Avoid machine-washing microfiber clothing

Your recycled-bottle fleece jacket most certainly contains microfibres, which account for approximately 35% of microplastics in the world’s seas. Your clothes shed microfibres with each wash, which end up in waterways and eventually in the food chain. Special fiber-trapping bags can assist keep them from flowing down the drain.

Using bleach too often

While bleach is a great stain remover and will whiten your dull garments, it should not be overused. Excess bleach use can damage your clothes and cause them to tear. To disinfect your clothes naturally, place them on a drying line outside. Sunlight will brighten and disinfect them. It will also leave them fresh smelling and clean.

Excess use of detergent

If you regularly overuse your detergent, it is time to stop. Using more cleaning products will not make your clothes cleaner. In fact, it will leave a residue behind which will attract more dirt and grime in the future. You can actually use half the recommended amount of detergent. Your clothes will still come out clean and you will be able to save money.

You forget to empty your dryer’s lint filter

You should remove the collected lint after every use of your drier. Lint buildup on your vents and flyers can start a fire. To avoid that, empty and vacuum the lint filter before or after every use.

You ignore all the missing socks

If every time you do laundry a sock or another small item goes missing, you may want to do something about it. Small things can get caught underneath the drum of a front-loading washer if they get past the rubber gasket. If you’re skeptical, hire a professional to investigate, then wash all your socks in a mesh bag to prevent them from disappearing.

You skip washing your jeans

It’s impossible to avoid cleaning jeans. Some people think that freezing your denim removes germs, but this is a myth—the bacteria just go quiet. You should regularly wash your denim garments as everything else. If you have a lot of them, keep them aside for a separate load and wash according to the care label of the fabric. Make sure you don’t wash them in very hot water as it may cause them to shrink.

Washing everything with hot water

While some garments, such as whites or undergarments need to be washed in hot water, a cold load will achieve good results for a number of fabrics. Up to 75% of the energy consumed for washing garments is used to heat the water. Your garments will be just as clean and last longer in a cold-water wash because lower temperatures retain colours and decrease shrinking. Check the care labels of your clothes and do a separate load for all fabrics that should be cleaned in cold water.

You have not invested in a high-efficiency laundry machine yet

If you are still using your old washing machine, you may want to change that. You can get yourself a new (or even second hand) high efficiency washer. Switching to a high-efficiency, Energy Star-certified machine not only saves you up to 25% on your utility bills, but it’s also healthier for the environment. When compared to traditional washers, a full-sized Energy Star machine can save more than 7,500 litres of water each year.

Leaving wet towels in the washing machine

If you tend to forget your wet towels in the laundry machine, they may develop a musty smell. To prevent that from happening, make sure you take them out as soon as the load is finished. Do not keep dirty garments in the washing machine and always leave the door open. If your towels are already musty smelling, add a cup of baking soda or a cup of vinegar to your load. Choose one and make sure you don’t mix the two.

You use commercial cleaning products with unknown ingredients

To avoid using mystery ingredients, you can make your own laundry detergent. Mix 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of Castile soap and 1 litre of water. Use ½ cup of this solution to wash your clothes.

You fall for green products

Even if the product says ‘’unscented’’ it may still contain chemicals you probably don’t want to use when cleaning your clothes. These detergents may still contain scents that mask the chemical smell. Make sure you do your research on all ingredients and pick a safe brand you can trust. That is of crucial importance, especially if you have babies or children in the household. If you want to make a safe, non-toxic laundry detergent at home, use the recipe above.

As with cleaning, ironing polyester materials has its specifics.In this article, we will share a few different methods for doing exactly that. You can choose the one that you find most suitable for the particular item you have.
Most of those methods require moist heat. However, before using your steamer on any fabrics, check for any stains. The heat may set the stains and cause them to become hard to remove or even permanent.

Steamy shower
You can get rid of polyester wrinkles in the shower. If your new or already worn polyester clothes have creases, you can hang them in the shower. Make sure you do that after cleaning and once the garments are dry. Place them on hangers, and create some steam. You can use the hottest possible water from your tap. If you have a bathtub, you can use this opportunity to fill it up. Let the clothes sit in the shower for as long as possible (or until all the steam is gone).

Use the washing machine

Your washing machine can be useful for a lot more than just cleaning. To use it for removing wrinkles from polyester, follow these steps:

1. Check the fabric care label for the required washing temperature.
2. Choose a permanent press cycle. This cycle will use a slower final spin that will help reduce wrinkles. Use your usual laundry detergent.
3. When loading the washing machine, make sure you don’t overstuff it. It is important that the fabric has space to move around for the cleaning process, and to help reduce wrinkles.
4. After washing, shake the polyester garment to assist remove wrinkles. Tumble for about five minutes in an automated dryer set on medium-high heat. Remove the polyester clothing while it is still damp and hang it to dry on a strong hanger.

Remove wrinkles in the dryer

Always use this method after cleaning. Clean but wrinkled polyester clothes should also have no visible stains. The heat from the dryer may make them permanent.

1. Dip a microfiber cloth in water, then wring it until it is damp. Place it in the dryer and add the clean garments.
2. Set the cycle to medium or high heat and run a cycle. Let the fabric tumble for about 5 minutes.
3. While the items are still damp, take them out of the dryer and hang them on a firm hanger. Allow them to air dry. If you have a dryer with a steam cycle, you can use it instead of placing a damp cloth inside.

Get rid of wrinkles using a clothes steamer

1. Hang the polyester items – For polyester clothing, use a sturdy hanger to minimise further creases and to provide 360-degree access to the item. To expose as much surface area as possible, hang clothes, tablecloths, and other linens from a shower rod or clothing rack.
2. To avoid hot water spills or dribbles, keep the steamer nozzle upright and concentrate on the right side of the fabric. As the steam escapes, gently brush the fabric with the nozzle. Holding the garment at the hem, gently pull on the hem to straighten the fabric as you work.
3. Allow the fabric to dry naturally. Do not fold or wear an item until it is completely dry.

Use an iron to get rid of wrinkles

1. Use an ironing board or another flat surface. You should also use a steam iron and a pressing cloth (especially for a high percentage of polyester).
2. The majority of polyester fabrics can be ironed on a medium-high setting or roughly 150 degrees C. Choose a slightly lower heat setting if the fabric is very lightweight and thin.
3. Spritz the fabric with water. Even though you will be using a steam iron, dampen the fabric a bit. This will help remove the wrinkles.
4. Iron polyester on the right side using a pressing cloth between the fabric and the iron to prevent glossy streaks if the iron is too hot. Iron slowly in long strokes from the top of the item to the bottom. When ironing a large piece of fabric, make sure the iron does not run dry.
5. Once you are done with ironing, the fabric should feel slightly damp. Hang it on a sturdy hanger and allow it to air dry. Do not fold or wear the garment before it is completely dry.

Extra tips on reducing wrinkles:

• To avoid creasing during the spin cycle, do not overload the washer when washing polyester.
• Do not wear or use damp polyester fabric.
• As quickly as possible, open packaging and unfold stored polyester clothes. Allow wrinkles to relax by hanging.
• When washing, add fabric conditioner to the rinse cycle to assist relax the fibres.

Whenever food or drinks spill on a wooden surface, clean them immediately. Any spilled liquids left to sit can cause discolouration or wrapping of the wood or make its finish cloudy. Dust on a regular basis, such as every few days or at least once a week, to keep dust buildup to a minimum. Dusting removes the small particles that can scratch the surface. Once a month, use your favourite furniture polish(or make your own) to bring the shine back to your wooden furniture. Buff out minor scratches or nicks.
Too much polish or wax can dull the wood or cause it to become cloudy, or faded. Depending on how frequently you polish the furniture, it will eventually require a thorough cleaning once in a while. Both methods we mention below are effective. Begin with the gentler method of using a tea solution, and if that fails, move on to the more potent method of using mineral spirits.

Regular cleaning of wooden furniture

1. 1. Wipe spills as soon as they happen – If liquid spills on the wooden surface, grab a microfiber cloth or a paper towel and clean it up as soon as possible. If something sticky leaves a messy spot on the wood, dampen a cloth with plain water (make sure it is slightly damp and not dripping) and gently scrub at the stain. Once you remove the liquid, buff the surface with a dry microfiber cloth.
   2. To remove dust, use a microfiber cloth, a feather duster, or an electrostatic duster. If you are sensitive to dust, wear a dust mask and consider dusting with a damp cloth rather than a duster. After dusting, buff the surfaces with a soft cotton cloth to remove smudges and bring back the original shine. Don’t forget about the legs, arms, and smaller wooden supports on the furniture.
   3. If you have not cleaned your wooden furniture in a while and it has become grimy, mix a cleaning solution of 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and 2 litres of water in a bucket. Dip a cloth in the solution, wring it out until it is damp and not dripping and gently clean the whole surface of the wood.

Deep cleaning of wooden furniture

If you have been using too much wood wax or have not cleaned your wooden furniture in a while, it is possible that a sticky residue will develop all over its surface. To get rid of it:

1. 1. 1. Make a tea-cleaning solution – Tannic acid, or tannins, in tea can cut through waxy build-up on wood. In two cups of hot water, steep two black tea bags. When the tea is cool enough to handle, soak a soft cloth, cotton balls, or cotton swabs in the solution and wring it until it is slightly damp. Begin at the top and gently wipe in the direction of the wood grain. To remove the grime, rinse the cloth in cold water. Wring and rewet with the tea solution, then wring and keep wiping. Finish by buffing each cleaned section to a shine with a soft cloth.
      2. Mineral spirits is a petroleum distillate that is used to thin oil-based paints as well as to clean stains and varnishes to remove waxy build-up. When using the product, always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves. Apply a small amount to a cloth and wipe the furniture in the direction of the wood grain. As the grime is transferred, move to a clean area of the cloth. Buff the wood with a soft microfiber cloth.

Make sure you wax or polish your wooden surfaces once in a while. Wax is more durable than spray products and will give a hard protective layer that will prevent minor scratches, staining and water damage. Liquid finishes are easier to apply, however, their protective layer is not as thick and efficient.
If you have an expensive or antique piece of furniture, it is best to bring it to a professional. Any attempts on cleaning it by yourself may cause damage to the surface or harm the wood.

How often should you clean your linoleum floor?

How often should you clean and maintain your linoleum floors? This will be determined by how heavily your floor is used, as well as a number of other things. Are muck and grime being tracked onto the floor on a regular basis? Are foods and liquids routinely spilled? Is it a recent linoleum with a strong wear layer, or an older floor easily scraped by dirt and grit?
Cleaning a linoleum floor weekly is generally a good idea, but depending on the circumstances, you may need to do it every day or no more than once a month.
The best indicator is to carefully inspect the floor on a daily basis. If dirt and stains are visible, clean the floor, even if it has been cleaned recently.

Daily linoleum cleaning – In order to maintain your linoleum flooring clean for longer, prevent damage and make its thorough cleaning easier, you should give it a quick wiping down on a daily basis or between deep cleans (if you deep clean the linoleum once every month for example). You can clean and maintain your linoleum floor on a daily or weekly basis in between deep cleans. Use the following quick tips:

• To remove dirt that has become ground into the floor, dust mop (with a dry microfiber mop) every day or every few days.
• When vacuuming your linoleum floor on a daily or weekly basis, remove the beater brush and utilise the hard floor setting.
• Damp mop the floor once a week using a mix of water and liquid dish soap, then rinse with clean water and dry completely with a soft towel or air-dry.
• Restore shine as needed with a quick damp mop and a bucket of water with a cup of white vinegar (no need to rinse unless you prefer to do so). Thoroughly dry the floor.

Deep cleaning linoleum flooring

1. Always sweep and dust the floor first. Make sure you remove all solids, large particles, and debris. Make sure there is no mud or dust left behind since when the mopping time comes, you will only end up smearing this mess around causing more dirt to occur on your floor. Pay extra attention to corners and areas that are hidden or hard to reach.
2. Wiping down the entire floor with a microfiber cloth is a good option since it removes any lingering microscopic particles of grit that could potentially scrape the floor during deep mopping.
3. Prepare your cleaning solution. We suggest you avoid using any harsh chemicals and strong cleaning solutions. Instead, fill a gallon of hot water in a bucket, then add 6 to 8 drops of regular, over-the-counter dish soap. Anything very harsh or acidic should be avoided. Use the same soap that you use on your dishes. This solution should then be gently stirred.
4. Dip your mop into the soapy bucket and completely wring it out. Linoleum can be damaged by standing water, so clean the floor with as little liquid as possible. The mop’s strands should be just moist and soapy.
5. Divide the room into sections. As you finish each phase, return the mop to the bucket, wring it dry, and begin over in the next section. Repeat until the entire floor is covered. When you’re through, empty the bucket of soapy water and wash it, as well as the mop, in clean water.
6. Toss out the dirty water and fill the bucket with clean warm water. Now is the perfect time to rinse your mop as well. Mop the whole floor using plain water. Make sure you get rid of all soapy residue that may still be on it since it will end up attracting more dirt and grime in the future.
7. After the floor has been thoroughly cleaned, you must remove any remaining wetness. Standing water can be extremely hazardous to the installation of linoleum flooring. To accomplish this, use old rags or towels to dry the floor’s surface.

If there are any stubborn stains that would not come out that easily, you can use the methods we mentioned above with a scrub brush. You can also sprinkle baking soda on pet stains or other stinky areas of your linoleum. Make sure you don’t let dirt and grime sit on it for too long since they may become permanent.

Whenever you do your regular weekly or monthly cleaning of the house (vacuuming, dusting, etc.) you should also dust your painted walls and remove cobwebs. Make sure you do a more thorough cleaning once a month. This can include spot treatment and cleaning discolouration around door knobs and light switches. If you have any larger splatters, crayon or scuff marks, or greasy fingerprints, keep reading to find out the best way to get rid of them.

Before you attempt cleaning your painted walls, you should identify the type of paint that you have. While all types of paint can be dusted, when it comes to deep cleaning and washing the surface of the wall you should really take the paint type and requirements into consideration in order to avoid damage and further discolouration.

There are two types of interior wall paint you may have but their finishes are also important. Here are some of the most basic interior wall paints:

• Oil-based paints – Those are most often used in moist areas. This type of paint is more durable than latex paints and withstands cleaning better.
• Water-based latex paints – This is the most common indoor paint type. It is less prone to chipping and cracking, however, it is not as good at withstanding washing as oil-based paints.

Types of interior paint finishes:

• Flat or Matte – Almost chalky in appearance, with a little sheen to the surface; does not clean well; do not use strong chemicals, a lot of moisture, or extreme pressure when cleaning.
• Eggshell or Satin – Reflects light with a subtle shine; is more resilient for cleaning and is appropriate for high traffic areas; avoid using abrasive cleaners; and limit the quantity of liquid used when washing.
• Semi-gloss – Reflects light with a prominent sheen; a good choice for kitchens, bathrooms, doors, and woodwork; resists moisture, except the strongest chemicals.
• High gloss – Leaves a strong and lustrous shiny surface; the most durable finish; suitable for furniture, cabinets, and trim; cleans easily with detergent or a degreaser.

Cleaning water-based latex paint walls

1. Dust the surface of the wall – Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush extension or a microfiber duster. Start at the top and work your way down.
2. Mix a cleaning solution – Add 1 teaspoon of all-purpose cleaner into a bucket of water. Fill another bucket with clean water.
3. Wash the wall with a soft sponge or a cloth – Dip a soft sponge or a cloth in the cleaning solution and wring it until it is not dripping but only moist. Start at the top of the wall and work in small sections. Use circular motions and do not apply too much pressure.
4. Rinse the wall – Dip another soft cloth in the plain water, wring it until it is not dripping, and repeat the step above in order to remove any soapy residue.
5. For stains and marks – For stubborn scuffs and smudges, dab a wet sponge in baking soda and lightly rub the affected area. The baking soda’s light abrasive impact should take care of the problem. To remove grime from painted areas surrounding doorknobs and trim work, use rubbing alcohol on a sponge.

Cleaning oil-based paint

1. Dust the surface of the wall – removing dust and cobwebs will prevent them from spreading around while you are cleaning the wall.
2. Mix a cleaning solution – In a bucket, combine one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and 1/2 teaspoon distilled white vinegar per litre of warm water. Pour plain water into a second bucket for rinsing.
3. Clean and rinse the wall – Dip a soft cloth or a sponge in the cleaning solution and gently scrub the wall starting at the top and working your way down. Follow by a clean cloth dipped in plain water and rinse the wall.
4. For stubborn stains – Add two tablespoons of laundry borax to the cleaning solution if the walls are stained. To remove grime from semi-gloss or glossy oil paint finishes, use a melamine sponge (like Mr Clean Eraser). The abrasive action will remove all scuffs with a gentle touch.

To reduce the dirt and grime on your painted walls, follow these tips:

• Avoid smoking in the house, from tobacco and cooking to burning candles or incense; combustion soot coats walls, making them unclean faster.
• Spot cleaning walls as soon as you discover smudges or hand prints between big cleaning tasks. It will prolong the appearance of clean walls.
• Read the box of paint or ask the people who applied it for the best cleaning method, most suitable for that particular type. It will make maintenance easier and help you keep your walls bright and clean for longer.

While nowadays, more people are interested in sustainable living and recycling, most have no clue that this goes beyond plastic bottles and cans. This, of course, is amazing and some countries do, in fact, have machines that will give you cash whenever you dispose of cans and bottles, you can go the extra mile and recycle a lot more. Every little bit of recycling you can do helps the environment in major ways. The more junk we keep out of landfills, the less probable it is that waste will enter our waterways and damage sea life. The more we recycle, the more we save already scarce natural resources.
Keep reading to find out what can be recycled and where and how to dispose of it.

Batteries
While ordinary alkaline, manganese, and carbon-zinc batteries are not considered hazardous and can be thrown away in the ordinary garbage bin, it is better that you recycle them. They can be used to make a lot of other items, especially metal ones. Lithium and button batteries that are single-use or rechargeable should always be recycled.

• A lot of supermarkets, food stores, and tech stores have places that collect used batteries and recycle them. If you are not sure where to put them, ask an employee.
• Ikea stores also take batteries for recycling.

Books
Books are made of paper and are perfect for recycling. Even though most people read e-books, who does not love a physical copy that smells of paper and old libraries? If you are renovating or decluttering at home and you have a lot of books you will no longer read, collect them in a box and donate them. You can give them to a shelter or a charity organisation, you can donate them to a local library or give them away to a second-hand book store. If you would like to make some money off your precious books, sell them online.

Lights and bulbs
The type of light or bulb dictates how and where it is recycled. Incandescent and LED bulbs can be discarded in the garbage, but not all recycling centres accept them. Other types of bulbs may be considered hazardous due to mercury traces within the bulb and must be handled and discarded with caution. It is best to ask someone in an e-store. They will know where those can be disposed of. If you are already in the recycling centre, ask the employees there.

Cell phones
With new models quickly showing up on the market, people quickly replace their old phones. Cell phones are a big source of garbage. Those can actually be recycled (even if they are no longer working). While Apple stores will accept any of their products back (those include iPads, iPods, iPhones, MacBooks, etc.), other tech stores can also take your used devices and even give you credit for the store. Make sure you mention whether the phone is working or not. Working phones will be cleared of data and passed down by people in shelters, refugees, and other people in need.

Clothes
The old clothes at the bottom of your closet can be worn once again. There are always people in need that will be more than grateful to receive a new set of warm clothes (even if they do not match today’s fashion). If you are decluttering your wardrobe, collect the clothes that can be worn (make sure they are clean and do not have missing buttons, holes, etc.). You can organise them in different boxes – one for children, one for males, one for females. Or separate the clothes by type – winter wear, jackets, summer clothing, etc.
You can give those to a local charity organisation, to a Red Cross centre, or give them to a second-hand store nearby.

Furniture
Whenever you are renovating, keep in mind that not everyone can afford to refurbish their house. If you have a bunch of furniture you plan on replacing, do not rush to throw it away. While the simplest way to get rid of it but still give it a chance is placing it outside your house so someone can take it, you can actually donate it to a local charity centre or a shelter. You can even sell it online.

There are three general types of mould that are most commonly found in a household and those are:

1. Allergenic mould is the easiest to clean and you can use disinfecting products only.
2. Pathogenic mould cleaning is similar to an allergenic one. However, large colonies will need to be treated by professionals.
3. Toxic moulds should be addressed as soon as possible. They should always be treated by professionals and all materials used during the process should be disposed of.

As soon as mould is identified, it should be eradicated as soon as possible. Even if you don't observe mould development, there are warning indications of a future mould infestation that can help you keep the colony under control. To help maintain your household healthy, watch out for these signs of mould growth:

• You notice a musty odour in your home. The odour indicates a mould problem that must be treated.
• You have ignored a dripping faucet or a leaking roof that has caused moisture.
• A wall that feels soft or damp to the touch could indicate inner mould growth that will soon be visible on the surface. Discolouration of wallpaper and paint can be noticeable too.
• Because of the house’s inadequate ventilation, there is moisture collection that takes a long time to evaporate from the walls. Make sure all vents are properly working.

Here is how you can approach mould cleaning in the best way possible:

1. Mix a cleaning solution – Combine 1 part dishwashing liquid, 10 parts bleach, and 20 parts water in a small bucket. In a spray bottle, combine 1 tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, 1/2 cup chlorine bleach, and 1 cup of warm water to clean a small area of the mould. The dishwashing liquid allows the solution to adhere to the wall for a longer period of time, killing the mould spores.
2. Wear protection – When cleaning mould, wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting splattered with bleach and can be rinsed in hot water to eliminate any mould spores that may have landed on the surface (best to throw them away). Put on a face mask (N-95 is recommended), safety glasses, and gloves.
3. Make sure the area is well-ventilated – You should always make sure the room you are working in is very well-ventilated. Open all windows and place fans around the room to improve airflow. It is best to do this type of cleaning on a warm day when you can leave doors and windows open for a couple of days or until the smell is gone.
4. Apply the cleaning solution to the affected area – Use a spray bottle or a sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the affected surface. It is advisable to start cleaning moulds at the bottom and work your way up. This prevents spores from spreading and stains from streaking on your wall. To avoid drywall damage, the surface of the wall should be completely wet but not saturated. If the mould is towards the ceiling, always use a strong stepladder or a clean sponge mop to administer the solution.
5. Dry and check – Do not wipe the cleaning solution away – let it air dry. Once the area is dry, check for any remaining stains or spores. Repeat the process if needed.

Pro tips on getting rid of mould for good:

Chlorine bleach is the most effective home-removal product for killing mould spores. However, it is toxic and many people nowadays try to avoid using it. If the infestation is small, you can use distilled white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to kill the spores.

Distilled white vinegar is acidic enough to slowly break down the structure of the mould and kill it. However, dark stains may remain and require additional scrubbing with a household cleaner. Spray the mould with 100% distilled white vinegar, wipe away the mould with a microfiber cloth or sponge, and allow the area to air dry.

Hydrogen peroxide will kill mould and lighten stains but it works more slowly than chlorine bleach and may require multiple applications. Spray the mould with 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (first-aid grade), wipe the area with a sponge, and all the walls to air-dry.

To avoid mould and mildew growth, check your plumbing, roof, faucets, and other sources of moisture that may be malfunctioning and creating the perfect conditions for mould growth.

]]> https://www.endoftenancycleaningagency.co.uk/cleaning-tips-and-tricks-for-your-attic/ Sat, 04 Feb 2023 10:44:58 +0000 https://www.shinylondon.co.uk/?p=4578
Many homes have an attic and even though it usually serves as a storage space for most households, it is ideal for expanding your property. Your attic may not be a part of your regular cleaning schedule but if you go there once a year to collect your Christmas decorations or other items that are not used often enough to not be stored away, you may notice just how much dirt, grime, cobwebs, and dust. What is more, allergens like mouse droppings, mould, and insect carcasses are also common.
Once you open the door to your attic, all those sneak into your home, filling the air with irritating dust that will affect you and may trigger your allergies or asthma.

If you decide it is time to clean your attic because you are overwhelmed by the dirt collected there, or because you want to convert it into a living space, do not worry. Even though the job may seem scary, once you break it down into steps, you will be able to finish it in no time. This is exactly what this article will do so keep reading to find out how to do this in the best way possible.


Cleaning years of accumulated dust and grime will require time, patience, and effort so here are the five steps you can take to make everything easier:

1. Prepare your gear – Before entering the attic, prepare a filtration mask, gloves, and safety glasses. You never know what you will encounter in that dark attic of yours and you can never be too prepared. Bring a vacuum cleaner, a broom, and a dustpan. Check if there is a working light bulb and prepare a flashlight just in case.
2. Clear your way in there – Be careful where you stand – The ceiling/attic floor in older houses may be rotten and not have enough strength to support your weight. Begin removing boxed, and other items that may prevent you from reaching the end of your attic. It is best if you have someone to help you and bring the boxes down into the house. If there is furniture or larger objects, remove them to make the thorough cleaning of the attic easier.
3. Get rid of dust – Begin dusting the light fixtures, ceiling, and walls with your broom. Make sure you reach all corners, and crevices, and do not forget to vacuum behind furniture that remains in the attic. When done, sweep and vacuum the floor. You can bring a rubbish bag to fill if there are excessive amounts of dirt and dust, but use your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt that is stuck between the floorboards. Wipe any furniture, shelves, or other surfaces that may be grimy and dusty. If there are windows in your attic, open them to improve the airflow and not fill the entire space with dust. In the end, dust the windows and window frames, then clean them using a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
4. Inspect the attic – Once you are done cleaning the attic, it is time to inspect it for any problems. No matter if you plan on converting it into a bedroom, living room, or office space, or keep using it for storage, inspection is important. Check the attic floor, the insulation, the roof, and the windows.

Start by inspecting your corners and external walls for mould and mildew, as well as any signs of pest infestations. If there is missing insulation, floorboards, moisture damage, or any other issues, call a professional company. While you can replace some things yourself, it is always best to hire a professional, especially for more serious construction issues or electrical installations.

5. Organise and sort – Once you have finished the cleaning and restoration steps, it is time to go through all the items that you removed from the attic, as well as the ones that are still in there. Go through all the boxes, cupboards, and drawers, and separate all the items into three piles – keep, dispose of, and donate. Do not keep anything that you do not need or want. Anything you actually want to keep, organise carefully and place back in clear boxes with labels. Ask your helper to assist you in bringing items back into your freshly cleaned attic. You will be impressed by how many things you don’t actually need, as well as the space that you will have up there.

If you decide on renovating your attic and converting it into a living space, once you are done cleaning, remove all items and furniture, look around the place, estimate how much space there is and what you can best make out of it. Make a general plan and ask a professional contractor to come to design a room for you and make the best out of it.

]]> https://www.endoftenancycleaningagency.co.uk/cleaning-your-cabinets-on-the-inside-what-to-use/ Wed, 25 Jan 2023 14:26:02 +0000 https://www.shinylondon.co.uk/?p=4551 Every kitchen includes a number of cabinets that store food products, packages, small appliances, and anything else that is needed around the kitchen but not often enough to be kept on the counter. It is extremely important to clean the inside and outside of those cabinets to ensure the thorough cleanliness of your whole kitchen and also maintain your household healthy.
You can clean cabinets using different solutions. In this article, we will share some of the best ingredients you can use to thoroughly clean the inside of your kitchen cabinets, as well as some tips and tricks on how to do it in the best way possible. You can pick any of the different methods we will list. Make sure you pick the one you like the most – all of them are great for a variety of reasons.


What to use when cleaning your kitchen cabinets?

Dish soap
Dish soap is great for cleaning the interior of kitchen cabinets. You can dilute a bit of dishwashing liquid into warm water and use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to wipe down the inside of your cabinets. Make sure you sweep away all solids and dust the whole surface prior to the cleaning. For easier application, pour the solution into a spray bottle and use it to apply to the sides, top, and bottom of the cabinets.

Baking soda
If you do not want to use dish soap, you can turn to a more natural method – such as baking soda. It is a great ingredient that will help with dirt, stains, and bad odours. Mix 2 parts baking soda and 1 part water to create a cleaning paste. Wipe the sides and bottom of the cupboard, and leave it on for a few minutes for stubborn stains and grime, use an old toothbrush for scrubbing. As an alkali, baking soda is perfect for breaking down grease and other dirt found on your kitchen cupboards.

White vinegar
Vinegar is a powerful, yet natural cleaning solution and is especially great for stain removal. If you are worried about it being too harsh on your cupboards, you can mix a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar and put it into a spray bottle. Use this mixture to cover the inside of your kitchen cupboards. Wipe it with a damp cloth.

How to clean the inside of a kitchen cabinet?

The first step is to always remove everything from the cabinet. You can take out the shelves if it is possible. That way, you will be able to clean them better. If you use your cabinet for food, go through your supply and get rid of any expired packages. When you empty your cabinets, remove solids and dust the whole surface. You can use a small handheld brush, a vacuum cleaner, or a damp cloth to wipe down the whole inside.

Once you have completed these steps, grab the cleaning solution you chose and spread it all over the inside of your kitchen cabinet. Use a soft cloth or a sponge for paste-like substances and a spray bottle for liquid ones. Make sure you do not oversaturate the inside of your cupboard, especially if it is made of wood.

For stubborn stains or stuck-on foods, use an old toothbrush and gently scrub them. Do not apply too much pressure to avoid scratches or other damage to the surface. It is best to grab a damp cloth and wipe the inside of your cabinet once you are done with the cleaning. That way, you will get rid of any soapy residue left on. Finish by wiping down the inside of your cabinet once more, using a dry cloth this time.

To make the cleaning of kitchen cabinets easier and prevent them from becoming dirty quicker, use cupboard lining. It will protect the surface from spills and water damage from freshly washed dishes. You can find special cupboard lining in most stores, or you can choose to use laminated contact paper instead.
You may further protect your cabinets by applying furniture wax to provide a protective layer that keeps dirt from adhering and water from penetrating them. Apply a thin coat of wax, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then buff it with a soft dry cloth. Because the wax lasts so long, you only need to apply it to the cabinets once a year.

You do not need to clean your cabinets daily, but once a week to once a month would be sufficient (depending on what you store in those cabinets). If you keep your freshly washed dishes in such a cabinet, you may need to wipe them down once a month, or whenever you notice grime. If you use cabinet lining underneath the cups and dishes, you may need to wipe it down once a week.
Cupboards that store food, grains, biscuits, and others, you will need to clean once every two weeks. Make sure you sweep any spills and foods to avoid insect and pest infestations.

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Unfortunately, items at home do not last forever. Even with regular cleaning and maintenance, household objects do have an expiration date and there is nothing that can be done about that. However, something you can take action for is prolonging their life expectancy. By properly taking care of your belongings you will be able to maintain their good condition for longer. Here is how to prolong the life of a few common household items.


Make your paint last longer
If you have been renovating and painting, you probably got some leftover paint. If you are not going to be using this straight away, you want to store it upside down. This will make your paint last longer. Make sure your lid is properly closed before attempting this trick.

Repairing scratched glasses
If you have been cleaning your glasses for a while but they remain looking dirty, there might be a scratch. If your glasses don’t have an anti glare protective coating on them, you may need to fix minor scratches yourself. Here is how to do that. Put a drop of Brasso on a small cotton ball, apply to the scratched area and let it dry. Once the product is completely dry, polish the whole surface with a soft cloth.

How to reuse vacuum cleaner bags
Did you know you can actually reuse your vacuum cleaner bags? The bottom end of the bag is usually folded multiple times and glued shut. To reuse it, unfold the bottom edge (be careful not to tear it), empty the contents, and fold the edge back. You can staple it and reuse it once more.

Make your paint roller last longer
Washing a paint roller cover in between layers is a waste of time and paint. So a can of crisps, preferably a plastic one, is a painting essential. Eat the crisps and then empty the can before you begin painting. You don’t want unintentional texture on your walls! To keep the wet roller from drying off between applications, place it in an empty can and close the lid.

Make your garden hose last longer
Sunlight may destroy the plastic on your garden hose and make it fragile. To protect it, apply a sealant or protective spray on it. Do this in spring, and in the middle of summer. If you are not using the hose, bring it back. Also, do not let it sit outside during the cold winter months.

Make sure your glasses are not falling apart
Have screws that won’t stay in your favourite glasses? To protect screws from becoming loose, apply a thin coat of nail paint to them. Remove the screw, paint it with nail polish, and replace it. As it goes into all the cracks and gaps, the nail polish holds it in place.

Make your roof last longer
Cleaning your roof twice a year is a must. That way you will prevent leaves, mould, and other grime from causing damage to it. A leaf blower can be used to blast leaves off a low-pitched roof. On steeper rooftops, use a broom on an extension pole to pull them off. It’s also a good idea to prune any branches that are close to or touching the tiles.
Mould should be chemically treated before being swept away with a soft broom. A diluted bleach solution will kill mould but may also destroy plants on the ground below, so only spray enough to wet the surface of the roof. Fungicide-containing roof cleaners are also available. Mould can be kept at bay by installing zinc strips at the top of the roof.
Extra tip:You may always use cleaning services provided by professionals for cleaning task like these.

Keep your winter boots safe during the cold months
During the winter, your shoes can suffer a lot. The salt used to melt ice and snow on driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots can help keep you safe, but it can also leave an unsightly white film on your footwear. You can quickly remove the residue with a simple solution that you may manufacture at home. Fill a spray bottle halfway with water and top it off with a couple of tablespoons of white vinegar. Shake it up a little and spritz it on a clean paper towel. Wipe your shoes gently to remove the salt residue. Keep the spray bottle beside your shoe collection so you can clean off your shoes throughout the season.

Make wood putty last longer
If you keep buying wood putty and only use it once, put an end to this cycle right now. The best way to prevent your wood putty from drying is to fill a large paint can or a sealable container with water and keep your putty in there. If it is fully submerged and no air can enter the container, it will not dry and you will be able to use it more than once.

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