Posted by Scott Leslie on Tue, Oct 25, 2011 @ 04:10 AM
When it comes to cleaning the house the one job every hates the most is unblocking the sink. Bathroom sinks are usually worse than kitchen sinks because of all the hair that gets trapped from men shaving or ladies brushing their hair.
The following steps ensure that your sink will be draining as good as the day you bought it (inherited it).
Step One: Direct air in the right direction (block the overflow)
Trapped hair is can cause the water to drain slowly from your shower, bath, or sink. If you clean your sinks on a regular basis there will be no need for expensive chemicals to do the job for you.
If you don’t think that hair in the plug hole is the problem it’s time to get the plunger out. Firstly, to direct the air / water flow where you want it block the overflow with an old rag. This forces air / water down the u-bend instead of out the overflow. Turn on the tap so that the rubber part of the plunger is covered with water
Step Two: Pump The Plunger And Rinse
Cover the plug hole with the plunger and pump the plunger quickly and with a decent amount of force. This will force a jet of water down to the blocked section and hopefully will break down the blockage. Remove the plunger and run tap for a few seconds to see if the water drains away at a quicker speed now. This should remove any loose debris.
Step Three: Empty out the sink
If the water is still in the sink then this hasn’t worked and the blockage is still in place. Scoop out the water from the sink with a plastic beaker / jug and place a bucket under the u-bend (trap). Unscrew the collars from either end of the u-bend (careful as dirty water could be trapped in the pipe).
Step Four: Remove & Clean the u-bend
Remove the u-bend and clean with pipe cleaners. While doing this also check the plughole and adjoining pipes for debris and hair too. Warm soapy water should do the trick for this job. Once finished reattach the u-bend to the other pipes, screw firmly into place and run the water again.
These four simples steps should ensure that your water drains quickly again for your sink, bath or shower.
Posted by Scott Leslie on Wed, Oct 05, 2011 @ 08:30 AM
How to clean upholstery
First and foremost before you try and solve any types of upholstery mishap ALWAYS check the manufacturers label to avoid a pricey mistake.
Give your couch, settee, pouffe, etc a going over once or twice a week with the vacuum cleaner to keep your upholstered furniture looking nicer for longer. Using the appropriate attachments means you get right into all the nooks and crannies that would normally be missed.
Loose covers are brilliant: Simply pull them off and clean them. But remember, follow the manufacturer's instructions - some covers might not be machine washable - they may be dry clean only. If they are machine-friendly, replace the covers when they are slightly damp, not straight out of the machine. This will make it easier to recreate the shape and fit of the pillow / cushion before they were washed.
Cleaning washable fixed covers: Creating a mild solution of washing-up liquid and warm water should lift unsightly marks. Test it on a hidden area first (where the two cushions meet or on the underside). Check it won't damage the fabric by allowing the solution to dry – damage will be noticeable when dry, hence the test. Only wet the area that needs clean, and wet it as little as possible. Dry as quickly as you can - dab off what you can with a dry cloth or open the windows (the hairdryer treatment is an option to if pressed for time). For slightly tougher, ingrained stains on upholstery use vinegar - dabbing neat white vinegar onto the stained area then repeat the solution process, followed by plenty of clean water and dry as quickly as above (hairdryer).
1. Always check manufacturer's instructions first.
2. Always try a test patch first.
3. Take professional cleaning advice first if you’re unsure if the upholstery can be cleaned.
Posted by Alex Hornell on Thu, Jun 23, 2011 @ 05:57 AM
This is our short list of essential domestic cleaning products, a couple of which you will have already. These five must-have items are handy for everyday household cleaning use.
Baking Soda
You probably already have this item in your kitchen cupboard and it is fantastically useful. One of the best things about baking soda is that it’s completely non-toxic.
- To beat nasty smells fill a small bowl with baking powder and place it at the back of your fridge or kitchen cupboards The powder will absorb and neutralise bad odours.
- Scrub away dirt from around the sink, bath or toilet by using baking soda paste. Simply mix small amounts of water with the powder to gradually form as much paste as is required.
- Pre-treat nasty grease stains by applying paste to the stain before placing your soiled garment item in the washing machine.
White vinegar
Most kitchens will have vinegar in the cupboard. We've long known that vinegar has multiple uses around the home for cleaning. Below are just a couple of applications for this familiar condiment.
- To bring a shine to chrome sink fixtures that have lime build-up, use a paste made of 2 tablespoons salt and 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar.
- Clean the microwave by mixing 1/2 cup white distilled vinegar and 1/2 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Bring it to a rolling boil inside the microwave. Baked-on food will be loosened, and odours will disappear. Wipe clean.
Rubber Gloves
Of course you will need to protect your skin from filth, germs and abrasive cleaning solutions. A good pair of gloves is essential! Make sure you keep a separate pair for bathroom cleaning other than those you use for the rest of your home so as to avoid cross contamination.
Good stain remover
Bissell, Shout or Vanish on standby are suitable for most general household emergency stains. Be careful, they may be too abrasive for some fabrics so care should be taken to read the bottle!
Spray bottle
A simple spray bottle can be used to apply your homemade vinegar or baking soda solutions for a variety of cleaning purposes such as inside ovens, around the bathroom or on windows.
Please be advised – Time For you Clean is not liable for any misuse of the solutions provide which may result in damage or destruction of household furnishings.
Image courtesy of hopeless128
Posted by Alex Hornell on Wed, Jun 22, 2011 @ 09:38 AM
Household stains are inevitable, especially if you have young kids living at home. We’ve compiled a top five list on how to deal with the most dreaded of household stains!
1. Removing candle wax from carpet
Candles provide excellent mood lighting for dinner parties or simply a self indulgent night in. However, accidents can happen. If you end up with melted wax on your carpet then don’t worry, follow these steps to remove the offending wax from your wood or synthetic carpet:
- Freeze (apply an ice cube for a few minutes) to harden the wax.
- Gently scrape to remove excess from the surface.
- Blot with an absorbent pad.
- Continue until no more stain is removed.
- If a dye remains, dilute one part rubbing alcohol with two parts water and apply it to the stain in small amounts, blotting well after each application.
- Allow to dry.
2. Removing chewing gum from fabric
Gum stains although rare can strike fear into the heart of anyone unlucky enough to get this pesky confectionary in their fabric. Follow these steps to remove gum stains from fabrics such as Acetate, Acrylic Fabric, Carpet/Synthetic, Carpet/Wool, Cotton, Linen, Nylon, Polyester, Rayon, Silk, Spandex and Wool:
- Freeze until gum gets hard.
- Carefully scrape or rub the matter from the fabric.
- Sponge with a cleaning fluid.
- Apply a dry spotter to the stain and cover with an absorbent pad dampened with the dry spotter.
- Let it stand as long as any stain is being removed.
- Change the pad as it picks up the stain.
- Keep the stain and pad moist with the dry spotter.
- Flush (the method of applying stain remover to loosen staining materials and residue from stain removers) with a dry-cleaning solvent.
If stain remains:
- Reapply the dry spotter and cover.
- Check the stain every 5 minutes and press hard against the stain when you are checking.
- Continue the alternate soaking and pressing until all the stain has been removed.
- Flush with the dry-cleaning solvent.
- Dry.
3. Removing coffee stains
Most of our mornings start with a good cup of coffee. Unfortunately for us coffee stains can be nasty if a spill occurs. Follow these steps to remove coffee stains from Synthetic Carpet or Wool Carpet:
- Blot up what you can.
- Apply any good upholstery stain remover.
- Flush the stain with a solution of 1 litre of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon liquid laundry or dishwashing detergent, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar.
- Blot with a clean pad and rinse well with water.
If the stain remains:
- Use an enzyme pre-soak (follow directions on label).
- Blot and flush alternately until no more stain is left.
- Sponge the area well with water.
- Blot all excess liquid and place a clean pad over the area and weight it down.
- When no more is being absorbed, allow the area to thoroughly air dry.
4. Removing red wine stain from carpet
Anyone with a light coloured carpet will know the fear of a dreaded red wine stain. Follow these steps to remove rose and red wine stains from synthetic or wool Carpet:
- Be sure to remove the sugar residue or it will cause a permanent stain.
- Blot up what you can with an absorbent pad.
- Apply a good carpet stain remover. Or, flush the stain on area rugs or sponge carpeting with a solution of 1 litre warm water, 1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar.
- Blot with a clean pad, rinse well with water and blot up all the excess liquid with an absorbent pad.
- Weigh down with a heavy object. When no more liquid is absorbed, allow to thoroughly air dry.
5. Removing blood stain from carpet
Once the tears from a painful little accident have gone, you may experience tears from the resulting staining! Follow these steps to remove blood stains from Synthetic or Wood Carpets:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of a mild, non-alkali detergent with 1/2 pint lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount to the stain and blot the liquid. Do not force the stain further into the fibres.
- Continue blotting until no more stain is removed.
- If stain remains, add 1 tablespoon ammonia to 1 cup water (do not use on wool), sponge stain, and blot liquid.
- Continue until no more stain is removed.
- Place an absorbent pad over the damp area and weight it down.
- When no more liquid is drawn out, remove the pad and allow it to air dry thoroughly.
We hope this selection of advice proves useful. Often the help an experienced cleaner can provide is invaluable.
Please be advised – Time For you Clean is not liable for any misuse of the solutions provide which may result in damage or destruction of household furnishings.
Image courtesy of inf3ktion
Posted by Alex Hornell on Tue, Feb 22, 2011 @ 04:49 AM
Popular in residential and commercial properties, wood flooring can last for many years of service life. The longevity of wood flooring can vary from as little as 5 years to an impressive 50 years, but this will depend on two factors. The quality of the wood and the accuracy of your cleaning methods which is the purpose of this article. To get the most from your wood flooring in terms of longevity, you will do well to use a professional cleaning service who are able to clean wood more thoroughly due to their experience and use of wide array of cleaning liquids. If on the other hand you decide to tackle this work on your own, you will find the below tips helpful.
Cleaning and caring for wood flooring has two stages. The first stage is called prevention maintenance which is the process of reducing accidental damage. The second stage is the cleaning process which is designed to remove materials which could potentially damage the wood.
Prevention Maintenance Tips:
1. Reduce contact with the wood - It takes just a few minutes of planning to prevent damage from heavy objects such as furniture. Each object which comes in contact with the floor should use furniture pads which are discreet and very cheap. If the object is meant to be moved, perhaps a lounge table, some furniture pads are wheel based which you can rotate easily.
2. Be careful how you move objects about - Wood flooring are normally covered in a thin layer of coating. While the coating is more known for its visual side as it gives the floor that lovely shine, it also serves to protect the wood from minor scratches. Despite this protection, the wood could be damaged should you drag objects on its surface instead of lifting.
3. Use area rugs - Rugs are fantastic companion to wood flooring. From a decor perspective, they can compliment the look of the floor and from prevention maintenance perspective rugs are one of the only means to reduce damage from heavy boots and high heels.
Cleaning Process Tips:
1. Know your wood - As we stated before, the longevity of wood flooring will depend on your cleaning methods and quality of the wood. Read the manufacturer guidelines for product specific instructions.
2. Remove dust and dirt - Over time dust and dirt could present a real problem. If not removed, particles of dirt can act live sand paper when they come in contact with the surface. As any professional cleaner will advise you, there is also an element of poor hygiene in allowing dirt to settle. Start by vacuuming the surface using a soft hair vacuum extension. Alternatively, use a soft hair broom to brush the surface until you are completely happy that there is no dust left.
3. Mop the floor - This stage is especially important to do accurately as wood flooring are different to any other type of flooring surface. Wood and water do not mix well and using excessive amounts of water will shorten the lifespan of the wood. The trick is to use a damp mop rather than a wet mop when cleaning. If you are using a flooring cleaner solution, the same rule applies. Stains could be removed very easily using liquids, but the same process should be applied. Use a damp cloth with a liquid stain remover and quickly absorb any residue using a dry micro-fibre cloth.
4. Consider hiring a professional - Even if you tend to clean wood flooring on your own, you should consider using a professional cleaning service from time to time. Their knowledge, materials and wooden flooring cleaning processes will offer a more in-depth cleaning.
Article written for Time For You cleaning by wood and beyond. Online oak and walnut wood flooring vendor who is FSC accredited.
Posted by Alex Hornell on Wed, Feb 02, 2011 @ 03:17 AM
There is nothing worse than seeing a mouldy and mildew filled sealant on a bath or in a shower cubical. It can make even the grandest of bathroom like a grimy public toilet!
There are ways to your clean however and here are Time for You’s top tips for keeping your Bathroom spick and span.
Using a cloth, wipe over the sealant straight after having a bath or Shower. It will only take a few seconds and will stop the mildew taking a hold.
If you already have a build up of mildew it may be time to tackle it with one of the many products out there specifically designed for sealant restoration. If at first it appears to be having little effect, don’t throw in the towel – it may take a number of applications to beat the problem.
If this does not work it is time for some extreme action! Your best bet may be to remove the sealant completely and re-seal it!
We hope these tips are useful but if you think life is too short to clean
Posted by Alex Hornell on Wed, Jan 26, 2011 @ 03:11 AM
The first thing people often grab is either the salt or a bottle of white Wine (not necessarily to drown their sorrow of ruining their new cream carpet!). Forget both of these old wife tails, the simply do not work at all. Instead, blot as much as possible with kitchen paper towel, soak with sparkling or soda water, and then blot again. Repeat the process, then sponge with soapy water and blot dry again.
If the stains is proving difficult to shift from your carpet, we recommend cleaning the carpet with carpet shampoo and rinsing it well.
When fabrics are concerned we suggest washing as normal, if blotting simple won’t cut it. Particularly stubborn marks can be treated with one of the many stain removers out there.
If you think life is too short to spend cleaning, give Time For You and shout and book a cleaner today.
Posted by Alex Hornell on Wed, Jan 19, 2011 @ 03:18 PM
Using the oven is a part of everyday life for most. In theory it is simply not plausible to imagine wiping it down after every use. In reality however, you know this makes sense. Imagine never having to get down and battling against the dread oven ever again!
If you have left your oven for a while, there are only a few options to consider in order to return it to its former glory
1. Good old fashioned elbow grease
2. Get some pretty serious chemicals to shift the grease and grime
The old fashioned elbow grease method requires the ever trusty bicarbonate of soda, mixed to a thick paste and smeared all over the inside of the oven. After leaving the paste to work its magic overnight, get stuck in with some serious scrubbing with water and a scourer.
The serious chemical approach will require far less physical exertion but a lot of preparation. Firstly you need to be sure your body is fully protected from head to toe. We recommend getting a face mask, thick rubber gloves, protective clothes and the surrounding area needs to be well protected, too.
You then need to prepare a solution of ammonia bleach and water. Take the oven shelves outside, spray them with your solution and seal them in a bin bag. Spray the oven with the bleach. After the solution has been at work for a few hours, hose down the shelves and wash them in warm soapy water. You need to then rinse out the oven itself.
This approach is truly extreme and anyone who suffers from respiratory conditions should not take this on.
If you are looking for a regular weekly domestic cleaning service, give Time For You a call.
Image via: las - initially