Professional cleaners are known for transforming even the messiest spaces into pristine havens. Behind their magic lies a carefully curated selection of cleaning products that prove their effectiveness time and again. So, if you want to take your house cleaning chore to a professional level, it’s time to invest in the right tools. From white vinegar to window squeegee, here are five expert-recommended deep cleaning products to make your cleaning tasks fruitful. White vinegar White vinegar is a natural and affordable cleaning agent. It’s a multipurpose solution that cuts through grease, grime, and mineral deposits. When mixed with water, white vinegar can be used to clean windows, countertops, and floors and even remove stubborn stains. Furthermore, it works as a natural deodorizer, eliminating unpleasant odors in various areas of your home. Castile soap Castile soap, made from natural plant oils, is a gentle yet effective cleaner that professionals often recommend. It’s biodegradable, non-toxic, and can be used for various cleaning tasks. For instance, you can use it to wash floors, countertops, carpets, walls, wood flooring, and even laundry. The soap is available in liquid and bar forms and can be easily diluted with water for different needs. Scented versions of castile soap with disinfecting essential oils like eucalyptus or tea tree are popular. Microfiber cloths Microfiber cloths are a staple in every professional cleaner’s arsenal. These versatile cloths are designed to effectively trap dirt, dust, and grime. They’re lint-free and highly absorbent, ideal for wiping surfaces, dusting furniture, and cleaning glass and mirrors. You can use the cloth dry or slightly dampened with water. The best part is that microfiber cloths are reusable, making them eco-friendly. Citric acid Citric acid, a natural acid derived from citrus fruits, is known for its powerful cleaning properties. Food-grade powdered citric acid can remove mineral deposits, hard water stains, and rust.

Most individuals have their own tried-and-tested methods of cleaning their home space. When it comes to cleaning routines, one cannot be entirely sure if their preferred cleaning methods or products are effective or not. So, it makes sense to review home cleaning methods occasionally and improve them by avoiding mistakes to ensure better results and a cleaner environment. Here are a few common home cleaning mistakes to avoid. Not cleaning your cleaning tools Forgetting to clean up supplies is a common mistake many individuals make while cleaning their homes. Your cleaning routine is effective only when you regularly wash the cleaning cloths and wipes, scrub out the brushes, and sanitize and clean mop heads and toilet brushes. Furthermore, don’t forget to empty your vacuum cleaners, clean the attachments, and change the filter regularly. Not cleaning up the surface before disinfecting Most people think that disinfecting is the same as cleaning. However, technically this is not true. Before you disinfect any surface, clean it well to eliminate dust, debris, and other particles. If you don’t do this, the dust and dirt will prevent your disinfectant from effectively killing off the germs from the surface. Not cleaning your wooden chopping boards Individuals use chopping boards to slice raw vegetables, fruits, and meat. However, unbeknownst to many, these items carry the most germs. So unless you use only plastic chopping boards, simply putting them in the dishwasher won’t work. You need to scrub it with a soft sponge in warm soapy water. Then once a month, clean it with lemon and salt. Make sure to dry the board well. Also, remember to oil the board with food-safe oil to prevent moisture absorption. Lack of proper ventilation When using harsh chemicals while cleaning, you may notice the smell of strong fumes in the air.

There are numerous ways to maintain your home, from small DIY projects to large-scale renovations that require tearing down existing structures. Surprisingly, homeowners in the country typically spend approximately $15,000 on these renovation projects, so it’s natural to want to get it right. So, if you’re set to embark on a home renovation journey, and wish to save time and money, here are six common mistakes you should avoid. Under-budgeting Setting a budget is one of the first steps homeowners should take when considering a renovation project. Since these plans often cost more than one estimate, adding a 10-20% safety net into the budget is essential to help cover unexpected costs. Buying cheap materials Cheap materials tend to fall apart sooner. Invest in durable, high-quality materials that need not be replaced within a few years. Measuring incorrectly This is particularly important for homeowners carrying out DIY renovation projects. Incorrect measurements can compromise the integrity and overall quality of one’s project. Stick to the adage “measure twice, but cut once” – this will help reduce delays and save money. Failing to check neighborhood guidelines Many homes are governed by guidelines laid down by the neighborhood association or historical commission regulations. These generally apply to exterior home elements. When planning a home renovation project, ensure these are considered, and get approvals where required. Failing to do so may result in increased costs. Ignoring the plan Before beginning a home improvement project, it is essential to have a plan in place. This plan should include details of every product, including its price and finish. Working with this in hand can help reduce unexpected costs. If a contractor claims they do not work with a formalized plan of action, do not work with them! Buying furniture or furnishings too soon Wait to make these purchases until the project plans are finalized.

Removing laundry odor at home is essential to keep the clothes smelling fresh and clean. Unpleasant odors can arise from various sources, such as sweat, mildew, or lingering cooking smells. Effectively removing laundry odor at home involves a combination of proper sorting, washing, and maintenance practices. Following these steps and incorporating preventative measures ensures the clothes always smell fresh and clean. Check out some easy to follow expert suggestions. Sorting and Pre-Treatment Separate laundry into whites, colors, and delicate. Next pre-treat stains with stain removers before washing. Also, choose a high-quality laundry detergent that suits the washing machine and water hardness. Avoid using excess detergent, as it can leave a soapy residue that traps odors. Use the hottest water temperature recommended for all clothes. Hot water helps to dissolve oils and dirt, which can cause odor buildup. Establish a regular laundry routine to prevent odors from accumulating. Avoid letting wet laundry sit in the machine for an extended period, as this can promote mold and mildew growth. Proper Washing Machine Maintenance Regularly clean the washing machine, including the detergent drawer and drum. Use a washing machine cleaner or a vinegar and baking soda mixture to remove mold and mildew buildup. Add odor-fighting boosters to the laundry, such as baking soda, oxygen bleach, or white vinegar. These substances can help break down and remove stubborn odors. Clean the dryer’s lint filter before each use. Consider using dryer balls or sheets with a pleasant scent to add a fresh aroma to the laundry. Sunlight and Fresh Air Hang laundry outside in the sun and fresh air. This is a natural way to kill bacteria and eliminate odors. The ultraviolet rays and airflow can freshen clothes. Also, make sure all clothes are completely dry before storing them. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew growth.

The use of power tools is indispensable when one is involved in DIY projects and construction work. However, they also pose inherent risks if not handled properly. Accidents with power tools can lead to serious injuries and damage. To ensure safety in the workshop or on the job site, individuals must be aware of potential hazards and take preventive measures. Here are a few crucial tips on how to avoid common power tool accidents: 1. Read and understand the manual Before operating any power tool, it’s imperative to read and understand the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly. This document provides crucial information about the tool’s proper usage, safety precautions, and maintenance requirements. Neglecting this step can lead to misunderstandings or oversight of vital safety features. 2. Wear appropriate safety gear Personal protective equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable when working with power tools. This includes safety goggles, ear protection, gloves, and, in some cases, respiratory masks. Each piece of PPE serves a specific purpose in safeguarding against potential hazards, such as flying debris or loud noises. 3. Maintain a clean and organized workspace Clutter and disorganization can lead to accidents. Keep the work area tidy by promptly clearing away debris, storing tools properly, and ensuring adequate lighting. A clean workspace not only promotes safety but also enhances productivity. 4. Inspect tools regularly Before each use, it’s essential to inspect the power tool thoroughly. Check for loose parts, damaged cords, or any signs of wear and tear. Using a faulty tool significantly increases the risk of accidents and can lead to costly repairs. 5. Use the right tool for the job Selecting the appropriate power tool for a specific task is paramount. Trying to force a tool to perform a task it’s not designed for can result in accidents or damage to the tool. Therefore, picking a suitable tool for the task at hand is important.

For the sake of convenience, many people turn to paper towels as a quick and disposable solution for various cleaning tasks, from wiping hands to tackling common household messes. While paper towels are undoubtedly versatile and convenient for spills and drying, there are specific surfaces and items that they may not be well-suited for. Here are some common areas that are best cleaned with other alternatives to ensure the best outcome of one’s cleaning efforts. Delicate glassware Paper towels may seem like a logical choice for cleaning glass surfaces due to their absorbency and lint-free nature. But they can leave behind tiny paper fibers and streaks when used on delicate glassware. These imperfections can affect their appearance and require additional cleaning to correct. Instead, one can opt to use microfiber or lint-free cloth specifically designed for streak-free glass cleaning. Windows and mirrors Like glassware, cleaning windows and mirrors with paper towels can result in lint residue. One can instead reach for eco-friendly alternatives like an old cotton t-shirt or a piece of microfiber cloth for a more effective cleaning solution. Electronic screens Modern homes are filled with electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors, all of which have sensitive screens. Cleaning these screens with paper towels can scratch the surface and damage the protective coatings. Using specialized screen-cleaning solutions and microfiber cloths is advised to safely remove fingerprints and smudges without harming the screen. Greasy kitchen counters Paper towels may be effective at absorbing liquid spills, but they are less effective at tackling greasy messes on kitchen counters. When used to clean greasy surfaces, paper towels can quickly become saturated and spread the grease around rather than removing it. To combat greasy residue, one can use a kitchen-specific cleaning spray and a cloth or sponge that can handle tough stains.

Jewelry is among the most prized possessions for several households owing to its sheer elegance and value. Unfortunately, FBI estimates suggest that approximately $100 million worth of jewelry gets stolen each year nationwide. Although security systems can help detect and prevent such crimes, one should still exercise caution while leaving jewelry at home, as failure of such systems can increase the risk of jewelry theft. Here are some places to avoid hiding jewelry at home: In the freezer It is estimated that over one in four people hide their jewelry in the freezer. Therefore, burglars are typically well-versed with this tactic and may remember to check the freezer while trying to steal jewelry. Under the mattress The mattress is a seemingly safe place to hide precious items, as it can easily conceal the belongings kept underneath it. Unfortunately, since most individuals have discovered the effectiveness of this hiding place, hiding jewelry underneath the mattress has become common in households, and one of the spots burglars would be sure to check. The toilet water tank The toilet tank is a risky place to hide jewelry as it may be easily discovered. Also, there is a high chance of the jewelry to get tarnished due to moisture. Similarly, one should remember to avoid hiding jewelry in places like a vase or a jar containing a semi-solid or liquid substance. Inside a drawer Whether it is a desk, sock, or bedside drawer, robbers check these storage provisions first upon breaking into a home, as they are among the most obvious spots to hide jewelry. Even if one remembers to lock the drawer and carry the key while stepping out, burglars are never short of techniques to break it open. Therefore, it is best to avoid hiding one’s jewelry inside any drawer at home.

Bedbugs are among the peskiest pests and quite hard to get rid of. If they hang on to a person’s clothing or personal belongings, they can easily infest their homes, cars, etc. So, steering clear of bed bugs is crucial to avoid their bites and prevent one’s personal space from getting infested. One way to avoid catching bed bugs is to stay careful at a few hotspots where these insects usually lurk. These include the following: 1. Public transport Public transport seats, such as subway cars, cabs, and buses, are among the most common lurking places for bed bugs. They can easily hop on one’s clothing or personal items, like bags. One can avoid this by keeping their belongings carefully, not on the cushions, and checking their belongings properly upon reaching home. 2. Hotels Even though hotel beds are cleaned and disinfected before every check-in, the seats in a hotel’s waiting areas and lounge areas are usually not; chances are, these seats might be concealing bed bugs. So, it is best to avoid using these seats and keep luggage away from them when visiting hotels. 3. Office break rooms Bed bugs can thrive in office environments, especially in areas like break rooms where many people gather at once. Hence, when using office break rooms, one must be cautious about where they hang their coat or bag. 4. Gyms and yoga studios The locker rooms of gyms and yoga studios, being shared spaces, could also be harboring bed bugs. Hence, upon leaving these places, one must always inspect their gym bag, clothing, and yoga mat. 5. College dorms College dorms could also be potential hotspots, with numerous students gathering there. Hence, it is essential for those living there to check the bedding and get it laundered frequently. 6. Thrift stores With so many used items coming in, thrift stores are a hotspot for bugs.