Home Cleaning

Clean House Video

2010-01-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

ecbromley didn't want to come home after New Years Eve to a dirty house, so before he went out he did some cleaning. The geek in me decided he would be entertained by creating a Time Lapse Movie of the event. He was right, he was entertained, but then again, that's him, you on the other hand may feel free to be unimpressed, quietly shake your head and move along to more enriching things

Oriental Rug Cleaning Video Tips

2009-06-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

Cleaning an oriental rug requires the use of a rug beater or wooden spoon, as well as a bucket of water and mild dish soap. Find out how to use a scrub brush to work dish soap into an oriental rug with help from a professional house cleaner in this free video on oriental rugs and housecleaning tips.

Expert: Rachel Yatuzis
Contact: www.greenkleeninc.com
Bio: Rachel Yatuzis is a professional house cleaner in Nashville, Tenn., specializing in using everyday household items for cleaning purposes.
Filmmaker: Tim Brown

Computer Services in Denver, CO, in-shop, in-store and in-home computer repair and web design at affordable prices.

How to Get Out Grease Stains from Carpet

2009-06-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

Get out grease stains from carpet easily and completely with these cleaning tips.

Trish Suhr's Cleaning Tips

2009-06-08T08:02:00.000-07:00

Trish Suhr from the Style Network's Clean House is giving cleaning tips to help you clean more, faster.

Upholstery Cleaning - Keep Your Furniture Cleaner and Maintain Its Beauty

2008-10-12T04:12:00.000-07:00

Your furniture plays an important part of the look and feel of your home. In many cases the furniture in your home has cost thousands of dollars and with proper care and maintenance you can preserve the beauty of your furniture for many years.

Having the right type of fabric on your upholstered furniture can make a world of difference in the durability and cleanliness in its appearance. When decorating your home it is also important to consider the use the furniture will receive. If you have a room which will get a high degree of traffic with kids and pets there are certain fabrics that will be more durable as well as keeping their beauty. If you are decorating a room that will be low traffic and more for entertaining you can choose different fabrics for your upholstered furniture. You should also be aware that there are certain fabrics more resistant to direct sunlight than others.

Following a regular routine of maintenance with a few simple tips can preserve the beauty of your upholstery for many years. The most important routine you can follow is to vacuum your furniture regularly. Dirt comes in your home regularly in the air as well as on clothing worn by other people. It is impossible to keep it out and even when your furniture isn't used regularly this dirt will settle on the fabric. When you sit on the furniture this dirt and grime is ground into the fabric. The longer this soiling occurs the greater the likelihood of permanent damage. Regular vacuuming will remove the dry dirt as well as the oily dirt before it gets ground into the fabric.

Clean spots and spills from your upholstered furniture immediately. The longer a stain remains, the harder it is to remove and it can become permanent. After the spill or spot has been removed use a blow drier on cool to dry the fabric as quickly as possible. This can prevent the fabric from drying with a ring. A great way to provide better protection for your furniture is to have Scotchgard added to your pieces. With this added layer of protection you can keep your furniture looking good and spot free for many years.

If you have heard the saying "an ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure" you will find if you stop eating food on the furniture or drinking, you can decrease the likelihood of getting spills or spots on the furniture. Developing proper habits helps to maintain the appearance of the furniture.

Turning your cushions once a week and rearranging the furniture will help to maintain the appearance of your furniture. One of the biggest factors causing damage to you upholstery is direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sun will break down the fabric, cause fading and possibly show premature wear and tear.

It is impossible to prevent a build up of germs, dirt, sweat, and overall grime on your upholstered furniture. For this reason you need to have your furniture professionally cleaned every year. Fabrics on your furniture are more delicate than carpets and it is important not to use the wrong cleaning solutions which can cause permanent damage. Professional cleaners will make sure there is not too much moisture left in the furniture to develop mold or create any other health problems. They possess the knowledge needed to keep your furniture in good condition and preserve the appearance.

Developing a regular routine of maintenance and following these tips will add to the life of your furniture and protect you and your family from the accumulation of germs and bacteria while preserving the beauty for many years.

About The Author

Jim Thornton has been cleaning furniture for over 30 years. In that time many methods of cleaning have been used but the best results have been achieved using encapsulation technology in the furniture cleaning systems. For more information go to www.bubblesandsuds.ca.

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Hiring Commercial Services for In House Cleaning

2008-08-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

Author: Phoenix Delray
People in the world today have extremely busy schedules and it is often hard to find a space to carve out some free time. Because our days are eaten up by work, commuting, studying, and many other things, it is hard to stay on top of other things in life, like cleaning the house or office. We just simply do not have much time left over to clean our own homes, which is why so many of us find ourselves hiring personal or commercial services to do it for us. Making the decision to hire a cleaning service is the easy part, but finding a good and reputable one can be more difficult and somewhat overwhelming. There are thousands of commercial services out there to choose from so you need to start by figuring out how you can narrow it down in your own search.

The first thing you can do is decide if you are looking to have your business office cleaned or just your home; this will help you decide if you should hire commercial services or personal home cleaning services. The most important thing is that you choose the right cleaning service for you. Before you hire a cleaning service you should first sit down and make a list of all of the things you want them to do while at your home. You can write down what rooms you want cleaned as well as pieces of furniture you want taken care of too.

You can write down things like laundry, floors, carpets, ceilings, dishes or bathtub. This is designed to be an ideal list of things to be cleaned so be sure to put anything and everything on it, even if you are not sure it can be cleaned. Every cleaning service offers and specializes in different things, so it is important that you narrow down what you are looking for.

The next thing you want to write down is how much you are willing and can afford to pay for the cleaning services, whether personal or commercial services. Figure out how much you can fit into your budget to pay someone each month to clean your house. This will eliminate a lot of services that charge more than you are willing to pay. While recommendations from friends and neighbors is always a good way to find a service, searching the internet is also great. The internet has an accessible database of all cleaning services in your area and you can also find websites that have reviews from actual customers who have used the services before. So, get started on your list and research today and have a cleaner house for tomorrow.
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Make Cleaning a Little Easier

2008-08-05T05:42:00.000-07:00

Author: Markus Skupeika

You want your house to be sparklingly clean and what you wouldn't give to have your home and all those spiffy areas gleam like the ones displayed in those famous showrooms but the reality is, once you and your family started living in your home, opened the fridge and ate there, it has all been a huge arena for grease and stains. To make it worse, your surfaces give the impression of hollering for endless tidying up and cleaning products as time goes on. You wonder how come all you see are stains and smudges yet you constantly wash and clean your house. You are under pressure to clean those hard-to-reach places and you do so but you still find out that extra work must be completed. It all seems meaningless and futile to you somehow.

In order to have those gleaming surfaces, you must first be able to recognize what sort of surfaces you own in your house and begin from there. The moment you have a clue on that, then subsequently you need to get a hold of the cleaners and tools that are formulated purposely for the surfaces that you are contending. If you have stainless steel surfaces then you may be in for some really major and heavy cleaning. Sadly this kind of surface has a blemish that relatively is impossible to get rid of but one positive note is that with the correct information you can maintain all your stainless steel in top form, from your countertops and cookware to your forks, spoons and knives.

You may accept it as true or not, your number one enemy is water because it permits spots on your stainless steel surfaces such as your countertops in particular. So be awfully certain to wipe your countertop with a fresh and dry rag each and every time it gets damp. If the water mark settles there then just put on liquid dish detergent although make sure that it is undiluted. Use all natural and safe cleaning supplies in order to protect your body and of course the environment.

A different alternative would be to carefully clean the area with a soft cloth that is doused in rubbing alcohol. Prevention is still the best cure for scratches because once this type of surface gets scratched then there is absolutely nothing you can achieve to repair it. So it is very important that when you buy stainless steel appliances then choose one with a matte surface rather than a shiny surface. Matte surfaces reveal a smaller amount of noticeable flaws such as a scratch. Another great word of advice is to never make use of scouring powders that are rough or scrub pads when you are cleaning stainless steel surfaces.

You can just use a clean cloth to buff the dullness out of your stainless steel when it is dry. And in no time at all this will bring back its sheen. Caring for your flatware can be tricky because acids and salts in foods can pit the stainless steel surface. If you have flatware that has a pitting problem then wash those surfaces as soon as you can after use and immediately machine or hand wash them with warm water and detergent.

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Use all natural cleaning products in order to ensure your safety as well as for your loved ones. This may surprise you but certain housekeeping activities can soothe the frayed nerves of a tired soul. Somehow cleaning can create a gratifying sense that something, at least one small corner of the world, has been put to right and all is well.

How To Clean Windows

2008-07-18T01:12:00.001-07:00

Author: peterhutch

Windows

Windows form one of the most important aspects of a house. Not only do they provide your house with proper ventilation, but also ensure adequacy of natural lighting. In fact, there must be enough windows in your house to let you get along the day, without turning on any artificial lighting. At the same time, you need to ensure that your windows are clean.

Washing Windows

Washing windows can be a thankless job. Or it can help bring light and sparkle into your home. Read here for tips, techniques, and tools to help make washing windows easier.

A Homemade Glass Cleaner

Add all ingredients to a small spray bottle, then fill the bottle with water and shake well. You can substitute 3 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice for the ammonia.

Clean Windows with Vinegar

If you have tried to clean your windows with plain vinegar and gotten streaks, there is a simple reason and an easy remedy.Oddly enough, it was the task of cleaning windows tha tahugenumberowell-intentioned, environmentallyfriendly consumers away from non-toxic cleaning using thesimple ingredients that can be found in most kitchen cupboards.

Clean Windows With Lemon

this is good to know. Can't you get seeds out of the lemon juice just by squeezing it with the skin facing down, not up. And Like This You Can Clean Your Window.

Clean Windows Like a Professional

Buy a 12 inch brass squeegee like the ones you've seen professionals use. They are surprisingly easy to come by. A simple T-shaped one will do fine. The fancy ones are mostly unneccessary for home use.

Get a bucket and some detergent (not carwash, because it contains wax -- dishwashing or laundry detergent will suffice). Don't use too much! You don't want suds everywhere.

Dip a sponge into the solution, allowing the sponge to absorb just enough water to cover the window without flooding it.Press the squeegee down the area of the window directly beside the one you just cleaned, stopping at the same place.

How To Clean Glass & Mirrors Without Chemicals

Want our honest opinion? You don't really need chemicals to clean glass, mirrors and windows - or the most you'll need is abit of washing up liquid. There are lots of eco-friendly ways to clean glass, mirrors and windows, some quicker and with better results than others.

Clean Windows Without Glass Cleaner

Get a bottle of rubbing alcohol. The alcohol is the effective cleanser in cleaning the window. Isopropyl rubbing alcohol is the right kind to use. Do not use wine or any other substance containing other alcohols, or otherwise isopropyl not by itself.Stand back and stare at your shiny window

How to Clean Up a Windows Spyware Infestation

The consequences in this case are fairly minimal since this isn't even my secondary machine-- it's a special-purpose PC dedicated to gaming. Reinstalling the operating system is no big deal. But it's still an inconvenient timesink, and in any case, the spyware infestation has to be dealt with because it causes serious performance problems and will even interrupt gameplay with incessant popups.

To remove paint spatters you spot: For recently applied paint, use water or glass cleaner (for latex paint) or a cloth dipped in turpentine (oil-based paint). Glass cleaner could soften water-based paint, so if some gets on a painted surface, blot it off—don't rub. The paint will harden once it’s dry. Wipe away putty marks with ammonia.

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Austin Carpet Cleaning

2008-07-18T01:10:00.001-07:00

Author: Eliz

When it comes to carpet cleaning, chances are there is a lot to learn. The average home owner or renter has little understanding of how to keep a carpet looking clean and fresh – nor the dangers and dirt lurking in the fibers of your carpet. Learn how to deal with Austin carpet cleaning and care problems with these great tips.

1. Use doormats. The humble doormat does wonders to reduce the amount of sand and dirt tracked into the home. Invest a few dollars in doormats to expand the life of your carpet and keep it clean longer.

2. Vacuum daily. Yes – daily. If you have difficulty getting to the daily task of vacuuming, then consider purchasing an inexpensive robotic vacuum like those made by iRobot. Daily vacuuming helps pick up dirt and debris before it sinks deep into the carpet. Less dirt expands the life of your carpet.

3. Clean spots & spills immediately. Not only will a quick clean reduce the rate of absorption but it also helps reduce the bacteria and other problems associated with a spill.

4. Avoid the hype. A lot of products on the market claim to remove stains, spills and odors but simply mask them or drive them deeper. The stains eventually re-appear looking worse than ever. Don’t spend your hard earned money on inferior products when for just a little more money you can have your Austin carpets professionally cleaned with top quality products.

5. Deep extraction. Deep carpet cleaning is essential to remove deep set dirt, dust, pollen, and other pollutants but don’t add to the problem by allowing the use of harmful chemicals. Instead, search for a company that uses environmentally friendly “green” carpet cleaning solutions.

6. Deodorize. Even when a carpet looks clean it can harbor harmful bacteria that give off unpleasant odors. Ask about enzymatic cleaning products capable of eliminating – not masking – odors.

7. Grooming. Over time carpets tends to become impacted due to constant traffic and dirt so it is a good idea to have the carpet raked and groomed after a deep cleaning. You might be surprised to find out how good your carpet looks after it has been professionally cleaned and groomed.

8. Maintenance. One of the most popular trends among Austin home owners is the new maintenance contracts offered by leading nationwide carpet care providers like Kiwi Services. These plans allow unlimited carpet cleaning maintenance for as little as $4 per room for an entire year; making it the perfect option to keep carpets looking great throughout the year without the hassle of trying to do it yourself.

Kiwi provides Austin carpet cleaning services: http://www.kiwiservices.com/austin-carpet-cleaning.htm
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6 Tips for Keeping Insects Out of Your Home This Summer

2008-06-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

by Carolyn Capalbo
When we think about the summertime, we usually envision backyard barbeques, trips to the beach and cooling off in a swimming pool. What people forget about is the annual swarm of insects that occurs during the hottest months of the year. While insect infestations are a pain for any homeowner, they can be especially harmful if you are trying to sell your home.
If you hold an open house and prospective buyers see bugs in your home, a powerful message is conveyed. They may think that your home is unclean or that there are cracks and other openings that are allowing the pests to get in. Buyers may get scared off of the purchase because no one wants to buy a home that has a bug problem. Buyers will think about the costs involved with fixing the situation, and will want to knock these expenses off the purchase price. In addition to the expense, insects are just plain creepy, and will unfortunately be the most memorable part of your open house.

Here are a few tips to keeping the bugs out of your home this summer:

1. Get caulking! You can substantially reduce the number of insects that get inside the house by blocking off their access points. Sealing cracks and holes is affordable and easy to do, and has the added benefit of making your home more energy efficient by reducing drafts and heat loss.

2. If your home doesn't already have screens installed on every window, now is a good time to do it. You will love the freedom of being able to keep windows open all summer long without having to worry about being besieged by half the bugs in the county. You can also buy solar window screens that not only keep insects out, but they also block much of the summertime heat. Potential buyers will appreciate this addition to your home because solar screens can reduce home cooling costs, increase privacy, and of course keep bugs at bay!

3. Tidy up. Clean up crumbs and liquid spills as soon as possible. Insects have an amazing knack for knowing when there's a tasty treat sitting on your floor or countertop. Sensing that there's a meal waiting for them, insects will make a beeline for your house. If you keep things spick and span, there'll be nothing to attract pests to your home.

4. Change your garbage frequently to reduce the number of flies and ants that enter your home. It's a good idea when in the process of selling your home to keep the bins clean anyway, but in the summertime it's especially important because as the temperature rises, waste spoils much quicker and can foul up the air.

5. Fruit flies can be extremely irritating in the summer. One day a bowl of bananas is sitting quietly on the countertop; the next, there is a sea of fruit flies hovering above the bowl. These insects can be difficult to get rid of, and just one female can lay about 500 eggs. In order to prevent an infestation, refrigerate as much of your produce as possible. For non-refrigerated items like bananas, be sure to eat them before they have a chance to become overripe.

6. Don't forget about entranceways. Move firewood and garbage away from the front door, or else you'll end up with a variety of nasty characters inside your home. It's also a good idea to change any outside lights that are near doorways to yellow bulbs, as moths and other light-loving bugs can't see them. If they can't see them, they won't hover around your entranceways, ready to slip inside the house at a moment's notice.

With just a few simple adjustments, you can keep your home bug-free all summer long. This will make the house much more comfortable for you and your family, and will keep potential buyers focused on the great things your home has to offer, and not on the bugs.

About the Author

Carolyn Capalbo is an expert military relocation specialist and real estate agent serving Northern Virginia real estate. Visit Just4Real.com to find updated market information about areas in Prince William, including Fairfax Station real estate.

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Clean and Brighten Up Your Home

2008-06-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

by Markus Skupeika

For the longest time you dream of having a place of your own to call home. That is why you take jobs and you scrimp and save. Now that you have your own house, you take extra time to look for the right furniture and fixtures. You eventually turn your lifelong dream into a reality. And in time you notice something common about homeowners with regards to their homes. You are again imagining a total new look for your house.
Time limitations on the other hand might dampen your plans not to mention the massive expenditure when remodeling a house. What you do not recognize is that a house can go through a transformation just by hiring carpet cleaning services boca. If you fancy on brightening the look of your valued home, you may as well have a major cleaning project as an alternative of disbursing money just for the notion of having a total new look. You must think very long and hard of the pros and cons of undergoing a major remodeling.

If you think about it, people far and wide are almost always doing something about their homes. This exercise may prove to you of a common mistake homeowners make. People do not realize that cleanliness can totally change the look and brighten up a room. We get so preoccupied with the hottest house accessories, fabrics and their colors. We also lose sleep over the size and quality of furniture and fixtures and yet we overlook the fact that dust and dirt sooner or later can dull the look of your home. We forget that we have to conduct a major cleaning project such as tile and grout cleaning services in order to notice that the house seems to have a new look with just bright and neat floors.

Your head is swimming with ideas and you plan on spending the weekend on a total remodeling project. Creating a mood that conforms to your sense of style does not have to be costly and nerve-racking. You do not have to purchase the latest accessories or worse have your house undergo a total and drastic makeover. You can buy new curtains or maybe add more cushions or throw pillows. You can also polish the vases or even bring in new plants. Spruce the place by rearranging the seating and hanging new picturesque paintings. If you have floors such as marble, simply brighten them by hiring people who have been doing house clean-up services thus giving your floors a new and cleaner look. You do not have to bother drooling over expensive furniture and fixtures because you feel that your house is outdated. All you need to do is clean your house free from all the old dust and stains and hire professionals such as commercial marble restoration in boca

Looking for a reliable company that does marble restoration in Boca Raton? Maybe you are looking for carpet cleaning services in Boca Raton? Find out which cleaning companies you can trust.

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All Your Floor Needs is a Major Clean-Up

2008-06-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

by Markus Skupeika
If you think about it, people everywhere are almost always doing something about their homes. You yourself buy new curtains or maybe add more cushions or throw pillows. You also polish the vases or even bring in new plants. Maybe you also have rearranged the seating and hang new picturesque paintings. Not only that you might also have repainted the walls or even varnished tables. Your head is swimming with ideas and you plan on spending the weekend on a total remodeling project. You are envisioning a total new look for your house: neat, sleek and very modern.
Time constraints however might dampen your plans not to mention the huge cost of remodeling a house. What you do not realize is that a house can undergo a very drastic change just by hiring carpet cleaning services boca. If you want to brighten your precious house, you might as well have a major cleaning project instead of shelling out money just for the concept of having a total new look? Think very long and hard of the advantages and disadvantages of undergoing a major remodeling.

This exercise may convince you of a common mistake homeowners make and this is not realizing that cleanliness can totally change the look and brighten up a room. We get so preoccupied with the latest house accessories, fabrics and their colors, that we lose sleep over the size and quality of furniture and fixtures but we overlook the fact that dust and dirt over time can dull the ambience of your house. We forget that we have to conduct a major cleaning project such as tile and grout cleaning services in order to notice that the house seems to have a new look with just bright and neat floors.

Creating a mood that is fit for your sense of style does not have to be expensive and stressful. You do not have to purchase the latest accessories or worse have your house undergo a total makeover. If you have floors such as marble, all you need to do is simply brighten them by hiring people who have been doing house clean-up services thus giving your floors a new and cleaner look. You do not have to bother drooling over expensive furniture and fixtures because you feel that your house is outdated. All you need to do is clean your house free from all the old dust and stains and hire professionals such as commercial marble restoration in boca

About the Author
Looking for a reliable company that does marble restoration in Boca Raton? Maybe you are looking for carpet cleaning services in Boca Raton? Find out which cleaning companies you can trust

Carpet Cleaning Myths Debunked

2008-06-28T08:28:00.000-07:00

by Water Damage Team

As few of us clean our carpets ourselves, itвЂ™s hard to know fact from myth when it comes to carpet cleaning. To help you out, weвЂ™ve put together the following list of 9 carpet cleaning myths and debunked them.

Myth: You should wait to have your carpet cleaned the first time, because it will never look the same again. Fact: Waiting for your carpet to be cleaned will do nothing but create possible health hazards and make the job harder for your carpet cleaner. As long as youвЂ™ve hired a trained professional, your carpet should look better every time you clean it.

Myth: Carpet cleaning may shrink my carpet. Fact: Your carpet will not shrink unless the hired cleaner leaves the carpet extremely wet. A professional cleaner will not allow this to happen, but play it safe and check for wetness before they leave your home.

Myth: You should not vacuum your carpet very often or it will deteriorate. Fact: Studies have shown vacuuming your carpet 4 times a week does no more damage to your carpet than vacuuming it twice a month. In fact, the build-up of dirt and residue in carpet fibers can be harmful to your health, so vacuum frequently.

Myth: I only have to clean my carpet if it has been stained. Fact: The dirt and residue that can build up in your carpet over time is not always noticeable on the surface. It is smart to have your carpet cleaned at least once a year by a professional, especially if you have small children in the house.

Myth: I donвЂ™t have to clean my carpet because it has built-in stain resistance. Fact: Although carpets with stain resistance will help with accidental spills, dirt still gets under the fibers. Treat your carpet the same as any other.

Myth: Cleaning your carpet often is bad for it. Fact: You can never clean your carpet too much. In fact, the more often you clean your carpet, the longer it will retain its original appearance. Carpets arenвЂ™t cheap to buy; cleaning simply protects your investment.

Myth: Carpet cleaning can destroy my stain resistance. Fact: Although stain resistance is by no means permanent, foot traffic actually loosens it up more than anything. Have a carpet cleaning specialist re-apply stain resistance every 3rd cleaning.

Myth: Cheaper cleaners do just as good a job, only for less. Fact: DonвЂ™t hire a cleaner simply because their price is the cheapest. A bad carpet-cleaning job can leave your carpet worse off than it was to begin with.

Myth: I have my own carpet-cleaning machine, so I donвЂ™t need to hire a professional. Fact: Although having your own machine is useful for small stains and routine cleaning, most home machines donвЂ™t have the suction power professional machines do. Because of this, the stain gets loosened up, but the residue is not completely removed from the carpet itself. ItвЂ™s best to still have your carpet cleaned by a professional on occasion.

The Water Damage Team is a nation wide disaster restoration company, with years of experience in water removal, extraction, and drying. For carpet water removal, or same day carpet cleaning services check out {a href=вЂќhttp://www.fastcarpetcleaning.comвЂќ}Fast Carpet Cleaning.com.

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Best Laundry Time Saving Tips

2008-05-31T05:47:00.000-07:00

Doing laundry is a necessary, but time consuming task that each of us must endure. While many may approach this chore with ease, there quite a few people with approach it with dread. Laundry no longer has to be a dreaded activity. There are many time saving tips available that can allow you to complete this task in a timely manner. Here, you will be introduced to many different laundry time saving tips. If you are one of the many that do not look forward to this weekly ritual, the steps listed throughout this article can prove to be extremely beneficial.

The first laundry time saving tip that I will discuss with you is based on organization. We all know that if we are organized, things will get done in a more efficient manner. This is true for every single aspect of our lives. You may not believe it, but it is also true when it comes to laundry. If your laundry and the area that you do your laundry in is organized, you will find that it saves you a lot of time and energy when approaching this task. One of the first things that you want to do is set up different baskets for different types of clothes.

For example, you will want to set up a basket for towels, one for whites, one for shirts, one for pants, and so on. If you do this, you will find that you save a considerable amount of time in the area of laundry preparation and actually washing your clothes. You should also make it a point to make rules regarding laundry in the home. We will discuss examples of these rules towards the end of this article.

In your laundry area, it is best to set up a wardrobe area where you can hang up clothes and possibly even one with some drawers. The reason for this is when you get done with a load of laundry, you can go ahead and hang and fold the clothes right there. You can then place them on the wardrobe and in the drawers to be picked up and put away by the individuals who the clothes belong to. You may want to label off sections of the hanging wardrobe with each family member's name so that they know right which clothes are theirs.

You will also want to place labels on the drawer system that you set up so that each person knows which drawers contain their clothes. This is a great laundry time saving tip because it allows you to avoid the hassle of having to take it upon yourself to put everything away. If you have to do the laundry, fold and hang all the clothes, and put them away, it can take up a lot of time that could be spent doing other things that you enjoy.

Earlier in this article, I mentioned some laundry rules. Now, I will expound on examples of these rules. It is important to implement these if you are looking for some laundry time saving tips. One of the least favored rules, but best when it comes to time saving on laundry chores is to make certain that everyone puts their dirty laundry in the appropriate areas right side out.

There is nothing more time consuming than having to turn everyone's clothes right side out. In addition to this, you may want to provide everyone with large safety pins so that they can pin their socks together. This saves the hassle of having to match up all those socks and try to figure out whether the washing ate the missing ones...

As you can see, there are many different laundry time saving tips that can help make life easier when it comes to this time consuming chore. If you are looking for ways to get through this task easily, these tips can help you do just that!

Find Washing Machines and reviews of the top brands including GE, Miele and LG Washing Machines for their needs.

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5 Ways to Simplify House Cleaning

2008-05-31T05:45:00.000-07:00

Tired of cleaning? Does it always seem like your house is a mess? Even the best of us may find it difficult to keep up with house cleaning without spending hour upon hour scrubbing, vacuuming and dusting. When it comes time to really give your home a once over it may seem that a day isn't nearly enough o accomplish what you need to. Fortunately there are a few things you can do to keep your house clean and minimize the amount of time you dedicated to housework.

Make a Plan: Simplify housecleaning by making a plan of attack. Jumping into it without a plan can be overwhelming. Whether you're spring cleaning or just giving your house a good once over, create a plan that designates time for each task. Keep in mind this doesn't need to take place all in one day, so spread if out if that will work better with your schedule. IT doesn't have to be in depth. Set aside Mondays for laundry, Tuesdays for the living room and dining room, and Wednesday for the bedrooms. Sticking to this schedule can also help you keep up with your cleaning on a weekly basis without being overwhelmed.
Don't Wait: One dish in the sink may not seem like a big deal but within a few hours or days you'll find that it's multiplied into a monster. When you prepare a meal or dirty a dish, clean everything up afterwards. Waiting can make the dishes harder to clean and therefore you will be spending more time in the kitchen than necessary. The same is true for laundry. Instead of waiting for laundry day, once you have enough dirty clothes for a full load send it through the wash cycle.
Clean Surfaces Regularly: It's tempting to put off tasks like cleaning off the stove or wiping down the shower. After one meal or shower it seldom seems necessary to wipe down the counters, stove, sink, or shower; however, by doing so you will save time when it comes time to really give your house a good cleaning. Soap scum and grease can build up over time making it harder to remove regardless of how strong your cleaning solution is. Keeping on top of it will prevent this build up and therefore make it easier to care for in the long run.
Avoid Clutter: There is a fine line between decoration and clutter, and it's one we often cross with little or no concern. You may love those trinkets you have all over the coffee table and mantle but they can actually make it hard to keep your home looking clean and organized. Too much clutter can increase the sight of dust, make a room look smaller, and make cleaning a nightmare. Try to keep clutter to a minimum by choosing a few of your favorite pieces and putting the rest away. You can also invest in a hutch or a curio to store items that you want to keep in sight.
Invest in a Good Vacuum: Never underestimate the power of a great vacuum. This is especially true for those with pets or children. An otherwise clean living room can look disastrous when there is fuzz, crumbs, pet hair, and other particles on the carpet. A good vacuum can be one of your best allies in keeping your home clean as well as minimizing the amount of allergens that enter the air.

Imagine what your life would be like if you never had to scrub, vacuum, dust, or polish again. MaidPro can make your dreams a reality. With a team of trained professionals, we make it our business to provide homes across America with quality cleaning services at affordable prices. Visit us at http://www.maidpro.com. It's about time!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=P._Williards

How to Clean Automatic Coffee Maker

2008-05-31T05:44:00.000-07:00

If you make lots of coffee with an automatic coffee maker, you will need to know how to wash it properly. The accumulation of the oils from the coffee can cause it to slow down and also harm the taste of your coffee. Seeing that no one wants to wait for 30 minutes for a pot of coffee to brew and then have it taste bad, the following steps should be followed to ensure that your coffee machine performs at its best.

One way is to get a solution that is specifically made for cleaning automatic coffee machines. It is easy to use and all you have to do is pour it in, run it through and your coffee pot will be clean. However, if you do not wish to use this method, you can create your own solution.

Use an ounce of citric acid or white vinegar dissolved in four cups of hot water from the faucet. Add four cups of cold water from the faucet and pour this into the coffee maker just as you would the water when making coffee. Take out the coffee filter, putting it aside, turn your coffee pot on and only four cups of the citric acid and water run through the pot.

Turn your coffee pot off and let it settle for about twenty minutes. You are now ready to turn it back on and let the remaining water and citric acid to flow through. This should remove any residue from inside the coffee maker. The lime that can built up from your water will be flushed out of the coffee maker as well. This is another problem that can cause your coffee maker to not work properly.

When it is completed, depending on the amount of accumulation in your coffee machine , you may need to repeat it again. If so, wait until the coffee maker has cooled down. Do not forget to rinse it. You will need to run at least eight cups of cold water from your faucet through your device at least four times to make sure it is rinsed. When the water that cycles through is clear, your coffee maker is clean. This will likely last about three or four weeks before you have to do it again.

Another product that is recommended instead of the citric acid or vinegar is baking soda. About four tablespoons mixed with eight cups of water is used. Run it through the same as above and see if it works.

If this process does not work, it may be too late for your coffee maker. A lot depends on how thoroughly it has been cleaned from the beginning. After a certain amount of accumulation within the coffee maker it may be impossible to get it to dissolve. When this happens, it is time to get a new coffee maker.

Natalie Williams is the author of CoffeeMachines101.com Visit her site for more free tips on how to select the right coffee machine for your needs.

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

How To Clean Your Patio Or Driveway

2008-05-31T05:42:00.002-07:00

So you want to clean your driveway or patio, maybe you think the professionals are charging to much or maybe you think you will enjoy the experience. Let me tell you you wont! And the worst thing is once you have started it then you have to finish it, you can't leave it half finished can you?

Equipment really is everything as far as pressure washing a driveway or patio is concerned and I'm afraid your 100bar electric job just wont get the results you are looking for.

In fact I would go so far as to say you will probably be doing more harm than good by attempting to do this yourself and it could lead to costly repairs to the whole area, for example blasting away at that deep rooted weed could quite easily loosen up the pointing in between the slabs and once one bit flies off then another will soon follow then every week you will find another bit has gone missing, then another, then the slabs will start to wobble then they will start to dip where the sub base is being worn away then hey presto you're paying up to Ј25.00 a square metre to get it re-pointed.

Its the same with block paving only much quicker, you are quite happily blasting away at that moss when "Hey where is all that sand coming from?" That sand is being washed away from underneath your block-paving, it's the sub base that the blocks sit on. Next time it rains have a look at the puddles all over your driveway or patio and guess what..they will only get bigger!

Seriously leave it to the professionals, they have invested in the correct equipment, they know what they are doing and are worth every penny.

Daniel Lee is the proprietor of SavingPaving driveway and patio cleaning. More details can be found at http://www.savingpaving.co.uk

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

Tips On How To Maintain Your Hardwood Floor's Quality

2008-05-31T05:42:00.001-07:00

Hardwood floors are the latest trend in many modern houses today. Rather than looking ancient, these type of flooring fits perfectly with many modern furniture and fixtures.

It is true that they look luxurious and elegant that will accentuate the beauty of your home's interior. But you have to take extra care in maintaining its quality look. Simply cleaning them with common household tools and methods might ruin it rather than maintaining its quality. Here are some tips to get your started.

Use Hardwood-Friendly Cleaning Agents

One tip is to avoid concentrated solutions in cleaning your hardwood floor. These chemicals can destroy the physical appearance of your hardwood by making them look worn and dull. In order to maintain the quality, use only prescribed pH solutions for it.

It's advisable to wipe them dry after you apply these cleaning agents. When applied on your flooring, they can give it the necessary shine that the hardwood is famous of. But if you leave them there long enough, they will easy corrode into the material and cause irreversible damage.

Use Soft Materials Only

It is very important to use soft materials when cleaning your hardwood floor to avoid scratches and abrasions. Avoid using straw brooms but use soft-bristled ones instead. You may also want to use vacuum cleaners first before sweeping the floor to remove the heavy dirt and grime, and leaving the rest to be swept off. Use soft-bristled attachments on your vacuum cleaner too, just in case!

When using cleaning agents, it's advisable to use damp mops with soft heads or sponges. If you are using cloths, go for cotton instead of other materials. You might want to shake of excess solid particles as an extra precaution. You should mop your floor daily to keep it shiny and beautiful. Note, however, that wet mops can cause damage instead of cleaning them. Only slightly dampen your mops to avoid unnecessary moisture.

Never Leave Stain

Like marble, liquid stains are one of the enemies of your hardwood floor. Spillage of acidic substances like vinegar, alcohol, and wine can greatly damage your floor, far worse than water stains. If left unchecked, it can cause spots and splotches that will be almost impossible to remove. Make sure that you mop them up quickly before they do any damage.

Hardwood floors are expensive and can greatly increase the value of your home; but they can be very sensitive to external causes that can be a threat to its overall quality. Following these tips above can greatly reduce the risk of such problems ever occurring on your precious floor.

If you need house cleaning tips, visit http://www.homecleaningdiy.com.

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

Cultured Marble Care

2008-05-31T05:41:00.001-07:00

A common bathroom surface material is cultured marble. Cultured marble is actually a surface composed of several materials, including marble dust, limestone and resin. The material is most common for bathroom vanity tops that have built-in sinks, but it can also be used for showers and bathtubs. No matter what surface is made of cultured marble, it is important to use the proper materials and procedures to keep it clean. Given its porous nature and malleable properties, cultured marble is not as resistant to stains and damage as other materials. There are, however, steps you can take to ensure your cultured marble surface lasts for years to come.

When it comes to cleaning cultured marble, keep one thing in mind. Do not use abrasive cleansers. Most cultured marble is sealed, and any cleansers containing abrasives or bleach can break down the seal. Water based cleansers work well for basic cleaning purposes. If you have soap scum or similar buildup on the surface, vinegar can break up the residue without harming the seal or cultured marble itself. If anything spills on the surface, be sure to wipe it up as soon as possible to prevent stains. Unlike other surfaces, cultured marble is susceptible to permanent stains, especially from materials such as hair dye and oil-based products. This is due to the variations in sealants used among cultured marble manufacturers. The safest course of action is to clean all spills right after they happen even if the manufacturer claims the seal will resist stains. Other options for preventing staining include placing a thick cloth over the surface while using products that can stain or using such products in areas that do not have cultured marble.

To maintain the finish of your cultured marble surface, consider how said surface looked when you first installed it. The main finishes available for cultured marble are satin and glossy. Satin, a low luster finish, requires little in the way of extra maintenance outside of regular cleaning. With glossy finishes, you may want to invest in a polish. Avoid polishes with carnuba wax, as these polishes are designed for less porous materials. Water or silicone based polishes are good options for this tricky surface. Some people may recommend polyurethane if the finish remains dull after polishing. Keep in mind, though, that it is difficult to apply polyurethane if you do not or cannot remove the cultured marble surface from the room. If the sealant spills on other fixtures, it can cause damage and may not be removed. Likewise, if the cultured marble has detail work, applying polyurethane into the crevices can take a long time. This is a project that can work with properly prepared cultured marble but is not recommended for those who are not able to invest a lot of time in the project.

Since cultured marble is more malleable than other kitchen and bathroom surfaces, it is more vulnerable to dings, scratches and similar imperfections. Use caution when holding heavy objects near or above cultured marble. Though it takes an object of great weight to cause noticeable damage, even a shampoo bottle can dent the surface. Such dents can change the overall texture of cultured marble over time. If you spot a dent or scratch on a solid colored surface, you can apply a small amount of appliance or car wax to fill in the gaps. However, if there are multiple flaws or if the surface is a unique color, have a professional rebuff and polish the surface for you. The cost will be higher than doing it yourself, but the finish will be more consistent throughout the surface.

Depending on your budget and ideas for your kitchen or bath, cultured marble can provide you with years of durability. Taking care of this material is different from maintaining stone or laminate. Most of the things you can do to maintain your cultured marble surface require little time on your part if practiced regularly. The key is keeping the seal in tact. Once you adjust your cleaning routine to accommodate this objective, your cultured marble will be around for years to come.

Elisa Dvorak worked at The Home Depot, concentrating on kitchen and bath remodeling. She has also helped with various do-it-yourself renovation projects.

Elisa is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/
which is a site for Creative Writing.

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

Why Dry Cleaning Is Essential For Naturally Dyed Rugs And Carpets

2008-05-31T05:40:00.000-07:00

As our society becomes more environmentally friendly there is more and more interest in the use of natural as opposed to synthetic materials for interior decorating and in general making homes beautiful. Natural dyes used to make carpets and rugs such as Persian or Tibetan carpets do not negatively affect the environment or the waterways as many synthetic chemical dyes do and that makes natural dyes the superior choice for carpet manufacturers. As well natural dyes do not have a negative impact health wise on the people involved in the making of carpets and rugs such as the weavers and the dyers themselves.

Not only are natural dyes used for carpet and rugs healthier for the environment and its inhabitants, their beauty, intensity and vibrancy are unmatched. No synthetic dyes come close to what can be done with natural dyes . The gentle variations of natural dyes and the melding of colors make the color saturation process one that is awe inspiring and eye catching.

Of all of the methods of cleaning for naturally dyed rugs and carpets , dry cleaning is essential for the proper care and maintenance of the carpets throughout your home. Dry cleaning is a form of non-toxic carpet cleaning that does not use water and therefore does not encourage the growth of bacteria, mildew or dust mites.

Dry cleaning a naturally dyed carpet or rug is the number one choice because it dries very fast , which is to say that the carpet is clean and back to its normal look after only one to two hours and there is no hot water used so the carpets will not show any signs of fading due to the type of carpet cleaning used. Dry cleaning a carpet is safe for all types of fibres as well as fabrics whether they be wool, cotton or silk and most importantly, dry cleaning a carpet will do the environment good. This form of carpet cleaning is an excellent choice for allergy control and it is excellent for those who have children, pets or both.

No dry cleaning method uses water and a naturally dyed carpet or rug should never be rinsed with water. One method makes use of a foam or foam shampoo that is especially beneficial for light cleaning of small areas of carpets or for smaller rugs . The foam is sprayed onto the carpet and then worked into it by way of a brush or sponge. Once the carpet has completely dried it is vacuumed.

Another method of dry cleaning a naturally dyed carpet involves uses a material that looks a lot like wet sawdust but is actually a type of absorbent powder . A machine is used to distribute the substance on the carpet and any dirt that is in the carpet or rug will be pulled out and will attach itself to the sawdust like material. Once the carpet has been completely saturated with the material it is left to dry and then it is vacuumed out, catching the remainder of the carpet debris.

for more from john alice, go to http://www.flatratecarpet.com

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

Salt, It's Not Just For Seasoning - 14 Uses For Table Salt

2008-05-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

I've been a homemaker and working wife for over thirty-eight years. Because I'm always short on time, I look for cleaning and cooking shortcuts to save time and money. For instance, if you've ever gotten small splotches of blood on your carpet, you know the stain can be tricky to remove, especially after it's dried.

1. Try this; sprinkle plain table salt on the stain. Moisten a clean cloth and rub the cloth into the stain and blot it up. Salt breaks down the protein in blood and the stain will be gone with no damage to your carpet.

2. Are the pantyhose in your drawer a tangled mess? Boil mismatched hose in salty water and they will all come out the same color.

3. Spilled red wine can be difficult to remove. Cover the wine stain with salt. Rinse the fabric in cold water before washing and the stain will come out.

4. To remove grease stains from clothing, mix one part salt with four parts alcohol. Rub into the stain before washing.

5. Add a pinch of salt to whipping cream to make it whip up faster.

6. Also, add a pinch of salt to water before cooking eggs. They will boil faster.

7. And, gelatin sets more quickly when you add a pinch of salt.

8. Cleaning your fresh from the garden greens in salt water makes it easier to remove dirt.

9. Fresh fruits put in mildly salted water will not discolor

10. Ready to clean up the kitchen? Sprinkle salt in your oven before scrubbing it. Spills will wipe right up.

11. Soak discolored glass in a mixture of salt and vinegar solution to remove stains. them well. They won't drip when you burn them.

12. Drip proof candles. Soak new candles in a strong solution of salt water for a few hours. Dry them well. They won't drip when you burn them.

13. Add a dash of salt to the vase of water for fresh flowers. They will last longer.

14. Sprinkling salt between cracks in cement or between bricks will keep grass from growing there.

Carlene Rae Dater has been a writer of both fiction and non-fiction for over 25 years and has been published in a variety of genres. Writing, reading and talking about mysteries is her passion. Visit her mystery blog at: http://www.themysterystartshere.com or view her published books at: http://www.silveradopublishing.com

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

Carpet Cleaning Method For The Healthy Home

2008-05-31T05:35:00.000-07:00

There are several methods of carpet cleaning available from several hundreds of carpet cleaning companies in San Diego County. There are the most inexpensive cleaning methods on the carpet cleaning company - low overhead or the most expensive cleaning method on the carpet cleaning company - high overhead.

Your low overhead methods are also very easy & require less amount of labor intensity. Your higher overhead methods require high labor intensity.

Is it rocket science that the high labor intensive method, high overhead method - Truckmounted Steam Cleaning cleans carpet rather than leave large amounts of soil & chemical residues in the carpet? Are Truck mounted carpet steam cleaners stupid & uneducated to take the higher road rather than the cheaper road?

I am an all method carpet cleaning company in San Diego - Miracle Services, Inc. I have used Dry Cleaning methods for years and I can give you an honest unbiased opinion. My tool box is complete with every tool for the job & I don't have to try & put a spin on my single tool/method to try & get you to buy off on it. I would love to work on a shoe string budget & put more money in my pocket but for business ethics & moral purposes I prefer to provide a true product of CLEAN!

Old 1950's technology is still being used today - Janitor Floor Buffers & old Shampoo Machines. Carpet warranties state that these other methods will void your warranty, you should read it. Ask yourself why in the world would they only recommend Truckmounted steam cleaning?

Sure the Dry Cleaning companies use the fear marketing that the Chemical-Dry Franchise started to scare the heck out of you - Soaked carpets for weeks & Mold! They have even gone as far as to state that the carpets will rot & shrink. Well, synthetic carpet will not shrink, it will not rot because it is organic & for that same reason it will not grow mold. True, cheap carpet cleaning companies with portable machines or even inexperienced cheap truckmount companies will not take the time to clean your carpets & remove all the water - you get what you pay for, too good to be prices are always too good to be true since time began.

Ironic that the same Chemical-Dry franchise company that now works for Home Depot now uses Truckmounted Steam Cleaning. Oh, they have changed the name so as not to be hypocritical to Hot Carbonated Extraction and use a Jet Rotary Extractor as many of us do but it is Truckmounted Steam Cleaning. Why did they go this route? Could it be that the cheap Dry Cleaning method did not work, consumers got tired of the carpets looking dirty again 2 days later & all the spots resurfacing? Could it be that too many consumers asked themselves "how does the dirt get removed"?

Yes, truck mounted steam cleaning with it's powerful gas engine, powerful solution pump, powerful postive displacenet vacuum pump, super hot water heater is the only to clean carpets - period. Why? To break down, suspend soils & extract them, bacteria, pollens, dust mites & you name it that is in your carpet stright out into the truck to take it away. You get carpets that are flushed free of chemical residues from the last Dry Cleaner and fresh carpets that have been totally rinsed & free of soil & residues.

What about wet carpet pads & sub floors? Yes, maybe back in 1960 when they used under powered portable machines & maybe still today from other cheap outfits that still operate like they did some 40 years ago. We Rapid Speed Dry all of our work plus we use high performance Truckmounts & High Performance Truckmount tools. The days of 3 day dry times are out the window, it is 2008! You will find that your professional Truckmounted Carpet cleaner will have your carpets dry in hours not days. We like to get out work dry by the time we leave or just close to it.

I bet you take your hair into the shower to clean it rather than mist on some cleaner & rub it in your head with a rag & claim it's clean with a great benefit that it dried right away. Same thing goes with Truck Mounted Steam Cleaning!

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

5 Ways To Make Your House Healthier Today

2008-05-31T05:34:00.000-07:00

With the increase in health problems across the world, creating a healthy home has become a top priority. It is not uncommon to hear of allergies disappearing, rashes clearing up or headaches becoming a distant memory when a family takes charge of their environment. Here are 5 simple steps you can start taking today to make your house a healthy place to be.

1) Raid your pantry: If you have never thought about what you toss in your grocery cart you are in for an eye-opener. There are two big ingredients that destroy your health every time you consume them: Partially Hydrogenated Oils (trans fats) and Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). If you have either of these anywhere in your house, trash them. Don't worry about the waste factor. You wouldn't want to pass on the "poison" to someone else. Trans fats are artery clogging fats that provide zero benefit to the body. Trans fats are created in a laboratory by adding extra hydrogens (hence the name partially hydrogented) to the existing fat molecule. This is done to extend the shelf life of food products. Monosodium Glutamate is a neurotoxin. Neuro means nerve and toxin means death. Nerve death is never a good thing primarily because your nerves cells don't grow back!

2) Make a menu and grocery list: By making a weekly menu with corresponding grocery list you are limiting what you buy. When you walk blindly into the store you are more likely to grab what sounds good at that moment and what is most convenient. Instant gratification and convenience almost always guarantees an unhealthy choice. Choose a cookbook with healthy recipes to create your menu from. The Sonoma Diet has fresh healthy recipes and daily meal plans. A cookbook with preplanned meals is a great springboard for creating a healthy habit. Once you have created your menu of all meals for the week go through the recipes and write down the ingredients you don't have. Making the list is the easy part. It's sticking to it that can take some practice. Just remember if you're shopping on the perimeter of the store your in the "healthy" zone.

3) Remove disposable diapers and disposable sanitary products: Disposable diapers contain known carcinogenic chemicals called Dioxin and Sodium Polyacrylate. Dioxin is created in the bleaching process and Sodium Polyacrylate is the gel crystals that absorb liquid in a diaper. Cloth diapers and cloth menstral pads are an economical, environmental and healthy alternative to disposable products. This transition is one of the more difficult ones. It can be confusing, overwhelming, and your mind is most likely racing with millions of faulty preconceived ideas. Reading other"s experiences and strategies on a blog like All About Cloth Diapers will set your fears and doubts to rest. With the internet today you can learn from other people's mistakes and drastically decrease the learning curve.

4) Inspect your cleaning products: Removing harmful chemicals like bleach, sodium lauryl sulfate, 1-4, Dioxane and Propylene Glycol are positive steps towards creating a healthy environment for your family. There are many "green" cleaning products on the market today making this transition an easy one. Some alternatives include: Ecover Dishwashing Detergent, Crunchy Clean Laundry Detergent, Burt's Bees Honey Milk Lotion, Kiss My Face Olive Oil soap, Clorox Green or Vinegar for countertops and windows. Make a list of all the cleaning products in your house and set goals for when you will phase the unhealthy out. It may take your 3-6 months to complete the task but every step brings you closer to a healthy house.

5)Drink more water and less soda: We've all heard the recommendation of 8 8oz glasses of water a day at minimum or else dehydration sets in. Whether or not this recommendation is accurate, the truth is drinking water is never bad (unless you are over doing it by the gallons). Transitioning your soda intake by reducing one at a time is the best start. Sodas have many harmful chemicals in them. Aside from the High Fructose Corn Syrup that spikes your blood sugar and predisposes you to diabetes, there is Phosphoric Acid. Phosphoric Acid leaches your bones of Phosphorous causing them to be more brittle. Next time you reach for that can of Coke, grab a glass of water instead.

Autumn Beck invites you to learn more about natural living by visiting her blog at: http://www.allaboutclothdiapers.com/
Click Here for Cloth Diapering Strategies

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

Cleaning Glass Windows

2008-05-31T05:33:00.000-07:00

Time

Cleaning all the windows of your house is a big job, one that you're not going to carry out weekly. General consensus seems to be that cleaning your windows three times a year should be enough.

Tools and Cleaning Materials

A huge amount of time can be saved by using the proper tools. Many decide to use paper towels or old cloths to clean their windows, which can make smudges and streaking worse. Using steel wool, razors or other abrasive materials to get off caked dirt is also not a good idea - once your glass is scratched there is little to do besides replacing it.

Investing in a clean terry cloth, a combination washer and squeegee, a chamois and perhaps an extension for you squeegee (so you can reach those high windows) will really make a difference to your frustration levels when cleaning glass windows. If you're feeling really committed, you can consider buying more than one squeegee and customising them to fit any smaller or segmented windows you may have by cutting them smaller and sanding off the edges.

A simpler way to get that DIY buzz is to make your own glass cleaning solution. All you need is household vinegar and water, which you mix with a consistency of roughly 1:1. If you're using tinted or treated glass, however, it may be a better idea to mix them 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water, as too much vinegar can more easily damage tinted windows.

Method

One of the best ways to diminish streaking when cleaning windows is simply to move through the process quickly. Keeping all your needed materials on hand will make this easier to do. If possible, you should also clean your windows when they aren't in direct sunlight, so that your cleaning solution doesn't dry on them too quickly.

After washing your window with your washer, you can use your squeegee, and starting from a corner, move your way vertically across the glass in an "S-shape". You can clean off any left over water in the corners with your chamois.

For removing tougher water and chemical stains from your glass, you can spray a thin coat of oven cleaner on the spot and leave it on for about an hour before washing it off - but be sure not to do this on cut or engraved glass.

Self-Cleaning Glass

Another option for cleaning your windows is not to! It's not tough to imagine that someone thought to develop windows that can keep themselves clean.
Self-cleaning glass has a microscopic coating that repels dirt, and also stops water from forming droplets on it - but rather has it run down in sheets across the glass, which keeps them clean as well. While this kind of glass is slightly more expensive, it can cut down on the time spent on your windows significantly!

Whatever your choices in keeping your windows clean, sparkling glass keeps your world view glistening!

About the Author
Pilkington Glass is one of the world's largest producers of glass and glazing products, and have also developed revolutionary Pilkington Activ Self-Cleaning Glass.

http://www.pilkingtonselfcleaningglass.co.uk/

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

Get Spring Cleaning Tips

2008-05-30T10:32:00.001-07:00

Call 3's Lynsey Paulo and Good Housekeeping introduce seven ways to welcome spring into your house.

Remove Hard Water Stains from Toilet Bowl

2008-05-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

How to safely remove hard water stains from your toilet bowl without the use of harmful chemicals.

Keeping Housework Simple and Cleaning

2008-03-08T07:41:00.002-08:00

The primary housekeeper has an important job in maintaining a safe and inviting atmosphere in the home. A housework checklist, whether it is written down or simply kept by memory, is an important tool in keeping track of what is necessary for the basic functioning of a household and for what is uniquely comforting and relaxing for each family. This checklist can be essential for the physical and mental wellbeing of the entire family during difficult times.

We all function better during stress if we can maintain or re-establish a clean, comfortable, consistent base. We all want to depend on the ability to wash in clean water with soap, and to dry our hands on a clean towel. We expect to be able to sit down on a comfortable chair or to lie down on a clean bed. If our clothes are clean and we can eat a nourishing meal, it is easier for us to cope with life’s challenges. But, because the primary housekeeper may need to expend all of his or her energies on the crisis or problem, it may not be possible for them to give their houses a thorough cleaning during a stressful time. Whether the stress is caring for a new baby, meeting difficult deadlines at work, caring for a family member after an accident, surgery, or during an extended illness—or if life has been disrupted by a long-term power failure, a fire, or a natural disaster—we and our families still have basic needs to be met. Keeping a clean house in stressful times can be a challenge. These are the times to focus on the basics and to keep things simple and clean.

If you have a basic housework checklist, and if you concentrate on the chores that will make the most difference to you and your family, you can let the rest of those chores go until life settles back down. If everybody has clean clothes, if there are clean dishes to cook with and eat from, if the garbage is collected and removed from the living areas, everyone will feel a little better. Everybody has different household stressors. Some people can let everything else go for a while as long as their bathroom is clean. Other people are uncomfortable if their beds are not made. Still others “have to have” their kitchen floor washed immediately after cooking a meal. These stressors are unique to your family, and should be on your basic housework checklist.

Remember to prioritize while you are focusing on the basics of simple and clean. Focus first on the basics: dishes, laundry, and garbage. Rinse dishes immediately after they are used. Load them into a dishwasher if one is available—or soak them in hot, soapy water until the water cools, rinse them, and let them air dry. Be sure to keep towels, bedding, underwear, pajamas, and comfortable, casual clothing clean, folded, and put away. If your laundry room is already set up with a basic detergent that is safe for most fabrics and if you have an effective, easy-to-use spot remover handy you will be able to keep up with this task. Remember, folding clothes can be therapeutic—and even small children can fold towels and underwear. A shared task will help even the youngest member feel valuable to the family, especially when the adults may be preoccupied. At set times during the day, for instance after meals and at bedtime, pick up the trash to be thrown away. This is another task that can be shared.

Next, branch out to doing things that help keep your family well, like stocking up on and preparing healthy snacks. Also, make sure everyone gets enough rest, including the very young.

One important task can help fight the spread of infectious disease--wiping off the bathroom fixtures with a sanitizing solution once a day. In a pinch, pour a little alcohol on a folded length of toilet tissue and wipe off the chrome fixtures in the bathroom, including the toilet handle and the faucets and water knobs.. The sinks and counters can be wiped down as well. Then, flush the tissue. Some products make this task extremely easy and quick. For instance, try the disposable clothes that are treated with disinfectant If there is time after these basics, focus on chores that will have the greatest psychological effect on you and your family, whether that is making the bed, keeping cold drinking water in the refrigerator, or making the house smell like chocolate chip cookies. Everything else will keep until a better day.

Visit: http://www.fuller-brush-products.com

About the author:
Author Vincent Platania represents the Fuller Brush Company.
Fuller Brush has been in business since 1906, and offers safe, environmentally friendly products for keeping your home and your body clean.
Visit http://www.fuller-brush-products.com

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Housework Cleaning Checklist

2008-03-08T07:41:00.001-08:00

Before you begin a major cleaning project around your home, it will make the job easier for you to get organized. First, be sure that all your tools are in top shape, your cleaning products are on hand and fresh, and your housework cleaning checklist is current. Go through your house and note problem areas: items in need of repair, unusual stains, and jobs you only tackle seasonally. Add your regular jobs to this list so you have a complete reference. Break the list into sections by room. This list will be your guide.

This is also the time to sort through the contents of closets and shelves. House cleaning is made easy when there is a minimum of clutter. You will be able to focus on the actual cleaning instead of getting bogged down in moving the clutter around to clean beneath it. Divide the “stuff” in your house into three piles according to how long it has been since you last used it. Label these piles to keep, to give away, and to throw away. When you have tossed or given away the things you no longer need, or when you have held a garage sale to clear that clutter, you are ready to clean.

Before you begin, check the condition of your cleaning equipment. If it is necessary, go ahead and purchase good replacements now. At a minimum, you should have a good broom and dust pan, a wet mop or sponge mop (depending on the type of floors you have), a dust mop, soft cloths for polishing, dusting, and wiping off fixtures, and a variety of brushes to clean the different surfaces on your walls, windows, and in your bathroom and kitchen. You may need a wax applicator or a window squeegee. A good vacuum with a variety of attachments or carpet sweeper is also a wise investment. Make sure that you have serviced your vacuum recently and that you have fresh bags, replacement rollers, or replacement belts on hand. Quality cleaning supplies are made for a particular job or surface. They will speed your jobs because you will not have to work as hard to get the job done. Also, this equipment will last for years if cared for correctly.

Next, be sure to have enough of your favorite cleaning supplies on hand. At a minimum, you will need glass cleaners, tile and grout cleaners, kitchen and bathroom disinfectants, degreasers, and soaps or detergents specially formulated for the type of floors you have. Again, the correct formula for each job will protect the surfaces in your home while cutting the time involved in cleaning those surfaces. Products that are too harsh can destroy a surface, while products that are too mild will not get the job done. Planning and purchasing the right products before you begin the project will also save time because it will not be necessary to stop in the middle of a job to run to the store because you have run out of cleaner. Be sure to cross-check your list of supplies against your housecleaning list and the tasks at hand before you purchase your supplies.

Find a sturdy bucket, tote, apron, or rolling cart to store all your cleaning equipment in one place. This container can be taken from room to room, saving you the time and energy to go back and forth from your cleaning storage area to the room you are cleaning. If size is a factor, fill the container with only the tools and products you will need for the room you are currently cleaning. It is a good idea to also store items on the cart that might need refilling in the room on which you are focusing. For instance, carry trash can or wastebasket liners, soap refills, light bulbs, or tissue boxes and toilet paper. Have a place to store any items that belong elsewhere in the house or to carry out any garbage you find in the room. At the very least, take two plastic bags with you – one for trash and one for stuff to put elsewhere. Organizing what you carry in your tote or cart is made simpler if you have your housework cleaning checklist at hand. That way, for example, you will have made notes to yourself that when you clean the bathroom, you will also need the screwdriver to tighten the towel rack, and will need to refill the hand soap container. House cleaning is made easy by being organized and planning ahead.

Visit: http://www.fuller-brush-products.com

Keep your pool sanitary – know where bacteria lurks in your pool

2008-03-08T06:37:00.000-08:00

Keep your pool sanitary – know where bacteria lurks in your pool

You may have a wonderful pool service that maintains your pool excellently every week. The tiles are always shiny, and the water looks sparkling clean. However, despite its cheery appearance, there may be lurking culprits that are breeding grounds for thousands of strands of bacteria. To fully keep your pool healthy and sanitary for your family, you can take a few easy steps to eliminate the bacteria monsters:

§ Floating tree leaves: Although it may seem like just an eyesore, fallen leaves are ample breeding ground for bacterial activities. Due to their inherent organic rotting process, leaves that are not removed promptly will contribute to the growth of bacteria in the pool. It is important to use your leaf rake or surface skimmer to remove the tree leaves immediately.

§ Surrounding pool area: The bacteria elements in your pool do not only come from within the water itself; if the ground around a pool is unsanitary, then these bacteria particles easily find themselves swimming with your family. For example, if you have foam padding around the pool area, then this creates interstitial space for bacteria to hide from disinfectants, thus reproducing and harming your family. It is important that you talk with your pool service company about maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the ground around your pool.

§ Cushion material: If your pool has padding materials for your pool slide, diving board, or other activity equipment, these too are breeding grounds for bacteria. The padding that is fully submerged in the pool has much less bacteria than those that are further away and damp. Thus, it is important that you keep all cushioning, whether on top of the diving board or around the stairway, sanitized from bacteria by cleaning it all on a regular basis.

§ Play features: Shallow wading areas, play equipment, and floaters contain high levels of bacteria. You should always monitor the condition of play features used in and around your pool. Those materials that disintegrate or weaken in pool water will have higher breeding grounds of bacteria; once a pool feature starts breaking down, it should be removed completely. Play features in good condition should continuously be cleaned and sanitized to ensure that the bacteria strands do not translate into the pool.

Your pool is a wonderful source of entertainment for your family and friends, and with the necessary sanitation procedures, you can keep them safe and healthy for years to come.

About the author:
www.PoolCleaningQuotes.com

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Selecting the best pool cleaning service for your pool and budget

2008-03-08T06:36:00.002-08:00

Selecting the best pool cleaning service for your pool and budget

Your swimming pool provides wonderful memories for you and your family, and it is a great gathering place for family entertainment. However, with a swimming pool come extensive responsibilities to ensure that the pool remains healthy and sanitary for your family. If you opt to clean and maintain the pool yourself, it is critical that know exactly how to read and balance the pH levels, clean and monitor the filter, and ensure that the motor is running properly. Most people choose to use a pool cleaning service to maintain their swimming pool; most pool maintenance companies are very affordable, and they allow you to rest assured that your pool is clean, safe, and well-cared for in terms of long-term longevity.

However, there are many factors to consider when you are choosing the right pool cleaning service for you. The pool technician will be on your property, in your backyard every week, caring for the safety and health of your family’s pool. Thus, before you make the plunge, make sure that you take into consideration the following factors in choosing the right pool cleaning service and monthly rate for you:

· Ask your neighbors for recommendations. Are your neighbors happy with their pool service? Often times, you may be able to snag a good deal because the pool man already works next door.

· Go online and find recommendations and competitive quotes. There are services online that conduct extensive background checks to ensure that the pool service is professional, with a clean history. Websites such as PoolCleaningQuotes.com also conduct a sex offender check to make sure that the pool man in your backyard is healthy and safe member of society. You can also use these websites to obtain competitive quotes from professional pool services from your area, which makes your job much easier.

· Talk to several pool cleaning companies. When you speak with pool cleaning companies, it is important to compare their rates…and their reliability. If you schedule appointments with six companies, it is more than likely that one or two will not show. You can compare their competitive prices and see which company will show up every week to maintain your pool.

· Negotiate the details included in the service: The pool cleaning rate can certainly be negotiated, based upon your pool needs. For example, if you rarely use your pool, then you rate could be lower because less chemicals are required to balance the human element. Or, if you need full service, make sure that all of the chemicals are included. Is filter cleaning included? All of these little maintenance details add up to hundreds of dollars a year, if you do not negotiate them into your monthly maintenance fee.

· Consider buying an automated pool vacuum. An automated pool sweep will pay for itself in terms of the amount you save in reduced monthly pool service fees. You will only need partial service from your pool company, and thus, you will save a great deal of money in the long-run.

Your pool is a great source of entertainment and memories. If you negotiate with the right pool cleaning company, your pool can also be a cheap, affordable source of family fun as well.

About the author:
www.PoolCleaningQuotes.com

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Commercial cleaning companies

2008-03-08T06:36:00.001-08:00

The nature of cleaning is not the same and the criteria companies are also changing their cleaners. Little by little companies are realising that it is more economical and administratively easier to find a cleaning company that can meet all their cleaning requirements.

Not many cleaning contractors are able to do this or wanted to do so in the past. They have chosen to concentrate on a particular specialism and develop that. So we have firms that are office cleaners, carpet cleaners, window cleaners, stone cleaners, kitchen cleaners, and ventilation duct cleaners to name but a few. Each of these builds up their own particular client base and their only way of growing is to expand their area of coverage. Many cleaning companies are reluctant to do this and consequently their potential for growth is limited. A large proportion of these companies are run by a single person who is quite happy to restrict themselves to a physically manageable area and manage a finite number of clients. However if you own and operate a company or want to start a cleaning company that has wider visions then you have an opportunity to take advantage of the changing market place.

Companies and corporations are now beginning to look for cleaning companies that can provide them with all the cleaning services they require. If the cleaning company wishes to take advantage of this and gain corporate clients then it must expand its areas of expertise. If the financial burden of doing this is too great for the company to bear then the alternative is to find other firms who specialise in these various areas and work together either as partnerships or sub-contract out these fields of specialist cleaning.

Companies working together in some form of partnership who share the same goals is a better solution but ultimately it is better if your own company can develop within these various areas and then you have complete control without the concern and constant anxiety of being let down. Become an expert in carpet cleaning, window cleaning, deep cleaning of commercial kitchens and ventilation duct cleaning. That way you can offer your prospective clients the complete cleaning package, increase your turnover and continue to grow.

About the author:
The author Thomas H. Lindblom talks about cleaning contractors. Little by little companies are realising that it is more economical and administratively easier to find a cleaning company that can meet all their cleaning requirements.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How to Deep Clean Carpets

2008-03-08T06:35:00.001-08:00

Maintenance of a carpet is not one of the easiest jobs and it takes time and effort to keep your carpet in good condition. Most people use vacuum cleaners for carpet cleaning but this is not enough; your carpets also need some deep cleaning. The truth is that a carpet is easily prone to contaminants and pollutants. Your dog may walk in wagging his tail and shed some of his lovely hair on the carpet. A storm may bring in a few more surprises in the form of dust and allergens. To top it all, there is always the fear of spilling liquid or food, which may cause deep stains. All this translates to one thing: deep carpet cleaning.

It is advisable to deep clean carpets at least once in 12 or 18 months. This will not only remove the dust and the dirt but also the deep stains. As a result of deep carpet cleaning, the life span of your carpet will increase and it will also look as good as new. Deep cleaning of carpets will reduce the wear and tear and keep its colors bright. The question is how best you can deep clean your carpets?

Deep cleaning of carpets is not something that you can do at home always. This kind of carpet cleaning requires professional help. When you buy a new carpet, you will find a manufacturer note that states that the best cleaning process for all carpets is deep cleaning. It is important that you follow the instructions provided by the carpet manufacturer. You can try deep carpet cleaning at home too but for that you will require a carpet shampoo. There are different types of shampoos available in the market that can be used for specific carpets like woolen or silk carpets.

You should avoid using soap and household detergents for deep carpet cleaning as they can severely damage your carpet. To get the best results, start by vacuuming your carpet completely and then apply a pre-conditioning solution. The pre-conditioning solution is a form of mild detergents, which will help the soil on the carpet to loosen before you can start the actual deep cleaning process. Alternatively, you can also hire a carpet cleaning professional to do the job.

You can search over the internet for firm in your area that employ different deep carpet cleaning processes. The best way to find a professional is through references. Ask for references from your friends, neighbors, colleagues and family. While speaking to different professional carpet cleaners, make sure that you discuss the use of the five different methods of deep cleaning. Take their advice as they know which method will be best suited for your carpet. The five methods of carpet cleaning are:

Dry extraction: In this method professionals use an absorbent that contains special solvents and detergents. This absorbent is infused in to the carpet using special machines. The absorbent acts like a magnet and attract all the dirt, dust particles and soil from the carpet fibers. Once that happens then the carpet can be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner. This process works well for sturdy carpets.

Dry foam extraction: In this method, the professional will apply a detergent solution, which will create foam. The foam will then be applied to your carpet. The foam will attract all the dirt and the other pollutants, which can be removed later on using a vacuum cleaner. This process of carpet cleaning will work well for woolen carpets.

Hot water extraction: This is also known as steam cleaning and you can do it at home. First you will have to precondition the soiled areas of the carpet and then use a specially designed hot water extraction machine to infuse the cleaning solution into the carpet. This will help in loosening and removing of the soil.

Rotary shampoo: This is one of the classic carpet cleaning methods. It is done by professionals who use a machine that has rotary brushes. With the help of the brushes, cleaning solution is injected into the carpet, which helps in removing loose soil.

Absorbent pad: This is the last of the carpet cleaning methods and should not be done at home. A specially designed machine is used for removing the soil. The machine has absorbent spin pads, which can absorb the soil from your carpet.

At the end, it is always advised to refer to the instructions mentioned by the carpet manufacturer to help you choose the right deep cleaning method for your carpet.

About the author:
David Marquardt is the owner of the leading Austin Carpet Cleaning Services company based in Austin Texas dedicated to providing the most reliable Austin Vent Cleaning.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Tips and Tricks About Cleaning Air Ducts and Vents

2008-03-08T06:34:00.000-08:00

Is the air in your home clean? All of us breathe air when we are inside the home and most people are unsure about how clean the air inside their home is. Just like the air outside your home has several contaminants and pollutants, the air inside your home also have several contaminants. So if you breathe this air full of contaminants, the health risks increase multifold. You will be prone to various respiratory diseases, which can further get aggravated and take the form of allergy, asthma, persistent cough, nausea, headaches, and even fatigue. The root cause of these illnesses is the contaminants who have found their way into your home because your air duct or HVAC system is dirty.

Reduce health risks by cleaning Ducts

Contaminants in the air duct or your ventilation system are in different forms like fungi, Mold, allergens and bacteria. Allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander are quite common and can get inside the HVAC system in your home, which will circulate it right into the air that you breathe. Such a scenario will pose higher health risks and create negative health consequences on a long-term basis. According to the American College of Allergy almost 50% of illnesses are caused by pollutants that exist in the air inside your home due to improper vent cleaning.

As a result, it is important to clean your HVAC system on a regular basis. It is not only the health perspective in question here but a clean air duct system will provide higher performance as compared to a dirty system. Efficient running of your air duct or HVAC system will help in reducing your energy bills. Cleaner air duct systems will have a longer lifespan and will have less technical problems. So there are many more advantages of having a clean HVAC system other than the fact that it will keep the air in your home cleaner.

Factors That Affect Cleaning

Vent cleaning is a must and needs to be done on a regular basis. The industry standards recommend that you should have an expert inspect your air ducts and vents once every two years, and also initiate vent cleaning once every 5-7 years. Of course there is no harm in initiating a vent cleaning process once every 3-4 years also but all this depends on the conditions within your home.

On the other hand the NADCA or National Air Duct Cleaners Association does not recommend any specific time frame for air duct cleaning. According to them air duct cleaning should be initiated by a homeowner when they feel it is necessary and have outlined certain factors that will lead to frequent vent cleaning. According to them, vent cleaning becomes necessary within a short period of time if:

1. Smoking is done in the house
2. There are pets in the house that shed hair and dander
3. There is damage or water contamination in the home or to the HVAC system
4. NADCA also recommends air duct cleaning prior to occupancy of a new home.

Cleaning Methods

The most effective way of air duct cleaning is by using source removal methods. A powerful vacuum cleaner is used as a part of this method and it can suck air with dirt from your air duct and ventilation system. There are certain devices, which are inserted into the air ducts like brushes, skipper balls and air whips to dislodge any dirt or debris that is stuck to the inner surface of the ventilation system.

You can choose a duct cleaning contractor who is an expert in vent cleaning and will be able to clean your piping, registers, ductwork, and blower motor. These professional vent cleaning experts also use vacuums mounted on trucks, which can clean according to NADCA standards. The vacuums mounted on trucks are very powerful cleaners.

You need to be careful while hiring air duct cleaning contractor. You can start with several contractors who will inspect your air duct and ventilation system and then offer you their best quote. You need to make sure that the air duct cleaning contractor visually inspects the air ducts and the various components of your HVAC system before offering you a cleaning solution.

If you hire NADCA contractors then you will be rest assured that your vent cleaning process will be based on NADCA guidelines. Check the license of the vent cleaning company and ask for at least 3 references. Last but not the least; don’t hire someone who offers you the lowest price because that will translate into inadequate cleaning.

About the author:
David Marquardt is the owner of the leading Austin Carpet Cleaning company based in Austin Texas dedicated to providing the most reliable Austin Vent Cleaning.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Carpet Cleaning Tips for the Do-It-Yourselfers

2008-03-08T06:33:00.002-08:00

Carpet cleaning is a necessity and deep cleaning on a regular basis will ensure that your carpets have a long life and look fresh and new always. Deep cleaning is mostly done by professionals but you can also do it at home. Some of you may find it unnecessary to hire a professional for something you can do on your own. Some others may feel that the cost of hiring carpet cleaners is higher than your budget. What next? The next step is to get your hands dirty and start the process of carpet cleaning. So if you have made up your mind and are ready to take on the do-it-yourself carpet cleaning job then the following tips will definitely help you:

The first and the foremost thing that you need to do is remove all the furniture. You need to do this before you start the process of cleaning the carpet. After you have removed the furniture, vacuum the entire length and breadth of the room. The point is that if you are able to remove as much soil as possible before the carpet cleaning process, then you will get better results.

You can find most of the carpet cleaning systems on rent. Check each of the system first and enquire about its effectiveness. The cleaning requirements are different for different types of carpets. So make sure that you pick the one that is suited or recommended for your carpet. Some people ask why they can’t buy it straight from a retail store. The reason is that a rental store has powerful machines that will help in thorough carpet cleaning as compared to the machines available at retail outlets or supermarkets. When you rent or buy the necessary equipment, make sure that it has a maximum vacuum capacity so that the carpet can dry off within 12 hours after cleaning. If you are in doubt then take assistance or consult the carpet manufacturer or even the retailer regarding recommendations.

Try to avoid over wetting during Carpet cleaning. If there is too much moisture then it will seep into the fibers of your carpet and can cause considerable damage to its backing. Prolonged dampness can even lead to the growth of bacteria, fungus and mildew, which will cause health problems. The biggest concern in the do-it-yourself process is that of using too much detergent or water. Normally, it is mentioned on the detergent pack, how much to use and you can also consult the manufacturer regarding the right proportion to use for carpet cleaning.

Actually, it is always recommended to consult the carpet manufacturer before you start with do-it-yourself carpet cleaning. The carpet manufacturer and even the retailer can provide you with detailed information regarding the products that you can use for your carpet. It is advised to double check the detergent for its pH value, which should be less than 10. Also find out if the detergent will leave any sticky residue or not. Carpet cleaning of woolen carpet or those made from natural fibers will need a special cleaning solution that has been formulated only for them. Follow up the detergent cleaning with a clear water rinsing process so that all remnants from the detergent or cleaning solution can be removed.

Some carpets are stain resistant while others are not. If you have a stain resistant carpet then you will have to use specially formulated solutions. One very important thing is that if you have a stain resistant carpet then you will need to hire professional carpet cleaners as otherwise the warranty will become void.

It is better to avoid cleaning solutions, which contain brighteners or bleaches as they can lead to discoloration of your carpet. Try and avoid the use of silicone-based carpet cleaning treatments as they don’t have any long-term benefits and are capable of causing permanent damages to your carpet.

Last but not the least; dry your carpet as soon as possible. You can turn on the fan, air-conditioner or de-humidifier for pulling out the moisture from the air. The sooner the carpet can dry, the better it will be. Proper drying of your carpet will help to maintain the color and fabric of the carpet and also increase its lifespan.

Carpet cleaning can be done at home but always consult your carpet manufacturer before you start the process because if your carpet get damaged then it will not be possible to restore it to its original state. So you need to be extremely careful while doing it at home.

How Harmful Are Household Cleaners?

2008-03-08T06:33:00.001-08:00

With the use of household cleaning products in homes, schools, and office buildings around the world, these cleaning products are finally being exposed for their risks to our health. Many people are still purchasing these products which are expensive and pose huge health risks to their families. Household cleaning products are an area where we can exercise some choice over the degree of toxicity we expose ourselves and our families.

Many of the disinfectant ingredients found in most household cleaning products are highly toxic. Some chemicals contained in cleaning products are found in those used in industrial settings, with some actually classified as hazardous waste. These household cleaners may be responsible for poisoning our children and polluting our air. With more than 32 million pounds of toxic household cleaning products that are poured down the drain each day, damage to our precious ground water systems are put in danger. This threatens the health of our future generations. There are many chemicals found in ordinary cleaning products that are harmful to your health and which may also cause cancer.

There are many chemicals in household cleaners that are toxic. Chemicals in cleaning products are among the most toxic compounds found in the home. Some of the chemicals found in these cleaners include, phosphates, sodium hydroxide, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), phosphoric acid, toluene, tetrachloroethylene, and xylene. Our homes have been made into small chemical factories by the use of detergents, degreasers, stain removers and glass cleaners. Everyday house cleaners may be responsible for allergies, asthma, headaches, chest pains, dizziness, eye and skin irritations, birth defects, fatigue, depression and cancer. Some of these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and can be extremely caustic and harmful if ingested.

There are many all natural, non-toxic, non-polluting household cleaning product alternatives now available. These cleaning products are non-toxic and earth friendly. Green cleaning products are non-toxic and provide for a safer home environment, a healthy family, an eco-safe and cleaner planet. Green cleaners can cost more than conventional household cleaners, but they are often more concentrated, giving you more cleaner for your money.

Public demand for green products and recognition of the hazards of many chemical ingredients in cleaners are leading more companies to manufacture less toxic cleaning products. To live green and healthy, switching to non-toxic cleaners and planet friendly products is a quick and easy way to start. With these products available to us there is no need to expose ourselves, our children and our planet to harmful cleaning chemicals. Green products keep the poisons of conventional household cleaners out of your home and your families lives.

About the author:
About the Author: Mike Merisko has a health and nutrition website at http://www.healthfreeway.com and shares a website with his wife Linda at http://www.shaklee.net/healthbuilders

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Common Carpet Cleaning Myths

2008-03-08T06:32:00.000-08:00

It's only natural that as time goes on, we are constantly receiving new information and compiling facts. This is what enable 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 EXTRACTION 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!

About the author:
David Gruttadaurio is the president of UBS Clean Care, Inc. His company is a residential carpet cleaning and janitorial company serving the Southwest Indiana cities of Newburgh, Evansville and Princeton. UBS Clean Care is unique in that they promise "The Most Thorough Cleaning Ever, or it's FREE!" You can find more valuable information about caring for your carpeting by going to http://MyCleanCarpet.net

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Hiring a Cleaning Service

2008-03-08T06:31:00.000-08:00

A cleaning service New York is not easy to find. Any chimpanzee in an apron and rubber gloves can clean your house and apartment, but as a resident or homeowner, chances are, your choice in cleaning service will be made on several important factors.

The first factor entering your decision-making process is the hourly or by-room cost. Depending on the size of your home and the amount of rooms, a cleaning service NYC will have different pricing schedules to go by when charging you. Some will figure out the total cost based on how many rooms you have to be cleaned. For example, a cleaning service New York City will charge you for a three bedroom apartment based on the kitchen and bathrooms, whereas a cleaning service for a house will take into account the fact that the average suburban room size is bigger and in a house, the living room, den, dining room and foyer take up much more time than in the city.

Another factor is the frequency of cleaning appointments requested. For example, if you plan to have the New York cleaning service come on a regular basis, you can probably negotiate a better deal for their services than if you were just getting a one-time cleaning.

Lastly, insurance and licensing should enter the picture at some point.
Obviously, you don't want to invite just anyone into your home. The reputable New York cleaning companies will proudly display their credentials on their own websites so that you can feel confident that you have a good company coming in to do the job. Like most facets of home improvement, reputation is very important.

About the author:
Myself webmaster of http://www.cityhammer.com dealing in all type of Home improvement and remodeling need such as interior designer New York, interior decorator New York, cleaning service New York City, flooring New York, carpenter carpentry New York, cleaning service New York.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Invest Your Time in Something Better with Dorm Mom Laundry Services

2008-03-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

There are always going to be better things to do with your time than doing laundry, but at some point you have to do that as well. If you are in college or you have a very busy life, handling work and family, doing the laundry is yet another burden that you have to handle, or at least this is how it seems. Moreover, you do not only have to wash your clothes, you also have to dry them and some even require ironing. Studying, classes, work and family considerably reduce the time you have left for laundry.

Dorm Mom Laundry Services are the best solution available to you if you are busy with college, family or work. Students must study, go to classes, participate in extracurricular activities and also enjoy the wonderful experience college has to offer. In between all these, they have to find time to cook, clean, do the laundry and of course visit their family and friends from time to time. When you live on campus, you automatically have access to free laundry facilities, but imagine how many students live on the same campus and how many of them do their own laundry. You will not only lose precious time doing the laundry, but you will also be prevented from making good use of your free time because you have to stay in line before you get a turn at doing your laundry. However, there are always alternatives and Dorm Mom College Laundry Services is one of them. Within 48 hours, your clothes will be washed, dried and ironed and all you have to do is put the clothes in a laundry bag provided to you by the laundry service and place it in your pick-up location, which is right on you hallway. What could be easier than that?

Moreover, college also means not having enough money for things like washing your clothes and Dorm Mom College Laundry Services is based on that premise. Time is money and every minute you waste waiting in line to do laundry means wasted money, not to mention that detergents are not that cheap. Dorm Mom college Laundry Services were created with the purpose of saving you both time and your money. In addition to the convenience of using these college Dorm Mom Laundry Services, you also have the certainty that you will get your money back if, for whatever reason, you should happen to be dissatisfied with the quality of the services provided.

Working parents or people with demanding jobs also face the same problem as students: they do not have time to do the laundry. Dorm Mom Laundry Services extend to these people as well. You save money, have your clothes cleaned and ironed and, at the same time, you do not have to take a trip to the nearest laundry facility because using the Dorm Mom Laundry Services, the pick-up place is at your home.

If you come to think of the facts better, college life is as demanding as family life and the less chores you have, the better. Dorm Mom Laundry Services for college students and any working people mean more time for important aspects such as studying or spending quality time with your family, less money spent and a lot less stress for you!

About the author:
For more resources about College Laundry Services or even about Laundry Services please review these pages http://www.dormmom.com

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

How to Clean Your Refrigerator: Free Online Maintenance Tips & Techniques : Tips for Cleaning the Inside of Your Refrigerator:

2008-03-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Learn tips on how clean & disinfect the inside of your refrigerator in this free online instructional video on maintaining & cleaning your refrigerator

Good Housekeeping Tips and Basic Home Cleaning Techniques : Expert Tips on Bathroom Sink Cleaning

2008-03-05T07:30:00.002-08:00

Learn how to clean a bathroom sink from an expert - free video

Tips on Do it Yourself Carpet Cleaning With a Home Steam Carpet Cleaner : Letting the Carpet Dry: Carpet Cleaning Tips & Techniques

2008-03-05T07:30:00.001-08:00

How long should I let my carpet dry after steam cleaning it? Learn the best way to clean carpet. Get carpet cleaning tips & techniques in this free video introduction

How to Wash Dishes : How to Clean Food from Dishes

2008-03-05T07:29:00.001-08:00

Learn how to clean food from dishes when you are washing dishes by hand with expert cleaning tips in this free video clip

Home Cleaning Tips

2008-03-05T07:26:00.000-08:00

Practical tips on cleaning parts of your home

Professional House Cleaning Tips : How to Clean Stuffed Animals

2008-03-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Learn how to clean a stuffed animal without ruining the toy, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Removing Paper Stains on Wood Furniture

2008-03-05T07:24:00.000-08:00

Learn how to remove paper stains from wood furniture, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Organizing the Childrens Room

2008-03-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

Learn how to effectively organize a child's room and keep it clean with these professional tips - free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Microwave Cleaning Tips

2008-03-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

Learn pro tips and tricks on how to clean an extremely dirty microwave, in this free video

Housecleaning Tips : How to Keep your Home Clean & Smelling Clean : Basic House Cleaning Tips from a Professional

2008-03-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

Learn some basic housecleaning tips to get started with your housecleaning chores, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : How to Make Homemade Furniture Polish

2008-03-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

Learn how to make an inexpensive and effective homemade furniture polish, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Important Housecleaning Products to Get you Started

2008-03-05T07:19:00.000-08:00

Get professional advice on which housecleaning products you should use to clean your home, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Appliance Cleaning Tips

2008-03-05T07:17:00.000-08:00

Learn professional tips and tricks for cleaning common household appliances, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Dusting and Cleaning Electronic Equipment

2008-03-05T06:36:00.000-08:00

Learn how to clean your electronics devices with electronics cleaning tips, in this free video

Good Housekeeping Tips and Basic Home Cleaning Techniques : How to Clean Hard Wood Floors: House Cleaning Tips

2008-03-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

Learn how to use a prep mop from an expert house cleaner - free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Laundry Tips : Tips to Make Doing Laundry Easier

2008-03-05T06:34:00.000-08:00

Doing laundry is a basic household chore, but it can be much easier with these professional housecleaning tips - free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Oven Cleaning Hints : How to Clean your Oven

2008-03-05T06:33:00.000-08:00

Cleaning the oven can be a difficult chore even if the oven has a self-cleaning setting; learn how in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : How to Clean your Window Blinds

2008-03-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

Learn professional tips for cleaning your window blinds, in this free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : Refrigerator Cleaning Tips : How to Clean your Refrigerator

2008-03-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Learn professional tips and tricks for cleaning your refrigerator and other kitchen appliances - free video

Professional House Cleaning Tips : How to Clean the Bedroom : Tips for Cleaning your Bedroom

2008-03-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

Learn simple tips for cleaning your bedroom, in this free video

How to Clean Grout in Floors

2008-03-05T01:48:00.000-08:00

Author: Steve Hanson

Copyright (c) 2006 The Janitorial Store

Restroom cleanliness is one of the most common complaints cleaning companies receive. When cleaning restrooms, keep in mind that they should not only look clean, but that they should feel and smell clean. An important part in maintaining a high level of cleanliness is making sure the floor grout is clean. Grout is porous, so over time, moisture, contaminants, and even dirty mop water can discolor it. These circumstances can lead to staining, odors, and aid in the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

There are several reasons is it so difficult to clean floor grout:

* Using a cleaner that doesn't float contaminates to the surface.

* Using a cleaner that contains detergents that settle into the grout with dirt and oils.

* Sealers may have been improperly used in the past. Instead of keeping out dirt and oils, these may now be trapped in the grout.

* Acidic or high pH cleaners make grout more porous and fragile with the result being the grout re-soils faster.

* Cleaners used in the past may have left residues that become dirt magnets.

Before starting to clean tile and grout it is important to analyze what dirt and contaminants you're dealing with. Then based on that information, select a cleaner designed for cleaning that type of soil and is suitable for the flooring being cleaned.

Using the right cleaner and using it correctly are important steps to keeping grout clean. To avoid soap scum, daily cleaners must be salt free. When deep cleaning, the cleaner needs to be free of high levels of potassium and sodium salts. The cleaner you use must be able to float contamination up as well as transfer it to the mop so the grout comes clean. Carefully consider the pH of the product you are using. Acidic based cleaners (low pH) bleach rather than clean and basic cleaners (high pH) tend to be high in salts. Be cautious about the use of citrus products. Many of these products leave unwanted residues that make floors feel sticky. It is important to use the right chemical as bacteria can get trapped into grout and tile. It may be necessary to use a germicide cleaner, especially around toilets and urinals, to kill bacteria and remove any urine that has dried into the grout or tile.

Cleaning grout is often labor-intensive at times even requiring scrubbing by hand, which may not be practical in a large restroom. There are procedures you can follow to help keep grout clean. First, use a chemical proportioning system to dilute chemicals accurately. When you use too much chemical, sealants break down faster. Second, have adequate ventilation to help prevent the build up of odors and speed up drying. Frequent changing of mop water and mop heads helps to make sure that contaminants are picked up and not pushed back into the grout. Consider switching to microfiber mops as they have proven to be the most effective at removing contaminants from floor surfaces.

When cleaning, liberally apply chemicals and don't allow the floor to dry before scrubbing. Always allow proper dwell time, which is typically between 5 and 10 minutes. The next step is to use the right tool to scrub the floor surface. To effectively clean the surfaces use floor brushes. After thoroughly scrubbing the floor, remove the excess liquid. A wet vacuum works well as it will pick up the excess water, dirt, residue and cleaning chemical used on the floor.

New and innovative equipment can also make cleaning grout faster. High-pressure water systems (up to 1200 psi) can effectively deep clean, loosen, and remove soil. Some systems also heat the water, which aids in the cleaning process. Grout cleaning systems also have auto-feed/auto-dump capabilities so you can use them continuously without stopping. The machines pick up loosened soil and leave no residue. Another option is using cylindrical brush technology. These machines do not use pads like rotary buffers, but instead use rotating brushes. These brushes penetrate and loosen the dirt in grout and tile.

To keep grout and tile looking their best it is important to train your staff and make sure they continue to follow the proper procedures when cleaning grout. Having written procedures and checklists can help to assure the proper cleaning techniques are always followed.

Lack of attention, carelessness, and the wrong types of cleaners used will lead to dirty grout and the entire floor looking dull and dingy. Paying attention and spending a little extra time when cleaning grout will keep not only the floor, but the entire restroom, looking and smelling clean.

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Steve Hanson is co-founding member of The Janitorial Store (TM), an online community that offers weekly tips, articles, downloads, discussion forums, and more for anyone who would like to learn how to start a cleaning business. Visit The Janitorial Store's blog and get inspired by reading cleaning success stories from owners of cleaning companies.

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_97101_15.html

Raising the Bar with Green Home Cleaning: Tekon Seals and Protects Kitchen and Bath from Toxins

2008-03-05T00:57:00.000-08:00

Author: Darrel Smith

Bret Aiken has been researching, applying, and experimenting with protective coatings for bathrooms and kitchens since the 1980s. During the 80s Bret and his bother James Aiken worked together in the shower door industry for Rainbow 80s and later Rainbow 90s, as part of a family business in California. Now Bret and James Aiken own Tekon Universal Sciences Inc. together, a company dedicated to pushing the envelop for green systems in sealing, protecting and cleaning home and public environments. "With new green cleaning technologies, there is really no reason to use harsh chemicals in the home or in public spaces any longer," said Bret, "because Tekon's hygienic and hydrophobic sealants can prevent the spread of germs. Tekon's protective treatments work by sealing out the oxygen and leaving germs on the surface where they are easily wiped away."
Bret began exploring sealants for shower doors in the 1980s. "Back then we were using a product similar to Rainex to coat shower doors. The sealant only lasts 30 days, and there is no aftercare recommended or provided." In the 1990s James and Bret purchased a Diamond Seal Franchise, a superior coating for shower doors. "We thought this was a good product," remembered Bret, "there wasn't anything like it at the time. It had a longer capability of bonding to a surface." The coatings would last for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 years. "Then we would be asked to reapply it," added Bret.
In late 1997, several forces coalesced in Bret and James Aiken's lives. They began collaborating with Dr. Willis, who pioneered new nanotechnology coating processes, and Palmer Consulting Group. "By 1999 we had engineered a whole new coating process or system," recalled Bret. He continued, "We named the company Diamond Seal Systems, since we innovated and improved Diamond Seal's process." The process sealed the surface to protect it from viruses, mold, bacteria, germs and other toxins, which are easily wiped away from the surface with aftercare sanitizers and a microfiber cloth. This revolutionary coating process is based on nanotechnology, which means a little of the product stretches a long way.
The Aiken brothers soon had an opportunity to test the protective treatment for glass in a public venue. Long Beach Transit and Omni Trans busses were badly in need of some restoration and renewal. "The maintenance crew would wash the busses and let them drip dry in the yard," said Bret, who personally worked on the application for Long Beach Transit. "and the windows would etch and stain from this treatment. We developed a process to remove hard water damage from glass and restore it better than new. We also developed a restoration process for the corroded windows. After this cleansing and restoration process, we treated the busses with Diamond Seal System protective treatment." Even today, Tekon application specialists continue to clean, protect and maintain the Long Beach Transit fleet of busses.
While implementing their new cleaning, sealing and protection process in the transit system, the Aiken brothers were also busy applying their revolutionary coatings in residential settings, as well. In 1997, Tekhome was born. Bret and James first began treating and sealing bathrooms to reduce exposure to chemicals, corrosion, and keep surfaces better than new. "Our customers were ecstatic about the work we provided for them," said Bret. "Much of our business was through referral and word of mouth." In August of 2000 the Aikens were invited to appear on a television program about the homes of the California Riviera called "Home of the Gibsons." The Gibsons owned a design furniture and home items store in Newport, California. The Aikens demonstrated their process on the show, to much acclaim from viewing audiences.
Overall, support for the Tekhome coating process was widespread and growth came fast. With Tekhome, applicators began working in residences -- treating all solid surfaces: glass, stone, flooring, grout, windows, tile, cabinetry, stainless steel and metal. "Today we even treat the walls, carpet, and fabric, too," said Bret. He continued, "We also leave behind Tekon's green cleaning aftercare products like Empowered Daily, Empowered Plus Weekly, and Delta Wash once the process is complete. Clients can easily maintain surfaces at their optimum, or Tekon can train their housekeepers how to use Tekon products, if they like."
Since 2002 Tekon has expanded even further into the chemical free, non-toxic, green cleaning world and is a leader in Green Disruptive Technology (GDT). Tekon developed and introduced do-it-yourself chemical free product lines for home use with Tekon's Stone Care Kit, Bath Kit, Countertop Kit, Stainless Steel Kit and Microfiber cloths and mops. Tekon executives also continued to put emphasis on their strongest point � which is field applications of their non-toxic protective treatments for high profile public clients and homeowners alike. Tekon's process coats public trains, busses, restrooms, hotels, and cruise ships and helps to prevent the public's exposure to harsh chemicals, germs, bacteria, viruses and other toxins.
Tekon dealers include Cardinal Shower Doors, American Shower Doors and Visa Windows of Ohio who use Tekon's protective treatment for glass. And, Sureshine Flooring and Royal Care Services utililize Tekon's process to restore, polish and seal stone and ceramic tile. Green Envirotek is having great success distributing a full line of Tekon products in Northern California. Tekon US Inc. continues to strive to be an environmental leader in care for the great American home. To purchase Tekon home kits visit http://www.tekon.com or find out about dealership opportunities by calling 714-432-7700.

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_44914_24.html

Dallas Cleaning Services You May Need

2008-03-05T00:54:00.000-08:00

Author: chrono stock

Dallas Cleaning Services You May Need

Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, there will be times when you need to have your home or your workplace cleaned. When that time comes, what do you do? If you are like many other homeowners or business owners there is a good chance that you do your own cleaning or, if you are a business owner, have one of your employees do it for you. As nice as it is for that to happen, you or someone else that you know may not always have the time to do your own or their own cleaning. That is why, if you live in or around the Dallas area, you are advised to think about seeking assistance from a professional Dallas cleaning company.

When it comes to Dallas cleaning companies, you will find that most offer a wide variety of different services. These services are sometimes referred to as Dallas cleaning services. No matter what they are called, there are a number of different Dallas cleaning services that you, your home, or your business could benefit from. However, when examining common Dallas cleaning services, it is important to remember that they are just common. The actual services offered will all depend on the Dallas cleaning company in question.

Now, if you are a homeowner who is looking to have your home cleaned by a professional, you will find that there are a number of different Dallas cleaning services that you can benefit from. One of those cleaning services includes window washing. A large number of professional Dallas cleaning companies will wash your windows for you, often both inside and out. In addition to window washing, it is not uncommon to find sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting being offered. As previously mentioned, additional Dallas cleaning services may be offered, depending on the company in question.

If you are a business owner, you will also find a fairly large number of Dallas cleaning services that may be just what you are looking for. When dealing with commercial cleaning, the services offered will all depend on the type of business that you run or the type of building that your business is housed out of. For instance, if you are in charge of running an office-like setting, you may be able to benefit from Dallas cleaning services that include dusting, vacuuming, and window blinds cleaning. Of course, as stated above, additional services may also be available.

If you are a business owner who is running a business that is a retail store, your Dallas cleaning service needs may be a little bit different. For instance, most retails stores do not have carpet flooring. That is why a large number of retail stores regularly need to have their floors mopped, stripped, and waxed. A large number of Dallas cleaning companies offer this type of service. Additional services for retail stores may include window washing, outdoor sweeping, and much more.

Whether you are a business owner or a homeowner, there are a number of different Dallas cleaning services that you may want or need to use. To get an accurate list of all of the services that are available in your area, you are advised to contact one of your local Dallas cleaning companies for more information.

Wes Griffin is a writer for Full Service Janitorial . com where loads of great tips on Dallas Cleaning Services and other related information.

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_98346_15.html

How to Clean Marble Floors

2008-03-05T00:52:00.001-08:00

Author: Steve Hanson

Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store

An area that causes some cleaning contractors to scratch their heads, is the best way to clean marble floors. Asking janitorial supply houses or stores that sell marble flooring will almost always lead to different answers on the best way to clean and take care of marble floors. Suggestions on cleaning vary from using an all-purpose cleaner to plain water to vinegar. But these are not the ingredients that you need to care for the marble floors in your buildings.

Begin with by realizing that marble is a natural stone so you need to treat it differently than other types of flooring. Stone floors are sensitive and you can ruin the surface if you use the wrong chemical to clean it. An acid based product may scratch and etch polished stone. The surface can actually be eaten away by an acid based cleaner with the result being a floor looking dull or pitted.

Using plain city water can cause a different set of problems. City water is usually treated with chemicals and may contain salt to soften the water. After drying, the water can leave behind residue from the chemicals and may leave a cloudy look across the floor.

The use of an all-purpose cleaner can lead to a dulling or scratched appearance if the cleaner has not been developed for use on stone floors.

So where do you begin? The type of cleaning you need to do will decide which process and chemicals you should be using.

The daily cleaner should be a mild product recommended for use on marble floors. The product should be able to remove residue from spills such as coffee and soft drinks, but will more than likely not be strong enough to remove stains or heavy soil build-up. The pH of a daily product should be neutral (pH7).

The heavy-duty cleaner will contain stronger solutions that can cut through heavy soil build-up and even some stains that have gone unnoticed for a time. A typical heavy-duty cleaner will have a higher pH, probably around 10 or 11. As these are strong solutions, they can affect the surface of marble and you should use them cautiously and only when necessary.

Stain removers are specialty cleaners and can do a great deal of harm to a marble floor if you don't take the proper care. Only use these stain removers if nothing else has worked.

Once you have decided on the chemical you need to use, begin by deep cleaning the floor. Deep cleaning will remove spills that daily maintenance has missed. Make sure to use a cleaner that has been designed for use on natural stone -- a heavy-duty cleaner with a pH of 9 or 10 will work best. Follow all label directions, especially when it comes to diluting the chemical - more isn't better.

Mop the cleaner on to the floor, and then gently agitate the cleaning solution. Avoid the use of abrasive pads as they can scratch and damage the floor. Let the cleaning solution soak for about 10 minutes. Then agitate the solution again and use a wet vac or mop to remove the solution. It may be necessary to rinse the floor. Once the process is complete examine the floor for any residual soil or stains.

At this point it may be necessary to try to identify any remaining stains and clean them with the suitable stain remover. Try to find out if the stain is from a water-based or oil-based product. If the stain has been there a long time or is difficult to identify it may be necessary to re-polish the floor with specialized equipment. If you have a good idea of what the stain is, try a stain remover in an inconspicuous area to make sure that it will not harm the floor.

Once you've cleaned the floor, keep it looking its best with a daily maintenance program. Use a neutral cleaner made specifically for marble floors. Follow the label directions carefully, especially when determining the dilution ratio.

After cleaning the floor, evaluate it for any potential problems. Check for areas with deep soiling or scratches and re-polish these areas to keep the floor looking its best. A regular program of routine maintenance and inspections can stop small problems before they grow into large headaches.

Another important step in keeping marble floors looking their best is through prevention. Use walk-off mats to protect and prevent scratches on the marble. Use mats that not only catch dirt and soil from shoes, but that will also absorb liquids. Make sure the mat used is long enough to do the job. During winter months or periods of bad weather, consider running mats from the front door to the elevators. Make sure to dust mop the floor to pick up any soil that is not picked up by the floor mats.

Keeping marble floors looking good means spending time evaluating the floor and finding the suitable products to care for the floor. The proper maintenance program for your marble floors will not only make the floor shine, but your company as well.

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Steve Hanson is co-founding member of TheJanitorialStore.com, an online community for owners and managers of cleaning companies who want to build a more profitable and successful cleaning business. Sign up for Trash Talk: Tip of the Week at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com and receive a Free Gift. Read cleaning success stories from owners of cleaning companies at http://www.cleaning-success.com/ .

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_38555_15.html

What Cleaning Contractors Need to Know About Mold in Carpet

2008-03-05T00:44:00.000-08:00

Author: Steve Hanson

Copyright 2006 The Janitorial Store

One area of growing concern to building owners is indoor air quality. Feeding poor indoor air quality can be one of over 1,000 types of mold found in the United States and over 100,000 types found worldwide. Mold and mildew can grow rampant indoors and lead to various health problems such as allergic reactions, asthma, sneezing, eye and skin irritation, and other respiratory complaints. Carpets that are not cleaned and dried properly can be a haven for mold spores, which thrive on excessive moisture.

There is no practical way to keep mold spores from entering your buildings. Spores enter through open doorways, windows, and ventilation systems. People also track mold spores through buildings, as they can attach themselves to clothing and shoes.

Molds need three things to grow: moisture, nutrients and a suitable material such as carpet, paper, ceiling tiles, drywall or a host of other materials. When molds are disturbed they are released into the air and inhaled by the people in the room. Some individuals are not affected by mold, but others can be highly sensitive.

If asked to clean a carpet that has mold problems you need to first assess the situation. Are there underlying factors that are causing excessive moisture? Water problems, such as broken pipes, leaking roofs, over-watered plants or flooding, and improper carpet cleaning can lead to mold in carpets.

Assess the situation to make sure that it is something your company can handle before agreeing to rid the carpet of mold. First make sure the source of the water problem, such as broken pipes or a leaking roof, is fixed. Then make sure the problem has not escalated to a point where the carpet should just be replaced.

If you decide you can handle the job, clean the carpet with a product such as a biocide that is designed to stop microbial growth. Following are some steps to follow when removing mold and mildew from carpet:

1. Apply a low alkaline all-purpose spotter and wipe it off.

2. Rinse with a mild acidic carpet rinse and neutralizer.

3. Thoroughly dry the carpet.

4. Apply a mildew stat carpet sanitizer. Make sure you follow all label directions and recommendations. Let the solution air-dry.

Although the EPA recommends a bleach solution to kill mold in some situations, many of the mold and mildew removers that contain bleach will harm carpet fibers, so you should not use it. While cleaning, employees should wear gloves and respirators to avoid breathing in the mold spores.

After cleaning, use fans to dry the carpet. Once you handle the mold problem and the carpet is dry, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove any remaining mold spores. Vacuums with HEPA filers won't stir up the remaining mold spores into the air. If the area is one that will continue to have excessive water, you can recommend the building owner replace the carpet with tile or laminate flooring so you can easily mop up the water as needed.

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Steve Hanson is co-founder of TheJanitorialStore.com, an online community for owners of cleaning companies. Sign up for Trash Talk:Tip of the Week at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com . Read success stories at http://www.cleaning-success.com .

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_82614_15.html

Upholstery cleaning Orange city for the people

2008-03-05T00:40:00.002-08:00

Author: Markus Skupeika

Carpets are very affordable and durable flooring option for the people who want to give their house a well defined and shiny stare. It is capable of standing up to years of harsh use and looks beautiful the whole time. It is however affected by many things that can cause it damage like dust, spills, mud and substance of beverages or the drinking liquor color. One type of damage your carpet can develop is heavy debris of dust in the carpet fibers and backing separation. These carpet cleaning processes are well embarked upon by the Berber carpet cleaning.

Backing separation occurs when the primary backing of the carpet begins to loosen from the carpet. The backing of the carpet is held together with the latex glue. This glue can be broken down by a number of different things. One thing that can cause it to break down and lead to separation is flooding or water damage. This can cause the glues to weaken and the backing to separate if it is left wet long enough. The carpet cleaning service San Jose California is taking great of the carpets by measuring the carpet life for the long time. Another thing that can cause the backing to separate is foot traffic.

Over time if a carpet is exposed to a great deal of traffic the pressure and vibration can cause the glue on the backing to degrade and lead to separation. Yet another cause of separation is age. Over time the glue will naturally degrade and cause the carpet to break up. Like the carpet cleaning there are some certain factors that result enormously for maintain the upholstery.

For the upholstery cleaning job the upholstery cleaning Orange County understands the material by which the upholstery is a made of. First they will snip a piece of material from a hidden location. The best location is usually inside the zipper of a cushion where here is excess fabric. Right after this the professional will separate a thread and burn it for getting the eminent idea about the upholstery materials.

Steam cleaning or the carpet dry cleaning is the most popular method as far as the customers satisfaction is concern. It has so many beneficial aspects than the other cleaning methods like the flushing capacity. This is important to people and their children because it means that more of the soil is moved out of the home instead of just moved around. Another advantage of steam cleaning is that it allows for the use of more specialty cleaning chemicals. Since most of the industry is geared towards steam cleaning, most of the chemicals are designed to be used in conjunction with steam cleaning.

This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_204169_15.html

Keep your carpets clean with the carpet cleaning service San Jose, California

2008-03-05T00:40:00.001-08:00

Author: Markus Skupeika

Even though a lot of carpet maintenance might seem like a lot of extra work, you'll definitely find that it is worth it when you get several more years out of the carpets in the home. Additionally, proper carpet care will keep your home looking beautiful as long as you live there. It is advisable to ensure the long life of the carpet people should contact the carpet cleaning service San Jose California for the maneuvering life of the carpet in uphold way.

There is no doubt regarding the health benefit that people may obtain while choosing the right carpet cleaning methods or the resources, as there is nothing like the feel of walking barefoot on a freshly cleaned carpet. When a carpet is installed for the first time, it exaggerate the look of the house flooring and the walls.

Whether it's from stains, tears, or just general wear and tear on a carpet, you will start to notice signs of aging as your carpet gets older. However, this does not have to be the case! With proper carpet care and maintenance, you'll be able to keep your carpet looking newer for longer by hiring reliable and professional carpet cleaning Orange County, and you'll even be able to prolong the lifetime of your carpet.

The most important things that you need to remember regarding carpet care are also the easiest things to do. First of all, you should clean up any spills as soon as they happen. This will reduce the chances of stains, and will also keep the spills from soaking too far into the carpet. You should also make sure that you carpet dry cleaning regularly - at least once a week if you can manage it. That way, you'll be able to keep the dirt that gets tracked onto your carpet from getting ground too far into it. You will also reduce the mess that occurs when there are spills.

You should make sure that you get your carpet fully cleaned once every one to three years depending on how much wear and tear it sees during those years. For children's rooms and other areas of the house that see a lot of wear, you may want to consider best carpet cleaners for cleaning the carpet at least once a year. For other rooms of the house, you may only need to do a full cleaning once every few years.

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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_205468_15.html

Bare Floor Cleaner - Forget the Bucket, Scrub Brushes and Mops

2008-01-14T22:07:00.000-08:00

Throw away your scrub brushes, buckets and mops and buy a bare floor cleaner. There is absolutely no reason why anyone has to get down on their hands and knees to scrub their floors or use a dirty mop. There are many different varieties of bare floor cleaners on the market today that can clean your floors in half the time and give them a sparkling shine.
Hoover, always one of the best names in vacuum cleaners, makes several floor cleaners that are excellent. The Hoover FloorMax is one of the best floor cleaners on the market today. The Hoover FloorMax looks like an upright vacuum cleaner and works hard to pick up any debris on your bare floor. A separate cylinder holds solution and water that effectively scrubs your floor in record time. It is easier to use than a mop but has the cleaning power of a scrub brush. The Hoover FloorMax even dries the floor when you are finished, making it sparkle. In addition, there are several attachments that making even cleaning floor grout easy. Simply use the grout cleaning solution to clean and maintain grout in between tiles.
Hoover also makes the SteamVac, a bare floor cleaner that does not use solution, but steam, to clean the floor. Many people using this product have found that steam floor cleaning is effective in cleaning all stains and go on to purchase handheld steam cleaners to use in bathrooms and kitchens.
Another good name in floor cleaning is Bissell. Bissell also makes a large variety of steam cleaners and bare floor cleaners that work fast to make your kitchen and bathroom floors shine. The Bissell FlipIt cleaner is a modern marvel. This relatively compact device resembles an upright stick vacuum. You won't believe the power behind this little beauty as it works to vacuum up debris on your bare floor, clean it and then dry it. You will wonder why or how you lived without it. It is so lightweight as well, weighing less than 10 pounds!
Bissell also makes a Steam Mop cleaner. Do not let the name fool you; this is anything but a mop, although it is thin and compact and can store just as easy as a mop. The steam mop uses steam power to remove even the toughest stains on your kitchen and bathroom floors with ease. There is no need to use a solution with the Bissell Steam Mop; the steam is all you need to maintain your floors with ease. Many people are switching to steam cleaning as it is healthier as well as safer for the environment. No chemicals mean no toxic waste flushed into the eco system.
There are many different bare floor cleaning solutions on the market today that work to clean grout, tile, and remove the toughest stains. For those of us who grew up believing that the only way to clean a floor properly was with a scrub brush and bucket, a bare floor cleaner is probably one of the best gifts we can receive.
Learn how to eliminate pet hair with a Bosch vacuum simply and easily by visiting http://www.bestfloorcleaning.com a popular website that provides tips, advice and resources on cleaning laminate floors with Shark Steam Cleaner so that you can spend less time cleaning and more time having fun.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willhelm_Williams

Clean Carpet Made Easy - A Consumer's Guide

2008-01-14T22:06:00.002-08:00

Carpet is a relatively low-maintenance soft flooring surface that has many beneficial qualities. Some of these benefits include: a soft surface for safety and comfort, a filter to control indoor air pollution, aesthetical qualities in color and texture, and convectional warmth.

However, some consumers perceive carpet to be difficult to maintain. By following a simple routine of care, carpeting will look great and last many years. Below are some suggestions to ensure years of beautiful carpet use.

Vacuum, Vacuum, Vacuum!

One of the best maintenance actions a consumer can make is to vacuum their carpet often. It is important to select a vacuum that meets or exceeds the Carpet and Rug Institute's (CRI) Green Label Certification program. This Certification ensures that the vacuum has surpassed indoor air quality testing as well as safeness of use on modern carpeting. Believe it or not several popular vacuums on the market are too aggressive on carpeting and can cause premature wear. Using a vacuum approved by the CRI Green Label program alleviates this concern. To find a CRI Green Label approved vacuum, visit the CRI Website. (see end of article for link)

A popular question is how often should one vacuum? Truth be told with a CRI Green Label approved vacuum, the answer is as often as needed. Factors such as carpet use, pets, children, transitional soil (i.e. dirt driveway or walkpaths to the entry of the home), and other factors matter in the decision on how often to vacuum. A loose rule of thumb is to vacuum a couple of times a week, unless factors above come into play. It's not uncommon for some consumers to vacuum once or twice a day to control pet hair and dander. Conversely if a room of carpet receives little or no use, vacuuming only a couple of times a month may make more sense. The short answer is one can not vacuum too frequently.

Treat Spots and Stains Immediately

Modern carpet has an amazing ability to hide dry soil. Above I noted that vacuuming frequently controls much of the loose dry soil, but vacuuming does not address spills, spots, and stains caused by liquids. Combating liquid spots is a fairly easy task and the sooner a consumer addresses the fresh spot the better. Modern carpeting is made with soil-blocking chemistry, but it is not bulletproof. Over the course of time this soil-blocking chemistry wears off of the carpeting and the carpet will not resist soil as well as it did when it was new. Also, some over-the-counter spotting products and home-made spotting solutions are too harsh on the carpets' soil-blocking chemistry and will cause the chemistry to be compromised.

The best way to address spots, spills and stains is to follow this 3 step approach:

1) Determine the source - attempt to discover the source by sight and smell. Please note: If the spill is corrosive or hazardous, do NOT attempt to clean it up yourself. It's best to call a professional who is trained in specialty carpet cleaning to protect yourself, family, and pets if it's dangerous or you aren't sure how to address the spill. If you have any concerns whatsoever, call the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification for a referral of a local professional cleaner. Their toll free number is: (800) 835-4624. Consumers may also access their 24-hour referral service online at the link provided at the end of this article.

2) Scoop/blot/extract - if the spill is large, using a Shop-Vac in "wet extraction mode" will make it easier to remove the bulk. Smaller spots can be scooped or blotted up with a white cotton terry towel or microfiber cloth. It's important to use a white fabric for blotting to ensure there is no transfer of color from the cloth or towel to the carpeting.

3) Treat - All spots fall into 2 basic categories (or sometimes a combination - such as some kinds of ink): oil-based and water-based. Oil-based spots are caused by fuel, oil, some inks, grease, paint, nail polish, etc. Water-based spots are caused by urine, vomit, feces, food and beverages, fertilizer, etc. It's important to treat each according to their type. Water-based spills, spots, and stains need to be treated with water-based spotting solutions and oil-based need to be treated with oil-based spotting solutions. For a comprehensive spotting chart with instructions, please follow the spotting guide link at the end of this article.

Carpet Cleaning

Vacuuming is effective for dry soil removal, and spot cleaning is an excellent way to keep carpeting looking fantastic between cleanings. Like any textile, such as clothing, a deeper system of cleaning is needed when the carpet becomes uniformly soiled. The Environmental Protection Agency and carpet mills alike recommend frequent cleaning between 3 months and 18 months, depending on use and types of soil. As noted above, carpet has an amazing ability to hide soil. Hoover Vacuum Company commissioned a study and determined that modern carpet can completely hide 1 pound of soil in 1 square foot of carpet! Over time carpet "traffic lanes" can become permanently etched if deep soil is not removed. It's best to clean your carpeting before soil shows because once it accumulates permanent damage has likely already started.

Which Method is Best?

There are 5 recognized methods of cleaning carpet - Hot Water Extraction (steam cleaning), Foam, Shampoo, Bonnet, and Dry Powder. Each of these methods has benefits and drawbacks. Hot Water Extraction is the most popular method of cleaning and is the only method that rinses carpet fibers. However, any of the 5 methods are effective under the care of an experienced professional technician.

Do It Yourself or Choose a Pro?

For minor spots, spills, and stains, consumers can usually address them by using the spotting techniques found on the spotting website above. But when it's time to clean larger areas of carpet, either for maintenance or because of large spots, spills or stains, consumers should consider the following questions:

1) Should you do it yourself? If so,

a. Should you rent or buy a machine?

b. Which machine should you use?

c. Will you be able to clean to your satisfaction?

d. Is the perceived lower price of rental or doing it yourself worth it?

2) Should you hire a professional? If so,

a. Which method should you choose?

b. Which company should you choose?

c. Is the perceived higher cost worth it over renting or buying a machine?

Only you can answer these questions, but consider this. The typical professional carpet cleaner often attends carpet cleaning classes to keep up with new trends, methods, techniques, and chemistry; A typical professional carpet cleaner also successfully cleans thousands of square feet (or more) of carpet a year. Some professional carpet cleaners also choose to become a Certified Firm, which also means they have agreed to a Code of Ethics, possess 3rd party verification of insurance and license requirements, and also have a formal complaint policy instituted, should there be a problem.

By following this guide, your carpeting will last longer and will look great year-round.

Links found in article:
CRI Green Label Vacuums
IICRC Locate-a-Pro Cleaner/Restorer Site
Carpet Spot Cleaning Guide

About the Author - Scott F. Rendall is President of Rendall's Certified Cleaning Services, a professional cleaning and restoration company specializing in carpet, furniture/textile, tile & grout and wood floor care, as well as Water and Fire Damage restoration. Founded in 1983, Rendall's Certified Cleaning Services is an IICRC Certified Firm and Registered with the Carpet and Rug Institute as a Seal of Approval provider. Rendall's Certified Cleaning Services prides itself in unparalleled customer service. For more information on professional cleaning and restoration, visit: Rendall's Certified Cleaning Services

Scott Rendall is also an IICRC-certified Master Textile Cleaner as well as a business consultant to other cleaners and restorers world-wide. He can be reached @ 810-225-2184.

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

The Absolute Importance Of Cleaning Pool Filters

2008-01-14T22:06:00.001-08:00

One of the most important steps in keeping your pool clean is cleaning pool filters.

Your filter works hard to keep your pool clean and sanitary. But, if you fail to periodically clean your filter, dirt and debris can build up within.

When that happens, the filter's ability to is impaired and can become less effective. Fortunately, cleaning your filter usually takes very little time and effort. The key is to do it regularly.

By using a "backwashing" process once a week, you can remove most of the dirt that tries to build up within the filter.

Over time, however, debris can begin to collect on the removable filtering mechanisms. This is why occasional "deep cleaning" is required.

The three types of pool filters (sand, diatomaceous earth and cartridge) each require unique steps to clean them. This is due to each filter using a unique filtering process.

For example, a sand pool filter uses a bed of roughly-grained sand to keep dirt from staying in your pool. To clean this type of filter, you should plan to replace the sand every 5 - 7 years.

If you are using chlorine, you may only need to do so every 7 - 10 years.

Cleaning pool filters like Cartridge filters, on the other hand use a complex matrix within the cartridge to keep your pool clean. The main culprits that clog the cartridge are body oils, perspiration and chemicals.

There is no definite lifespan for a cartridge. Instead, cleaning or replacing the cartridge is usually determined by canister pressure. Most experts suggest cleaning the cartridge when the pressure reaches 8 - 10 PSI above the pressure of a new cartridge. However, if a tear appears in the matrix of the cartridge, you should consider replacing the cartridge.

Diatomaceous earth pool filters are generally the most effective. This type of system uses earth material that is specially-treated to filter out smaller particles than a sand or cartridge filter. However, cleaning this type of filter often requires more time and effort than the other filtering systems.

When the water is dirty, you may need to change the diatomaceous earth once a day. After the water has been properly cleaned, you should consider changing the earth material once every 30 days. In addition, the grids and filter assembly within a diatomaceous earth filter should be cleaned approximately once a year.

Cleaning your filtering system is a critical part of maintaining an immaculate pool. Though cleaning and maintaining does not require much time and effort, you should approach the job carefully.

Like any mechanical system, cleaning pool filters carries a few risks for those who are not careful. But, with some attention to detail (such as turning the filter off before cleaning) and focus, you may find the job easier than you thought.

Cleaning pool filters ensure that you're pool stays clean.

For more information, links, recommendations, pictures, and more about cleaning pool filters and pool filters in general, visit: http://www.everything-pool-filters.com

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

Some Cleaning Tips For Your Apartment

2008-01-14T22:05:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I pick up some great tips and ideas to help give my place that clean, gleaming feel with as little stress as possible. Cleaning and keeping your apartment in tip-top guest shape can be an overwhelming thought when you are limited for time. Then, sometimes, no matter how hard you clean and try to keep your place in shape, it just gets out of shape again...
Here are a couple of tips to help you keep your place suited for visitors and keep them from going "Ewww."
Sparkling Mirrors
I used to get so frustrated that every time I cleaned my mirror, it always ended up spotty. Turns out I was doing a major thing wrong. I was spraying the mirror directly with Windex rather than on a clean lint-free cloth. To get sparkling results in your mirror cleaning spray commercial window cleaner on a lintless cloth like an old T-shirt and wipe down the mirror. Dry immediately with another clean lintless cloth to prevent streaking. Do this once every couple of weeks and you'll be sure to impress when your guests are glancing back at themselves.
Handle the Wobblemeister
Have a wobbly chair or table? Don't pull the restaurant fix and shove a folded napkin or sugar packets underneath. A much better solution is to re-use old corks. Just take an old wine cork, cut a horizontal slice, and place it underneath the leg of the chair or table that is doing the wobble-wobble.
Fresh Flowers
Don't receive flowers as often as you'd like? Let your man know he needs to pick up his game and then try extending the life of the ones you do get. A common solution for this is to make sure and cut the stem of the flower at an angle rather than straight across , but for even better results and a longer lasting flower, add a little bit of sugar and a small amount of an acidic ingredient like Sprite, which allows for better water absorption. But, you should still get on your man about stepping up his game...
I hope you take these tips and are able to use them in ways you've never used tips before. You better not start calling me "Martha!"
Jeff's just a regular guy with a funny goatee that really enjoys people and life. On top of that he is a bit of an expert on apartments, living in them, and getting the most out of the apartment living lifestyle.
As a Managing Partner of Apartment Home Living Jeff wants to help you find the right apartment by getting to know you. Not only where you want to live & what you want to pay, but what you like. This way, we can help you find an apartment that fits your personality, not just your budget.
At AHL Apartmentites have a platform to share their own stories, get great info & tips on apartment living, read Jeff's entertaining blogs/stories, find Answers to a wide array of apartment related questions, and have a ton of fun sharing their love of apartment living with others. Don't forget to go and set up your own MyPlace page to really get the full Apartmentite experience!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Swett