Making Cleaning Eco-Friendly with Vinegar

Many cleaning products on the market right now are super effective against germs and bacteria but aren’t considered to be eco-friendly. Why sacrifice having a clean and germ-free home when you can’t use a product that is safe to use around your kids and pets? The answer is, you don’t have to, because there is already a super effective and safe product within your pantry: distilled white vinegar. If you’re wondering just what this product can do for you and your home, allow us to give you a few examples.

Why Clean with Vinegar?

 

White vinegar is an effective and powerful natural cleaner, degreaser, and even disinfectant. If you’re wondering how this super common household product could possibly be any kind of “miracle cleaner”, then sit tight because it’s time for some science. Vinegar is made from about 4-5% acetic acid, otherwise called ethanoic acid. Acetic acid is produced both naturally, by bacteria found in both food and water, as well as synthetically, like what is found in vinegar.

 

The acetic acid in vinegar is what gives it that pungent smell and makes it such an effective cleaning product. It can break down and dissolve most dirt, oil, grease, and grime. In fact, we recommend cleaning with vinegar to almost all of our clients. It works best for general household cleaning purposes on surfaces that can handle acidic products, so make sure you test small areas before cleaning if you aren’t sure.

 

Using Vinegar Around the House

 

Below, you’ll find a list of ways you can start to implement vinegar into your regular cleaning and disinfecting schedule. Plus, we’ll even explain what makes vinegar so effective and remind you why it’s such an incredible cleaning product to have on hand at all times. If you’re curious to see how you can start using vinegar around your home, keep reading!

 

1. Mop Linoleum & Tile Floors

When cleaning up around the house, you can never forget the floors. If you’re looking to clean and freshen up your floors in a more eco-friendly way, you can create a highly effective solution of a gallon of water and about ½ cup of white vinegar. Just keep in mind that this particular mix should only be used on ceramic tile and no-wax linoleum flooring, not wood or natural stone.

 

2. Leave Windows & Mirrors Streak-Free

 

 

Streaky windows and mirrors can be the bane of our existence, this is almost a universal experience. Fortunately, we have just the solution to this problem. You can mix together a 2-to-1 solution of white vinegar and water to make the ultimate glass cleaner. You can also add a couple of drops of dish soap for extra cleaning power and a streak-free finish every time.

 

 

3. Clean & Deodorize Refrigerators

When it comes time to clean out your refrigerator and toss all those forgotten leftovers that got pushed to the very back, remember to be thorough. Use some vinegar when cleaning shelves and drawers and wiping up spills. You can even sprinkle a bit of baking soda to really scrub and deodorize while you clean. Vinegar is far safer to use around any food whether open or contained than most chemical cleaning products.

 

4. Freshen Dishwashers

Dishwashers can become overridden with musty odors after a while, especially if the filter hasn’t been cleaned out for a while. It happens to the best of us, so of course we have a solution for you. Simply add a cup of vinegar to the bottom of your dishwasher and run a regular cleaning cycle. The vinegar can double as a cleaner and a deodorizer to leave your dishwasher fresh and ready for another round.

 

5. Create an Eco-Friendly Air Freshener

Looking for a more natural and safe alternative to chemical air fresheners? We’ve got you covered. Mix half a teaspoon of vinegar with distilled water, plus a few drops of your favorite essential oil, in a spray bottle. Our favorite essential oils are lemon, eucalyptus, or tea tree but every home is different so tell us what kind of blends you come up with in the comments!

 

6. Clean & Disinfect Showers & Tubs

 

 

Tubs and showers tend to catch and hold soap scum and hard water stains, plus they always need regular cleaning and disinfecting. To combat those pesky stains you can mix together water and vinegar, and maybe add a few drops of dish soap. Spray or wipe that mixture on the walls of your shower or tub and leave it to work for about 15 minutes then clean it away for a fresh start.

 

7. Descale Faucets & Showerheads

Sink faucets and showerheads can become clogged and lose their pressure over time thanks to mineral deposits and hard water build-up. You can fix this by adding some white vinegar into a plastic bag and then securing it with a rubber band. Be sure to add enough vinegar to cover the bottom of the faucet or showerhead completely. Leave the bag on for a few hours or overnight, then remove it and let the water run.

 

8. Disinfect & Deodorize Mattresses

If you’ve noticed a strange smell or a random stain on your mattress while changing the sheets, we have just the fix. Just mix vinegar, a little rubbing alcohol, and some tea tree essential oil in a spray bottle and spritz this on your mattress. This solution helps combat dust mites, mildew, and general odors. If you find your mattress needs some deeper deodorizing, sprinkle some baking soda on top of the spray. Let the spray settle and dry, and then vacuum the mattress surface.

 

9. Descale Coffee Makers & Kettles

If you’re anything like us, you can barely function without your daily caffeine fix. The only problem is the state of your coffee maker, when was the last time you cleaned that? The solution? Pour an even mix of water and vinegar directly into the kettle and run it through the coffee maker or simply boil the water in the kettle then rinse thoroughly with water. If you have an automatic coffee maker, you can run plain water through a few times to get the smell and taste of vinegar out..

 

10. Disinfect Countertops

 

 

Kitchen and bathroom countertops are high-traffic surfaces that require regular cleaning and disinfecting. When cleaning surfaces like kitchen counters, you need to make sure to use food-safe and eco-friendly cleaning products as using chemicals can risk contaminating future food preparations. Luckily, vinegar is the best solution to this particular problem as all you’ll need to do is dilute a spray bottle of vinegar with some water. You can use this specific mixture on most countertops, however, you should avoid using vinegar to clean marble and granite.

 

11. Clean & Degrease Cookware

Cooking mishaps happen to everyone and can leave even our most durable pots and pans with baked-on messes. The best course of action to save your cookware is with vinegar of course. Simply fill the offending cookware with a half-and-half solution of water and vinegar and then bring it to a boil on the stove. Allow this mix to boil for a few minutes before allowing it to cool and follow with a good scrub.

 

12. Clean & Disinfect Plastic Cutting Boards

If you’ve prepared any kind of raw meat within the last few days, hopefully, you did so on a plastic cutting board. Even if you haven’t been preparing meat, when was the last time you deep cleaned and disinfected your go-to cutting board? Take a moment to spray and wipe both sides thoroughly with an even mixture of vinegar and water and then wash the board before letting it air dry and putting it away.

 

13. Degreasing Ovens

Much like our beloved cookware, ovens and stovetops can accumulate grease and oil with regular use throughout the week. The best way to cut through this greasy grimey mess is, of course, with vinegar. Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray the solution around the surface of the cooktop. Give it 10 minutes to cut through all that stubborn grease and then wipe it away with some warm water and a sponge.

 

14. Boost & Deodorize Laundry

Our final tip to share is by far one of our favorites. Everyone loves the feeling of freshly washed and warm laundry, and it turns out vinegar is the key. Adding half a cup of vinegar to your next load can both preserve and brighten the colors of the laundry. You can also toss in a full cup of vinegar to a rinse cycle to be a more eco-friendly and effective fabric softener and static reducer. We’ve tried this and can promise that you’ll notice the difference and you’ll love the results!

 

15. Clear Cloudy Glasses

 

 

Glassware can develop a cloudy appearance with time, even after running them through the dishwasher. This is almost always due to hard water deposits, or frequent wine drinking (we don’t judge!), but it can be easily remedied with a little bit of white vinegar. All your cloudy glassware needs is a brief soak in a tub of vinegar followed by a quick wash and buff with a soft microfiber cloth.

 

What to Avoid When Cleaning with Vinegar

 

While vinegar can be an incredible cleaning product to have on hand, there are a few things you should keep in mind before going after your whole house:

• Vinegar can cause pitting on stainless steel, so we don’t recommend using it on kitchen knives or appliances without diluting it.
• You should also avoid using vinegar when cleaning marble, granite, and other natural stone countertops or floors because it can very easily damage the finish and or leave the surface looking dull or scratched.
• It’s also a good idea to avoid using vinegar to clean any electronic screens because it can damage the protective coating on devices and screens and make touch screens less effective.
• Be careful cleaning any wood countertops and or untreated or unfinished hardwood floors as undiluted vinegar can damage these beyond repair.
• As long as you keep these tips in mind, your home is well on its way to looking and smelling great.

 

FAQs

 

Will cleaning with vinegar leave a smell?

The bad news is that, yes, cleaning with vinegar can smell up your space, but the good news is that the smell of vinegar naturally dissipates after a few hours. In order to mask, or at least lessen the effects, of vinegar, we suggest both diluting it with water as well as adding a few drops of an essential oil like lemon or eucalyptus.

 

Can vinegar be used on all surfaces?

While safe to use on many surfaces to kill bacteria and clean, vinegar is not safe to use on natural stone, waxed wood, cast iron, or aluminum. This is because vinegar is about 5% acetic acid, which can harm some surfaces, so it is always recommended that you test it in an inconspicuous area before cleaning any surface.

 

How effective is vinegar against bacteria?

In most cases, vinegar does work as an effective disinfectant to some degree. However, it is not as effective against bacteria as bleach or other commercial cleaners. If you are looking to combat germs as effectively as possible, there may be other solutions you should try before reaching for vinegar.

 

 

We hope you were able to learn more about the natural and eco-friendly cleaning and disinfecting capabilities of vinegar. Even if you just picked up a few new tips and tricks for cleaning around the house. Was there anything you knew already and use in your home? What other cleaning tips and tricks using vinegar have you tried around your home and become obsessed with? Tell us all about it in the comments below, we love hearing from you!

 

If you’re looking for some extra time and attention to detail around your home, but don’t want to sacrifice the desire for eco-friendly products, we’ve got you covered! We’re proud to offer eco-friendly products and services as the best house cleaners in Philadelphia. If you’re curious, check out our website and see for yourself. Contact us today and find out how we can help you keep your home looking and feeling amazing!

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Cleaning & Maintaining Your Favorite Leather Jacket

Leather jackets are bold and edgy statement pieces in any wardrobe and they can seriously bring almost any outfit to the next level. Wearing a leather jacket can make you look and feel amazing so that it can see a lot of regular use.

 

Unfortunately, with regular wear, genuine leather can become dry and cracked. Not to mention the other dirt and debris and stains that can develop around the surface. But how do your clean and care for your favorite statement piece? Keep reading to find out our best cleaning and care suggestions.

Cleaning Leather Jackets Properly

 

Cleaning and caring for your leather jacket can be a tricky process. In order to make sure your beloved jacket stays in great condition and looks incredible every time you wear it, you’ll need the proper techniques. Here are our best recommendations for cleaning your leather jacket, both inside and out.

 

Leather

 

When the time comes to clean your leather jacket, there are a few options you can decide to use. The first is a store-bought leather cleaning product, which can be effective and easy to use, but almost always comes with a learning curve. One benefit of a store-bought product is that many kits come with everything you’ll need, including cleaners and conditioners as well as a cleaning brush or sponge. Finding a highly rated product or kit can be a great way to save time and money.

 

The second option is simple household cleaning products that every home is likely to have: dish soap and vinegar. In order to properly clean and care for your leather jacket, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right amount of water and soap or vinegar. To help take the guesswork out of this process, here is our recommendation for cleaning:

• Pour warm water into a bowl and add 2 or 3 drops of a mild dish soap. Alternatively, you can mix together a 50/50 solution of warm water and white vinegar. This is an effective cleaning solution, but can dry out the leather and will require you to follow with conditioning.
• Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the mixture. Be careful not to soak or saturate the cloth or sponge and wring out the excess before applying it to your jacket.
• Use small, circular motions around the surface of the leather to remove surface dirt and grime. Pay attention to not over-saturate or rub the leather excessively when cleaning.
• With a new clean and dry cloth, blot the surface of the jacket and wipe away any remaining soapy water. Allow the jacket to fully air dry before conditioning.
• We highly suggest placing your jacket on a soft, padded hanger while it dries to avoid misshapen shoulders. You should also avoid placing your jacket in direct sunlight while it dries as this can cause excessive drying and cracks in the leather.

 

Lining

 

Once the outside of your jacket has been cleaned and dried, it’s time to take a look inside. The interior of your jacket likely consists of a lining, and that lining needs a cleaning and refreshing. Here is how to clean your jacket’s lining using regular household cleaning products:

• Turn your jacket inside out for proper cleaning. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. You can also use the same vinegar solution you used on the exterior for added stain and odor-fighting.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in the cleaning solution, but not soaked or saturated, to spot clean and treat stains on the surface of the lining. Pay extra care around the underarms and collar.
• Ensure that there is no excess soap residue on the lining by using a sponge or cloth dipped only in water to wipe the soap away.
• Use a clean and dry cloth to blot the surface of the lining dry. Allow the lining to air dry completely before properly turning the jacket out. Again, we highly suggest placing your jacket on a soft, padded hanger while it dries to avoid misshapen shoulders.

 

Cleaning Common Stains on a Leather Jacket

 

 

When you wear your leather jacket regularly, there is almost no way to avoid certain stains. Here is our easy guide for cleaning a few of the most common stains from your leather jacket:

 

Oil & Grease

 

The best way to treat and clean a oil or grease stain on leather is with baking soda or another absorbent powder like cornstarch. Here is how to treat this type of stain:

• If the stain is fresh, use a cloth to blot and absorb as much of the oil as possible.
• Sprinkle the powder of your choice, we highly suggest baking soda, directly onto the remaining stain.
• Use a soft cloth to rub the powder into the stain and allow the powder to sit on the stain for a few hours, or overnight.
• After the powder has worked to lift the stain, wipe it away with a clean, soft cloth and then spot-clean the stain with warm soapy water.

 

Ink

 

One of the more stubborn stains is ink, but fortunately even the most stubborn ink stains are no match for nail polish remover. Here’s what to do:

• If the stain is fresh, use a cotton ball or swab to blot away any excess ink on the surface of the jacket.
• Dip a cotton swab into a bit of acetone-based nail polish remover. Be sure not to saturate the swab as too much nail polish remover can cause the ink to bleed deeper into the leather.
• Use the swab to gently blot the ink stain until it is lifted as much as possible. Again, make sure not to use too much nail polish remover as to not saturate the leather.
• To clean and remove the excess nail polish remover, use a soft, damp cloth to blot to surface of the leather before blotting it dry with a dry cloth.

 

Mold & Mildew

 

Unfortunately, with time and regular wear, even our favorite leather jackets run the risk of developing mold and mildew staining and stink. To treat your jacket for mold and mildew, here’s what to do:

• Lay your jacket on a flat surface and smooth it out to thoroughly check for mold around the surface.
• In a bowl, mix together a 50/50 solution of rubbing alcohol and water.
• Use a soft cloth dipped in this solution, not saturated, to wipe the affected areas of the surface of the jacket.
• Once the mold and mildew have been treated and removed, use a fresh damp cloth to wipe the treated areas clean.
• Leave the jacket on the flat surface, out of direct sunlight, to fully air dry before hanging it.

 

Conditioning and Protecting Leather Jackets

 

 

 

DIY Conditioner

 

There are a few methods of conditioning leather using both store-bought and household products. If you don’t have access to a leather protectant product, there are various DIY conditioners you can create. Here are some of the more popular and effective of those methods:

• Mix together a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 2 parts linseed oil and apply this to the surface of your jacket using a soft clean cloth. Wait 15 minutes and then buff the surface of your jacket with a fresh cloth.
• Use a small amount of coconut oil or flaxseed oil on a cloth to buff the surface of the jacket. Both coconut and flaxseed oil are the best household oils to use on leather as they are hypoallergenic and won’t cause damage in the long run.
• Mix together 1 part beeswax and cocoa butter with ½ part almond oil, and heat the mixture in a bowl or on the stove.
• A petroleum gel like Vaseline is also a great and effective leather conditioner found in most homes.

 

Waterproofing

 

Most leather cleaning kits come with a waterproofing product that you can use to further protect your leather jacket. However, if you don’t have access to a cleaning kit with a waterproofing product, you’ll want to shop around and invest in an alternative. There are 2 main products you should look into to waterproof your leather jacket.

 

The first is a wax waterproofing product like beeswax. In order to treat and protect your leather jacket with beeswax, your need a bar of the wax and a heat gun or high-heat hairdryer. All you’ll need to do is rub the wax around your jacket to thoroughly coat the surface, and then use the heat gun or hairdryer to melt the wax onto the leather.

 

The second product is simple and easy to use on most leather surfaces including your jacket. A good waterproofing spray can be highly effective and a great way to save your leather jacket and furniture in the future. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the product very carefully and to always test it on a small area before using it all around the surface of your favorite leather jacket.

 

FAQs

 

 

Can I wash my leather jacket in the washing machine?

You cannot wash a leather jacket in the washing machine. Extensive and prolonged exposure to water will damage leather beyond repair and you will ultimately have to fully replace your jacket.

 

Is leather ruined if it gets wet?

Getting leather wet can damage the surface and cause it to dry out and form cracks. Water can also create stains and warping on the surface of the leather, so it is highly suggested to protect your leather with a wax or waterproofing spray.

 

How do you restore dry leather?

To restore dried leather, you should first make sure that it is thoroughly cleaned and then apply a conditioner or petroleum jelly like Vaseline to soften and loosen the leather. Dry and cracked leather can be avoided and treated with regular cleaning and conditioning practices.

 

How have you been cleaning and maintaining your leather jacket? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you! For more cleaning tips and tricks, you can check out our Boston Housekeeping blog or see what cleaning services we offer to find out how we can keep your home looking just as incredible as your wardrobe.

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10 Tips to Kickstart Your Spring Cleaning in 2023

Spring is just around the corner and with the warmer weather comes a fresh necessity for a clean and tidy home. The changing seasons bring new life and new opportunities to us all, and unfortunately this almost means allergies. But before you find yourself becoming a sniffling and drowsy mess, its time for some cleaning.

 

There is no time like the present to knock out your annual spring cleaning checklist and do some serious decluttering around the house. To help you get rolling and stay motivated, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite tips and tricks so that you’ll have an arsenal of cleaning hacks at your disposal for this year’s spring cleaning around your home.

 

Related: The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist (Printable Infographic)

 

How to Prep for Spring Cleaning

 

In order to make sure you’re fully prepared and ready to get down to business, you should make sure you have everything you’ll need. From products to equipment, let’s take a second to outline what you’ll want to have on hand for this cleaning project. Here is a general checklist of supplies you’ll need:

Rubber gloves Microfiber cloths Sponges and brushes Duster tools Garbage bags Vacuum and attachments Wet and or dry mop Squeegee

Glass cleaner Disinfectant Multi-surface cleaner Dusting spray Appliance cleaner White vinegar Baking soda Optional: Boxes for donations

You may not need every single one of these products and tools, or you may need them all and more. Every home is different and won’t be cleaned in the same way, which means that there is no right or wrong way to fully clean your home. However you clean your home is up to you, but we like to give the best advice we can when it comes to those who may be newer at keeping up with cleaning and upkeep around the house.

 

1. Plan Ahead

 

Before you jump into your spring cleaning, take a moment to wander your home and make a plan. Whether that means customizing a checklist for each room or sitting down and delegating tasks to everyone in the home, going in with a rough idea of what needs to be done can make a difference. If you live with multiple people, having a plan can keep everyone focused and on task, and can even make the cleaning process fun if you turn it into a game of sorts. Not only will this help you stay on task, it can help you to stay motivated as you cross more and more of your cleaning task list.

 

2. Start Simple

 

 

We suggest starting the process within the kitchen or the bathrooms, but whichever room of your home you start cleaning is up to you. It is a good idea to also start by tackling the more obvious tasks around the home as a whole before focusing on the larger and more tedious projects. This can be dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, picking up laundry, wiping up crumbs and debris, or staring a load of laundry to be switched out for another round later. Starting with the simplest and most obvious tasks will make more of the deeper cleaning projects more identifiable and accessible.

 

3 .Declutter as You Clean

 

Spring cleaning is an excellent time to do some extensive and ruthless decluttering. Each room can contain numerous expired and perishable items and clothing that no longer fits or is stained and damaged. Now is the time to go through your drawers, closets, pantry, and refrigerator to make sure anything that no longer serves a purpose gets the boot. There’s no better way to bring in warmer weather than with a clear space.

 

4. Work Top to Bottom

 

 

When cleaning, the best rule of thumb is to clean from high to low, that means starting upstairs and working down as well as starting in each room by dusting from ceiling to floor. By cleaning from top to bottom, you are able to ensure that no dust is left on any surface in the room. This is also a great way to save time and effort during the cleaning process and work efficiently.

 

5. Bust Through the Dust

 

One of the key tasks in every room is dusting. The best way to control the buildup of dust and other allergens in your home is with regular cleaning, but sometimes it can be left to accumulate. Now is the time to be thorough and detail-oriented in each room to make sure every surface is clean and clear of dust.

 

6. Freshen Up the Fridge

 

 

Your refrigerator is in constant use and can very easily become cluttered with leftovers and expired foods. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to deep clean and organize your fridge and freezer. Take an hour or so to empty things out and really scrub, deodorize, and and sanitize each self and drawer. It’s important to keep the spaces in which food is kept clean and clear of bacteria so that you and your family is safe and healthy.

 

7. Clear the Junk Drawers

 

Every home has a junk drawer, a black hole that seems to contain the most random assortment of items from around the house. Sometimes junk drawers can become junk rooms, and that’s okay. Now is the best time to tackle those problematic spaces head on by emptying them out and making sure everything is returned to its proper place in your home, thrown out, and sold or donated. Show that junk drawer or room who’s boss!

 

8. Don’t Forget the Details

 

Once you’ve cleared and cleaned the surfaces and appliances around the house, it would be a good idea to check over the more tedious cleaning tasks. This can include:

Cleaning rugs and doormats Cleaning the inside and outside of windows Wiping down walls, baseboards, and trim Cleaning and sanitizing toys Cleaning outdoor furniture

Cleaning and deodorizing sinks Sanitizing cutting boards Cleaning tiles and grout Replacing or cleaning HVAC air filters Cleaning or repairing your cleaning tools and equipment

 

9. Take Time to Reorganize

 

While you’re taking time to be thorough and ruthless in your spring cleaning and decluttering, you can also take this time to reorganize. Whether this means investing in a more functional system within your closets and pantry or just sorting items and clothing in a more efficient way, take this as an opportunity! There is no better time to fully upgrade your home for a more efficient life.

 

10. Disinfect Deeper Than Ever

 

 

Disinfecting around the home is one of the most important tasks when cleaning. Even if its already a part of your regular cleaning routine, you should always take time to disinfect the surfaces around your house. Make sure to give extra time and attention to the high-touch and high-traffic surfaces like remotes, door handles, and light switches when you disinfect so that you know your family will be safe and healthy for the warmer months.

 

How to Stay Motivated to Spring Clean

 

 

If you’ve read through the tips and tricks and find yourself more overwhelmed than when you started, take a breath and don’t stress. Remember that we said that there is no right or wrong way to clean your home and that however you choose to clean your space is up to you. We know cleaning the whole house can be a daunting task, so allow us to offer some motivation and a few tips to help get you started:

• Remember to clean at your own speed, it isn’t a race and you don’t have to exhaust yourself to accomplish everything in one day. You can create a schedule and set goals for yourself and anyone else in the home to help you to start and finish the job at hand. Find what works for you and stick with it until the work is done.
• Brighten up the space and your mood before you get started and as you work. Open up the windows to let in more natural light and turn on your favorite music to hype yourself up. You’ll find yourself working more efficiently and with more energy when you are in a sunny and energizing environment.
• Browse social media for some inspiration and put yourself in a mindset that is motivated to clean and see results. Cleaning can be a great way to reduce stress and be mindful of the items you bring in and keep in your home, so take some time to make a mental note of why you are cleaning and what your end goal is.

 

No matter if you’ve been cleaning for years or if this will be your first round of cleaning in a new space, spring cleaning is the best time to jumpstart the weekly and daily cleaning routines in your home. What kinds of spring cleaning tips and tricks do you use around your home? Share your advice in the comments, we’d love to hear from you!

 

If spring cleaning is simply not your forte but you’re in desperate need for some help keeping up with your home, we’ve got your back. You can check out Cleanzen’s Spring Cleaning services to find out how our services can help you around your home. Contact us today to find out what other services we can offer your home or business.

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A DIY Guide to Removing Stains from Wood Floors

Hardwood floors look beautiful in almost every home, but no matter how much you clean them some spots just refuse to be clean. Stains can wind up on any floor, even wood, so it is best to be prepared when you inevitably find a few. To help, we’ve created this DIY guide to assist you in keeping your floors clean and stain-free.

Type of Stains

 

 

Before you try to remove any stains from your wood floors, you should probably be aware of the kind of stain you’ll be removing. These are the most common kinds of stains you may find on your wood floors and furniture, we’ll get into how to treat and remove them later.

 

1. White Water Marks & Rings

These stains usually form on wood floors and furniture when any wet or damp cup, glass, or fabric is left on the surface of the wood. The stains appear white or lighter in color when the moisture mixes with the finish or wax on the wood.

 

2. Dark Water Stains

These stains form from moisture or dampness, similar to the formation of lighter stains, or from oxidation on the wood. The darkness of the stain indicates that moisture has penetrated deeper into the wood and will likely require more care to remove it.

 

3. Heat Stains

When something hot, like a mug or candle, is placed on the surface of the wood it expands. This allows the moisture created by heat and steam to settle deeper within the wood leaving behind light and cloudy discoloration and stains.

 

 

DIY Stain Removal

 

 

Now that you have a rough idea of the kind of stains you’ll be dealing with, we can discuss removal. There are many different ways to remove the various stains we mentioned, but not every method works for every stain. Here are our best recommendations for removing stains from wood floors:

 

Mayonnaise

One of the simplest ways to treat darker stains is with mayonnaise, no matter how much you love or hate it. Here’s what to do:

• Use a clean cloth to wipe a small amount of mayo in a hidden area to test before treating the stain itself. If there’s discoloration from this test, we suggest trying a different method.
• If the mayo doesn’t leave any discoloration, wipe a generous amount directly on and around the stained area you’re trying to treat.
• Allow the mayo to sit on the stain for a few hours, or overnight for best results, reapply if it dries up too quickly.
• In the morning, use a fresh and damp cloth to remove the mayo and check the state of the stain. Note: If there is still discoloration from a dried or old stain, you may have to try a different method.

 

Toothpaste

Toothpaste can be a surprising stain removal method, but it works we promise. This works best on lighter water stains or stains that have dried up, but remember to use a non-whitening and non-gel variety for the best results. Here’s what to do:

• Squeeze a small bit of toothpaste onto a soft and clean cloth.
• Lightly buff the toothpaste onto the surface of the stained wood, making sure to follow the grain. Note: Don’t rub the stained wood too hard with the toothpaste or you may worsen the appearance of the stain or damage the finish on the wood.
• Allow the toothpaste to sit on the stain for about a minute before removing it with a lightly dampened cloth.
• Take a moment to assess the stain and repeat the process if necessary.

 

Clothing Iron

If you catch a fresh or still damp water stain on your wood floors, you’re in luck but you’ll want to move quickly to make sure it doesn’t set in. One way to remove the moisture is by using heat from and iron, or hairdryer, to evaporate it. You’ll need to be careful not to damage the wood in the process, so follow these instructions carefully:

• Make sure there is no water within the iron, you don’t need any steam releasing during this process.
• Place a cotton rag or old t-shirt over the stain.
• Turn on the iron and make sure it is set to the lowest heat setting.
• Pass the iron gently over the surface of the cloth or t-shirt for a few seconds, making sure to check on the stain frequently.
• Alternatively, turn on the hairdryer to the lowest heat setting and wave it directly over the stain, no cotton barrier needed, for a few seconds at a time. Note: For both the iron and the hairdryer, be careful not to allow the heat to linger on the wood for more than a few seconds so as to not further damage the wood and allow moisture deeper into the pores.
• Check the state of the stain frequently and allow the surface of the wood to cool before attempting the method again.

 

White Vinegar

For darker stains on wood floors, we highly recommend white vinegar. The acidity makes this both effective and safe to use on wooden floors, plus its a great disinfectant. Here’s the best way to utilize vinegar on dark stains:

• For fresher and lighter stains, we suggest diluting your white vinegar in some water before treating the stain.
• For darker and more set in stains, you can use undiluted white vinegar to treat the stain.
• Allow a few cloths or paper towels, depending on what you have available or prefer, to soak in the vinegar or vinegar solution.
• Place the cloths or paper towels directly over the stained wood and allow them to sit for about half an hour.
• Remove the cloths or paper towels and use a water dampened cloth to wipe the surface of the stain before leaving it to dry for another half an hour.
• Once the effected area is completely dry, you can check for any residual staining and repeat the process if you need to.

 

Hydrogen Peroxide

Like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide is great at treating darker stains on wood. However, when you use this method make sure that you only use 3% hydrogen peroxide as higher concentrations will permanently discolor and ruin wood. Here is how to properly use hydrogen peroxide to treat darker stains on wood:

• Before treating the actual stain, use a cloth dampened with hydrogen peroxide to wipe a small and hidden area to test for discoloration.
• Gently press a soft cloth dampened with a generous amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stained wood.
• Rewet the cloth if necessary, then place the cloth on the stain for a few hours or overnight.
• Remove the cloth and check the stain in the morning, then use a lightly water dampened cloth to wipe the surface of the wood and allow it to fully dry.
• Once the area is completely dry, you can repeat the method if you need to until the stain is fully removed.

 

Toothpaste & Baking Soda

One of the best ways to treat a heat stain on wood floors is by mixing toothpaste and baking soda. Here’s what to do:

• Start by using a damp cloth to wipe the surface of the wood and then allowing the area to dry completely.
• Using a non-whitening and non-gel toothpaste, squeeze a small amount into a small bowl or onto a plate and mix in a generous amount of baking soda.
• Use a soft cloth to rub the paste directly onto the stain and allow the paste to sit for about 10 minutes.
• Use a fresh damp cloth to wipe away the paste and clean the surface of the wood.
• Allow the area to dry completely before repeating the process if you need to until the stain has faded.

 

Things to Remember

 

 

Wood floors are gorgeous and can really warm up a home, but they can be stained surprisingly easily. There are a few things to keep in mind when managing upkeep and treating any stains you may find:

• First and foremost, act as fast as possible when cleaning up any liquid spills on wood floors. The longer moisture sits on the surface of wood, the harder it is to clean up without the risk of staining.
• When cleaning up stains, do your best to avoid using anything abrasive to scrub the wood floor. Using anything like steel wool or hard bristle brushes risks damaging or even stripping the finish from the wood.
• Don’t be afraid to sand and refinish an area if the staining is bad enough. While it may not be preferable, it can be more effective and less expensive than calling in a professional.
• Despite our previous suggestion, calling professionals when all else fails is always a safe choice. Especially if you don’t have mush experience or knowledge when it comes to wood floors.

 

FAQs

 

What not to use on hardwood floors?

When cleaning hardwood floors, avoid using any harsh cleaners like ammonia or alkaline products as these can dull and scratch the finish on the wood.

 

Does baking soda remove stains from hardwood floors?

Baking soda should only be used in small amounts combined with other products to treat stains on wood floors. It should never be used to clean wood floors on its own or combined with vinegar.

 

Can you use dishwashing liquid to clean hardwood floors?

Dishwashing liquid is mild enough to be safe to use on hardwood floors and effective enough to be recommended by professionals. You can add a few tablespoons of dishsoap to a gallon of water to clean and mop your floors.

 

Is it okay to use hot water on wood floors?

If you are looking to clean and mop your wood floors, you should not use hot water to do so. Always use warm water, not hot, when mopping and never allow water to stand on hardwood floors or you risk extensively ruining the finish of the wood and the wood itself.

 

 

Do you have any stain fighting tips that have worked for your wood floors? Have you made any mistakes and want to make sure no one else faces similar issues? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!

 

If you’re looking for some help when it comes to keeping your wood floors looking amazing and stain-free, call us! Our maid services in Miami could be just what you need, so check out our website and find out what kind of services we can offer you.

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Grubby TV Screen? Here’s How to Fix It!

Our TVs are used almost as much as, if not more than, our smartphones and tablets. With regular use comes regular messes and dust buildup on and around the TV screen, especially with all the many sports events and reality TV we’ve been watching.

 

No matter what model of TV sits in your home, old or new, the screen will need some cleaning and dusting on a regular basis. We’ve put together our best tips and tricks for cleaning your TV screen, remotes, and external speakers properly and safely, plus 2 quick household recipes for DIY screen-safe cleaners. Keep reading to find out how you can keep your TV screen clean and streak-free.

Best Cleaning Methods

 

Before you get started with cleaning your TV screen, you should make sure you have the supplies you’ll need. Here are the basics:

• Microfiber cloths
• A screen-safe cleaning solution
  • If you’re curious about what you can use as a cleaning solution, here are 2 quick DIY solutions you can use for your newer model TVs:
    • Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle.
    • Mix together 1 part distilled water with 4 parts 70% rubbing alcohol.
    • Note: Do not use a rubbing alcohol of any higher percentage than 70% as they can damage the TV screen.
• Rubbing alcohol (for older TVs)

Once you have everything you need and have mixed up your DIY cleaner, its time to get started with the cleaning process.

 

Flat-Screen Plasma, LED, LCD and OLED TVs

 

 

Newer model TVs often have flat and delicate surfaces that require a careful hand and extra care. Here is the best and safest way to clean these more delicate pieces of electronics:

• Make sure the TV is completely turned off and cool before cleaning. You can unplug your device, but it usually isn’t necessary for newer model TVs.
• Use a microfiber cloth to first carefully dust off the surface of the TV screen.
• Spray a small amount of screen-safe cleaner, or one of the DIY cleaners above, onto a fresh, dry microfiber cloth. Do not spray or apply cleaner directly to the TV screen.
• Wipe the cleaner onto the screen in a side-to-side motion and then up and down. Overlapping strokes, not circular motions, are the best way to avoid streaks on shiny TV screens and surfaces.
• Make sure the surface of the TV screen is completely dry and clear before either repeating the cleaning process or plugging it back in and turning it on.

 

Tube Televisions

 

Older TVs, like cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs, are also daily easy to clean, but they do require a little extra attention to detail. Here is the proper way to clean older model and tube TVs:

• Turn off and unplug the TV and allow it to cool is it is warm to the touch. Unlike modern TVs, unplugging these TVs is required so make sure your device is not connected to power before you start cleaning it.
• Use a microfiber cloth to dust the surface of the TV screen. You can also take a moment to dust around the device itself.
• Apply a cleaning solution to a fresh microfiber cloth. To clean the surface, you can either use one of the DIY cleaning solutions above or 70% rubbing alcohol on the cloth or as a presoaked wipe if the screen is particularly grubby.
  • Note: In a pinch, you can use a very small amount of glass cleaner to clean glass TV screens on older devices only.
• Wipe the cleaning solution onto the screen in back-and-forth then up-and-down strokes. Remember not to use circular motions when cleaning the screen.
• Allow the surface of the TV screen to fully air dry before checking for additional smudges and streaks.
• Once the screen is completely dry, you can repeat the cleaning process if needed. If the screen needs not additional cleaning, simply finish by using a microfiber cloth to buff the surface to remove stray fingerprints or streaks.

 

Stubborn Spots & Streak Free Cleaning

 

 

If you find some stubborn fingerprints or sticky spots around your TV screen, that’s okay, life happens. For the best results when treating these stubborn spots, here’s what to do:

• Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in some distilled water, only a very small amount of soap will be needed.
• Dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy water and wring out the excess before using the cloth.
• Use the dampened cloth to gently wipe away the grimy stains or smudges, taking care to not use too much water on the surface.
• Allow the surface to air dry before checking for additional spots or streaks. If you are spot cleaning an older TV screen, you can use a fresh microfiber cloth to buff the surface free of streaks.

Cleaning Remotes & Speakers

 

If you have extra accessories for your TV like remotes and speakers, you’ll probably want to give those a once over cleaning as well. While they don’t have screens, they’re still sensitive electronics so you’ll have to use care when cleaning them. Here are some best practice cleaning tips for remotes and speakers:

 

Remotes

 

 

Thankfully for everyone, remotes are actually really easy to clean. All you’ll really need is your go-to disinfecting wipes or spray and a cloth. Here’s how to clean your remote without damaging it:

• Take out the batteries from your remote and set them aside.
• Gently tap the remote, button side down, on a table or other flat surface to loosen and dislodge any crumbs or other debris.
• For cleaning, you can either use a pre-soaked disinfectant wipe or a cloth that you can spray disinfectant onto. Make sure the wipe or cloth is not soaked and dripping wet by wringing it out before using it.
• Wipe the disinfectant around the entire surface of the remote, paying particular attention to the spaces between buttons.
  • You can use a toothpick or your fingernail to dislodge stubborn debris from under and around the buttons.
• Once the remote has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, you can set it aside to completely air dry.
  • If you’d like to go the extra mile, you can test the batteries you removed to make sure they’re still good or if they need to be replaced.
• Check that the remote is completely dry and then replace to batteries into the device.

 

Speakers

 

If you have set up external speakers for your TV, now is a good time to makes sure they’re clean and dusted. These are pretty sensitive devices, so here is how to properly clean and care for your speakers:

• Before any cleaning or dusting, make sure to check for any cleaning guidelines within the owner’s manual for the speakers. This is always best practices for pieces of sensitive electronics and equipment.
• Unplug or remove the batteries from the speakers so that the devices are not connected to power while you are cleaning them.
• If the fabric covers of the speakers can be removed, go ahead and take those off to be cleaned separately.
  • We recommend using your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to carefully clean and dust the fabric covers.
• If the fabric covers cannot be removed, you can use a lint roller or your vacuum hose with the upholstery attachment to remove any dust and debris from the surface of the speakers.
• If your speakers are solid and do not have a fabric cover, you can use a lightly moistened microfiber cloth to dust and clean the surface of the device.
• Allow the speakers to dry if necessary before replacing the removed batteries or plugging the devices back in.

 

Extra Tips for Cleaning TV Screens

 

 

With regular care and cleaning, your TV screens should be looking their very best. If you’re looking to make sure your TVs, remotes, and a speakers look and operate at their best, here are a few extra tips and tricks to incorporate into your regular cleaning routine:

• You should clean your TV screen about once a week to regularly remove fingerprints, streaks, smudges, and other mysterious stains that may appear.
• Use your vacuum hose to suck up the dust and debris from any wires and ports behind the TV itself when you clean it to ensure that everything stays in good working condition.
• Avoid cleaning your TV screens with harsh chemical cleaners and products. Substances you should never use to clean your modern TV screens include:
  • Ammonia
  • Acetone
  • Rubbing alcohol
• Never spray cleaning solutions directly onto the screen itself, no matter if the TV is a newer model or an older one. Remember to spray the solution onto a cloth and wipe the cloth on the screen to clean it.
• Remember to dust the TV screen before cleaning it, and also remember to not use too much pressure when wiping away stubborn fingerprints or stains from the screen.

 

FAQs

 

What household product can I use to clean my TV screen?

You can use an equal mixture of white vinegar and water, distilled if possible, to clean your TV screen. Make sure that you apply the solution to a microfiber cloth and not directly to the screen itself so as to not damage the device.

 

What can I spray on my flat screen TV screen to clean it?

You should never spray any cleaning solution directly onto your TV screen. The safest cleaning solutions to use are screen or glasses cleaner, or a mixture of vinegar and distilled water, both of which should be applied to a microfiber cloth in order to clean the TV screen.

 

Can you use alcohol wipes on TV screens?

Premoistened alcohol wipes that utilize no higher than 70% isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean many TV screens, but better methods are recommended. Most professionals advise against using alcohol based products to clean modern TV screens, some make sure to check your TV’s user manual for cleaning and upkeep information.

 

Can I use glasses cleaner on my TV screen?

Glasses cleaner is safe and can be used on most TV screens when used with a soft microfiber cloth. Be sure to not spray the cleaner directly onto the screen when cleaning.

 

What can ruin a TV screen?

Heavy finger pressure, spraying liquid cleaning products directly onto the screen, moving the screen panel, and use of any heat can very easily ruin and warp your TV screen. When you are looking to clean your TV screen, always consult the owner’s manual and professional cleaning guides before any cleaning is done on or around the screen.

 

 

With regular cleaning and dusting, your TV screen will be looking clear and free of stray smudges just in time for your next binge-watch or movie night. What kind of screen cleaning tips do you use for your TV screens? Have you made any cleaning mistakes and want to share some advice? Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear from you!

 

If you’re looking for some extra help around your home, we’re here to help. You can check out our website to read our blog posts or see what kind of services we can offer you. If you’re in need of some high quality cleaning around your office space or business, please check out our commercial cleaning services Denver and book your cleaning services today!

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