Posts Tagged ‘cleaning’

Window Cleaning Tips

Thursday, May 20th, 2010
Squeegee, sponge, and chalk on a desk.

Image via Wikipedia

Window cleaning is a chore that is often put off. Rarely a favourite housekeeping task, windows should be washed at least seasonally, however. Seasonal cleaning not only provides enhanced enjoyment of the beauty outside but also presents a regular opportunity to inspect for damage and take prompt corrective action, if necessary.

Cleaning Windows from the Inside
Prior to cleaning, inspect each window for damage. Do not clean windows with cracked glass or other damage until needed repairs have been completed. Be sure to also inspect and clean the weep vents found at the bottom of each window.

To make an effective, inexpensive and non-toxic window cleaning solution, simply mix one part white vinegar with eight parts water and spray on the glass. Wipe with newspaper or lint free cloth. For really dirty windows, add a little liquid dish washing soap to the solution and then rinse with plain water. Dry with a squeegee.

Cleaning windows from the Outside (more…)

Make Your Own Non-Toxic Cleaners

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009
Lemons
Image via Wikipedia

A variety of non-toxic cleaning products can be made at home with a few simple ingredients. All that is needed for most cleaning jobs is baking soda, washing soda, white distilled vinegar and liquid soap or detergent. Optional ingredients include olive oil, lemon juice and tea tree oil.

Cleaning
To make an all-purpose cleaner, combine ½ teaspoon washing soda and a bit of liquid soap with 500ml water and shake until the soda dissolves completely. Spray on surfaces to be cleaned and wipe off with a cloth. (more…)

Simple Steps to Clean a Microwave

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009
Microwave oven.
Image via Wikipedia

Splatters from food and spilled sauces quickly build up making your microwave look untidy and smell bad. Thankfully, by using this simple technique, you can have your microwave clean and fresh again. All you’ll need is a microwave-safe bowl, some water, and a washcloth.

First, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water. Try to use the largest bowl that you own that fits in your microwave. Place the water-filled bowl inside and set the timer for about five minutes. Watch carefully as the water heats and allow it to steam for long enough that it fogs up the microwave door. Once it is steamed up, turn the microwave off but do not open the door. The goal here is to let the steam soften up any dried-up food on the walls of your microwave. Without letting the steam dissipate completely, open the microwave door and remove the bowl. (more…)

Natural Cleaning Tips on a Budget

Friday, July 24th, 2009
Vinegar and baking soda
Image by jilldoughtie via Flickr

It is possible to have a natural and clean home using common items found in the house. Here are some eco-friendly cleaning tips you can use in your home that will also save you some money in your wallet.

Cut up used t-shirts as cleaning rags. Since these are soft, they are ideal for washing glass and windows without leaving a scratch. They can also be used for grimy jobs in which you wish to dispose of the rag afterward.

Mix a natural cleaning solution by mixing one part vinegar to one part water in an empty spray bottle. It is safe to use on hard surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom and even in the children’s play area. Vinegar can also be used to degrease dirty pots and pans. (more…)

Cleaning Windows Without Leaving Stripes!

Tuesday, June 30th, 2009
Window Cleaner
Image by peter pearson via Flickr

Summer is a great time to work on cleaning windows on your home, since the weather is beautiful and you’ll be able to stay warm, plus your windows will be able to dry quickly under the sun.

The first step toward cleaning your windows without leaving stripes is to purchase the right equipment. You’ll need a good cleaner as well as good rags or better yet, a squeegee with a soft surface that will spread the moisture easily. Since most windows simply pick up the dust and dirt around them over time, cleaning them should be an easy task; if your windows have heavy-duty cleaning needs you may want to consider contacting a local window cleaning service to make sure the best job is done.

For average windows, start with your window cleaner and squeegee or rag, and make sure if you’re using a ladder to reach higher-placed windows. (more…)

Hard Water in the Bath

Tuesday, May 19th, 2009
Small bathroom
Image via Wikipedia

Hard water can cause problems throughout the home. If severe enough, it leads to the chemical salt residues clogging faucets, clothes and dishwashers, and refrigerator icemakers. One of the most annoying manifestations of hard water, though, is the ugly deposits it leaves on your bathroom fixtures.

Sinks, tubs, and toilet bowls, in hard water locales, eventually accumulate ugly stains and deposits that require special attention. Commercial cleansers will do the job, but most of them are loaded with chemicals that can poison the environment. In most cases safe, inexpensive, and readily available household products are a more responsible solution. (more…)