Seven Common Home Cleaning Questions
How often should I clean my home?
The frequency of cleaning your home depends on the area and how much it is used. Daily cleaning should include wiping kitchen counters, washing dishes, and tidying up clutter. Weekly tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning the bathroom help maintain a fresh environment. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches should also be disinfected weekly.
For deep cleaning, tackle areas like carpets, windows, and baseboards monthly or seasonally to prevent dust buildup. Bedding should be washed weekly, while appliances like ovens and refrigerators need thorough cleaning every few months.
If you have pets or allergies, vacuuming and dusting should be done more frequently to reduce allergens. A consistent schedule prevents overwhelming messes and makes home maintenance easier. Adjust your cleaning routine based on your lifestyle, household size, and personal preferences for a clean and healthy living space.
What are the best natural cleaning solutions?
White Vinegar – A natural disinfectant that cuts through grease, removes odors, and dissolves mineral deposits. It works great on glass, countertops, and bathroom surfaces.
Baking Soda – A gentle abrasive that deodorizes and helps remove tough stains. It’s excellent for scrubbing sinks, freshening carpets, and unclogging drains when combined with vinegar.
Lemon – The acidity in lemons helps break down grease and grime. It also has antibacterial properties and leaves a fresh scent, making it perfect for cutting boards, microwaves, and faucets.
Castile Soap – A plant-based soap that can be used for dishwashing, floor cleaning, and even laundry. It’s gentle yet effective on dirt and grease.
Hydrogen Peroxide – A natural disinfectant that kills bacteria and mold. It’s great for sanitizing kitchen and bathroom surfaces, whitening grout, and cleaning cutting boards.
How do I remove stubborn stains from carpets or upholstery?
Removing stubborn stains from carpets or upholstery requires quick action and the right cleaning approach. First, blot (never rub) the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. For water-based stains like juice or coffee, mix dish soap with warm water, apply it to the stain, and blot gently. For greasy stains, sprinkle baking soda on the area, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum before applying a vinegar and water solution.
For tough stains like wine or pet accidents, use a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot dry. Hydrogen peroxide works well on organic stains like blood but should be tested on a hidden area first to avoid discoloration. After cleaning, let the fabric air dry completely to prevent mold growth. Regular vacuuming and immediate spot treatment will keep carpets and upholstery looking fresh.
How do I prevent mold and mildew in my bathroom?
Preventing mold and mildew in your bathroom requires proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and moisture control. Start by keeping the bathroom well-ventilated, using an exhaust fan during and after showers, or opening a window to reduce humidity. Wipe down wet surfaces like shower walls, tiles, and sinks after use to prevent moisture buildup.
Regular cleaning is key—use a mixture of white vinegar and water or hydrogen peroxide to clean shower curtains, tiles, and grout weekly, as these natural solutions kill mold spores. Fix leaks immediately, as even small drips from pipes or faucets can create damp conditions where mold thrives.
Consider using a squeegee to remove excess water from shower doors and walls after each use. Also, avoid leaving damp towels or bathmats on the floor—hang them to dry properly. Using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products can help maintain a dry bathroom and prevent mold from forming.
How can I reduce dust in my home?
Reducing dust in your home requires regular cleaning, proper air circulation, and effective dust-trapping techniques. Start with regular vacuuming, at least twice a week, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture fine dust particles. Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture trap dust, so vacuuming these areas thoroughly is essential.
Dust surfaces properly using a damp microfiber cloth instead of a dry duster, which can spread dust. Please pay special attention to shelves, baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents, as they collect dust over time. Wash bedding weekly to remove dust mites, and consider using a hypoallergenic mattress and pillow covers.
Reduce clutter, as unnecessary items collect and trap dust. Store seasonal clothes, books, and décor in closed containers to limit dust accumulation. Improve air quality by using an air purifier with a HEPA filter, especially in bedrooms and high-traffic areas. Keeping windows closed on windy days can also help prevent outdoor dust from entering your home.
Finally, consider replacing fabric curtains and blinds with easy-to-clean alternatives like wood or metal blinds. Regular maintenance and good cleaning habits will significantly reduce dust buildup, making your home healthier and more comfortable.
What’s the best way to eliminate odors from my home?
Removing or reducing odors in your home requires cleaning, ventilation, and natural deodorizers. Start by identifying and removing the source of odors—dirty carpets, pet areas, trash bins, and damp spaces are common culprits. Remove trash regularly and clean bins with vinegar or baking soda to neutralize lingering smells.
Proper ventilation is key. Open windows and use exhaust fans to circulate fresh air and prevent odors from becoming trapped. Air purifiers with activated carbon filters help absorb airborne smells, especially from cooking, smoke, or pets.
Natural deodorizers like baking soda absorb odors in refrigerators, carpets, and trash cans. Activated charcoal and coffee grounds are also excellent at neutralizing smells. Simmering citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, or herbs in water can add a fresh scent to your home.
For fabric-based odors, sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery, let it sit, then vacuum thoroughly. Washing bed linens, curtains, and pet bedding regularly prevents lingering bad smells.
Essential oils and homemade sprays with vinegar and water can provide a light, natural fragrance. Keeping your home clean and fresh can eliminate unwanted odors rather than just masking them.
What is an affordable way to keep my home clean?
A Clean Vision
Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support keeping your home clean and tidy. We have been providing Upper Valley homeowners with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.
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