Tag: Cleaner

Categories
Design & decor

9 best ways to stage your home to sell quickly

Selling a home is never a quick affair. There are many logistical issues to manage, and it’s a test of your patience in more ways than one.

However, you should do these nine tasks when staging your home. This is to ensure that you’ll be able to sell your house as quickly as you can.

Here are nine tips that you can do to stage your home for selling:

Make your house sparkling clean

No matter what, taking the time to clean the house to stage is crucial. You’ll find that your home will shine and look like it’s brand new.

If you are pressed for time, you can always hire a professional home cleaner. In line with this, it would be ideal to communicate that you’re going to show your home to buyers so that you can invest the time and money into getting a professional deep cleaning service.

Otherwise, make sure that you clean the parts of the house that your guests might check. An example would be the inside of closets and cabinets.

Contact local cleaning experts

Clear away the clutter

Aside from cleaning your house, you should also make sure that everything is organised and clutter-free. It will be difficult for everyone to notice how clean your home is if the clutter around the house covers everything up and being in the way. Thus, decluttering should be the first thing you do before you even start cleaning.

By decluttering, your home will look more spacious, something that buyers would want from home. Aside from that, there are fewer items in the way. Thus, buyers can move around when viewing the house without getting distracted by the clutter.

Depersonalise the house

While you’re decluttering, you have to make a specific arrangement to ensure that you’re also taking away any personal effects around the house.

Bedroom with large bed, brown curtains and black cupboards
Keep it simple / Source: Studio Oscar Lea.

Any item that would indicate in particular terms the type of person living there is unwelcome. That’s because you want the buyer to be able to picture themselves living in the house.

If you had your favourite sports team’s jersey hanging in a frame, it might make it difficult for buyers to believe that the home is theirs. Therefore, depersonalising the house should be included when you’re decluttering the house.

It might feel weird for a while when you’re living there to have anything personal in your home. But it’s the best course of action when you want to sell your house quickly.

Make any minor repairs necessary

In case you are unaware, home renovations can help increase the asking price for your house, but completing it may take a while.

However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t go around your home to find something to improve. Something as small as updating your mirrors can help attract buyers and increase the asking price.

When staging your home, the minor repairs may be unnoticed once you’re showing off your house, but when you don’t repair them, they’re noticeable. If buyers notice it, it can communicate to them that you don’t take the time to take care and properly maintain your home. Thus, it can deter them from wanting to buy your home, or they’ll lower the asking price.

Both of these are things you don’t want, so make sure that you do some minor repairs around the house.

Brighten up your home

If you want to attract potential homebuyers, you want to make a listing in all possible places for the house you’re selling. That means you need to get high-quality photos of your home.

If you have dark and gloomy pictures of your house, it would be understandable that few would be interested in the place.

With that said, if you have a dark house, people who come into the house will also notice that. A dark place feels gloomy and unwelcoming, which are two things that you don’t want your guests to feel.

So make an effort to brighten up any problem areas around the house.

Incorporate natural elements

No matter what the design theme is around your house, it will surely benefit from having some form of a natural element in it.

Lounge room with wooden floorboards and an abundance of plants
Freshen up your living room with some potted indoor plants / Source: EMMA JAMES & CO

It would be even better if you incorporate natural elements that are readily available in your area. Therefore, it will help create an impact as well as freshen up space.

You’ll be surprised just how much a room brightens up with just the presence of a vase filled with flowers. The addition will make the house soften up, and it also has that refreshing atmosphere attached to it afterwards.

Make your home smell nice

The first thing homebuyers notice when entering a house isn’t something as apparent as the place’s look. Even if you don’t see it, one of the things they would notice first is the house’s smell.

You do the same upon entering the abode of someone else. Therefore, it may be ideal for making your home smell nice.

When choosing a scent, please don’t go too vigorous with it. That’s because some people are sensitive to essential oils, which can affect the home viewing experience if they have sensitive noses. Thus, it’s best to go for subtler scents.

Rearrange your furniture

When you organised your furniture, you probably mostly did it for convenience and how you move around the house. However, it might be ideal to rearrange your furniture around the house to ensure that it’s easy to walk around the house.

It makes moving in more manageable for your potential buyers. At the same time, it helps make the house look more prominent, which is another plus.

Stage your outdoor space too

When staging your home, you might pay too much attention to what your interior looks like. However, it’s what in the space that counts. It’s still a good idea to work on your exterior. That way, you leave a positive first impression at first glance.

Tidy things up. Organise the outdoor area. Maybe pay more attention to the landscaping. These little things can help make the outdoor space look more inviting to potential buyers.

The exterior of a large one storey house showcasing indoor outdoor living
Indoor/outdoor living / Source: S.F.D Caringbah

By following the home selling tips listed above, you won’t have to overwork to sell your home quickly. It also ensures that you are not selling your property at a loss.

Categories
Walls & flooring

The carpet cleaning secrets the professionals don’t want you to know

Despite the preponderance of other attractive flooring solutions that make our living spaces look and feel good, we are still in love with the good old rug. Carpets bring warmth and softness to our living spaces, and depending on the choice; they can even add a touch of luxury.

However, it is not all smooth-sailing when it comes to carpet installations. The downside with carpets is that they will trap dirt and dust pretty fast. Carpets can also be precursors for foul odour in your interior spaces. Suppose you fail to take timely carpet maintenance. In that case, they can form breeding grounds for bacteria, mould and various other microscopic allergens that can transform an otherwise well-maintained home into an unhealthy environment for the occupants. 

Regular carpet cleaning helps you prevent all of this while keeping your carpet in tip-top shape. Central to this is proper carpet cleaning. Buying cleaning products or hiring a professional cleaner might be easy. Still, the hard part is doing the cleaning right and using a carpet cleaning method that will work for you and help keep your carpet clean, fresh and in the best shape over its lifetime. Carpet Cleaner Cairns explains the top carpet cleaning secrets that the professionals don’t want you to know.

Brown carpet being vacuumed by person in blue jeans and white sneakers.
A dirty carpet being vacuumed / Source: Clean House Melbourne

Frequent vacuuming is your carpet’s best friend

Vacuuming is probably the most underrated carpet cleaning and maintenance technique. Doing it frequently keeps your carpet clean for a longer duration of time which saves you the cost of having to call on a professional carpet cleaner regularly. Some dirt serves as ‘magnets’ for more dirt so the less on your carpets, the better for your overall carpet cleaning regimen. A good culprit is an oily dirt which will attract more dirt on your carpets and spread rather quickly. 

Vacuuming should not just be focused on the carpet. It is also advisable to vacuum areas adjacent to the mat, including the entrances and high-traffic areas. Your feet will pick the dirt from these areas and transfer it to the soft fabrics of the carpet that readily hold onto the dirt. Ensure you clean the edges of the room as well as beneath your furniture as these areas can hide lots of dirt and dust that eventually find their way onto your carpets. 

It is also advisable to master the right vacuuming technique that will maximize every cleaning action. Vacuuming your rooms and carpets is a cumbersome chore, so you better do it right whenever you master the energy and will to do it. You will have tremendous success when you vacuum with slow passes than doing it fast. Slow passes are especially crucial in the high-traffic areas that accumulate lots of dust and dirt.

You can manage most of the small stains yourself

Your professional carpet cleaner won’t tell you this, but you can handle most of the small or spot carpet stains yourself. You have to ensure that you do it promptly and with the right cleaning materials and techniques. Some of the ‘must-have’ cleaning materials that are essential to the optimal cleaning and maintenance of your carpets include the following: 

  • Club soda: Best for handling wine and beer spillages
  • White vinegar: You can mix vinegar with water for juice and soda stains
  • Dishwashing liquid: Ordinary dishwashing liquid can work on several stains when mixed with warm water to form a friendly cleaning solution.
  • Wet wipes: Wet wipes are hyper-efficient in quickly blotting out spot stains on the carpets. 

Always blot and never rub your stains 

Rubbing and scrubbing stains immediately is a sure-fire way of ensuring that it not only spreads over a large surface area but also embeds itself more in-depth into the carpet fibres. Rubbing adds permanence to the stain. The best spot stain treatment merely is blotting it out. 

When a stain spills on your carpet, start by blotting out gradually using an absorbent paper towel, sponge or napkin. Do this many times, gently applying pressure in each blotting action. It takes as much stain as possible out of the carpet rather than pushing it deep into the carpet fibres. When blotting out the stain, start from its outer edges and gradually make your way to the centre.

A dirty grey carpet gets vacuumed.
The results of a freshly cleaned carpet / Source: PestX

Treat all stains immediately

Your professional carpet cleaner probably won’t tell you this. Still, you have a perfect shot at eliminating carpet stains when you treat them immediately. Granted, you can’t always be there when the spillage or staining happens. Still, when it happens on your watch, it is recommended to treat the stain immediately. This allows you to get the stain out before it percolates deep into the carpet’s fibres. Unless you are familiar with professional carpet cleaning techniques and materials, avoid using powerful detergents or chemicals. If the stain is stubborn, you can promptly contact a professional carpet cleaning service. You can try using vinegar, club soda wet wipes, hydrogen peroxide or the simple dishwashing liquid depending on the type of stain to clean out the stain immediately. 

Contact local carpet cleaning experts

Hydrogen peroxide can remove your blood stains

Bloodstains on carpets aren’t as common as wine, beer, juice, dirt or food stains. If you cut yourself and blood spread or spatters on your carpets, you can remove these unsightly stains with hydrogen peroxide. If the bloodstain is still fresh, you can try removing it by blotting it out with an absorbent paper towel or napkins. If the blood has dried out, try loosening it using water and a mild detergent. Using a butter knife, you can gently scrape off the dried blood stains off the carpet fibres. After scraping them off, you can use hydrogen peroxide to clear off the rest of the blood residues. Hydrogen peroxide will fizz and then foam when it comes into contact with the bloodstains, eliminating the stain in the process.

Use area rugs in high traffic areas

The high traffic areas on your carpets will suffer a higher degree of wear and dirt than the low traffic areas. Because they take in a lot of dirt, they are also generally harder to clean. They will accumulate a lot of dirt from the high foot traffic that will necessitate a higher cleaning frequency. One way of preserving your carpet is by using area rugs in the place where your carpet is particularly taking a good beating. These can include the following:

  • The spot where your kitchen meets your living room
  • The hallways
  • The spot where your bathroom meets the joint area or the hallway
  • Backyard doors

The best way to relieve pressure off the high-traffic areas is by using area rugs. Beyond the functional aspect of protecting your carpets, these rugs can also be a decorative item. You can choose different styles, shapes and patterns to add some style and charm to your house interiors.These are some of the best carpet cleaning secrets that your professional carpet cleaner won’t tell you about. However, it would be best if you mainly used these for small localized stains. An experienced and well-trained carpet cleaner better use powerful carpet cleaning detergents, chemicals and equipment.

Categories
Cleaning

7 ways to help create an allergy-free home

Some people have seasonal allergies, while others are allergic to food, pets, or even dust. The quality of a person’s life can be greatly affected by his or her surroundings, and the moment that breathing becomes difficult, it feels trapped and suffocated. Some allergies can’t be avoided, if you identify any allergy symptoms, here are some simple tips to help you have an allergy-free home.

1. Clean the air: Install an air filter

An air purifier can be a helpful approach to rid your home of dust mites, pet dander, and other irritating particles in unfiltered air. In severe cases, where a person’s allergies can affect his or her ability to breathe, resulting in an asthma attack, an air purifier can be a saving grace.

If there is a smoker in the home, even if he or she smokes outside of the house, the residual smoke clings to the clothing, skin and hair, and is still brought into the house. An air purifier can be a great way to help eliminate and reduce second-hand tobacco smoke.

There are smaller stand-alone units available, as well as larger units that attach to another unit within the house. Either type of purifier can help eliminate the number of bacteria, virus, and other harmful particles that are found in a typical home.

2. Dust allergies: Install a HEPA filter

Vacuuming on a regular basis is a great way to rid your house of dust particles, pet dander, and other indoor allergens that become trapped in the mattresses and pillows or other upholstered furniture around the house. If you want a deeper clean, then a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is a great way to go.

This type of vacuum cleaner is better at removing more particles, to an almost perfect 100 percent, that will provide you with fewer allergens overall within your home. The particle size that these filters pick up is smaller than that of what an average vacuum can pick up, thus allowing for more harmful particles to be eliminated.

3. Mould allergies: Regular bathroom cleaning

Mold and mildew can build up rather quickly in a moist environment, like that of the bathroom. To eliminate this problem, regular cleaning can make a big difference. This can include small changes, such as hanging moist towels properly and eliminate bath rugs that collect moisture on the floor. You can even squeegee water from the walls of a shower to rid excess moisture from getting trapped in the caulking around the edge of the bathtub.

Regularly cleaning your bathroom can help with reducing allergens in the air / Source: Iconic Renovations & Co

Another helpful tip is to install an exhaust fan that can either run after the use of a shower or bath, or one that runs while you are using the shower. The vent that covers the fan should be cleaned with hot water regularly, as dust has a tendency to build up, especially with the residue of moisture.Proper ventilation also prevents mold spores.

4. Skin allergies: Regular wash

Dust and other particles love to settle on soft fabric, this can include your curtains and the soft fabrics on your bed. If the weather is nice, you can shake out any bedding outside to eliminate a lot of built-up dust before you place the fabric in the washing machine.

Changing your bedding sheets more frequently can also aid in reducing indoor allergens. For children who sleep with a lot of stuffed animals, these too can be thrown in the wash to help reduce the buildup of dust.

After you have washed soft fabrics in your home, don’t forget to also change the filters that are attached to your dryer and those that filter the air of your home. Your home filter should be replaced with the change of the seasons if you suffer from indoor allergens in the air.

5. Pet allergies: more covers & space

If you have a beloved pet that sheds a lot and you find yourself constantly having allergies as a result, you may want to consider bathing your pet more frequently. There are shampoos that are great at eliminating the allergen of pet dander. Some pet owners choose to spray their pets with a dander spray or even use a special cloth to wipe away any excess dander.

Try having a couple of rooms that your pet is not allowed in, in order to give yourself a needed break from extra housework and a room with uncontaminated air. In some extreme cases, as dander sinks within the carpet, you could consider installing hard flooring for easier floor maintenance.

For soft materials, such as couches, try having a designated blanket for your pet to use that can be frequently washed. Allergen-free covers are also great at preventing dander from embedding itself within the exterior of a soft material, such as a blanket.

We love our pets, but sometimes they can cause allergy irritations / Source: Auntie Aggies Pet Minding Service

6. Other allergy elements: humidity level

If the humidity level is high in your home, this can increase the moisture level that clings to your windows in the winter time when you are heating your home. As a result, mold can start to grow not just on the outside of your windows, but also within the glass and the outside screen. Check the humidity levels in your house by following this simple guide.

Regular window cleaning is a great way to help watch out for the development of mold. If your home does not have a dehumidifier built directly into an air purifying system, you can purchase a dehumidifier for your home and place it in the most humid part of the house.

Contact local cleaners

7. Detox your home with green cleaning products

Allergens to strong chemical smells can be hard to avoid when wanting to maintain a clean home. There are more natural and green ways to help clean your home and cut back on the chemicals used, resulting in physical reactions.

Some natural ways to clean your home can include baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, tea tree oil and even a mild dish soap. Using less chemically strong products to clean your home can greatly help a person who has a strong revulsion to chemical cleaners. Learn how to detox your home with these natural ingredients.

Maintain a healthy and allergy free home

Being able to comfortably breathe in your home is important if you, or someone within your home, suffer from asthma and allergies. Regular maintenance of your home, although important, can become exhausting if you feel as though it never ends. Try some of these tips to help aid in having an allergy-free home and one that you don’t have to go outdoors to escape from.

Categories
Building & renovations

What is after builders cleaning?

You’ve just built your dream home, but the dust and debris left behind is a nightmare. After the hammers stop swinging, a deep clean is essential to make your new abode truly livable. This article explores the vital service of after builders cleaning, equipping you with the knowledge to start fresh in your newly minted property.

Defining after builders cleaning

An after builders cleaning is an extensive deep clean performed after construction or renovation work. This differs from a regular home cleaning, which is a lighter clean involving dusting, vacuuming, and routine chores.

An after builders clean shares some similarities with an end-of-lease clean in terms of the thorough, deep cleaning required, but differs in that it focuses specifically on post-construction messes rather than preparing a rental property for new tenants.

Who needs an after builders cleaner?

A room under construction with lots of building tools on the ground
The amount of rubbish left behind by builders can affect the cleaning price / Source: Hungs Tiling & Bathroom Renovations

In general, you need deep cleaning after renovation and remodelling, especially for new home construction to clean up after the debris and construction waste left behind. Most exposed surfaces like floors and countertops also need to be cleaned and disinfected.

What does after builders cleaning involve?

After a construction project, the last thing you want to deal with after a building inspection is a messy and dusty space. That’s where end-of-construction cleaning comes in. Here’s what you can expect: 

  • End-of-construction cleaning professionals will remove dust, plaster and debris left over from construction.
  • They will also remove trash, clean countertops, flooring and other surfaces once fixtures have been installed.
  • For commercial buildings, building cleaners may use specialised equipment like industrial sweepers and floor polishers instead of standard vacuum cleaners.

After builders cleaning process

An end-of-build clean typically goes through two cleaning phases.

Two women vacuuming debris on a carpet
After builders cleaning is necessary for commercial properties as well as residential / Sion Cleaning Services

Initial clean

The initial cleaning is the first phase, usually midway through the building’s construction. For instance, cleaners might clear the walking spaces in new construction of dust and debris before workers can install new flooring. The initial phase also involves removing all trash from the property at the end of the construction project.

Most of the time, workers themselves load and haul off their own trash, but some contractors may hire a post-construction cleanup service to do the job.

Final detail clean

This is a more thorough cleaning process that involves removing minor construction defects. For instance, final detail cleaning workers will remove paint splatter from windows and also straighten crooked grout lines. They may also remove grout haze from tiles and floors.

In addition to fixing slight workmanship defects, cleaners will clean and scrub bathrooms and kitchens, including all furnishings and appliances (if any). They will also sweep, vacuum and mop floors according to their surface type.

This stage often takes longer than the initial phase just due to the volume of cleaning work, depending on the size of the building and its architectural style. For instance, a property with intricate, detailed design may involve more work.

Contact local cleaners

Things to consider when getting an after builders cleaning service

a man sweeping the dust and debris on the floor after construction
Get professional help to clean your new property | Source: iStock

When hiring professionals for an after builders clean, consider these four important aspects for a satisfactory job:

  • Services included: Verify what specific services are included in the construction cleaning service package. This may cover dusting, mopping, cleaning windows/mirrors, sanitising bathrooms, and more.
  • Cost: Get quotes from multiple providers and understand after builders cleaning prices—per hour, per square metre, flat rate, etc. Bigger projects may qualify for discounts.
  • Timeframe: Inquire about their typical turnaround time for jobs of your size. Generally, the time required for post-construction cleaning depends on the size of the space. A smaller one requires a few days to clean, while larger buildings may take a few weeks to complete.
  • Qualifications and insurance: In Australia, the qualifications and training for after builders cleaners can vary by state. In addition, your cleaners should have the following insurance coverage:
  • Public liability insurance – To cover third-party injury or property damage.
  • Professional indemnity insurance – To cover errors and omissions in their work.
  • Workers compensation insurance – If the business has employees.

Services included

The services offered by cleaning companies may vary slightly. However, most builders’ cleaning companies provide the following services:

  • Clean doors and door frames
  • Polish surfaces and woodwork
  • Deep clean all hard flooring
  • Clean all tubs, toilets, fixtures, and showers
  • Remove grout from all bathroom fixtures
  • Clean paint spatter from all surfaces
  • Clean all windows
  • Remove debris from drywall
  • Clean and polish mirrors
  • Remove all the garbage left behind from material packaging
  • Wipe down all stairs and handrails
  • Clean all kitchen appliances, which includes refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, and microwaves
  • Clean cupboards, closets, and wardrobes
  • Other cleaning services that an owner might need, such as fireplace or chimney cleaning

Cost

The cost of after builders cleaning varies depending on the job type and building size.

Larger buildings with more debris typically cost more than smaller projects. Many businesses charge by the square metre, ranging from $5 to $10 or higher per sqm. The cost can be higher or lower based on the project’s scope or how the company structures its pricing.

It’s also important to factor in the cost of after-builders cleaning when setting your overall renovation budget. Obtain quotes from multiple businesses to compare builders’ cleaning prices.

Timeframe

The timeframe for after builders cleaning varies, mostly on the size of the property and the number of cleaners. As mentioned above, the interior design and architectural style of the structure may also factor into the timeframe; notable examples include Victorian and Colonial styles, which require more maintenance and care.

In addition, if the construction crew tended to be careless or wasteful, leaving a lot of trash or debris behind, the cleaning could take much longer and be more expensive.

Qualifications and licencing

There are no national-level licensing requirements specifically for post-construction cleaners or cleaning services in Australia. However, local regulations can vary and certain certifications can enhance a cleaner’s credibility and business prospects.

For instance, the CPP30321 Certificate III in Cleaning Operations is a nationally recognised qualification that equips individuals with essential skills in cleaning and sanitising various environments, including commercial and residential spaces. 

However, some states and territories in Australia may require specific qualifications.

For instance, New South Wales cleaners performing residential building work valued over $5,000, including labour and materials, must hold a licence or qualified supervisor certificate from NSW Fair Trading.

Even in states and territories where a licence is not required, training courses might be. Such training teaches potential workers which recycling measures must be taken. Workers also learn how to manage waste material and government compliance regulations in regard to the environment and public safety.

From dusty to dazzling with after builders cleaning

From top to bottom, a professional after builders clean restores order from the chaos of construction. With expertise in debris removal, deep cleaning, and meticulous attention to detail, these services ensure your newly minted abode shines. And you don’t have to do it yourself—entrust it to seasoned after builders cleaning pros who can bring out the best, most pristine form of your dwelling that it deserves to be.

FAQs on after builders cleaning

How can I prepare for new home cleaning?

Clear away any remaining tools, materials, and large debris before the cleaners arrive. Protect valuables, remove fragile items, and communicate any specific areas of concern.

Is after builders cleaning different for new constructions vs. renovations?

While the core cleaning process is similar, post-renovation cleaning often involves more contained messes like drywall dust, while new constructions have site-wide debris. Specific services may vary.

What are some common areas that require extra attention during an after builders clean?

Areas like ductwork, appliances, cabinets, and windows often need extra attention to remove embedded construction grime and dust. Specialty after build cleaning may be required for fireplaces or intricate surfaces.

Categories
Cleaning

How often should you change your sheets?

While it’s true how often you change your bedsheets comes down to your own personal preference, experts suggest changing your sheets every week is the best way to keep your bed as hygienic as possible.

According to a recent poll, Australians change their sheets once every four weeks, increasing the risk of bacterial infections, allergies and skin irritations.

Source: Helicrete

Benefits of changing your sheets regularly

When it comes to our bed sheets, our sleeping spaces harbour dead skin cells, dust mites, sweat and often bacteria, so regular cleans are essential for good health and great sleep. Not to mention, the reinvigorating feeling of falling asleep between fresh and crisp bed sheets should be enough incentive to replace our sheets.

Pillows especially pick up loads of oil and dirt from your face and hair and should be changed and washed frequently. This will help avoid pimples, rashes and other unsightly skin issues on your face and neck. A weekly clean of pillowcases and a fortnightly replacement of bed sheets is recommended to ensure your sleeping area remains clean.  Air out your pillowcases, pillows and quilts regularly in the sun where possible to keep bedding sheets fresh and crisp for bedtime.

Doona’s and sheets should be washed on a hot cycle fortnightly at most. The hot wash will kill any bacteria or mites that are present.

The best way to wash bed sheets

Washing your bed sheets is relatively simple by putting them through 60degree+ hot wash with detergent to kill bacteria. Ball up your bed sheets to prevent them from losing shape.

When washing your sheets, bleaching agents can weaken the fibres of your sheets so opt for a natural remedy by adding 1/4 cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle to whiten your sheets.

Source: Mattrix Constructions

How often should I clean my curtains and drapes?

Clean your curtains or drapes every month by simply running the vacuum over them. Any tough spots or stains can be treated independently based on the material.  Curtains and drapes can be very heavy and delicate so avoid putting them in the washing machine if at all possible. For delicate fabrics that need a thorough clean, consider taking them to a dry cleaner to ensure they are not damaged in the cleaning process.

Why do I need to clean the curtains, drapes and bed sheets?

Curtains act as dividers between outside and inside environments, absorbing and blocking the moisture and dirt that can get in through open windows and air vents. Dirt and debris from the air can also accumulate on curtains while we vacuum and dust other areas of our home. Cleaning our curtains can refresh the smell and airspace of our homes as well as increasing the lifespan of your drapes. Dust is also a health hazard and regularly cleaning your curtains can prevent the build-up of dust and protect your family’s health.

Contact local cleaners

How should I clean my curtain drapes?

How you choose to clean your curtain drapes can depend on the material. With nylon, polyester or cotton curtains, a warm and gentle wash cycle is sufficient.

Wash lightweight curtains on a delicate cycle, while heavy drapery will retain water, making it difficult to dry and air out. Bear in mind that lighter drapes made of delicate fabrics can shrink so ensure the label of your curtain is checked before washing.

Most of the dust on your curtains settles between the hems and the folds of the curtain and vacuuming from the top down can help prevent dust build up and maintain your curtains between washes. Ensure that you always vacuum on both sides of the curtain to remove dirt and dust.

Clean your curtains regularly to refresh the space and increase lifespan / Source: In Design International

Don’t wait for stains to build up on your curtains and drapes but add a little dishwashing liquid to your damp sponge and dab away at your stains.

Preventative sprays that can repel dust. A reliable home solution:

  • 1 cup of water
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of crushed lemon or lime juice for a citrus scent

Add in a spray bottle and apply to drapes for a fresh barrier against dust and dirt.

Categories
Cleaning

How to keep your home office clean

Covid-19 has many of us working from home to stop the spread of the pandemic. Although it can be exciting to design your home office, it is also essential to understand the importance of cleanliness when deciding the layout. A clean home office is vital to ensure you and your family stay healthy and for your peace of mind. One of the most important areas in your office is your desk. You might assume that it is clean because you are the only one touching it, but if you have a family, this area can become a way to transmit viruses. The following checklist will help you make sure that your desk and home office is as clean as possible.

Source: TidyMe

Home office DIY cleaning checklist

Hiring home cleaning services when you work from home is one way to maintain a high standard of hygiene during these times. However, if you do not have one, here are some cleaning home office ideas to get you started.

One of the first things that you should do is to assemble your DIY cleaning tool kit. Commercial cleaning products are designed to eliminate viruses, but they are not always available. This list offers some natural solutions that you might already have in your pantry. Here is a list of some things that you might want to include.

Dry Products

  • Baking Soda
  • Bucket
  • Duster and dusting cloth
  • Lint Roller
  • Mop
  • Salt
  • Scrubbing sponges
  • Rags and microfibre cloths
  • Vacuum

Wet Products

  • Antibacterial wet wipes
  • Commercial disinfect products for surfaces
  • Lemon juice
  • Vinegar

How to make your own natural all-purpose cleaner

You might have noticed the list contain some ingredients that can be easily found around the home. These are great if you would like to avoid using harsh chemicals around your home. Below are two different recipes for an all-purpose cleaner you can try out at home:

Ingredients for all-purpose cleaner #1

  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Lemon

Instructions: Mix together 1-part vinegar, 1 part water and lemon to boost your natural cleaning agent. Pour into a spray bottle for ease of use. Note: Avoid using this cleaning solution on granite as it may etch your stone.

Ingredients for all-purpose cleaner #2

  • ½ cup detergent
  • ½ cup vinegar
  • 4 cups of hot water
  • 4 teaspoon borax
  • 8 drops of essential oil

Instructions: Mix together all the ingredients until combined. Once the water has cooled down, pour the liquid into a spray bottle to start cleaning.

How to deep clean your home office space

A clean home office design is the key to making house cleaning and office cleaning easier. Everything should be arranged in a way that it is easy to wipe down quickly. This is true whether you hire house cleaning services, or you will do it yourself.

Source: Compose Visuals

One thing that you need to be aware of is that there is a difference between regular cleaning, deep cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning means removing dirt and dust from surfaces. Organisms, like viruses, can land on dust particles and travel throughout other areas of the house. Deep cleaning is a more thorough version of cleaning. For your home office, this may mean emptying your drawers and cleaning inside them or cleaning behind your furniture.

Disinfecting involves using products that destroy viruses and bacteria. All three types of cleaning are necessary to remove viruses from the home because dirt and dust give organisms many more places to hide. Here are a few tips for antiviral sanitation of your home office if you plan to do it yourself.

Keep your electronics dust-free

Your keyboard and monitor can be kept dust-free by using a microfibre cloth. You should never use wet wipes or products that are not designed for computer monitors because it can remove the protective coating. You should also never use a wet wipe on your keyboard because the liquid can get into the keys and damage it. Using a brush attachment on a vacuum can help you get dust from the cracks and crevices of your keyboard. This will also help to preserve its life span, too.

Tips for cleaning your keyboard – You can purchase an air duster bottle to blow out dust, dirt and crumbs that are stuck deep in your keyboard.

Regularly clean your desk with spray

It is recommended that you wipe down your desk with a spray that kills viruses at least once a day. If you are sick, or someone in your household is sick, it might be a good idea to do it more than once a day. Keeping your desk clutter-free will make the job easier.

Vacuum or sweep under your desk

You should vacuum or sweep under your desk at least twice a week to keep it clean. This is particularly important if you eat at your desk as crumbs and food scraps can fall to the ground.

High traffic areas

It is a good idea to vacuum or mop high traffic areas at least once a day. Viruses can get picked up on shoes and transported into the house where they can travel to other areas of the home. This will at least reduce them and minimise their travel. It might be a good idea to mop your entrance every time someone comes in from the outside.

Tips for keeping your floor clean – Avoid wearing shoes inside your home and opt for comfy slippers to keep your feet warm indoors.

Lamp and dusting bulbs

Do not forget to dust your lamps and lightbulbs at least once a week. You also might want to disinfect light pulls and switches once a day too. These are items that are touched by many people every day, and they are an area that we often overlook when cleaning.

Keeping wires tidy

Keeping your wires tidy with cable ties or other organisers helps you keep them dust free and makes them easier to clean regularly.

Ways to disinfect your desk

In a 2018 study, it was found that desks are an area that harbours a large number of pathogens, even more than a toilet. Professional cleaning companies will often give a quick disinfecting wipe of items on the desk, but many will not move excess paper and clutter to do it. You should have a place for your files and papers that are off your desk. At the end of the day, it is a good idea to wipe the items down with wet wipes. Here is a list of things to be sure not to miss when cleaning your desk:

  • Clean under desk protector pad
  • Clipboards
  • Desk drawer pulls
  • Filing cabinets
  • Headphones and headsets
  • Message boards
  • Pens and pen holders
  • Phone
  • Printer and FAX (especially the keypad)
  • Wi-Fi routers and equipment

Supporting & hiring local cleaners

As you can see, home cleaning to control pathogens is more complicated and time-consuming than regular cleaning. Hiring a professional cleaning service might be the best way to make sure that everything is done on a regular basis. You can also hire a professional cleaner to tackle the cleaning for the rest of your home.

There are environmentally cleaning services that use green cleaning products for regular disinfect cleaning and experience in residential cleaning. Here a few tips to help reduce the spread of coronavirus when interacting with your home cleaning professional.

  • Keep your distance – When communicating, make sure that you keep the recommended distance from others.
  • Use email – Use email to transmit cleaning lists and instructions when possible.
  • Masks and glove – Make sure that your cleaners wear masks and gloves for both your protection and theirs. Leaving around hand sanitiser and soap is also a good idea.
  • Notify your whereabouts – Try and stay in one section of your home, while your cleaner is cleaning the rest of your house.

Contact local cleaners

Other things around your home to deep clean & disinfect

The focus of this article is on keeping your home office clean, but since your home office is part of your home, keeping the entire home and its surroundings clean is very important. Here are some other items that need disinfecting to prevent viruses from entering your home.

Car

Even though you should be avoiding leaving your home during this time, you need to be cautious about bringing the virus home with you and only grocery shop and run errands that are absolutely essential. Your car is one way that viruses could make their way into your home.

It might be a good idea to give the steering wheel, hand brake, and any other surfaces that you touch a good wipe down whenever you get into your car. Keep some hand sanitiser with you to clean your hands before touching your wheel. When you must go out, it is essential that you keep your car clean, too. Here are some areas of your car not to miss.

  • Carpet and seats (especially if you have pets or small children)
  • Dust between air vents
  • Indicators and buttons
  • Steering wheel and hand brake
  • Wipe off the dash and doors

Mobile phone

One of the dirtiest items that we own is our phones. We are constantly putting it down on dirty surfaces and then picking it up and putting it next to our face. Others pick it up when we show them something, and it is often passed around from person to person. You should use a special product made for cleaning phone screens. Just like your computer monitor, cleaning your phone with a regular wet wipe can remove the protective coating. It is a good idea to clean it several times a day, and as soon as someone else picks it up as possible.

Yourself

Keeping yourself clean is another essential factor. You need to keep your distance from others, wash your hands frequently, and develop an awareness of cleanliness of yourself and others. Staying home during coronavirus is essential. Keep an eye out for announcements from the government to learn more about how you can prevent exposure to Covid-19.

Categories
Cleaning

How to clean grout

If you have tiled walls or floors, you will have grout lines across the surface. Grout keeps tiles in place and fills in the gap between every individual piece. Grouting is made from a porous material; so dirt, mould and stains can sink into the lines. These stains make your floor or wall look dirty even after you clean the surfaces well. Tiles are baked and have a glass-like surface that’s easier to clean, so people don’t spend much time trying to clean them.

Grout requires special attention to appear clean, and ordinary floor cleaners just won’t work. You need to put in some time and effort if you want your grouting to appear clean and unstained. Thankfully, the process isn’t that complicated, and you can use homemade natural materials available in your home to clean grout. Grout cleaning is one of the most overlooked services when it comes to house cleaning.

A before and after shot of a tiled bathroom / Source: Dolphin Blue Mackay

What kind of materials do you need to grout clean?

  1. Gloves
  2. A bucket of water
  3. Baking soda
  4. Vinegar
  5. Scrubbing brush (or another grout cleaning tool, like a toothbrush)
  6. A floor-cleaning mop
  7. Tile cleaning agent

You can also use bleach or hydrogen peroxide along with baking soda if you want stronger cleaning solutions. You will require protective glasses and a breathing mask if you intend to work with these materials, as they can cause trouble with breathing and the fumes can smart your eyes.

The baking soda and vinegar method

Grout cleaning is relatively easy if you have the right tools and some time on your hands. You should mop the floor thoroughly before you begin, as that will make it easier to clean the grout. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Mix baking soda and some warm water to form a paste. You can use three parts of baking soda to one part of water to get the right consistency. Ensure you make this solution in small batches if you want to clean larger surface areas. This is because the mixture can lose its potency and effectiveness quickly.
  2. Mix a solution with equal parts of water and vinegar and pour it into a spray bottle. Shake the solution well to ensure ingredients mix properly.
  3. Apply the baking soda mixture to stained grout lines liberally with your finger. Make sure the soda is pressed into the grout lines and not just sitting on top of the surface. It’s a good idea to work in sections instead of trying to cover the entire floor or wall surface at once.
  4. Once the baking soda paste is applied, spray the vinegar solution on the lines. You should see the baking soda immediately start to bubble. This means that the soda is reacting to the dirt and debris present and has started to clean the grout lines. Wait until the solution stops to bubble before you move onto the next step. This shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
  5. Once the solution stops bubbling, scrub the grout lines with a nylon bristled brush carefully. You can use a toothbrush or any grout-cleaning brushes available in your local hardware store. Don’t apply too much pressure as that will weaken the grout and remove any sealant applied to it.
  6. Once you’ve completed one action, repeat the process on the next section until the entire floor or wall surface is completely clean.
  7. Wipe away the baking soda, water, and vinegar residue with a damp cloth and mop the entire floor once again. Your grouting should be clean and white.
Most bathrooms and laundry’s will have grout that requires regular cleaning / Source: Sam Bathroom Renovations

How to clean grout in the shower with bleach

If your grout lines are deeply stained and require a more thorough cleaning, you should try using oxygenated bleach for the task.  This is the easiest and most effective way to clean grout without scrubbing. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Combine two tablespoons of oxygenated bleach with two cups of warm water and mix well. Make this solution immediately before you intend to apply it on the ground as bleach won’t be as effective if you store it for too long.
  2. Bleach can leave a white cast on the tiles, so it’s a good idea to test it before you apply it to the entire floor or wall surface. Apply a small amount of it onto a less visible section of the surface to see if it causes any damage to the tiles and grout. If you don’t see a white cast, use the solution on the entire surface.
  3. Cover all the grout liberally with the bleach solution and allow it to sink into the material for a while. You can work in sections, especially if you need to clean a large surface area.
  4. Rub the bleach solution into the grout lines with the help of a toothbrush or a grout cleaning brush. Pay special attention to the corners. You shouldn’t apply too much pressure on the grout lines as that can strip away some of the seal and weaken the grout.
  5. If you still see stains, dip your brush in the bleach solution and scrub the grout lines gently once again. The stronger concentration of bleach will help remove the stubborn stains.
  6. After you’ve cleaned all of the grout, clean the floor thoroughly. You can’t allow the bleach to linger for too long as it will damage the tiles eventually. Wash the floor with clean water to remove all traces of bleach and wipe the surface dry.

How to clean floor tile grout with hydrogen peroxide

  1. Mix one tablespoon of dishwashing soap with ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide and ¾ cup of baking soda.
  2. Apply this paste directly to the grout lines with the help of an old toothbrush or a nylon bristled brush. Make sure you apply the paste evenly over the grout.
  3. Let the solution sit for around 15 to 20 minutes. You will see the chemical reaction between the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. It will clean the grout lines and eliminate all stains.
  4. After the solution has had time to complete its work, pour hot water on the floor and wipe it. This will remove all traces of the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.

How often should you clean grout?

You should clean the grout in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry every day. This doesn’t have to be a thorough clean, but be sure to wipe the grout lines carefully when you wipe down the kitchen surfaces at the end of the day. This ensures that food particles don’t have time to settle into the grouting and stain it. Regular cleaning will also keep problems like mould and bacteria at bay.

You can do a thorough grout cleaning once a month or once every two months. Some people clean grout once or twice a year, which is acceptable if your surfaces are kept clean and the grout is sealed regularly. Always clean the grouting when it appears dirty or seems to have developed mould. If you keep delaying the task, the stains will sink in deeper and you will have to call in professionals to replace and reseal your grouting.

Categories
Cleaning

5 reasons cleanliness can affect workplace productivity

The employees are the most important component of any company. Luckily, there are various ways to make a positive impact on your employees’ lives and boost their productivity. This includes maintaining a clean workplace. Mind you, 89% of Australians believe that a restroom’s condition indicates how a company values its workforce.

If you’re not convinced of the connection between cleanliness and productivity, read on.

1. Reduces overwhelm

A cluttered desk can make an employee feel overwhelmed with tasks even if they are ahead of schedule. On the other hand, a clean and organized desk allows an employee to feel that they are under control. As a result they are inspired get their work done.

That said, you can boost your employees’ productivity by encouraging them to clean their work desk. Here’s some ideas of ways to keep things tidy around the office:

  1. Make a “No Eating on Your Desk” policy
  2. Host a work desk decluttering hour
  3. Have designated waste bins and recycling bins
  4. Organize a “Clear Desk” challenge
  5. Go paperless!

Surprisingly, a clean and organized workspace can boost an employee’s mood, and it can affect his productivity in a profound way. So think of encouraging your employees to clean your desk as one way to make them contribute to your company’s success.

2. Drives determination

In a study conducted by Jeffrey Campbell, Ph.D., chair of facilities management program at Brigham Young University, it was revealed that cleanliness has a direct impact on a student’s ability to learn.

As for the case of employees, clutter can heighten their levels of stress. And when they are stressed, they are less likely to focus at work. They are not determined to do their jobs, which means that it can negatively affect their productivity. On the other hand, a clean workplace drives your employees’ determination to work.

Maid Sailors, an Office Cleaning Service NYC, says that ensuring the cleanliness of your office creates a positive first impression and improves employee morale and work ethic. And when your employees are determined, the more productive they can be.

3. Improves health

Cleanliness is connected to hygiene. Therefore, a clean workplace promotes good health among employees. That’s because you prevent germs and illnesses from propagating in the workplace.

According to a 2014 study, bacteria found in office doorknobs and tabletops spread to 40% – 60% of employees within 2 – 4 hours. This can lead to employees getting sick often and an increase in absenteeism, and this could be detrimental to the company. That’s because it can also affect the company’s bottom line.

Here’s the thing: An absent employee cannot fulfil his work. More so if he needs to meet a deadline.

Absenteeism can impede an employee’s ability to complete projects, which can ripple to other people in the department. The rest will be unable to begin their work because the project is still incomplete somewhere along the line.

4. Maintains focus

Pixie, an iPhone location app, released a survey revealing that a person spends an average of 5 minutes and 20 seconds looking for misplaced items. And if you think that this is just a simple matter, think again.

A lot of opportunities were missed, and money was spent because of lost items:

  • 60% of the respondents got late for work and school
  • 49% have missed an appointment or meeting
  • 22% missed their plane, bus, or train
  • 67% spend about $50 per year to buy replacements

On the other hand, an organized work area allows an employee to reach the tools that he needs to use with ease. Thus, it helps maintain his focus at work. This can result in an increase in productivity.

5. Maximizes work time

We have already established that clutter is a major productivity killer. That’s because it causes distraction to you and to other people in the office.

That said, it is important to keep your desk clean and clutter-free to maintain your focus. Doing so will also prevent you from rummaging through your belongings just to get things done.

Remember, a person spends an average of 5 minutes looking for lost items. When your desk is organized, you get to save these precious minutes and spend it on fulfilling your task instead. This allows for better results to take place.

As Shawn Mike, a web developer and copywriter puts it, “When your working area is organized, less time will be spent on hunting for a crucial document and more time will be spent on performing the tasks that matter.”

Wrap up

Having a clean and hygienic workplace is one way to make a positive impact on the productivity, health, safety, and satisfaction of your employees.

For one, it prevents them from getting overwhelmed with the tasks that they need to do. This can drive their determination to tackle their work and get things done.

Categories
Design & decor

14 ways to decorate and maintain a small-spaced Airbnb listing

Managing an Airbnb rental is a great way to earn extra income, especially if you have an unoccupied property available.

Although Airbnb rentals are a great way of earning extra income, it doesn’t mean that it easy to do as it requires quite a bit of maintenance and involvement on your part. You have to make sure that you decorate your space to make it more attractive to a range of people.

If you have a smaller space for your Airbnb, you might be thinking that it’s harder to make it stand out from the crowd. Nonetheless, having an excellent decorating idea that you can maintain can help give you a good standing on Airbnb.

Below are some tips that you can try out for yourself:

1. Keep the floor clean

If you have a small space in your Airbnb, then a simple way of making sure that the space doesn’t feel too crowded is by cleaning the floor.

Sure, a great decoration can definitely liven up a space, but if you have little to work with, you should make sure that you have enough working space available.

One way you can create more space is simply by reducing the pieces of furniture or appliances that you have on the floor and creating a minimalistic look.

2. Focus on lights

Another simple solution that you can try to make your Airbnb space look more spacious is the lights.

The right lighting, especially if it’s natural, can help widen a space and has the illusion that you have a bigger space.

If you don’t have much access to natural light, then you should make sure that the lighting fixtures installed don’t get in the way of your floor as mentioned before. Wall sconces are a great choice of lighting for a small space. 

3 hanging white pendant lights in a room with windows leading to a beach.
The impact of natural lighting on display / Source: Visualising Interiors

3. Add mirrors

Another simple decoration that you can use that will help you give the illusion of a wider and bigger space inside your Airbnb is a series of mirrors.

You don’t have to go and install a lot of mirrors but be tactical so that you don’t look like you have a circus-themed Airbnb (unless that’s what you the vision you’re looking to create).

Excellent placement of a mirror is right in front of a big window that brings in natural light. Doing so allows the mirror to reflect the light all around the room.

4. Have indoor plants and flowers

You don’t have to add too many trinkets and installations to make your Airbnb feel decorated and appealing to your guests.

A simple addition of indoor plants and flowers can beautify your space without costing you too much money. Not to mention that it doesn’t take up too much space.

The great thing about indoor plants is that it helps improve the air quality inside your Airbnb, and at the same time it serves as a decoration too.

White lounge room with L shaped lounge, coffee table and indoor plants.
Indoor plants are aesthetic and cost-effective / Source: Visualising Interiors

5. Consider multi-purpose and folding furniture

Since you have a small space in your Airbnb, you want to be able to serve your guests without having to sacrifice comfort and convenience.

The key to being able to balance both is by having furniture that are space savers or, at the very least, furniture that has more than one purpose. For example, you could have a set of stairs that also serve as a cabinet, or you can have a sofa that becomes a bed.

6. Consider a hanging chair

If you want to decorate your Airbnb uniquely, then consider adding a hanging chair inside the living room.

It will be an eye-catching and attractive set in your living. Also, a hanging chair is a great space saver while offering a sitting arrangement at the same time.

7. Play with scale

Just because you have a small Airbnb doesn’t mean that your space should be filled with trinkets and tiny decorations.

It’s important to balance your big decorations in the small space, or you might end up making your Airbnb look smaller than it actually is. 

8. Keep it cozy

The great thing about having a small space is that it can be a lot homier than bigger and more expansive spaces.

You should capitalise on that fact by keeping things cozy and decorating your space with a lot of textures like plush.

A fluffy rug and soft blanket laid on top of your sofas are a great touch as well. It really makes the space feel like a second home.

9. Put your pantry on display

If you don’t have enough space in your Airbnb for a pantry, then why not have a shelving system? That way, it doesn’t occupy as much space as cabinets do.

For example, you can have a sturdy hook and hang baskets where you can put your essential grocery items that is usually going to be in the pantry.

10. Divide and conquer

If you want to divide certain areas in your Airbnb, using wise divisions allows you to do just that without making your space look crowded.

A great way to divide your space is by having rice paper room dividers all around that certain separate areas, but at the same time, it doesn’t crowd your Airbnb.

11. Clean as you leave

At Maid Sailors Airbnb Turnaround Service, we encourage our clients to advise their guests to clean the space itself. That way, it’s easier for you to clean your Airbnb. This is especially important for a quicker turnaround process in between immediate bookings.

12. Colour selection

It’s important to select the right texture and colours for cushions, throws and very importantly linen including doona covers, sheet and towels. Keep them simple not too much over the top prints.

Grey cushioned window seat with 3 pillows next to a small round coffee table.
Make the most of your small space with appropriate colour selections / Source: Little White Label

13. Make it personal

Leave a special check-in surprise for guests. It could be a bottle of wine or a grazing platter, fresh muffins or freshly baked bread and/or rolls and for that special occasion. Maybe a double pass to the local cinema and a voucher for a local Takeaway.

14. Entertaining areas

An entertaining area with books, games and jigsaw puzzles are great to have for guests.

Conclusion

Maintaining and decorating a small space can be a difficult task, especially if your goal is to create an attractive place to encourage guests to book your Airbnb rental.

Although it can be difficult it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. That’s why the tips above will definitely help you level up your Airbnb listing.

From having unique decorations in place to simple maintenance, there are plenty of things you can do that will make your small-spaced Airbnb listing more attractive to guests. Aside from the ones listed above, try and come up with your own ways of boosting your Airbnb or hire a professional interior designer to bring your vision to life.

Categories
Cleaning

How to clean your oven

All kitchen appliances need cleaning and regular maintenance in order to function properly. An oven is no exception to this rule. In fact, you might need to clean your oven more often than you clean your refrigerator or other kitchen appliance if you use it regularly. Oven cleaning might seem like an arduous and time-consuming task, but if you have the right technique and the right tools, you can get it done. Though, it’s still advisable to hire a professional cleaner to perform a deep clean every once in a while.

DIY oven cleaning does not have to be complicated. You can use natural cleaning agents available in your kitchen to get the job done. Oven cleaning just requires time, effort, and the right tools.

Source: Shutterstock

What do you need?

  • A pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands
  • Warm water
  • Baking soda (enough to make a paste)
  • White vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • A brush
  • Dishwashing liquid for the racks
  • Damp dishcloth to wipe down surfaces
  • Scraper (to remove carbon)

How to clean an oven: self-cleaning ovens

Self-cleaning ovens are easy to clean and maintain. Here is what you need to do:

  1. Lock the oven door securely and turn on the “self-clean” setting on your oven. The oven will self-clean for around 2 to 6 hours, depending on the configuration and model of the appliance. During this time, the intense heat in the oven will turn grease, food particles, and other debris into ash. Once it’s completed, let the appliance cool for 2 hours.
  2. Open the door after the oven is cool and sweep out the collected ash with the help of a brush and dustpan. You can wipe down any lingering ash with a damp dishcloth to ensure the oven’s interior is completely clean.
  3. Use a combination of vinegar and water, or an ordinary kitchen cleaning solution, to clean the oven door. Spray the solution on the door and gently scrub away any lingering debris until the door glass and the surrounding rim is completely free of stains.
  4. Remove the oven racks and wash them with dishwashing liquid and warm water. Any lingering traces of ash and food particles will come off easily at this stage. Allow the racks to air dry before you place them back in the oven.

How to clean an oven: regular ovens

Self-cleaning ovens are convenient, but not everyone has one. Ordinary ovens require a little more time and effort to clean, but you can carry out this task with the household products listed at the start. Here is what you need to do:

  1. Remove all racks from the oven before you begin the cleaning process. Place these racks in a kitchen sink full of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. This will loosen the grease, burnt food particles, and other debris. Proceed with the next step while the racks soak in the water.
  2. For mildly dirty ovens, mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 litre of water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution generously into a cold oven until it soaks all the charred and carbon-coated areas on the inside. You need to allow the solution to soak into and loosen the burnt debris for at least an hour before you take the next step.
  3. If the charred areas are too stiff and need something stronger to come loose, you can mix more baking soda with water to form a paste. Spread this paste evenly on all the charred areas and allow the solution to soak into the debris. After an hour you can scratch the area gently with the scraper to see if the debris is loose.
  4. If the carbon comes off easily, you can use the scraper to gently remove all of the soaked and lingering carbon. Be sure to spray the area with the remaining baking soda solution to aid this process.
  5. Once you have removed the most stubborn stains and wiped away the debris, spray the oven with the baking soda and water solution once again and allow it to soak for another hour. After the hour has passed, use a brush or a scrubber to remove the lingering traces of carbon. This will ensure your oven is free of all accumulated carbon and burnt food particles.
  6. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a bowl and dip a cleaning rag into it. Use the wet rag to wipe the interior of your oven and remove all traces of baking soda, oils, grease, etc. This should eliminate all traces of dirt and debris from your oven. You should use the same solution to clean the oven door as well.
  7. The final step is to clean the soaking oven racks. The hours of soaking will have loosened all of the burnt food particles, allowing you to easily scrub them clean. Use a combination of water and dishwashing liquid to clean the racks and let them air dry for a while. Once the racks are dry, place them in the oven.
Source: Shutterstock

How to clean an oven: textured ovens

Textured ovens are also self-cleaning and are designed to burn off all debris over time. The interiors are coated with a special ceramic layer that burns and removes all the debris as you continue to use your oven. You do not need to do much to clean these ovens. Wipe the interior surface with a damp cloth when your oven is cool. Do not use any abrasive cleaning solutions as they will damage the textured finish.

You will still have to clean the oven racks regularly. You can use the same combination of dishwashing liquid and water to remove the grease and food particles. Soak the racks in warm water and dishwashing liquid for a few hours to loosen all the dirt and scrub the surface clean gently. Once you have removed all collected carbon, wipe the rack down and let it air dry before you place it back in the oven.

How often should you clean the oven?

You should perform surface cleaning every time you intend to use the oven. Bacteria and germs can develop at the slightest incentive, especially in the warm dark environment inside the oven. If you do not clean the trays and grills before or after every use, you can place your health at risk. You can use water and some mild dishwashing liquid for everyday surface cleaning.

If you do not have the time or the inclination to clean your oven before or after every use, we recommend you schedule a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning. This will ensure your oven stays hygienic and is easier to clean over time. If you allow the grease, debris, and food particles to remain for too long, you will have to work harder to clean the oven. Regular cleaning minimizes the effort required to get the job done.