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How to Clean a Bathroom: A Step-by-Step Guide for Sparkling Results A clean bathroom is not only essential for hygiene, but it also creates a pleasant and inviting space in your home. Cleaning your bathroom may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, cleaning can be quick, efficient, and even satisfying. Whether you’re tackling your sink, toilet, shower, or bathtub, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the best methods and cleaning products to use to achieve a sparkling bathroom. Why a Clean Bathroom Matters Bathrooms are high-traffic areas and often become breeding grounds for germs, mould, and mildew. Regular cleaning can help eliminate bacteria, prevent the buildup of soap scum and limescale, and maintain the overall appearance of your bathroom. Plus, a fresh and clean bathroom makes for a more enjoyable experience every time you step in. What You’ll Need to Clean Your Bathroom Before we dive into the cleaning steps, it’s important to gather the right tools and cleaning products. Here’s a list of products you should consider buying: All-purpose cleaner Disinfectant spray or wipes Glass cleaner Toilet bowl cleaner Baking soda Vinegar Microfiber cloths Scrub brushes (soft and hard-bristled) Sponges Rubber gloves A mop and bucket (if needed) A squeegee for the shower glass Step 1: Declutter and Prepare Your Bathroom Before you begin cleaning, remove any items from countertops, shelves, and the floor. This includes toiletries, towels, rugs, and bath products. You want to start with a clear space so you can reach every surface with ease. If you have bath mats or towels that need washing, set them aside. Step 2: Clean the Sink The bathroom sink is where a lot of everyday grime, toothpaste, soap scum, and water spots accumulate. Here’s how to clean it effectively: Remove Items: Take all toiletries, soap dispensers, and toothbrush holders off the counter. Apply Cleaner: Spray an all-purpose cleaner or a mild bathroom cleaner on the sink, faucet, and surrounding countertop. A cleaner with natural ingredients, such as one that includes citric acid or vinegar, can effectively break down soap scum without being harsh on surfaces. Clean Faucets: Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe down the faucet handles, spout, and base. Be sure to scrub any mineral buildup, which can often appear around the faucet where water has dried. Scrub the Sink: For stubborn stains, sprinkle some baking soda onto the surface of the sink. Use a non-abrasive scrub brush to scrub the sink in circular motions, paying extra attention to any grime around the drain and faucet. You can also use a toilet cleaner such as Harpic (more on that later!). Rinse and Dry: Rinse the sink thoroughly to remove all cleaning products and grime. Use a dry cloth to wipe away water spots and keep the sink looking shiny. Step 3: Clean the Toilet Toilets are often the focal point of bathroom cleaning, and for good reason. It’s essential to keep them spotless and disinfected to prevent germs and odours from spreading. Here’s how to do it: Apply Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Pour a generous amount of toilet bowl cleaner around the rim of the toilet bowl. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to disinfect and dissolve any buildup. Scrub the Toilet Bowl: After the cleaner has had time to sit, use a toilet brush to scrub the inside of the bowl, including under the rim. Make sure to scrub the entire bowl to remove stains and mineral deposits. Disinfect the Exterior: Spray the exterior of the toilet, including the tank, lid, seat, and base, with a disinfectant cleaner. Wipe down these areas using a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to clean the flush handle—this is a high-touch area that can harbour germs. Flush and Rinse: After scrubbing the toilet bowl, flush to rinse away the cleaner. Wipe down the seat and lid with a clean, dry cloth.   Step 4: Clean the Shower The shower is one of the most challenging areas to clean due to soap scum, mold, and mildew buildup. However, with the right products and technique, you can keep it spotless. Here’s how to do it: Remove Items: Take out any shampoo bottles, soap, or other products from the shower. Apply a Shower Cleaner: Use a bathroom cleaner specifically designed for soap scum and mildew, or mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the entire shower, including walls, doors, and the shower floor. Let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes to break down grime and soap residue. Scrub the Tiles and Grout: Using a soft scrub brush or sponge, scrub the shower tiles and grout lines to remove buildup. For stubborn stains, you can make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to the grout lines and scrub it gently with a brush. Clean the Shower Doors: If you have glass shower doors, spray them with a glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution to remove water spots and soap scum. Use a squeegee to wipe down the glass, ensuring a streak-free finish. Rinse and Dry: After scrubbing, rinse the entire shower area thoroughly with warm water. Wipe down all surfaces with a clean, dry cloth to remove excess water and prevent new spots from forming. Step 5: Clean the Bathtub Cleaning the bathtub is similar to cleaning the shower, but since bathtubs often accumulate soap scum and stains, you may need to use a stronger cleaner. Here’s how to clean your bathtub effectively: Apply Cleaner: Apply a bathroom cleaner to the bathtub surface, focusing on areas with soap scum buildup or stains. You can use a specific tub cleaner or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Scrub: Use a sponge or soft scrub brush to clean the tub’s surface. Pay attention to the drain area and faucet to ensure no grime is left behind. Clean the Overflow and Jets: If your bathtub has jets or an overflow drain, be sure to clean those areas as well. Use a toothbrush

Deep Cleaning Grout: Professional Tips for a Sparkling Finish Grout is the unsung hero of tiled surfaces, holding everything together while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of kitchens, bathrooms, and floors. However, over time, grout can accumulate dirt, mould, and mildew, dulling its appearance and compromising hygiene. If you’ve ever struggled to bring your grout back to life, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective ways to deep clean grout, sharing professional tips to achieve that sparkling finish. Why Grout Gets Dirty Grout is porous, meaning it absorbs dirt, grime, and moisture over time. This makes it prone to discoloration, especially in high-traffic areas or damp environments like bathrooms. Regular maintenance can help, but sometimes only a deep clean will restore grout to its original state. Essential Tools and Materials for Cleaning Grout Before diving into grout cleaning methods, have a look at the following tools and materials: Grout brush or an old toothbrush Microfiber cloths Spray bottle Baking soda White vinegar Hydrogen peroxide Dish soap Commercial grout cleaner Steam cleaner (optional for professional results) Protective gloves Safety goggles Method 1: The Baking Soda and Vinegar Approach This natural cleaning solution is effective for mildly soiled grout and safe for most surfaces. Here’s how to use it: Create a Paste: Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to form a thick paste. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste onto the grout lines, ensuring full coverage. Spray Vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and lightly spray over the baking soda paste. The mixture will fizz, helping to lift dirt and grime. Scrub the Grout: Use a grout brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the grout lines gently but thoroughly. Rinse and Wipe: Rinse with warm water and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. This method is ideal for a DIY deep clean that’s both affordable and eco-friendly. Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda For more stubborn stains, hydrogen peroxide provides an extra cleaning boost. Mix a Cleaning Paste: Combine hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to create a thick paste. Apply Generously: Spread the paste along the grout lines. Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate stains. Scrub and Rinse: Scrub with a grout brush, then rinse with warm water. Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent choice for tackling tough stains without resorting to harsh chemicals. Method 3: Using Commercial Grout Cleaners If natural methods don’t yield the desired results, consider a commercial grout cleaner. These products are formulated to dissolve tough grime and stains. Choose the Right Cleaner: Look for a grout cleaner suitable for your tile type (e.g., ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone). Follow Instructions: Apply the cleaner as directed on the label, usually by spraying or spreading it onto the grout lines. Scrub and Rinse: After the recommended dwell time, scrub the grout and rinse thoroughly. Commercial cleaners are perfect for a deep clean when dealing with heavily soiled or neglected grout. Method 4: Steam Cleaning for a Professional Clean Steam cleaning is a highly effective, chemical-free method for deep cleaning grout, often used by professional cleaners. Prepare the Steam Cleaner: Fill the machine with water and allow it to heat up. Target Grout Lines: Use the steam cleaner’s nozzle to focus on grout lines, blasting away dirt and bacteria. Wipe Clean: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away loosened debris. Steam cleaning not only removes surface dirt but also kills bacteria and mould, leaving grout hygienically clean. Pro Tips for Maintaining Clean Grout Seal the Grout: After cleaning, apply a grout sealer to protect against future staining and moisture absorption. Regular Cleaning: Wipe down tiled surfaces weekly to prevent buildup. Use Mats and Rugs: In high-traffic areas, use mats to minimize dirt transfer. Address Spills Quickly: Promptly clean up spills to prevent stains from setting in. When to Call in the Professionals Sometimes, grout cleaning requires a professional touch, especially for large areas, deeply embedded stains, or commercial properties. Professional cleaners have access to industrial-grade equipment and specialized cleaning solutions, ensuring a thorough clean with long-lasting results. If you’re in London and looking for expert grout cleaning services, our team is here to help. We specialize in deep cleaning and professional care for all types of tiles and grout. Final Thoughts Clean grout can transform the look of your tiled surfaces, enhancing both appearance and hygiene. Whether you opt for natural remedies, commercial products, or professional services, the key is consistency and the right approach. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you’ll achieve a deep clean and keep your grout looking like new. If you’re ready for a professional clean, contact us today for expert advice and services tailored to your needs.

How to Clean Your Home for Guests This Christmas The festive season is upon us, and that means family gatherings, cozy dinners, and a house full of guests! But before you start decking the halls, it’s essential to ensure your home is clean, organized, and guest-ready. Whether you’re tackling the task yourself or considering professional house cleaners, a spotless home is key to making a great impression this Christmas. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your home with expert housekeeping tips and tricks, including when to consider deep cleaning and domestic cleaning services to help you shine this holiday season. Step 1: Start with a Plan Cleaning your home for Christmas guests can feel overwhelming, but with a plan in place, it becomes manageable. Begin by creating a cleaning checklist that prioritizes areas where your guests will spend the most time, such as: Living rooms: Where people gather and relax. Dining areas: The centerpiece for festive meals. Guest bathrooms: A non-negotiable spot for cleanliness. Guest bedrooms: If you’re hosting overnight visitors. By tackling one area at a time, you’ll ensure no spot is overlooked, and your home will be ready for Christmas festivities in no time. Step 2: Declutter and Organise Before diving into the actual cleaning, decluttering is a crucial first step. A clutter-free home looks more spacious, inviting, and festive. Here’s how to go about it: Living areas: Remove items like magazines, remote controls, or toys that don’t need to be on display. Use decorative baskets to store any essentials neatly. Entryways: Clear away shoes, coats, and umbrellas. Guests will appreciate a tidy space as they enter your home. Kitchens: Clear countertops of unnecessary appliances or clutter to make space for cooking and serving holiday treats. Decluttering doesn’t just make cleaning easier; it also gives your guests a sense of warmth and welcome as they move through your home. Step 3: Tackle High-Traffic Areas With guests coming in and out, high-traffic areas like hallways and the living room require special attention. Here’s how to keep them spotless: Vacuum or sweep floors: Focus on areas where dirt or mud is likely to accumulate. Dust surfaces: Don’t forget shelves, light fixtures, and baseboards. Fluff cushions and throws: A neat seating area instantly elevates the ambiance. For a truly polished look, consider hiring professional house cleaners who specialize in domestic cleaning. They’ll ensure every corner of your home is guest-ready, saving you time and effort. Step 4: Deep Clean the Bathrooms Your bathrooms will undoubtedly see a lot of traffic during the holidays, so they need to be pristine. A quick wipe-down won’t suffice—this is where a deep cleaning comes in. Follow these tips for a sparkling bathroom: Scrub tiles and grout: Use a strong cleaning agent to remove stains and mold. Sanitize toilets and sinks: Pay extra attention to handles and faucets, as these are high-touch areas. Polish mirrors: A streak-free mirror instantly makes the space feel fresher. Replace towels: Provide clean, festive hand towels for your guests. Professional domestic cleaning services can tackle bathroom grime effectively, ensuring a spotless finish that leaves a lasting impression. Step 5: Freshen Up the Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of any home during Christmas. From baking cookies to carving the turkey, this space needs to be both functional and spotless. Focus on these areas: Clean appliances: Wipe down the fridge, oven, and microwave. Don’t forget the stovetop! Sanitize countertops: Use a disinfectant to keep surfaces germ-free, especially if you’re preparing food. Sweep and mop floors: Kitchen floors can quickly get dirty, so make sure they’re spotless. If you’re short on time, consider hiring house cleaners for a thorough kitchen deep cleaning, ensuring every nook and cranny is spotless. Step 6: Focus on Guest Bedrooms If you’re hosting overnight guests, their bedrooms should be clean, comfortable, and cozy. Here’s how to prepare: Wash bedding: Fresh sheets and pillowcases are a must. Dust surfaces: Include nightstands, lamps, and dressers. Vacuum thoroughly: Pay attention to corners and under the bed. Add thoughtful touches: Fresh flowers, a water carafe, or a small Christmas decoration can make the space feel extra special. For a hassle-free solution, professional housekeeping services can take care of your guest rooms, allowing you to focus on the fun aspects of hosting. Step 7: Add Finishing Touches Once your home is clean, it’s time to add those festive finishing touches that make your home feel warm and inviting: Candles and scents: Light Christmas-scented candles like cinnamon or pine to create a cozy atmosphere. Decorations: Place wreaths, fairy lights, or garlands in key areas to add a festive flair. Stock supplies: Make sure your bathrooms are well-stocked with essentials like toilet paper, soap, and hand lotion. These small details will enhance the guest experience and show that you’ve gone the extra mile to make them feel welcome. When to Call in the Professionals Cleaning your home for Christmas can be time-consuming, especially if you’re juggling other holiday preparations. This is where professional domestic cleaning and deep cleaning services come in handy. Here’s why hiring professional house cleaners is worth considering: Saves time: Focus on planning your Christmas feast or wrapping gifts while experts handle the cleaning. Ensures thoroughness: Professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to tackle even the toughest grime. Stress-free holidays: Enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is spotless and guest-ready. Whether you need a one-time deep cleaning or regular housekeeping services, professional cleaners can make your Christmas preparations a breeze. Final Thoughts Preparing your home for Christmas guests doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these steps, you can ensure your space is clean, cozy, and ready for the festive season. And if time is running short, don’t hesitate to call in professional house cleaners for expert domestic cleaning and deep cleaning services. A sparkling home sets the tone for a joyful Christmas celebration, leaving you free to enjoy the company of your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves (or pick up

Understanding Hot Water Extraction (HWE) for Carpet Cleaning When it comes to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your carpets, professional cleaning is essential. Among the various methods available, Hot Water Extraction (HWE) often referred to as Steam Cleaning, stands out as one of the most effective and thorough techniques. In this guide, we’ll delve into what hot water extraction is, how it works, its benefits, and why it’s a preferred choice for carpet cleaners in London and across the world. What Is Hot Water Extraction? Hot water extraction is a carpet cleaning process that uses vwas at high pressure and high temperature to penetrate deep into carpet fibers. This method effectively loosens dirt, allergens, and tough stains that are embedded in the carpet. Despite being popularly called steam cleaning, the process primarily relies on hot water rather than steam. A professional carpet cleaning machine sprays water mixed with a cleaning solution into the carpet, breaking down dirt particles. The water and debris are then extracted using a powerful vacuum, leaving your carpet clean, sanitized, and fresh. How does Hot Water Extraction work , step-by-step? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the hot water extraction process: 1. Inspection and Pre-TreatmentCarpet cleaners begin by inspecting the carpet to identify high-traffic areas, stains, or damage. They may apply a pre-treatment solution to loosen dirt and prepare the carpet for cleaning. 2. Hot Water ApplicationUsing specialized equipment, hot water (mixed with a cleaning agent) is sprayed under high pressure into the carpet fibers. This step dissolves stubborn dirt and grime. 3. AgitationA brush or rotary machine may be used to agitate the carpet, ensuring the cleaning solution penetrates deep into the fibers. 4. ExtractionA powerful vacuum extracts the water, cleaning solution, and dirt from the carpet. This step is crucial as it prevents overwetting and speeds up drying. 5.DryingWhile hot water extraction removes most of the moisture, carpets may still feel damp. Good ventilation and airflow can speed up the drying process. Benefits of Hot Water Extraction for Carpet Cleaning Hot water extraction has numerous advantages over other carpet cleaning methods like carpet shampooing or Over The Counter (OTC) Detergents. Here’s why many homeowners and businesses choose it: Deep Cleaning This method goes beyond surface cleaning, reaching deep into the carpet pile. It removes trapped dirt, allergens, bacteria, and odors that other techniques might leave behind. Effective Stain Removal Hot water extraction is highly effective in treating tough stains. Whether it’s red wine, coffee spills, or pet accidents, the process breaks down and lifts stains from the fibers. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Modern machines use biodegradable cleaning solutions that are safe for the environment, pets, and children. Additionally, minimal chemicals are left behind after extraction. Prolongs Carpet Life Regular hot water extraction cleaning helps maintain the integrity of carpet fibers. By removing abrasive particles, it reduces wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your carpets. Ideal for Allergy Sufferers This method effectively removes allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. It’s a great choice for homes with allergy sufferers or young children. How to Remove Carpet Stains with Hot Water Extraction Tackling stains can be tricky, but hot water extraction makes the process much simpler. Here’s how it works: Pre-Treat Stains Before starting, apply a stain remover or pre-treatment solution directly to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the stain. Use Hot Water Extraction Equipment The high-pressure hot water targets the stained area, while the cleaning solution works to dissolve and lift the stain. Repeat for Stubborn Stains For difficult stains, such as ink or grease, multiple passes with the extraction machine may be required. Professional Expertise While DIY machines are available, professional carpet cleaners have industrial-grade equipment and expertise to handle tough stains effectively. DIY Hot Water Extraction vs. Professional Carpet Cleaning While renting a DIY steam cleaner is an option, professional carpet cleaning services deliver far better results. Here’s why: Powerful Equipment: Professional machines provide higher pressure and stronger vacuum suction, ensuring deeper cleaning and faster drying. Expert Knowledge: Trained cleaners understand how to treat different carpet materials and stains without causing damage. Convenience: Hiring carpet cleaners saves time and effort, especially for large areas or stubborn stains. Conclusion Hot water extraction is an exceptional method for achieving clean, fresh, and hygienic carpets. Its ability to remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and tough stains makes it the go-to choice for both homeowners and businesses. Whether you’re looking to tackle stubborn spots or maintain the lifespan of your carpets, this method is a proven solution. If you’re in need of professional carpet cleaning services, contact a trusted local provider today. With hot water extraction, you can enjoy spotless carpets that look and feel like new.

The Best Ways to Clean Silver: A Comprehensive Guide Introduction Silver is a beautiful and timeless material often found in homes as jewelry, cutlery, decor, or heirlooms. Over time, exposure to air and moisture can cause silver to tarnish, leaving it with a dull, blackened appearance. Cleaning silver might seem daunting, but with the right methods, it can be a simple and cost-effective task. This guide will explore various ways to clean silver, the materials required, why they work, and which methods are most efficient for cost and results. Understanding Tarnish: What Causes It? Tarnish is the result of a chemical reaction between silver and sulfur-containing substances in the air, forming silver sulfide. This process naturally occurs over time but can accelerate in humid environments or when silver comes into contact with certain foods, like eggs or onions. 1. Cleaning Silver with Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil What You Need: Aluminum foil Baking soda (2-3 tablespoons) Boiling water A deep dish or bowl Soft cloth for polishing How It Works: This method relies on an electrochemical reaction. When silver touches aluminum in a baking soda solution, the tarnish (silver sulfide) transfers to the aluminum foil, restoring the silver’s shine. Line the bottom of a dish or bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up. Place your silver items on top of the foil. Sprinkle baking soda over the items. Pour boiling water over the silver until submerged. Let it sit for 2-5 minutes, then remove and rinse with clean water. Dry and polish with a soft cloth. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: This method is highly effective for heavily tarnished silver. The ingredients are inexpensive and readily available, making it a cost-efficient choice for regular maintenance. 2. Using Vinegar and Baking Soda What You Need: White vinegar (1 cup) Baking soda (2 tablespoons) Bowl Soft toothbrush Microfiber cloth How It Works: The acidic vinegar reacts with baking soda to create a fizzy solution that breaks down tarnish. Mix the vinegar and baking soda in a bowl. Submerge the silver items in the solution for 2-3 hours. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush if needed. Rinse with water and polish dry. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: This method works well for moderate tarnish but is less effective for intricate designs. The ingredients are affordable, making it budget-friendly, though the soaking time might not appeal to those seeking quicker results. 3. Polishing with Commercial Silver Cleaners What You Need: Store-bought silver polish or cleaner Soft cloth or sponge How It Works: Commercial silver cleaners contain chemical agents designed to remove tarnish and leave a protective layer on the silver surface. Apply a small amount of cleaner to a cloth or sponge. Rub the silver gently, focusing on tarnished areas. Buff with a clean section of the cloth for a brilliant shine. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: These products are fast-acting and excellent for stubborn tarnish. However, they can be more expensive than homemade solutions and may contain harsh chemicals unsuitable for delicate or antique silver. 4. Toothpaste for Light Tarnish What You Need: Non-gel, non-abrasive toothpaste Soft toothbrush or cloth Warm water How It Works: Toothpaste acts as a mild abrasive, gently buffing away tarnish. Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to a cloth or toothbrush. Rub the silver in circular motions. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: This is a quick and affordable option for lightly tarnished silver. Avoid using it on silver with intricate patterns, as it may not reach crevices effectively. 5. Cleaning with Lemon and Salt What You Need: Lemon juice (1 cup) Salt (1 tablespoon) Bowl of warm water Cloth or sponge How It Works: The citric acid in lemon juice dissolves tarnish, while salt enhances the cleaning process. Mix lemon juice and salt in a bowl of warm water. Soak the silver for 5-10 minutes. Wipe with a cloth or sponge, then rinse and dry. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: This method is eco-friendly and ideal for mild tarnish. The ingredients are inexpensive but may require repeated use for heavily tarnished items. 6. Dish Soap and Warm Water for Routine Maintenance What You Need: Mild dish soap Warm water Soft cloth or sponge How It Works: This gentle cleaning method removes dirt and light tarnish. Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water. Soak the silver briefly and gently scrub with a sponge. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Efficacy and Cost Efficiency: While it doesn’t tackle heavy tarnish, this is a great low-cost option for keeping silver clean on a daily basis. Comparing Methods Method Effectiveness Cost Efficiency Best For Baking Soda & Foil Excellent Very High Heavy tarnish on large items Vinegar & Baking Soda Good High Moderate tarnish Commercial Cleaners Excellent Medium Stubborn tarnish or antiques Toothpaste Moderate High Light tarnish on small items Lemon & Salt Good High Eco-friendly, light tarnish Dish Soap & Warm Water Minimal (Maintenance) Very High Routine cleaning Tips for Maintaining Silver Store Properly: Keep silver in airtight containers or anti-tarnish bags to minimize exposure to air and humidity. Use Regularly: Frequent use of silverware and jewelry can help prevent tarnish buildup. Avoid Contact with Harsh Substances: Keep silver away from chlorine, rubber, and sulfur-rich foods. Conclusion Cleaning silver at home is simple and cost-effective with the right tools and methods. For heavy tarnish, the baking soda and aluminum foil method is highly effective. For lighter tarnish, toothpaste or dish soap may suffice. Regular maintenance will keep your silver looking pristine and reduce the need for intensive cleaning.

9 time-saving tips & tricks Being a parent has been the best thing that’s ever happened to me but also at times made it feel as though I never have time for myself. In our household, both my husband and I work full time, meaning life’s pretty hectic. Over the last few years, we’ve created a system that’s helped us tremendously, so we can spend more time doing things we love like playing with the kids. Here are 9 tips for efficient time management, reducing stress, and cherishing family moments. They’ve really helped us and I hope they really help you too!   1. Think positive! Don’t use sentences such as “I am so stressed” or “I don’t have time for anything”, as those thoughts only make you more stressed. You need to accept that everyone has the same hours in the day and figure out the right balance so enough time is allocated to the things that are important to you.   2. Create a to-do list every day, or a rolling to-do list if that works better for you. Your phone is an excellent place to keep you list, as you’ll always have it with you. You can divide the list into different categories such as Do, Delegate, Differ, and Dump; and always remember that you need family and personal time. An hour on the sofa to relax can be as important as anything else!   3. Multitask routine activities. For example, you might go for a walk and make phone calls simultaneously. That being said, if something is particularly important to you, you shouldn’t full bad in giving it your full and undivided attention.   4. Share household responsibilities between all family members. Even small children can have some jobs, such as making their beds, unloading the dishwasher, or packing their bags for the following day before bed. One thing we do is create a chart showing the different jobs each member must perform and make it visible to all family members will help. We found that by showing our excitement in completing our tasks then the kids would be eager to do there’s as well.   5. Weekly planning. Every Sunday, we review the week ahead. It is good practice to have your own calendar and a family calendar. For the family calendar, you could use a paper calendar in the kitchen or a digital calendar to synchronize family schedules, such as appointments or extracurricular activities.   6. Breakdown big tasks into steps. This is as valid when looking at work and household tasks. E.g., if you must declutter a very messy room, don’t feel bad to do a bit each day for a week rather than try a cram it all into one.   7. Plan meals. If you struggle to create nutritional and easy meals, there are good meal planning apps to help you, which automatically create grocery lists. You can also do your shopping online, rather than going in store. Think how much prep you need to do for each meal and do as much prep as you can during the weekend.   8. If you’re having a quiet day, why not do some bulk cooking. Make the most of the freezer so you can save them for times when you don’t have time to cook. For example, if you come home late after extracurricular activities or a long working day. Also, doing this means you are less likely to eat impulsively whilst saving money on take outs.   9. If you have some spare income available, look at outsourcing time-consuming tasks. Housekeeping and cleaning are examples of time-consuming activities that can be outsourced relatively cheaply. A good professional house cleaning or housekeeping service will help you to focus on your family and your job.   This article was written by Maria, one of our longest serving cleaners at Scrubs Cleaning.   If you are interested in our housekeeping services to save you time, why not Contact Us to see how we can help! 

Is it necessary to pay for anEnd of Tenancy Clean? Whether or not a tenant is required to pay for a professional cleaning service at the end of their tenancy is a question that generates a lot of confusion. Often, we receive calls from potential customers asking for guidance, saying their landlord has told them it is a legal requirement. this article, we are going to explain whether or not this is correct, alongside some helpful advice so that you can be confident of receiving your entire deposit back for your landlord. So.. is an End of Tenancy clean actually required? In a word.. no! There cannot be any requirement placed on a tenant to pay for a professional cleaning company to carry out their Move Out clean. If this is included in a contract, then it is legally void, which means it cannot be upheld. So.. case closed? DEFINITELY NOT! If you want to ensure that you receive your deposit back, keep reading! Although your landlord cannot enforce that you pay for professional cleaning services, you are required to return your property in the same condition that you found it (less fair wear and tear). If this is not done, then the landlord is able to retain a proportion (or all) of your deposit to pay for a professional clean, and believe us, when this happens it can end up costing a small fortune! Landlords can essentially use whoever they wish to carry out this clean and therefore often opt for the most expensive provider to ensure a thorough job is done. Furthermore, to ensure as quick turn-around as possible and maximise rental income whilst minimise their own effort/ cost, they will likely pay a significant premium to have a same-day or next-day service. BEWARE! There are cleaning companies set up with close ties to landlords and estate agencies whose business model relies on charging an astronomical amount to provide a same-day cleaning service, that you, the tenant, will be paying for after failing to clean it yourself. In other words, the cost to the tenant will likely be significantly more than what an End of Tenancy clean should cost. For example, a basic 2 bed, 1 bath property, for which Scrubs Cleaning (London’s highest rated cleaning provider) charges the London market average of £205, often results in >£500 being deducted from tenants’ deposit when organised by the landlord. An End of Tenancy clean in Manchester, aswell as other UK cities out of London, will cost less. Cleaning a property to a professional level service can’t be that hard, can it? Cleaning a property to a professional level standard is often much harder than tenants first realise. Firstly, specialist equipment might be necessary to clean more complicated items such as carpets, the oven, extractor fans and other appliances like a dishwasher and washing machine. Even areas that might seem easy to clean like windows, metallic taps and skirting boards can be incredibly difficult to clean to End of Tenancy standard without the correct detergents or sufficient experience. Years ago, when we started Scrubs, we assumed that anyone with some basic cleaning experience would be able to perform these cleans to the standard required. How wrong we were! Now, all of our cleaning teams will have a Team Lead with an absolute minimum of 5 years’ cleaning experience, and in most cases it is >10 years’ experience! What if I want to run the risk and save on the cleaning fee? We understand that professional cleaning services are expensive! If you want to take a gamble and clean your property yourself, then go for it! Remember, NOBODY can force you to pay for a professional cleaning service. Just make sure you allocate sufficient time, as it will likely take significantly longer than you first think. Also, go and buy some high-quality detergents and supplies for each area of the property to give yourself the best chance of falling short of the required standards. Finally, be aware of the risks. It is possible that the landlord won’t bother carrying out an inventory check at all. However, be aware that in most cases they will, especially if you found the property through an estate agent. If you do run the risk, good luck! If you need any advice on what cleaning supplies and detergents are best, feel free to give us a call and we will do our best to help. Apart from ensuring I receive my deposit back, are there any other reasons for using a professional cleaning company? As well as providing piece of mind that you will have your deposit returned, choosing the right End of Tenancy cleaning provider can help it out in other ways. Firstly, it gives piece of mind, knowing there is one less thing to worry about in what is normally a very stressful couple of days. Most reputable cleaning providers offer some sort of guarantee that they will return to the property if anything is missed. However, BE CAREFUL, this is a claim many providers make but don’t fulfil. Make sure you read the reviews of any potential provider to ensure there aren’t any customer complaining about this. Otherwise, you might be forced to pay for two lots of cleans! Lastly, it saves time! As discussed above, cleaning a property to End of Tenancy standard for someone without the necessary experience can be incredibly time consuming. If you are on a tight schedule, we would advise to consider hiring a professional. Conclusion To conclude, nobody can force you to pay for a professional clean at the end of your tenancy. It’s important to know your rights, and if a landlord adds it to a contract, just know it is void i.e. won’t be upheld. However, if the property is not left in the same condition in which it was initially handed over, the landlord is permitted to do is use the tenants deposit to have the property cleaned. Almost always, this will cost

7 Professional Housekeeping tips to impress your guests this Christmas Who’s starting to feel festive? Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with family and friends, and for many of us, that will at some point involve hosting guests. We therefore thought it to be a fun idea to ask our professional housekeepers what they do to make their guests feel extra special for Christmas. Whether you’re trying to impress the new in-laws or reuniting with old friends, we’ve compiled what we believe to be the top 7 home touches that will help create a Christmas-stay to remember (and win you big brownie points!).   The first thing many of our housekeepers’ mention is that they fold the toilet roll on their dispenser. The reason we love this so much is firstly, it’s absolutely free and secondly, once you get the hang of it takes practically no time at all. Yet, this small touch helps create the feel of a nice hotel or B&B. Marta, one of our End of Tenancy specialist housekeepers, commented ‘There are many more fancy types of fold that you can do but, honestly, I think the basic triangle one looks the best and, just as importantly, is the easiest to do.’ For those of you that want to go the extra mile, there are some very cool Christmas-related patterns you can do. Just have a look at YouTube and you’ll be able to find a whole range of toilet roll origami designs.     2. Incense or Candles Another common recommendation from our Housekeepers was to buy some incense or candles for the guest’s room and/ or bathroom. Depending on your budget, you can buy some nicely smelling incense for just a few pounds on Amazon, or if you’re happy to spend more many department stores like Selfridges and John Lewis sell some lovely-scented candles. Given the festive theme, why not try scents such as cinnamon, pine and fir? If you want to go the extra mile, you can buy some Christmas themed decoration to place the incense inside.   3. Chocolate on the Bed A classic touch that most B&B’s and some hotels use to leave a small gift on their bed pillow.  For our Housekeepers, the most popular choice was chocolate! If possible, it’s always nice to pick your guests favourite chocolate but if not, celebrations, Lindt or Ferrero Rochers are almost always well received. Note, do be careful to check that your guests don’t have any allergies and if they do, choose accordingly!     4. Cook Something for their Arrival When guests arrive you’ll want them to feel as settled as possible. A lovely way to do this is to offer them a drink and snack. If you have the time to cook it from scratch even better! There are plenty of easy recipe’s guaranteed to make your guests feel extra taken care of. Bonna is one of our longest standing housekeepers and she loves cooking. Her go-to are some Cinnamon and Raisin cookies. They’re delicious and take no more than 10 minutes to prepare. A very similar recipe to Bonna’s can be found here.   5. Decorations!  Nothing sets the festive mood like Christmas decorations! Beyond a tree, quick touches like candles for ambience and aroma, or a Christmas garland for stairwells or fireplaces, can transform your space—Maria, an Airbnb housekeeper, swears by garlands for their ready-made charm. Don’t forget lights, easily available for any budget, to complete the look. For a sophisticated twist, try Architectural Vinyl Film or interior vinyl wraps to revamp furniture, walls, or cabinets in holiday hues like metallic gold or deep green. These easy-to-apply, removable wraps add a luxurious, festive touch without the hassle of a full renovation.   6. Blankets in the Guest Room Every year the Christmas season feels colder and colder, with this year forecasts suggesting it might even snow – fingers crossed! Although this can be enjoyable, It usually means that extra help is needed to make sure everyone stays warm and cosy inside. For our housekeepers, ensuring there are blankets in the guest bedroom is a must! But why not also have some available in the living area for people to grab as and when needed? Another benefit of doing this is that your heating bill can be kept down. Most people will already have blankets but if not, why not get some Christmas themed blankets? 7. A welcome gift The final item on the list is a trusty welcome gift. We think the more personable you can make it the better. If you have shared a fun experience recently why not buy something related to that? Stefan, one of our newly appointed Deep Clean Team Leads, had in-laws over and made a lovely hamper with all their favourite things. Otherwise, a bottle of wine or bubbly is a safe bet. For the non-drinkers, flowers, which can be brought up to the guest room for the duration of the stay, are also widely well received.    Of course, the best thing about Christmas is spending quality time with loved ones, and if you don’t have time to prepare these things then don’t fret, your company is enough! That being said, if you do want to make an extra effort to ensure your guests feel really well looked after then these 7 tips will be sure to do exactly that!    

How to clean a toilet brush, without the mess Perhaps the most unsanitary item in the majority people’s home is their toilet brush. You use it to clean the toilet but then what? Most, just put it back in their holster and leave it with many germs and matter still on. Gross! Here we will explain a quick, effective and no-mess method of cleaning your toilet brush that’s both incredibly effective and hassle-free.   Once you’ve finished cleaning your toilet using the Scrubs method that our professional cleaners use to clean toilets, it’s time to move on to the toilet brush. Make sure that you clean your toilet brush before placing it back into the holster. This is to prevent the holster to get dirty too, which is significantly more awkward and time-consuming to clean.   Prepare the Cleaning Solution If cleaned properly, the toilet basin and water is now clean and suitable for cleaning your brush. Just put a big squirt (roughly 100ml) of cleaning solution into the toilet basin. We recommend using Harpic 10X. However, if you want a more natural or cost-effective solution, then you can also mix white wine vinegar and baking soda. As a rule of thumb, a 2:1 ratio is a good measurement combination but feel free to experiment to see what works best for your toilet!   Clean the Brush Next, place the toilet brush in the basin for at least an hour. Make sure it is rested in a position so that the full head of the brush is emersed in the cleaning solution. Doing this will not only kill the nasty germs that are left on the entire brush, but it will also remove any substance causing discolouration so that it looks clean and is no longer unpleasant to look at. Note, it’s best to leave the toilet seat up for this so that nobody accidently comes along and sits on the end of the brush – ouch!   Dry the Brush The last step is to allow you toilet brush to dry. There is a method of doing this which prevents any mess and stops the cleaning solution from dripping over the side of the toilet. You close the open seat and trap the brush handle between the open seat and the basin, so that the brush is held above the basin. The ensures that any solution dripping off the brush goes straight back into the basin. Usually, this drying process takes about an hour, after which you can place your clean, disinfected brush back into the holster. Just like when cleaning the brush, it is best to leave the closed part of the toilet lid open for this to ensure nobody unsuspectingly sits on the toilet and causes an accident. This is particularly common when the brush is left to dry overnight!   One of the great benefits of using this toilet brush cleaning technique over others is it takes very little time. There is probably less than a minute of actual labour time going into cleaning and drying the brush, you just need to wait for the cleaning solution to clean the brush and then for the brush to dry. Another big advantage is that all the cleaning takes place inside the toilet basin. Hence, there is no need to worry about properly cleaning and disinfecting a bowl or any other equipment that might be used. Finally, it doesn’t require any sort of expensive, specialist equipment and works with every type of brush. It’s for these reasons we recommend using this toilet brush cleaning technique over any other! If you are based in London and would rather leave the cleaning to the professionals, feel free to Contact Us via phone or email and see what we can offer.

7 Steps to cleaning your home in half the time! We know that for many people, cleaning their home is seen as a necessary evil. Everyone loves coming back to a clean and tidy house but few enjoy the work that’s required to get your home looking and feeling spotless. In this article we’ll give you 7 steps that our professional cleaners use to finish jobs in a fraction of the time it takes regular people, so that you can get on to spending your time how you like!     The Grid Visualisation Framework When most people clean their homes, the process is entirely random. They might clean one room at a time, but within each room there is little thought in terms of what is completed first. At Scrubs, our cleaners avoid this trap by using the Grid Framework. Simply, each room or space divided into a grid. So, for a standard bedroom, a 3×3 grid would be suitable. Then, they will focus on completing a section of the grid at a time before moving onto the next. Doing this prevents the mistake of walking back and forth different parts of the room, wasting a tremendous amount of time and energy.     2. Top-to-Bottom Once you have your grid system visualised for a particular room, you want to make sure you are focusing on all the top sections before moving downwards. If used correctly, gravity is a force that makes cleaning 10x easier. If used incorrectly, it can make it 10x harder so make sure you’re not working against! Dust and dirt falls downwards and so by working top-to-bottom, you will ensure that you will only need to clean everything once. Examples would include wiping the top of cupboards, high shelves and picture frames, before the desk, countertops or upholstery below.     3. Three-wave System Once you’ve under understood the grid visualisation and top-to-bottom principles, it’s time to introduce you to the 3-wave system, which is made up of: De-cluttering: First, you want to de-clutter the room. By de-cluttering, we mean things like collecting the rubbish, picking up laundry and putting away or tidying personal belongings. Doing this ensures that all surfaces are accessible for the second phase of the 3-wave system, cleaning the room.   Cleaning the Room: Once the room or area has been de-cluttered, it’s time to clean! Begin cleaning going from grid to grid and top to bottom for the reasons outlined in the sections above. Cleaning the Floor: Finally, you’ll get to a stage where everything is clean except the floor. It’s then time to sweep, hoover or mop the floor. Again, visualising a grid system can help you avoid having to go back over sections that have already been cleaned, as well as ensuring nothing is missed.     4. Have what you need on you When cleaning your home, it’s important to have everything you need on you for that particular part of the job. For example, when clearing the rubbish, it’s much more efficient to go round with a binbag, throwing in items as you go, than picking up each item and walking across the room to the bin. Other examples would be to have a basket when picking up the laundry or carrying a bucket with detergents and microfibre towels when cleaning. By having the tools for each particular job on your person, it allows you to follow the grid framework and save time carrying out the clean.     5. Use the right tool for the job. When completing a house clean, the tools that you use matter, a lot. In 2021, Scrubs upgraded the vacuums of all its cleaning staff and immediately saw a 10% increase in cleaning efficiency and 3% decrease in customer complaints. Whether it be dusting, cleaning the dishes, cleaning your oven or anything else, using high quality detergents and supplies will significantly reduce the time it takes to clean your home than it would have done otherwise. Even if you want to save money by cleaning yourself rather than hiring a professional, if you want to be efficient you should use good quality cleaning materials. Check out our article on the 5 best cleaning detergents to see what supplies our professional cleaners rate the most highly.     6. The floor is your friend When customers first see one of our professional cleaners in action, they are surprised with how comfortable the cleaners are with dirt and debris being wiped onto the floor. However, if the objective is to clean in an efficient way, this should always be done. You will never see a professional cleaner wipe dust or debris into another cloth and then take it to the bin. It’s a waste of time! Remember, gravity is our friend and by using the 3-wave system described above we want all the dust to be on the floor before vacuuming it up. If there is a particularly large amount then it might be appropriate to sweep the floor before vacuuming and mopping. Either way, save time by using the floor as your friend.     7. Use S-Shape Motions Once you have applied the cleaning detergent to the surface that needs to be cleaned, you should move your microfibre towel in an S shaped motion, rather than a more typical circular or back-and-forth motion. This ensures that your microfibre cloth only touches the surface area once, when it is clean, and helps avoid the common problem of wiping a surface area that has just been cleaned with a dirty cloth and therefore seemingly not cleaning as it should.   Ultimately, there is no avoiding that if you want your home to clean and you don’t want to hire a professional then you must do it yourself, which is going to take time. That being said, it should not take longer than it has to. Currently, many people waste hours by cleaning their home in an inefficient way. By following these