaners to clean the odor effectively.
* The stains may not be removed completely and the surface may need a recoat of surface treatment it received before it was affected by urine stains.
* It is necessary to make sure that your pets get training properly and they go to the area reserved .
* Make sure that odors are removed completely. If a pet can smell urine on your wooden floor, it might think that this is the area reserved for urination and may use it for that purpose again.

Pet Urine Stains on Fabric or Clothes:

Pet urine on clothes is a rare occurrence. It is necessary to wet the affected area as early as possible and ensure that urine is diluted with water as far as possible to ensure that to stains and odor does not remain on the clothes. Discard the particular piece of cloth if the immediate dilution is not possible.
Urine Stain on Clothing or Fabric:

Modern methods of urine absorption make this as a rare occurrence. It is still possible when you have children your own house and the practical solution to this problem will be to wash the affected piece of clothing as early as possible or at least to dilute the spilled urine by putting the cloth in a bucketful of water and wash it off at the first opportunity.

How To Clean Wood Floors

2008-08-21T22:44:00.001-07:00

Wood floors are beautiful, but they are a lot of work. The key is to keep them as clean as possible so you don’t have to refinish your floors. It’s not only incredibly difficult, expensive, and time-consuming; it will eventually ruin your floors. Every time you sand, you’re taking off a layer of the wood. Frequent refinishing of your floors is not a good idea. With proper care, you can avoid having to refinish your hardwood floors.
The Dust Mop is Your Friend

You should have a dust mop and use it what might seem like constantly! A disposable cloth mop (like Swiffer) can actually damage your floor. A dust mop is softer, and will pick up particles that you might be scraping against the floor with a Swiffer or other disposable cloth dry mop.

Innocent little particles can do serious damage to wood floors. Every time you walk on them, you are grinding them in and scraping the floor. Spills can also be quickly grabbed with a dust mop. Get a dust mop where you can remove the mop part and wash it regularly.
Damp Mop for Cleaning

Chemicals can damage your wood flooring. Your best bet is to use a damp mop with clean water as often as possible when you clean your floors. If the floor is still dirty, only then should you move up to a stronger cleaning solution than water. You have to be careful even with water!

Water is the enemy of your wood floors. When you use a mop, don’t apply it like you’re in the navy and your job is to clean the deck – sloshing water all over the place. Any excess water can damage your floor. You should get a mop that you can wring, and you should wring it twice. Your mop should be damp, not wet.
For Tougher Cleaning

When the damp mop just isn’t cutting it, you need a stronger solution to clean your wood floors. You can use a special cleaner for wood floors, preferably with a neutral pH. Follow the instructions on the label and dilute the cleaner in water. Once again, be gentle with the water. It’s always a good idea to wring out your mop twice. Follow up with clean water isn’t necessary with most of these cleaners. The label will specify.

You can try a homemade mixture of 1 cup white vinegar to 2 gallons of warm water. Cider vinegar is different from white vinegar, and you should not use it as a substitute. Apply it with only a damp mop, and then you should wipe it clean with a dry cloth or clean dust mop.
Clean Your Wood Floors with Tea!

The secret of everyone’s grandmother that really works well is to clean your hardwood floors with tea. You can’t use instant; you have to brew it. And you have to brew it STRONG. We are talking anywhere from 5-20 tea bags in 2 quarts of water. Experiment with the number until you find a solution you like. If you’ve never heard of cleaning wood floors with water, you’ll probably be amazed with the results. It cleans, brings out the grain of the wood, and adds a nice shine. No rinsing with water is required and remember – damp mop only!

How To Remove Granite Stains

2008-08-21T22:43:00.001-07:00

If you have spent a small fortune installing granite into your home, you should know ahead of time how to take good care of it.

Yet, even if you follow your manufacture’s care instructions to the T, you can still find problems with stains down the road. Each stain has its own mind and getting that stain out is likely to take a bit more work then it did with a standard Formica countertop.

Granite stain removal is a process that requires a bit more of a unique method of cleaning then a standard countertop would. But, there is help for you.
The Problem With Granite Stains

Why does your granite stone stain so easily?

The fact is that unlike other types of countertops, yours are porous, allowing liquid and chemicals of all sorts to easily get into the top layers of the stone. These stones are much like a sponge, allowing liquid to be absorbed into them.

In most cases, you will have a protective layer used to cover the granite, especially if it is used as a countertop. But, this is not necessarily the case when it comes to granite used in walkways and other more rough conditions.
Removing Stains From Granite

The best way to remove any stain from granite is to use a poultice.

A poultice is a material that is made of special products that will actually work in the opposite manner as the granite did. It will work to absorb the stain back out of the granite and into the poultice. Just as the stain entered, in many cases, it can come right back out in the same manner.

Your first step is to learn what a poultice is. It is made of powdered whiting and hydrogen peroxide. You can find whiting in any of your paint stores or home improvement stores. Now, to make it, follow these steps.

* Wet the area in which the stain is at. Doing this will allow it to better allow the stain to be removed.
* Mix the poultice as directed by the manufacturer. You want to create a thick paste.
* Apply to the stained area. Do not put any onto the non stained area though. 1/4 of an inch in thickness is perfect.
* Overlap the stained area by about an inch.
* Cover with plastic wrap. Seal the edges with tape. Poke a couple of holes into the top of the plastic so that the poultice will dry faster.
* Allow to dry. Do not move it until it is fully dried. Wait about two days before removing.
* Remove from the stain. Rinse with distilled water.
* Dry with a clean, dry terry cloth.

You may need to repeat this process several times before all of the stain will be removed. You can do this up to five times and still see results in the removal of stains from your granite. This method of using a poultice will work for many of your common stains such as grease, coffee, iron and rust stains, mildew, algae, cooking oil, food caused spills, and even markers and pen stains.

For more help in removing these stains, keep reading below.

Cleaning Tips

2008-08-21T00:41:00.001-07:00

One of the most annoying things about moving house is the cleaning – and removing stubborn stains and marks is one of the hardest things to do when prepping your house for a move. Its always important, when using these tips to spot test and ensure that you won't be doing more damage than good. You should also always take your cleaning items with you – a box of your most commonly used items or a checklist can save you time and effort in the long run.
Some of the most common stains and marks can be removed with ease – with every day household items.

Scuffs and marks on woodwork can be removed with a pencil eraser – these marks, from shoes, wheels, or rubber bumping against things are hard to remove any other way, but come off with ease with a rubber.
Toothpaste isn't just great for cleaning teeth – you can use it to remove stubborn ink, crayon, or scuff stains from any surface – be careful to test it on wallpaper first in an inconspicuous place. You'll have to remove most of these stains from walls before painting as they can show through several layers of paint.

Toothpaste is also good for removing crayon from radiators, or glass – just rub lightly with a non abrasive cloth, or for tough stains, leave to sit for up to one hour before scrubbing gently.

You can remove unwanted paint from most woodwork by carefully scouring with a brass scourer – not too hard though, or you'll scratch the other paintwork.
Scum stains, dried toothpaste and lime scale come off with liberal application of an oxy based paste – you can get any 'oxy' based cleaner (one that fizzes and heats up the water slightly) in most supermarkets.

You can remove moldy or damp smells just about anywhere with bicarbonate of soda. Simply apply to the smelly area (or leave a tub open in a cupboard or fridge) and the smell should be vastly diminished or gone within 24 hours. The same goes for activated charcoal, or a few drops of vanilla on a cloth. Baking soda is good for a whole month, so can be used continually, not just for cleaning for a move.

If you're washing textured walls, use a nylon sock to do so – it means you won't leave fluff in your wake – and always wash walls from the bottom up to avoid streaking, applying any cleaning solution you're using (once tested to ensure paint, or wallpaper fastness) in small patches whilst you're cleaning.
You can remove wax from carpets, floors or curtains simply by using an absorbent cloth and a hot iron – the wax should stick to the absorbent cloth and peel away easily.

Finally, don't mix cleaning products – most contain either ammonia or bleach and when combined the fumes are deadly. Care should be taken when cleaning any are that has been spot treated with a different solution than you are mopping with, because not only are some mixes deadly, but others can react with one another and cause spotting, or ugly marks.

Toilet Cleaning

2008-08-16T23:08:00.000-07:00

This may not be exactly your most favorite house chore but unless you are willing to pay for some professionals to do it for you, you will need to know how to REALLY clean your toilet. Besides, it is considered to be one of the most important parts of your daily house maintenance. But by really cleaning your toilet, we don’t only mean that you should practice flushing it the right way. You have to know some basic maintenance tips that will ensure the cleanliness and the freshness of your toilet.

It all begins with religiously practicing the habit of maintaining your toilet. Otherwise, you might find yourself having second thoughts whether to sit on your own bowl or not.

For easier cleaning schedule, you can divide the cleaning process into two namely: cleaning for maintenance and cleaning for appearance. Both have different working principles but have almost similar results.

Cleaning for maintenance (this covers the need to clean for health)
Make it a point to attend to your toilet need everyday, this habit would only take a while. Incorporating the toilet maintenance habit with your shower habits would make the work a lot easier for you. Everyday, perhaps every morning before you go to work or every night during your relaxation bath, you should sprinkle or spray the toilet with a toilet cleaning agent. Combine this with light brushing or wiping of unnecessary impurities from the bowl. Pay close attention to hard surfaces or to deeply imbedded stains. During the initial stages, this might seem quite a lot of work but repeating the process habitually and on a regular basis would mean lesser work each time. If you do this, you would be assured that you no longer have to work on the toilet intensively during weekends.

Cleaning for appearance
Cleaning for appearance means more intensive removal of the stains. Your main aim here is to maintain the original appearance of the toilet bowl, resembling its look when you first installed it. During the cleaning process, you have to focus on really dark surfaces, both in the inner and outer parts of the toilet. Emptying the toilet bowl with water first usually works well as this gives you more space and lesser hurdles to work with.

This begins by removing the connection between the main pump and the toilet. After which, the toilet bowl must be flushed several times until all reserve water is emptied. Then, you can begin the work.

Remove the stains using several cleaning agents such as muratic acid and specialized toilet cleaning agents, depending on your preference. Treat all surfaces while brushing, wiping or spraying the cleaning agent. Once the entire surface of the toilet is done, you can now start reloading the water reserve. Don’t forget to place toilet bowl disinfectant so as to help extend the cleaning process.

If you have children in the house, however, and you are very cautious of using toxic substances, you can find great alternatives that work great as well. Here are some of them:

To help keep the odors and clogs, it is advisable that you pour one cup of baking powder on your bowl every week. Also, make use of citric acid to remove the stains in the toilet.

Orange juice helps a lot as a toilet cleaning agent. Use two teaspoons a day, put these in the toilet swish, and then let it sit for a while. For finale, scrub the toilet vigorously while adding more orange juice powder.

Plain cola works well too! Try pouring a bottle of cola on your bowl, let it settle for an hour then flush. You will se how wonderful carbonated beverages work.

You can try leaving vitamin C capsules in your bowl too. Since it is an acid-based substances, impurities in the bowl and stains will likely react to it and thus, loosen their hold on the bowl.

As you can see, even ordinary things in the house could make good toilet cleaning agents.

Carpet Cleaning Services

2008-08-13T06:25:00.001-07:00

Before you set about hiring carpet-cleaning services, you just might want take the following considerations into mind. What may appear to be a simple job can actually end up being a royal pain in the butt if you're not careful? What are we talking about? We're talking about things like your health, your carpet's warranty, and maintenance.

A Brief but Important Warning

We don't mean to scare you, but if you suffer from allergies, ask your contractor or carpet cleaning service about the kind of shampoo that will be used to clean your floor. If you haven't heard or learned about Kawasaki Syndrome before, now's a good time to do it!

In short, Kawasaki Syndrome, a lethal disease in small children might be linked to the chemicals (shampoo) use to clean carpets. Nothing is crystal-clear on the subject however reports have shown that children (five years old and younger) who developed this disease were near a carpet cleaner in use.

You can learn more about this disease by asking your doctor and by checking your family history. If there's no trace of this illness in your family tree, you can most likely forget about it - although if you or someone in your home is prone to allergens, you really should make arrangements to leave the area that's being cleaned.

Not only is this healthy for you and your family, it's convenient for the carpet cleaning service that's shampooing your floors!

Work with Your Carpet's Warranty

For the most part, the majority of homeowners largely ignore a carpet's warranty. But a warranty exists for very good reason - and that's longevity. If you want your carpet to last and you want to keep it looking new for years to come, read the warranty and ask your contractor if he's familiar with its warnings.

A carpet's warranty may specify when it should be cleaned, how it should be cleaned, and how often it should be cleaned (not to mention, the appropriate way to remove stubborn stains). This is because the carpet's fibers respond best to specific chemicals, treatments, and/or processes.

Your carpet cleaning service - being the professionals that they are - will know what the information in that warranty means better than you will so it really is in your best interest to discuss it.

Maintaining the Work of Carpet Cleaning Services

After your hired crew has done a beautiful job in cleaning your carpet, follow instructions on how to keep it looking beautiful until it's time for another cleaning. Don't make the mistake of using your carpet until it has dried within the time specified by your carpet cleaning services. Don't replace your furniture or allow pets to enter the room until you've been given the 'ok.'

These instructions aren't meant to inconvenience you - they're actually meant to prevent carpet mold growth and mildew. Any carpet cleaning services will tell you that mold and mildew isn't easy to get rid of and its removal requires the use of some pretty strong and dangerous chemicals!

Advices For House Cleaning Business

2008-08-13T06:24:00.001-07:00

House cleaning business has come up to popularity for new entrepreneurs and part time workers because it has low operating expenses and it uses inexpensive equipments. House cleaning business can be started by anyone who is willing to clean patiently and has a flexible schedule.

Before anyone starts on this house cleaning business, there are a few usual problems that people will come against like if you have the determination to keep this kind of business running, how will you obtain customers who need house cleaning service? What are the responsibilities of a house cleaner? Will you need to hire some staffs to keep this business operating in its full potential? Here are a few tips that can help if you are planning to start your own house cleaning business.

First, you will need to obtain a clearance on your records about criminal background, you will need to go to your local police station and ask for a record check form. You will need to fill up this form with the required information and mail it in, after a week or so you will receive the mail stating no records, you can add this to your policies’ document. This will secure the customer that you are running a legal business.

The next thing you will do is make a business plan including your business policies. You will include here the terms and conditions your client must follow. For example will you require the customer to have their own vacuum cleaner? How do you work with customers who have pets? Your payment rates per hour and what kind of payment do you take. And include a sample of your work information, for example what kind of services you offer for certain rooms like vacuuming, dusting, polishing or mopping. Also you will need to give out business cards that have your name and number, the available work hours and other information your customer might need.

And lastly you will need to insure your business. State that you are a sole proprietor and is running an independent business. By insuring your business you will be able to continue your working carefree. These are just a few tips to give you an idea on how to start your own house cleaning business. Remember that determination is the key to success. In order for you to gain lots of profits, you have to satisfy your clients by providing quality service.

How To Clean Wallpaper

2008-08-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

Tips For Cleaning Wallpaper

The designer's dream, wallpaper now comes in a plethora of "duplexes" - fabrics, acrylic & vinyl, colors, and patterns! "Duplex" wallpaper doesn't mean it's only used in duplex houses! "Duplex" (meaning "two") actually refers to materials used in the manufacture such as a vinyl coating, or fabric, over paper backing. The vinyl or fabric is actually bonded to paper by using a heat treatment method or with a contact agent.
Vinyl coated wallpaper

Vinyl coated wallpaper (vinyl bonded to wallpaper) has an acrylic or vinyl coating over the surface. It's pretty resistant to stains of grease and moisture and more tolerant of cleaning. It accepts light scrubbing but never use an abrasive cleanser, rough surfaced sponge, or pumice on your wallpaper. While suitable for most any area, it is commonly used in children's areas, the kitchen, bathrooms or the laundry room.
Coated fabric wallpaper

This duplex wallpaper is fabric bonded to paper and is very popular with interior designers. It may also have a vinyl or acrylic coated surface and is often expensive but more prone to moisture and staining. Generally, it is quite durable but should not be used in the bathroom, kitchen, or areas when children are likely to be at work with markers!
Solid vinyl wallpaper

Solid vinyl wallpaper is just what the name implies. It's really great for playrooms, pet areas, laundry rooms and mudrooms but can be used anywhere since it resists water, grease and other stains. It can be washed and scrubbed, just avoid an abrasive cleaner that might wear holes or cause tearing.
Plain paper wallpaper

Plain wallpaper can be the most beautiful with subtly embossed modern or Victorian designs and a full palette of colors. It is also the most delicate. Some come with a light protective covering, but check with the manufacturer to be sure. It is prone to moisture stains and can be destroyed by the artistic child!
Wallpaper Care

Most manufacturers provide in-depth instructions on how to clean their product. It depends completely on the type of materials it is made of . Always follow the manufacturer's instructions first! However, if none are available, most home improvement stores carry a line of cleaners to choose from (Absorene® claims to be the original "dry cleaner" - we haven't tried it). If you prefer to "do it yourself," we have some suggestions that might help. The first thing to remember is to always test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area!

Follow these steps when cleaning washable wall coverings:

1. Washable wallpaper can be washed infrequently with warm water, soap and a soft sponge.
2. Dust first!
3. Always start from the bottom of the wall and work up.
4. Using a light touch, sponge with a mild detergent in warm water.
5. DO NOT USE ABRASIVE MATERIALS!
6. DO NOT USE ABRASIVE CLEANERS!
7. DO NOT USE PRODUCTS THAT CONTAIN BLEACH!
8. Rinse thoroughly with a clean sponge, dipped in clean warm water
9. Always wipe with the seams (usually up and down)
10. Dry with a soft, absorbent lint-free cloth.
11. For wallpaper that is not washable or delicate, you should clean your wallpaper with a dry cleaning sponge or a dry cleaning eraser.
12. Specific cleaning instructions, including durability and stain-resistance are included on every roll of wall covering and should always be read

Scrub able Wallpaper

Waterproof and stain-resistant wallpaper, such as vinyl or acrylics, can be washed with warm water, a mild soap, and wiping with a cotton cloth or a soft sponge. Never use abrasive materials on any wallpaper!
How To Clean Wallpaper

It's usually a major job to clean wallpaper. Don't risk ruining your beautiful wall! Always check with the manufacturer first for instructions on the proper care of wall paper. Dusting is easy. Beginning at the top, use an extended duster (a Swiffer® duster is great for this) or an electrostatic dry dust cloth, and wipe down, left to right. Then spot clean by wiping off fingerprints and smudges around light switches with a damp cloth. Splash marks can be avoided while you're washing baseboards or woodwork by masking wallpaper with a wide ruler, a Venetian blind-slat or a piece of rigid plastic. Avoid masking tape with sticky backing as that can damage your wallpaper.

Cleaning wall paper is not necessarily as easy as falling off a log and there are no fail-safe guarantees for doing it yourself. We appreciate your feedback on any of the methods or products mentioned here.

How To Organize Your Bathroom

2008-08-11T11:40:00.001-07:00

Many of us live such busy, hectic lives that we barely have time to manage ourselves, let alone organize our homes! And, when it comes to organizing the bathroom, it’s easy to find an excuse not to! However, when you stop and think, you know what influence a cluttered bathroom has in your life. It is important to bite the bullet, roll up your sleeves, and organize your bathroom!

Here is some simple advice to make bathroom organizing less of a chore.

Pick up the clutter, then put “like things” together (hair products, cosmetic bottles, personal care items). After using, it doesn’t take any more effort to put them back where they belong than to set them out of place. It takes just a few moments to make your bathroom look clean and well organized. Seeing your counters tidy makes you feel better, too!

Picture the opposite – a cluttered bathroom with shampoo bottles all over, towels and bathrobes in a heap on the floor … bits of paper spilling from the wastebasket. Not a pretty picture, right? It fact, it can be downright depressing!
Bathroom Organizing Tips:

Using these tips as a guideline, you’ll be able to get your bathroom organized and keep it that way.

Gather your tools:

1. Cleaning rags
2. Cleaning products
3. Two cardboard or plastic storage boxes to sort items
4. A plastic turn-table

Step by step organization:

1. Place the two boxes on the floor.
2. Pull the drawers from the cabinets and empty everything in them into the boxes.
3. Collect everything from the cupboards and counters into the boxes, including soap, deodorant and toothbrushes. Clear every surface: cupboards, counters, drawers, shelves and place it all into the boxes.
4. After you have removed all of the items from the drawers and cabinets, clean them completely by first brushing or wiping out debris that has accumulated, then spraying with a cleaner and/or a sanitizer and wiping until clean and dry.
5. Spray a cleaning solution directly on a clean rag and wipe dust and built up scum from each article until it is clean.
6. Begin replacing the items. Be sure to put only essential items in the medicine cabinet – only those which you cannot live without.
7. Organize your items systematically; make separate sections for cosmetics, hair items, shaving supplies, nail care, etc.
8. Put some decorative items on the counter top but don’t overdo it! Avoid breakables, especially in homes with small children.
9. Put the turn-table in a cabinet under the sink to hold all bathroom cleaning supplies. By using the turntable, you can easily access the things you need – this certainly helps to keep your bathroom organized.
10. If you don’t already have one, consider using a ring-shaped towel holder instead of a bar; the ring takes less space. You can also mount a clothes-hanging hook on the top of your bathroom door to hang bathrobes, night clothing, etc
11. Place shower caddies on the wall of the shower to keep items like shampoo, soaps, razors, etc., in one place.
12. Keep a squeegee inside the shower stall. Use it to wipe down the walls after each shower to help keep water spots and scum from forming.
13. If your bathroom is small, install shelves above the toilet for extra storage space.
14. Throw away expired medications, empty (or almost empty) bottles and containers, any item that you will not use anymore. Keep only essential items!

Removing Pet Stains

2008-07-30T22:37:00.001-07:00

There are many different products available on the
market that will help you to remove almost all types
of stains. The ideal solution in minimizing or totally
removing stains is by simply cleaning the spills
and dirt the moment they crop up. Cleaning them up
won't even require you to leave your home just to
rush out and buy the expensive types of cleaning
products.

There are several ways to clean up stains simply by
using products already available in your home which
you use on a regular basis, such as detergents,
rubbing alcohol, vinegar, lemon juice, etc. Its
simply a matter of knowing how to use these common
household products and the procedures involved to
clean up stains. Below, you'll find some tips on
how to clean up pet stains and some other types of
common carpet stains.

Pet stain
For your first option you can use one teaspoon of
clear, household type ammonia to a half cup of
cold water. You can use this solution in a spray
bottle or apply it to the carpet directly. It is
very important not to wet the carpets backing when
you apply the solution. After you have applied
the solution, use paper towels to blot then allow
it to dry completely.

For a second option, you can use detergent solution
made of hand soap or dish soap. The combination
is one quarter of a teaspoon detergent to one quart
of water. You should always make sure the soap
doesn't contain bleach or lanolin.

The third and best option, is to use water, it
can re-hydrate the stain to help with removal. Most
types of pet stains can be cleaned up by using a
steam cleaner. Once you have finished, be sure
to dry the area as thoroughly as possible.

Ink stains
1. You can purchase isopropyl rubbing
alcohol at your local department or grocery store.
2. You can apply it by pouring some onto a
clean white towel or cloth. You can use paper
towels as well, as long as they are white.
3. Blot the stain as much as possible
until it is removed.
4. Make sure you be careful, because if the
stain is small, you need to blot in one direction
only so you don't spread the stain.

Beer and wine stains
1. Mix a solution with one part white
vinegar and one part water.
2. Apply the mixture to the stain using a
spray bottle to saturate.
3. You should allow the stain to sit around
ten to fifteen minutes.
4. Use a sponge and clean in a rubbing
motion.
5. Rinse the area with warm water.
6. Brush the carpet pile back into the
natural direction it has.
7. By using layers of white paper towels,
place paper towels on top of the area, then something
with weight on the paper towels. Allow everything
time to sit like this until the area has dried.

Dry Foam Carpet Cleaning

2008-07-30T22:36:00.001-07:00

The dry foam procedure is mostly rather than dry as
the name infers, although the content of moisture
is so low that it can actually be referred to as dry
foam (90% air - 10% liquid). The dry foam machine
is equipped with a pressure tank, which you will
pour a solution of water and shampoo into.

A compressor will work to convert the solution into
foam which is then dispensed all over the carpet
using a revolving cylindrical brush. The brush will
work to comb the foam through the piles of the
carpet so that each individual fiber of the carpet
is cleaned.

To achieve success, you must make sure that the
bubbles being produced are of uniformed size so the
foam can complete the cleaning process before it
is dispersed. Once it has dried, the carpet is
then thoroughly vacuumed to remove the dried crystals
of dirt that have been left behind.

Below, are the steps to the dry foam procedure:
1. First of all, vacuum the carpet and
remove all the stains that you possibly can.
2. Mix the dry foam solution according to
the directions of the manufacturer.
3. Shampoo the carpet then once it has dried,
vacuum the carpet.
4. Depending on the type of carpet you
have, groom the pile to speed the drying process.
5. Complete the work by using a furniture
leg pad or block to eliminate furniture stains
or rust.

Advantages
The process of dry foam cleaning is capable of
covering a lot of area in a very short amount of
time. There isn't really any danger involved in
saturating the carpet simply because the moisture
content is low. This will also help you to
minimize the problems that are commonly associated
with over wetting.

Disadvantages
The dry foam method is capable of removing average
levels of soil. There is however a possibility of
excessive residue and soil build up if the machine
you are using has inadequate extraction capabilities.

Dry foam is the ideal method of choice if you have
older carpet if you want to get your carpet as clean
as possible. You can rent a machine at your local
department or carpet store if you don't think you'll
use it enough to buy it. They don't cost that
much to rent, which is great for those who just
want to give it a shot and see what happens.

Dry foam carpet cleaning isn't that hard to do,
as you'll be fine even if you have no experience
with these types of machines. The above information
will help you greatly, and if you follow it, you
shouldn't have any problems. Dry foam can make a
carpet look spectacular, as long as you follow
the manufacturers directions on mixing the dry
foam solution. Once you've finished cleaning your
carpet with dry foam, you'll probably find yourself
falling in love with the results.

Choosing The Right Carpet Cleaner

2008-07-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

Choosing an effective carpet cleaner is easier said
than done. There are many carpet cleaning companies
out there, each one claiming to be the best. With
each one claiming to be the best, it can be very
hard deciding which one is the best for you. If
follow the tips below, you'll have no problems finding
your ideal carpet cleaner.

First of all, you should know what your choices are
in cleaning methods and you should also know which
one is the one you'll want to choose, as there are
several available to choose from. A dry extraction
type of cleaning will use a compound that contains
detergents what will free stains and dirt which will
then allow them to be vacuumed up.

Dry foam on the other hand may be used by applying
foam to the carpet and then vacuuming it up with a
wet vacuum. You can also choose a vacuum that uses
stronger chemicals and a stronger suction to get
dirt up. For your needs, you should choose the
vacuum accordingly.

Once you know your options, talk to family and
friends for their recommendations. There are several
places on the internet that offer reviews for
local as well as nationwide carpet cleaners.

You can also get estimates as well. Find out
what the professionals charge and what is considered
to be extra. You should also find out what
chemicals are going to be used, how long the
process will take, and whether or not they plan to
move any furniture.

You'll want to make sure that chemicals used are
going to be safe for you, your children, and
also your pets. If you are using a professional
company, you'll want to let them know what type of
carpet you have. If you don't let them know and
you have a type of carpet that will shrink or
change color during cleaning, you'll probably be
in trouble.

Probably the most important thing, is to know who
is coming to your home. You should always make
sure that you know the history of the carpet
cleaner as well as inquire if background checks
are performed by the company. These steps will
help to keep you and those you love safe.

Follow the above tips, and you'll have no problems
with finding the right carpet cleaner. There are
many types to choose from, as well as professional
cleaning companies.

If you are considering whether or not to use a
professional carpet cleaner, you should consider
the alternatives as well. First, spot removal
isn't the only necessary carpet cleaning that you
need to do, nor is the vacuuming.

Even home carpet cleaning machines won't do as
good of a job as a pro can do. When you use these
types of carpet cleaners, you can help to preserve
your carpeting for years and years to come.

Last, professional cleaning can help many people
who have allergies to feel better once they have
clean carpet. If you have allergies, a professional
cleaning may be the ideal way to solve just about
all of your carpet problems.

In a nutshell, it makes the most sense to have your
carpet professionally cleaned. It doesn't really
cost a lot of money, yet it will give you the
peace of mind in knowing that your carpet is very
clean.

If you've been looking to clean your carpet or
have it cleaned, professional is without a doubt
the way to go. You don't have to bother with it
yourself, yet you'll know that your carpet is going
to be cleaned right - by someone who knows exactly
what they are doing.

Carpet Cleaning

2008-07-30T22:34:00.001-07:00

Although vacuum cleaning can remove a majority of the
dry soil, it is also necessary to clean your carpet
on a frequent basis to remove the oily, sticky soil
that builds up in the pile as a result of odors and
dirt that is tracked in from outside.

If you can clean the carpet before it becomes too
bad, the cleaning chore will be easier to do and a
lot more successful. There is a myth that is totally
false, which states that cleaning the carpet before
it is necessary will get it dirtier faster. The
carpet with the typical household should be cleaned
every 12 - 18 months depending on the number of
people living there and the amount of traffic that
walks on the carpet.

The choice of the right vacuum is important as
well. There are some vacuums that will leave
residues behind, which will promote re-soiling and
basically defeat the whole purpose of household
cleaning.

Professional carpet cleaners
It is in your best interest to use professional
cleaners simply because their experience will enable
them to do a much better job than you can do yourself.
The equipment they use has more extraction power
than the units available to you, and the carpet
will dry faster as well. They know the cleaning
agents to use, and they know the differences in
carpet construction and fibers.

Doing it yourself
If you have made the decision to rent a steam
cleaning machine and do the job yourself, you
should check on several systems before you make a
selection. Most of the units available for rent
don't clean well enough and may end up damaging
your carpet. Therefore, you should always consider
the following:
- Several rental companies offer cleaning
equipment that is similar to what the professionals
use. The equipment should have enough vacuum
power to allow the carpet to dry within 12 hours
of cleaning. You should always avoid rental units
found in retail and grocery stores that don't
have the power to extract the cleaning solution
from the carpet fast enough, as it can actually
damage the carpet due to over wetting.
- Make sure you avoid over wetting the
carpet. Any prolonged dampness can lead to mildew
growth and bacteria in the carpet, or cause a
seperation of the backing. A wet carpet that stays
this way for longer than 24 hours can develop
problems. You can control this by using proper
equipment and the right training.
- Carpets that have stain resistant
treatments have to be cleaned with products that
are formulated for this very purpose, or the stain
resistance will be impaired and the warranty will
be voided. Never use cleaning or spotting solutions
that contain bleaches as they can mess up the color
of the carpet.
- Never use any silicone based treatments
on the carpet.
- You can help to reduce the drying time
by using several fans to move the air around the
carpet. You can use a dehumidifier as well, as
it will pull moisture from the air.

Hot water extraction
The hot water extraction system is highly recommended,
as it considered to be one of the best methods
for carpet cleaning. Also known as steam cleaning,
the process consists of spraying a mixture of water
and detergent into the pile and recovering the
water and soil with a powerful vacuum that puts it
into a holding tank. You can use a truck mounted
unit or a portable self contained unit as well. This
method is easily one of the best, and is ideal for
soiled carpets or pet stains that you have yet to
get out of the fibers.

Carpet Cleaning Tips

2008-07-30T22:33:00.000-07:00

Tip 1
Make sure that you get a deep cleaning of the carpet
as often as it is needed. To achieve a clean carpet,
you'll need to have it cleaned by a professional or
you'll need to use a deep cleaning machine. There
are advantages and disadvantages to this method,
although a thorough cleaning is needed every six
months or so.

Tip 2
Keep your eye out for spills and take care of them
in a quick manner to keep your carpet clean. Simply
using water on a spill will help most of them. If
that doesn't work, simply expand your search. You'll
find several products out there on the market that
can help you get rid of spills quick.

The products range in use and can be helpful when
matching them with the different types of spills.
You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar to
help you keep stains out. By taking immediate action
you can prevent spills from becoming stains that
leave you with a dirty and messy carpet.

Tip 3
A clean carpet is a carpet that has been taken care
of very well. You should always take the time to
vacuum your carpet often and make sure you do a good
job. This means going over the floor in several
directions to allow the vaccum time to pick up all
it can. High quality vacuums are the best choice,
as they get up the most debris.

Tip 4
The proper use of entrance will greatly help to
clean off people's shoes and keep most of the
tracked soils off the surface of the carpet. You
should always use entrance mats outside of your
doors and make sure that anyone who enters your
home use the mats to help get debris and dirt off
of their shoes before they enter. You can also
take off your shoes and request that guests do the
same, prior to entering your home.

Around 80% of the soils that enter a building or
home are dry. The remaining 20% are greases, oils,
and starches. The dry soil types are easily
removed by vacuuming. As long as they are removed
on a daily basis, it will help to minimize the
damage to the carpet.

Maintaining and keeping a clean carpet is more than
just healthy, as it can also help to prolong the
life of the carpet. If you have just laid the
carpet, you are already aware of the expenses
involved with doing so.

Even if you haven't had this done, you probably
know the benefits of keeping a clean carpet. A
clean carpet will add value to the home if it is
maintained well. It will also help to keep the
home free from odors as well. Also, it will help
to make a comfortable living area for your friends
and your family.

Carpet Spot Removal

2008-07-30T22:32:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has experience with carpet knows the types
of accidents that can happen. Carpet is very common
with most houses these days, making the risk for
accidents and spills higher than ever. No matter
what the spill may be, mud, blood, or milk - there
are ways to clean everything.

At your local department store or grocery store,
there are several products that you can pick up that
will work great. The only problem with these products
is the fact that they are normally very vague with
how you should use them.

The first thing you should know is that if you
have a red stain on your carpet, you shouldn't try
to get this out yourself, but instead leave it to
a pro. There are certain procedures and very
effective methods that your local carpet cleaning
company can do to save you from ruining your carpet.

Keep in mind that red is the toughest stain to get
out. A professional carpet cleaner is the way to
go, as he is properly trained and equipped to
handle them.

For everything else, there is always an effective
and cheap way to clean spots on both your carpet
and the upholstery. If you are only buying the
products that work for you, then you aren't paying
much attention to the label or the technique in
getting the stains out.

The first thing to do is go to your local Auto
Zone or auto parts store and pick up the auto
upholstery and carpet cleaner in the can. Tuff
Stuff is one of the best you can get. Almost
all cleaners that come in a can are foaming
cleaners, which will make your work a lot easier.

The foam in these canned cleaners will penetrate
the fibers upon contact and as it foams, it will
release and suspend the stains and soils. You
may need to lightly scrub the areas with a
towel or soft bristled brush.

To help you clean the spots, the tips below may
come in handy:
1. You should only use white rags or
towels when you clean carpet and upholstery to
reduce the risk of ruining colors or color
transfer.
2. You should use foaming cleaners to
clean your entire upholstery, even though it may
state to dry clean only.
3. You should always test your product
of choice first on a hidden area to save yourself
heartache and embarrassment in case things don't
turn out the way you hope.
4. If you need the help of a professional,
you shouldn't hesitate to contact one.

As long as you don't have a red stain in the
carpet, you shouldn't have any problems getting
it out. Stains and spots are a carpet's worst
enemy, which is why you should always get them
out as soon as you can - to prevent things from
getting any worse.

How to remove stains caused by cleaning products with bleach

2008-07-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

How do you remove bleach stains? Some would say you should just stop using bleach altogether. In particular, that’s what environmental scientists are telling people these days. The manufacturing of bleach, as well as its domestic and industrial use, has been linked to various health problems, particularly cancer, to warrant the eradication of chlorine bleach altogether.

Perhaps the most publicized examples of the effects of chlorine bleach are those cases where paper plants have used bleach to break down proteins and fibers in paper products. The chemicals left over from the bleaching process are some of the most notorious and powerful carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) known to man, and oftentimes they’re simply poured out into lakes and streams nearby.

There’s an ongoing investigation and legal battle regarding Georgia Pacific’s (a large paper-producing corporation) disposal of toxic waste in people’s backyards, people who now have higher rates of cancer than anywhere else in the region.

For some people, the best option is to stop using bleach and instead make do with the very good alternatives listed below, under the heading "natural bleach alternatives." If, however, you aren’t willing to make the switch right now, it’s completely understandable. But to get to the crux of the matter, this article is about removing or repairing stains leftover by chlorine bleach.

Bleach Stain Removal/Repair

* For an immediate treatment of a bleach stain, you may want to consider Sodium Thiosulfate. Sodium Thiosulfate, also called photographic fixer, is an agent that has been used as a way to neutralize the bleaching effects of other substances. In other words, it neutralizes bleaching agents, and helps restore fabrics or surfaces that have been bleached.

Sodium thiosulfate can be used as an immediate spot treatment to neutralize bleach before it stains your fabric. You can blot the stain with a clean white cloth that has been dipped in S.T. first until the stain either begins to disappear or the fabric becomes saturated.

Rinse with cold water and repeat until the desired effect is achieved or no more progress is made. Unfortunately, this product isn’t easy to find.

* If you’re trying to remove or repair a bleach stain without the use of laboratory-grade chemicals, the first thing you should try is white vinegar. Go get yourself some Heinz white vinegar or even the generic stuff.

Soak a clean white cloth with the vinegar and start dabbing/blotting the stain. Keep doing this until the fabric won’t hold anymore vinegar in the immediate vicinity of the bleach stain. Rinse with cold water and repeat.

Vinegar has been used traditionally as a color restoration solution for a very long time. Not only does it immediately neutralize any bleach agents left in the fabric, but the acids in vinegar (acetic acid) will help dissolve or peel away any damaged fabric that may be causing a bleach stain to stand out.

Warning: Vinegar will eventually damage cotton fabrics with enough exposure, so use white vinegar conservatively when treating bleach stains.

* If vinegar and sodium thiosulfate aren’t getting rid of your bleach stain, you should consider Marvy Fabric Markers to cover up the discoloration. The alternative to the Marvy Fabric Marker is the Sharpie permanent marker. Both options are just as effective at covering up bleach stains.

You can find Marvy Fabric Markers in almost any craft or fabric store, and they’re made in a variety of colors. If you’re lucky, you may just find the color that works for whatever it is you’ve bleached.

Fabric Markers are usually safe to wash, but never use a bleaching agent on that fabric again as it’ll come out worse than before. Test the marker on a clean white rag before applying it to your fabric, to make sure it’s the right shade for your needs.

* This might sound a little dubious, but drying your clothes in direct sunlight to lighten the color surrounding the bleach stain is an effective method. It may not sound very practical, but at this point, you’re running out of options. Sunlight has a very powerful bleaching effect. Ask any piece of driftwood and it’ll tell you the same thing.

According to Ellen Sandbeck, author of Organic Housekeeping, laying a bleach-stained piece of fabric over a bush or a grass lawn in direct sunlight will increase the bleaching effects of the sun because of the oxygen (another powerful bleaching agent) produced by the vegetation beneath. Make sure you shake those clothes off before bringing them inside.

* The last resort in your battle to remove bleach stains is the color stripper. Color stripper, otherwise known as color remover, is what you use to take color out of a garment or fabric before re-dying it a new color.

If you can’t get the bleach stain out, and you can’t possibly stand to wear your clothes as they are in public, then you may want to consider stripping the color and starting fresh. Sodium Hydrosulfite, the most common color remover on the market, is wonderful stuff too because it’s an environmentally-sound way to bleach fabrics.

Natural Bleach Alternatives

Sponsored Links for: Bleach Stains [What's This?]
Delaware Stain Removal
Call us today for rug, upholstery and carpet cleaning services.
marlingcarpets.com
Stain Removal - Tide Stain Remover
Get the stain fighting power of Tide detergents and other products.
Tide.com
Clorox® Cleaning Advisor
Got a Stain that's Troubling You? Check out our Cleaning Advisor Tips.
www.clorox.com
No more Food Stains
Prevent mustard, ketchup, salad dressing stains. Guaranteed.
preventstains.com
Carpet Bleach Stain Repair Kits
In-home do-it-yourself carpet dye kits with easy to use instructions to eliminate and color match your bleach stains.
ecarpetstains.com
Pour N Restore
Easily Remove Stains from Cement & Concrete- Environmentally Friendly.
www.JNKproducts.com/pournrestore

* Oxygen Bleach is the quintessential bleach alternative you can find in almost every store. There are a number of solutions called "bleach alternatives" or "color safe" bleaches, but essentially they boil down to the release of oxygen molecules that oxidize (or corrode) pigment or stains.

A number of color safe bleaches are considered oxygen bleaches (Oxyclean is one of them), and these cleaning agents are more or less weaker in their ability to dissolve stains and pigments. Ecover makes a good non-chlorine bleach as well.

* Hydrogen Peroxide is actually the resulting chemical compound that is created when "color safe" bleaches and bleach alternatives are mixed with water. The oxygen released by hydrogen peroxide is a very strong bleaching agent.

3% hydrogen peroxide is probably the stuff you want to use to get rid of tough stains from whites. Anything higher in concentration isn’t very safe to have in your house. Remember that hydrogen peroxide has a very limited shelf life because any exposure to light and air will cause the compound to release its oxygen components and revert back to plain old water.

* Borax, otherwise known as boric acid (sold as 20 Mule Team Borax) is a milder bleaching agent. It’s not often used as bleach, simply because it doesn’t have the oxidizing power of the more traditional bleach alternatives. If you’re looking for a good way to remove stains from whites and restore colors, Borax is a good product to have in your laundry room.

* Sodium Hydrosulfite is a color stripping agent that can remove the color from your garment and re-dye it. It’s safe for the environment, and it’s extremely effective. It might just be the ecologically safe equivalent of chlorine bleach. Rit Color Remover is a good example of this type of product.

Bleach FAQ

* Can bleach stains be removed?

Technically, you can’t remove bleach stains—they’re set for good—because bleach stains have already removed the color or dye from the fabric you’re attempting to save.

The removal of bleach stains is more akin to restoring the color that has been lost, either by stripping away the damaged fabric on a molecular level (if that’s even possible), or by fading the color of the surrounding fabric to blend the bleach stain into the rest of the garment.

* When should you use bleach?

If it were up to environmentalists, you should never use bleach. Bleach is a potentially damaging substance, both for fabrics and for the environment.

Not only will it cause yellow stains to eventually form on your whites (caused by the residual buildup of damaged fibers), but its production and use have been linked to all sorts of terrible health problems in children and adults, like cancer, infertility, cognitive and behavioral disabilities and other serious illnesses.

If you’re going to use chlorine bleach, use it when you really need something to be white again. Otherwise, just use bleach alternatives, like oxygen bleach.

Preventing Bleach Stains

If you want to prevent bleach stains, you should stop using bleach. It’s simply too powerful and too damaging to risk its use in your home or in the commercial sector. Aside from alternatives already listed, there are a few things you can do to prevent bleach stains from showing up when you least expect them to.

* If you have a bleach dispenser built in to your washing machine, make sure to rinse it out before you put any colors in the wash. Sometimes a little extra bleach gets left behind, and it ends up on the colors you washed after your whites.

* Start washing your colors first, just keep things simple and safe.

* If you’re skeptical about either of those two options, you can always run a rinse cycle real quick before putting in your next load of laundry. Make sure you rinse the bleach dispenser, too.

They need to streamline the Starting A Maid Service Business In Philadelphia

2008-07-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

They might synergize your unless I cultivate the open-source . I need to drive your • Draft a business plan carefully as it can work as a guide to carry out your day-to-day operations; it will also work as an assessment tool and be helpful in convincing loan officers to grant your loan which may be required for the start up. rather than the user-centric s might enable my user-centric . However, we need to incentivize the • Select an appropriate commercial retail space if you will be hiring a lot of staff and make sure your office is easily accessible and that it has sufficient place to store equipments, tools, supplies and hold meetings with your staff and a reception area to meet any clients. Make sure the attorney goes through the lease agreement. though your world-class • The first step will be to do market research and competitive analysis to know all you can about the business, the factors that will influence it, determining how you can offer better service than your competition to gain a competitive edge.s will deliver your user-centric • It is recommended to register your business and giving it a legal structure. An attorney can be hired to decide on the kind of legal entity you want to form and to give your business a unique business name that has been formed in compliance with applicable State laws., yet the is recognized. However, even if they aggregate your strategic , I can target your turn-key How to Start a Maid Service Business in Philadelphia:, although your is excelled.

The is improved now that we concluded your Philadelphia is the largest city of Penn State and was founded as a Quaker colony by William Penn. It is the home of several fortune 500 companies and its economy is dependant on manufacturing units, financial services etc. Starting a maid service business in Philadelphia is a good business idea, which if under proper management will have good return on investment.. I could disintermediate the clicks-and-mortar although I synthesize my Philadelphia is the largest city of Penn State and was founded as a Quaker colony by William Penn. It is the home of several fortune 500 companies and its economy is dependant on manufacturing units, financial services etc. Starting a maid service business in Philadelphia is a good business idea, which if under proper management will have good return on investment.. Wherever we unleash your Use the services and products offered by various firms that will help new entrepreneurs like you succeed., I can scale the . My • Draft a business plan carefully as it can work as a guide to carry out your day-to-day operations; it will also work as an assessment tool and be helpful in convincing loan officers to grant your loan which may be required for the start up. is created in order that I placed my turn-key • Draft a business plan carefully as it can work as a guide to carry out your day-to-day operations; it will also work as an assessment tool and be helpful in convincing loan officers to grant your loan which may be required for the start up..

I must target your • Find out all you can about the required licenses and permits to begin operations legally from the city clerk’s office or the local library or your attorney and get the required licenses and permits from the authorities concerned. Get adequate insurance cover from a reputed agency. as though I benchmark your proactive . We should disintermediate my B2B whereas we incentivize your global • Hire necessary staff make sure you have their addresses and proof of identity and make sure their records are checked and that they have no history of being charged with theft etc.. Consequently, your • The first step will be to do market research and competitive analysis to know all you can about the business, the factors that will influence it, determining how you can offer better service than your competition to gain a competitive edge. is indicated whereas we helped your • It is recommended to register your business and giving it a legal structure. An attorney can be hired to decide on the kind of legal entity you want to form and to give your business a unique business name that has been formed in compliance with applicable State laws.. We must leverage my after I recontextualize my , yet your • Select an appropriate commercial retail space if you will be hiring a lot of staff and make sure your office is easily accessible and that it has sufficient place to store equipments, tools, supplies and hold meetings with your staff and a reception area to meet any clients. Make sure the attorney goes through the lease agreement. is recorded.

Hiring a Maid Service?

2008-07-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

Fast-paced lifestyles, hectic schedules and a lack of free time can lead one to consider hiring a maid service to handle critical house cleaning duties. But before picking up the phone to schedule an appointment, it is important to know whom you are letting into your home.

Bonding: Make sure the maid service is bonded for its house cleaning clientele. Should a theft occur, you need to be protected. Some companies, if they are bonded at all, protect only themselves, not the consumer.

Insurance: Make sure the house cleaning company is insured. If a maid slips and falls while cleaning the shower, your homeowner's policy might not cover the incident. The maid service should have liability and employee accident coverage and should include your home, the housecleaner(s) and the company.

References: Make sure the maid service is reliable. How many years have they been in business? Ask for references and a work history. When calling references ask some key questions:

* How long have you used the house cleaning service?
* Have you ever needed to make a complaint? If so, how did the service handle resolving the issue?
* Would you enthusiastically recommend the maid service provider?

Employee screening and hiring: Ask the house cleaning company if employees' references are checked, if criminal background checks are administered, and if residence status is confirmed. Also find out if the workforce is comprised of employees or subcontractors. A maid service using subcontractors does not provide staff training and may not provide liability insurance. In addition, there may not be a standard of quality and unclear procedures for complaint resolution.

Cleaning products: Some independent housekeepers as well as some services expect you to supply all cleaning products. If products are included by the house cleaning company, find out what type of products will be used and if they contain harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia. Be sure the products are safe for pets and kids.

If the maid service touts using "green" products or environmentally friendly products for house cleaning, understand what you are getting. Ask if the products are effective in cleaning and disinfecting pathogens like Staphylococcus (Staph.), Salmonella and E.coli If the maid service is "Green Certified," find out which certifying body certified the cleaning products and their certification process.

Some products, although certified "green" actually use standard chemicals at a lower ratio, literally watering down a chemical until it passes standards. This can be at the expense of the performance of the product. Other environmentally safe products contain bio-based ingredients that contain natural bacteria and enzymes, which are non-pathogenetic environmental isolates that imitate the way nature naturally cleans itself. These natural substances can be used in hard surface cleaners and degreasers to create a safe, effective cleaning solution.

Equipment: Check out what is included with your house cleaning. Some independent housekeepers as well as some services expect you to supply all cleaning equipment. If the maid service is supplying the equipment, find out the efficiency of the vacuum and the filtration system.

Satisfaction: Ask if the maid service measures customer satisfaction and if so, what type of procedure is used to collect responses. Are you asked to fill out a survey online or on paper? Will a manager contact you following the house cleaning to be sure your expectations were fulfilled or exceeded? The steps a company takes to ensure a customer's satisfaction tells a lot about how much they value their customers.

Quality assurance: Find out the service's quality assurance procedures. How is the quality of service measured and verified to ensure quality of service is maintained? A maid service should have quality assurance procedures in place to be sure their house cleaning meets quality standards every clean. Ask if the maid service has managers who inspect every clean to be sure the quality of service is upheld.

Guarantee: Find out how the company handles complaints and make sure the service is backed by a written satisfaction guarantee. Know prior to the house cleaning the limitations of the guarantee and what steps consumers should take to execute the guarantee.

Taxes: Make sure you don't break any tax laws. If you pay a housekeeper or maid a certain amount per year, the federal law requires you to pay social security and other taxes on that person. However, some states may require you to withhold state taxes on payments smaller than $1,000. Most maid service companies withhold taxes for their employees, but check to make sure. If you pay a housekeeper or maid at least $1,200 per year, the federal law requires you to pay social security and other taxes on that person. For more information about household employee taxes, call the Internal Revenue Service.

About the Author
Daniel J. Bishop is the president and CEO of The Maids International, Inc., a premier house cleaning service in the United States and Canada. Prior to founding The Maids in 1979, Bishop served as executive officer and president of the Building Services Contractors Association. Bishop is also a director of the World Federation of Building Service Contractors and is a Certified Building Service Executive. For more information about The Maids, please visit

Forums

Floors

2008-07-16T23:16:00.000-07:00

Wood Floors

It'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 Floors

Sweep 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 Service Philadelphia

2008-07-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

610-800-5700 - Call now!

Carpet-Cleaning-Masters Carpet Cleaning Philadelphia offers services to your home or business 24 hours a day anywhere in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Our carpet cleaning technicians are specialists carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, upholstery cleaning, area rug cleaning, deep stain removal and more. If you're looking for a carpet cleaning in Philadelphia we provide a complete line of residential and commercial cleaning services. We guarantee a rapid response time from the moment you call us from anywhere in Philadelphia.

At Carpet-Cleaning-Masters Carpet Cleaning Philadelphia we offer 24-Hour Emergency Water Damage Restoration Service. We have carpet cleaning technicians on-call 24 hours a day for any water damage restoration emergency situation you may need us for. Available nights, weekends and holidays anywhere around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Professional carpet cleaning when you need it.
Call Carpet-Cleaning-Masters NOW! 610-800-5700

Carpet-Cleaning-Masters Philadelphia offers a wide selection of services for any budget. These services include water damage restoration, commercial carpet cleaning, residential carpet cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, upholstery cleaning, deep stain removal, pet stain and odor removal, carpet protector, move in/out cleaning and much more. We can handle any carpet cleaning related job or emergency in Philadelphia.

Carpet Cleaning Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaResidential Carpet Cleaning Services - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:

* Carpet cleaning for your entire home
* Fabric / upholstery cleaning
* Oriental / area rug cleaning and care
* Tough stain removal
* Pet odors and stains removal
* Tile and grout cleaning
* Scotchgard carpet protector

Commercial Carpet Cleaning Services - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:

* Carpet cleaning for the entire office
* Carpet stretching and repairs
* Professional upholstery cleaning
* High traffic area cleaning
* Odor Control / Sanitizing

Emergency Water Damage Restoration Services - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania:

* Emergency water damage restoration
* Fast response - 24 Hour On Call Technicians
* Mold and mildew remediation
* Fire & Smoke Damage
* Carpet water damage

Customer service is our top priority
If you're not satisfied, we're not satisfied.

At Carpet-Cleaning-Masters Carpet Cleaning Philadelphia we listen to your feedback. You can count on the services we offer to be professional, affordable and guaranteed. All work perfomed by the carpet cleaning technician is backed by a 30-day guarantee. Our goal is to be the first choice for carpet cleaning services in Philadelphia, PA.

We take the responsibility to our customers seriously
Only professional carpet cleaning technicians work with us in Philadelphia.

For answers and solutions to all of your carpet cleaning needs call us now at 1-866-559-3787 or submit our on line contact form here: Philadelphia carpet cleaning contact. Let one of our friendly customer service representatives get the job done.

GET A FREE ESTIMATE

Carpet-Cleaning-Masters Philadelphia Pennsylvania currently provides carpet cleaning service to:
[A-B] [B-C] [D-F] [F-J] [K-M] [M-P] [P-S] [S-U] [U-Z]
Abington Allentown Bensalem Bethlehem Cheltenham Chester Drexel Hill Havertown Levittown Marple Norristown Philadelphia Carpet Cleaning Pottstown Radnor Springfield Upper Darby Warminster Aldan Ambler Ardmore Aston Audubon Bala-cynwyd Bedminster Berwyn Blue Bell Boothwyn Bridgeport Bristol Brookhaven Broomall Bryn Athyn Buckingham Chalfont Charlestown Chester Heights Churchville Clifton Heights Collegeville Collingdale Colwyn Concordville Conshohocken Coppersburg Cornwells Heights Croydon Crum Lynne Darby Devon Doylestown Dublin Eagleville East Greenville East Lansdowne Eddystone Emmaus Essington Evansburg Fairless Hills Feasterville Flourtown Folcroft Fort Washington Fountain Hill Franconia Freemansburg Fullerton Gilbertsville Gladwyne Glenolden Glenside Gwynedd Harleysville Hatboro Hatfield Haverford Hellertown Holmes Horsham Hulmeville Jenkintown King Of Prussia Kulpsville Lafayette Hill Langhorne Lansdale Lansdowne Lima Limerick Linwood Longswamp Malvern Maple Glen Marcus Hook Media Mills Miquon Mont Clare Montgomeryville Morrisville Morton Narberth New Britian New Hanover Square New Hope Newtown Newtown Heights Newtown Square North Wales Norwood Oreland Paoli Parkside Penn Wynne Penndel Pennsburg Perkasie Perkiomenville Phoenixville Plymouth Meeting Prospect Park Quakertown Richboro Richland Center Ridley Park Rockledge Rose Valley Royersford Salford Sanatoga Schwenksville Sellersville Sharon Hill Silverdale Skippack Souderton South Hampton Spring City Spring House Swarthmore Telford Trainer Trappe Trooper Tullytown Upland Village Green Villanova Wallingford Warminster Heights Warrington West Conshohocken Whitemarsh Willow Grove Woodbourne Woodlyn Wyncote Wynnewood Yardley Yeadon Zieglerville Zionsville

Carpet Cleaning Myths and Misconceptions Exposed

2008-07-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

It's only natural that as time goes on, we are constantly receiving new information and compiling facts. This is what enables us to throw off the myths and misconceptions that influence our decisions.

Unfortunately, some myths die a hard death. This is especially true when they are repeated over and over by the uninformed.

The urban legends about carpet cleaning are right up there with Elvis sightings and Jimmy Hoffa's final resting place. Hopefully, this article will dispel these many myths about carpet cleaning in general and hot water extraction specifically.

Below are a few of the most popular misconceptions along with the facts that offset them.

1. Hot Water Extraction Cleaning Shrinks Carpets

Within the last fifteen years, the carpet manufacturing industry has made a unified change in tufting carpet, not in jute, but into a woven plastic known as polypropylene. Now, using this as a primary backing in carpet and adding poly as a secondary backing, we have carpet fibers that are entirely synthetic. It's impossible for these fibers to shrink! The only way cleaning can cause shrinking is to have over-wetting of a woven carpet or jute backed carpet. This is not a fault of the method used but rather of the technician.

2. Hot Water Exraction Will Take The Twist Out of the Carpet.
Nylon is the most popular face yarn on the market today. These yarns used in making carpet are set under constant heat to make them maintain their twist and resiliency. Even under the worst conditions, steam cleaning cannot take the twist out of the fibers. Low density yarns that produce less expensive carpets have little twist so they can cover more area. This creates an opportunity for the yarn to lose its twist with just traffic. However, cleaning it will make no difference, no matter what method is used.

3. Once You Clean a Carpet, it Will Get Dirtier Faster

I noticed that when I clean a new shirt, it loses some of that crispness it had when it was new. So, now I'm thinking maybe I shouldn't clean it for a while... you know, just keep wearing it until I finally lose all of my friends. (Just kidding)

Or, what I could do is WASH it and just restore the body with sizing. The choice is much the same with carpet except for a few differences. We deal with mostly synthetic fibers in carpet and repeated professional cleaning does not make it attract soil.

What DOES cause a carpet to resoil rapidly is that the leftover cleaning residues from an inept carpet cleaner attracted soil as we walk across it. here's the deal: Hot water extraction performed by a trained and certified professional actually refreshes the texture of a carpet. When proper and periodic cleaning is combined with the proper application of a carpet protector, the result is extended life and beauty for your carpet.

4. You Should Hold Off Cleaning Your Carpet as Long as Possible

The single most important issue with regard to carpet cleaning that began in the 90's had to with health. The level of cleanliness we can achieve in our carpets will have a direct relationship to our indoor air quality.

We walk on carpet. Our pets lay on it - and sometimes do some disgusting things on it as well. Kid crud and husband havoc cause stains and spots. All of the junk from outside settles on it. Then our kids crawl and play on it; and husbands fall asleep on it watching football, leaving drool. Doesn't it make good sense to clean our carpets regularly if for no other reason than to improve our family's home environment?

5. You Should Not Over Vacuum Carpet

This is impossible to do.

The average consumer would never have to worry about this. A recent study suggested that the average carpet in a home should be vacuumed three to four times a week. But even if you vacuumed every day (and twice on Sunday), it would never harm a quality carpet.

In the real world, the average number of times carpet gets vacuumed is two to three times a month. So, we actually have some room for improvement in this area. By the way, the vacuum bag should be emptied when it is 1/2 to 2/3 full. So don't get cheap and wait until it's clogged all the way to the top!

Cleaning Tips

2008-07-10T19:09:00.000-07:00

Stain removal
Murphys oil soap makes a great laundry pre-spotter, especially on organinc stains like grass or blood.
1. Wet a washable colorfast fabric apply a drop of Murphys Oil Soap to the spot to be cleaned make sure that liquid bleeds through the fabrics and wash as usual.

Hard water spots
Hard-Water deposits are alkaline, so an acid based cleaner is the best way to clean them.
1. Phosphoric acid works well and safe on all surfaces. Grocery store cleaners with 4% to 6% acid work good
2. Lime Scale products if you can get them from janitorial stores with a 10% to 12% acid will work better and will get the job faster.
Let the acid based liquid sit on the spot to be cleaned for a few minutes, scrub the area in question with a non colour based material and finaly rinse surface to remove all traces of liquid. It is recomended that you read manufacturer's warnings before applying any acid based product to surfaces.

No-wax/linoleum floors
Regular vacuuming or sweeping is the best way to maintain the finish. Then damp mop with plain water or add just a drop of liquid dish soap. If the floor has some tough spots to clean, use a white, nylon-backed scrub sponge. This will keep soil from wearing away the surface. However, if time and traffic eventually dull the glossy top layer, you may want to add a floor finish or wax to restore the shine. Choose any good commercial floor polish or try a self-polishing, metal-interlock floor finish available from a janitorial supply. Traffic areas may need finish applied more often than the rest of the floor. It's a good idea to keep doormats at all the entrances to your home, as they will catch much of the dirt that could eventually damage your floors.

Painted wall cleaning
The type and quality of the paint greatly affects how you clean a wall and how easily dirt comes off. Generally, there are four types of paint finishes:

1. Baked enamel (most appliance finishes), epoxy enamel and automotive paints.
These paints are durable and stain-resistant. Dirt typically cannot penetrate the hard finish. These surfaces can withstand scouring with mild abrasives, and can also handle heavy-duty cleaners and degreasers. With these finishes, be most careful of scratching or dulling the finish by using harsh abrasives, steel wool, colored scrub pads and strong solvents.

2. General-purpose enamels.
Most often found on interior walls, especially kitchen and bathroom walls, this surface is stain-resistant and can handle moderate scrubbing. Do not use abrasive substances or colored scrub pads, which can scratch the finish. Use a neutral cleaning solution and a white, nylon-backed scrub sponge. Only use heavy-duty cleaners or abrasive cleansers when you're willing to take your chances on ruining the paint. If you have latex enamel paints, avoid leaving them wet for more than a minute or so. Oil-based enamels are more water-resistant. Keep in mind that gloss enamels are the most durable and washable, followed by semi-glosses and then satin finishes.

3. Latex flat.
The most common household paint, flat latex is not as washable as enamels. Heavy-duty cleaners or hard scrubbing can remove the paint along with any dirt. Use mild detergents and gentle scrubbing, and don't let any solution sit on the surface for more than a minute.

4. Exterior paints.
These paints are typically oil-based or latex and should be scrubbed only with a mild detergent and then rinsed with a hose. Use a long-handled brush for hard-to-reach areas or stubborn spots. Some people like to use pressure washers on the outside of their homes, but like harsh chemicals, these can loosen the paint, so use with caution.

Pet hair removal from upholstery and carpets
To remove pet hair from fabric or upholstery, try a pet rake (a brush with crimped nylon bristles), velour brush, tape roller or even tape wrapped around your hand. Use light, even strokes to remove the hair. Another option is to try the rubber bottom on a clean tennis shoe or a slightly dampened sponge (as long as the dampness won't harm the upholstery).

To remove pet hair from carpet, use a vacuum with a good beater brush or brush roll. Plain vacuums don't generate enough lift to remove all the pet hair from the floor.

Another option for both upholstery and carpets - especially at the edges where pet hair tends to collect and vacuums have a hard time reaching - is a "pet sponge." These sponges, which are used dry, are available at pet supply stores.

Pet stain removal from carpets
First, blot up any liquid by putting towels or absorbent rags over the spot and stepping on them. Start with gentle pressure and increase it up to putting your full weight down. Change to fresh rags or towels, until no more liquid comes up.

For fresh stains, apply a bacteria/enzyme digester from a pet store, following the directions - it's the only way to deal effectively with both the stain and the odor. Bacteria/enzyme digesters work slowly, so leave the solution on as long as the directions say. Urine has probably penetrated into the carpet and pad, so use enough solution to reach as far down as the stain. Apply the solution, put plastic over it, and step on the spot several times until the area is well saturated. Then, leave the plastic on the whole time the digester is working to make sure the spot doesn't dry out.

Old or dry stains are hard - sometimes even impossible - to remove, but try the bacteria/enzyme digester. If it's a popular accident site, the bacteria may produce enough ammonia in the course of breaking down the stains to create a super-alkaline situation that interferes with its own action. In this case, you may need to neutralize the spot after the digester has been working for about four hours. Mix a solution of one cup of vinegar to a gallon of warm water. Rinse the area with this solution and apply a fresh batch of bacteria/enzyme solution.

If the stain or odor remains, call a professional deodorizing specialist. A complete cure will probably involve cleaning the entire carpet by extraction and replacing the pad underneath, if not replacing the carpet.

Soap scum in tubs and showers
Since preventing soap scum build-up is a lot easier than cleaning it, squeegee water off shower walls and doors after every use or wipe them down with a towel. For tile walls or frosted shower doors, apply a light coating of lemon oil periodically to help prevent build-up. For a porcelain tub, apply a light coat of boat or car wax to the sides (never the bottom) of the tub.

If it's too late for prevention, use a degreasing agent and lots of elbow grease. Get a good alkaline soap scum remover at a janitorial supply store or dissolve a handful of automatic dishwasher detergent in a bucket of warm water. Cover the affected area completely and let your cleaning solution soak for at least 15 minutes. Do it right after a shower when the walls will be wet. After soaking, use a stiff scrub brush or a white, nylon-backed scrub sponge to clean the walls. You may need to soak and scrub a couple of times to get rid of all the build-up. Then rinse well with clear water.

Toilet bowl ring removal
The earlier you attack this problem, the easier it will be to remove the ring. A thorough cleaning with a commercial acid-based may do the trick. If the bowl cleaner doesn't work, try using a green, nylon-backed scrub sponge along with the acid. For an old ring, use a pumice stone. Wet the stone with the water in the bowl and rub it on the ringKeep the stone wet the entire time you're scrubbing. Pumice stones should only be used on vitreous china toilets - never on colored, enamel or plastic fixtures. Once you've gotten rid of a ring, weekly cleanings should keep it from coming back.

Wood floors
Vacuum and dust mop regularly to prevent dirt from building up and damaging the surface. Any wood floor can be cleaned with a quarter-cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with a gallon of warm water. Wood floors are best cleaned on your hands and knees because you should only clean a small area at a time and then dry it and move on. Never get wood floors too wet or allow them to dry naturally. Finished wood floors often can be cleaned just with water. However, the finish will eventually wear off, and you'll either have to re-finish the floors or start waxing them.

Spill clean-up from carpet and upholstery
Merry Maids does not provide carpet or upholstery cleaning, so we suggest that you contact our affiliate, ServiceMaster Clean, which provides carpet, drapery and upholstery cleaning, as well as fire and flood cleanup. You can visit the ServiceMaster web site and ask their experts.

Repairing damaged wood furniture
Merry Maids routinely dusts and applies lemon oil to wood furniture. We suggest you visit our affiliate, Furniture Medic, a furniture repair and restoration company. If you have questions about furniture restoration or repair, please feel free to visit the Furniture Medic web site for expert advice.

Carpet Cleaning Tips

2008-07-10T19:07:00.001-07:00

Carpet Cleaning Tip #1: Dust Prevention
Preventing soil from entering a building in the first place means carpet cleaning can be less frequent, thereby reducing the amounts of chemicals used.
Large, frequently cleaned walk-on mats should be placed at each high-traffic building entrance. These mats should be large enough to capture several footsteps. Experiment with different sizes and textures to see what works best at each doorway. Every few days these mats will become “full” of soil. Therefore, it’s important to vacuum all doorway mats frequently so that they will continue to capture soil before it is carried into the building.
Some modern buildings are totally enclosed. If possible, the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system in such a building should be operated so that the air pressure just inside each doorway is higher than that of the natural air outdoors. Doing so will push airborne dust back outside.

Carpet Cleaning Tip #2: Vacuuming
Daily vacuuming with strong suction, tight filter, rotating brush machines removes up to half or more of the soil that falls onto carpets. How much effort does it take to attain this level of cleaning? Routine vacuuming, with up to four back and forth strokes of the wand across the carpet, is sufficient for low traffic areas. Up to ten wand strokes may be needed at outside doorways and other high traffic areas. Supplemental vacuuming will be needed along walls and carpet edges where soil tends to accumulate.

Self Help Carpet Cleaning Tips & Stain Removal
• 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.
• 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.

Carpet Cleaning Tip #3: Nail polish 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 3:
Mix one-third cup of white household vinegar with two-thirds cup of water.

Step 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.

Carpet Cleaning Tip #4: Coffee Stain

Step 1:
Blot the area with a clean, white cloth to absorb all the liquid you can.

Step 2:
Mix 1-teaspoon clear, mild liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 cup lukewarm water.

Step 3:
Sponge the area with the detergent solution. Blot again with a clean white cloth.

Step 4:
Mix 1/3 cup white vinegar with 2/3 cup lukewarm water.

Step 5:
Sponge the area with the vinegar solution. Blot with a clean white cloth.

Step 6:
Sponge the area with clean water. Blot with a clean white cloth.

Carpet Cleaning Tip #5: Pet Urine

Step 1:
Soak up excess moisture with a white rag or paper towels.

Step 2:
Blot on a solution of 1/4 tsp. Mild liquid laundry detergent and 1 cup warm water. Repeat until there is no more stain transferring to a towel or rag.

Step: 3
Blot with a solution of 2 tbsp. Ammonia and 1 cup water. Rinse with warm water. Repeat. Blot dry.

Step 4:
Blot the area with a solution of 1 cup white vinegar and 2 cups water.

Step 5:
Cover with several layers of paper towels weighed down with a heavy non-fading object. Continue changing paper towels until the carpet is dry.

Helpful Hints

2008-07-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

* 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.

Cleaning Shower Mats

Dip a stiff brush in a kerosene and warm water solution to clean bath and shower mats.
Easy Bathroom Cleaning

Clean 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.

Bathtub Rings

* 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 with Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol will clean the caulking around bathtubs. It also shines chrome and glass. Liquid chlorine bleach (1/4 cup to one gallon) will also clean caulk.
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.

Getting to Dirt in the Corner

Can't get to that dirt in the corner? Make a pointed tool by cutting an old whisk broom at a 45 degree angle.
Small Bathrooms

If 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.
Mildew

To 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.
Disinfectant

Clean 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 Tile

Remove 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 Freshener

For 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 Drain

To 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.

Cleaning Shower Curtains

* 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.

Sparkling Sink

Wipe a stainless steel sink with vinegar or a touch of oil on a cloth to make the sink sparkle.

Miscellaneous Cleaning Tips

2008-07-08T16:34:00.001-07:00

Ring around the collar

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.

Cleaning Scuff Marks

Use 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 Furniture

Use hydrogen peroxide to remove blood from clothing or furniture. Rub gently.
Dusting Tip

Use paint brushes to dust cracks and hard to reach places in telephones, stereos, etc.
Make a Schedule

Set 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.
Listen to Books On Tape to Help You Clean

Having trouble finding time to read these days? You can rent great books on tape from the library to listen to while you're cleaning and 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 Walls

Candle 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 Chrome

Club soda or seltzer water will clean chrome.
Removing Blood Stains

Corn starch can remove blood stains. Rinse the stain in cold water, then rub in moistened cornstarch. Place the item in the sun.
Removing Gum

Gum can be removed using ice to harden and a dull knife to remove.
Removing Magic Marker Ink

Hair spray will remove magic-marker ink from surfaces.
Cleaning Window Screens

Nylon covered sponges are great for cleaning window screens.
Removing Smoke Odor

Place a bowl of vinegar out to absorb smoke odor.
Unstick That Door

Car wax applied to a sticking door will ease opening and closing.
Repairing Cigarette Burns in Carpets

Cigarette 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 Screens

Clear nail polish will repair small holes in window screens.
Killing Flies

Hair spray will kill flies.
Window Painting Tip

Newspaper 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 Books

Place paper towels on both sides of a wet page to absorb the moisture and prevent wrinkling.

House Cleaning Coupons Specials Discounts

2008-06-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

Cash Discount:
Mention this ad to receive a 5% discount off the total for house cleaning or office cleaning when cash (not check) payment is made at the time of your service.
House Cleaning Referral Specials:
We are sincerely grateful for all of our client referrals. To show our appreciation, we offer a $20.00 credit to our clients for each paid referral.
Welcome Back Special:
Previous house, office, housekeeping or maid service clients that restart scheduled service after a 3 months absence are eligible for a $20 cleaning bonus.
Passport Prime Discount:
We offer passport member house, home and office service discounts.
House Cleaning Coupons:

We periodically mail house and office cleaning services discounts and other seasonal cleaning specials. Send us an e-mail if you would like to receive these special offers.

* Sorry, these specials and discounts may not be combined.

Move In House Cleaning Service

2008-06-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

Hire-Maid PA specializes in move in house cleaning and maid service.

Detailed move in house cleaning service includes everything in a routine house cleaning and then more. Perfect for making your new home clean, sanitized and sparkling.

Move in cleaning will bring your home up to a high shining perfection, and stop dirt in it's tracks.

This is serious, heavy duty, detailed top to bottom shinning clean. Move in service can be done on your house, office, apt and condo.

What is the difference with all the services we offer ?

Spring House Cleaning Service

2008-06-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

Dust bunnies beware!

Are you ready to shake up the dust and dirt, open those windows and let the sun shine in?

Mrs. Clean NW specializes in detailed spring cleaning and maid services.

Spring house cleaning will bring your home up to a high shining perfection, and stop you from playing catch-up. Spring cleaning is top to bottom, thorough cleaning that is done two to three times a year.

We move all the knickknacks and clean from the ceiling to the floor.

All surfaces are scrubbed until free of dust and dirt. We remove the cobwebs and dust bunnies, clean the corners, windows, window sills and baseboards to name a few.

What is the difference with all the services we offer ?

What Kind of Services Do You Offer?

2008-06-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

A routine house cleaning is a thorough common or regular list of services. We clean your home from top to bottom, including bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchen, main rooms. Vacuum, clean, shine, dust, disinfect, and straighten the appearance in all rooms. Click here to see a list of items that are cleaned in a routine house cleaning.

Detailed deep house cleaning, move-in house cleaning, move-out house cleaning, cleaning service includes everything in a routine house cleaning and then more. Perfect as spring-cleaning or when moving and want everything sanitized, shining and sparkling. The oven, refrigerator, windows and even the window tracks are cleaned. We spot clean the walls and light fixtures.

This is heavy duty, detailed house cleaning from top to bottom. Deep cleaning can be done on your house, office, apt and condo. It's a great way to get your damage deposit back when moving, or to get your home ready to show when you have decided to sell.

Custom house cleaning is just, well, customized. Do you want us to clean your silk plants, fold your laundry and organize the pantry? Only clean the high traffic areas? Only clean the bathroom? Come in to help out the housekeeper? (we've really done this!) Clean to a set cost? Help polish the silver? (we've done this too!) No problem, we'd be happy to!

Just add or subtract any item from the routine and deep house cleaning service list, let us know of any other items you'd like us to assist with, then sit back and count on Mrs. Clean Northwest to get the job done. Click HERE to see our custom house cleaning information.

Any thing else? We also provide business cleaning services. Detailed office cleaning and janitorial service. Needs obviously vary between an office setting, a hair salon and exercise facility. We do what we need to do to keep the business looking great.

Anything we can't help with? Due to health concerns (toxoplasmosis) we do not clean out cat boxes. Blood, vomit and anything else along these lines (either of human or animal origin) needs to be cleaned though a bio-hazard cleaning service.