Author: Chris Wadsworth

Written by Chris Wadsworth on June 26, 2025.

Room-by-Room Deep Cleaning Guide

(with Printable Checklist)

Keeping your home clean on a daily basis is one thing, but every so often, your living space needs a deep cleaning to reset and refresh each room from top to bottom. Whether you’re preparing for a summer refresh, expecting guests, or just want your home to be clean, neat, and tidy, tackling one room at a time makes the process manageable and satisfying.

This room-by-room deep cleaning guide will walk you through each space with clear steps, practical tips, and a printable checklist to keep you organized and motivated.

Why Deep Cleaning Matters

Unlike routine tidying or weekly chores, deep cleaning targets those overlooked areas where dust, grime, and bacteria build up over time. It’s essential for:

Improving air quality
Reducing allergens
Boosting mental clarity and focus
Maintaining the condition and lifespan of your home

1. Kitchen

Your kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms in your home—and one of the most important to deep clean.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Empty and clean the inside of the refrigerator and freezer
Wipe down and disinfect cabinets and drawers (inside and out)
Clean oven, stovetop, and exhaust fan
Descale the sink faucet and clean the garbage disposal
Scrub backsplash, countertops, and grout
Dust and wash light fixtures
Mop under appliances and furniture
Wipe baseboards and walls

Pro Tip: Use a vinegar and baking soda paste to cut through grease on stovetops and oven doors.

2. Bathroom(s)

A thoroughly cleaned bathroom is essential for maintaining hygiene and comfort.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Scrub tile grout and reseal if needed
Clean inside and behind the toilet
Descale showerheads and faucets
Wash the shower curtain and replace the liner
Clean sink drain and mirror
Sanitize high-touch areas (toilet handles, light switches)
Vacuum and mop the floor
Organize cabinets and toss expired items

Pro Tip: Use a toothbrush to get into crevices around faucets and drains.

3. Living Room

This common area sees a lot of traffic and should be freshened regularly.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Vacuum under and behind furniture
Shampoo or steam clean carpets and rugs
Clean upholstery (or vacuum and spot-treat)
Dust baseboards, ceiling fans, and light fixtures
Wash throw pillow covers and blankets
Clean windows, blinds, and sills
Wipe electronics and remotes

Pro Tip: Use a lint roller or rubber gloves to remove pet hair from furniture.

4. Bedroom(s)

Your sanctuary should be a clean, calm, and healthy space.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Wash all bedding, including mattress protectors
Rotate or vacuum the mattress
Clean inside closets and dressers
Dust furniture, decor, and baseboards
Wipe the ceiling fan blades and vents
Vacuum or mop under the bed
Declutter nightstands and surfaces

Pro Tip: Add lavender sachets to drawers for a fresh scent and insect deterrent.

5. Entryway & Hallways

These are high-traffic zones that often get neglected.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Wipe walls, light switches, and baseboards
Clean shoe racks or coat closets
Mop floors and shake out rugs
Dust artwork, mirrors, and trim
Organize shoes, keys, and clutter

Pro Tip: Use a magic eraser to remove scuff marks on walls and doors.

6. Laundry Room

A cleaner laundry room leads to fresher clothes.

Deep Cleaning Tasks:

Clean the washer drum and lint trap
Wipe down the dryer and remove buildup from the vent
Organize detergents and cleaning products
Dust shelving and corners
Vacuum or mop the floor

Pro Tip: Run an empty load with white vinegar to deodorize your washer.

Final Thoughts

Deep cleaning may seem overwhelming, but when you break it down room by room, it becomes totally manageable—and even enjoyable. Think of it as an investment in your home’s health and your peace of mind. With a plan in place and the right tools on hand, you’ll be amazed at how refreshed your space (and you) will feel.

Start small. Celebrate your progress. And let your clean home reward you with comfort and calm.

A Clean Vision

Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support keeping your home clean and tidy. We have provided Upper Valley homeowners with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.

Written by Chris Wadsworth on May 30, 2025.

5 Practical and Refreshing Summer Home Cleaning Ideas

Deep Clean Windows and Screens

Summer is the perfect time to deep clean your windows and screens. Let natural light flood your home. Start by removing window screens and gently scrubbing them with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry in the sun.

Next, clean the windows inside and out using a streak-free glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water. For best results, wipe with a microfiber cloth. Don’t forget to clean the window sills and tracks, where dust and grime often accumulate. Sparkling windows instantly make your home feel brighter and fresher.

Here is an easy recipe for a homemade window cleaning solution.

DIY Streak-Free Window Cleaner

Ingredients:

1 cup white vinegar
1 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol (optional, for faster drying)
A few drops of essential oil (optional, for a fresh scent)

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a clean spray bottle.
Shake gently to mix.
Spray directly on glass and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.

Declutter and Organize Storage Spaces

Summer is an ideal time to tackle cluttered areas of your home and reorganize storage spaces. With longer daylight hours and a natural urge to freshen things up, it’s easier to stay motivated. Start with closets, pantries, garages, and basements—anywhere that tends to accumulate forgotten or seasonal items. Pull everything out and sort items into keep, donate, recycle, or discard categories. Be honest about what you use and need.

Once you’ve decluttered, clean the empty spaces thoroughly—wipe down shelves, sweep floors, and vacuum corners. Then reorganize your remaining items using bins, labels, and shelf dividers to keep things tidy and easy to access. Rotate seasonal items to the front, like beach towels, summer gear, and gardening tools, while storing winter items toward the back. Streamlining your storage not only frees up space but also makes everyday tasks smoother and more enjoyable throughout the season.

Refresh Upholstery and Rugs

Take rugs outside to shake out dust and beat them clean or give them a deep clean with a carpet cleaner. Vacuum and steam-clean upholstered furniture to remove allergens and odors.

Summer is the perfect time to give your upholstery and rugs a thorough refresh. With windows open and the sun shining, fabrics dry faster and smells dissipate more easily. Start by vacuuming all upholstered furniture, including under the cushions and in crevices where dust, crumbs, and pet hair accumulate. For a deeper clean, use a steam cleaner or a fabric-safe upholstery cleaner to lift embedded dirt and eliminate odors. Spot clean any stains using a mild solution of water, white vinegar, and a drop of dish soap—test in an inconspicuous area first.

Rugs also benefit from seasonal cleaning. Take smaller rugs outdoors to shake off dirt and debris. If possible, hang them over a railing and beat them with a broom handle to loosen embedded dust. For deeper cleaning, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional, especially for high-traffic areas. Don’t forget to clean area rugs under dining tables or near entryways; they can gather a surprising amount of dust and dirt.

Once clean, let everything dry thoroughly in the sun, which also helps kill bacteria and naturally freshen the fabric.

Regular summer refreshes not only maintain the appearance of your furnishings but also promote a healthier living environment.

Clean and Maintain Outdoor Spaces

The summer is a great time to be outdoors. This is particularly true if you live in the Upper Valley, which can have some long and cold winters.

Power wash patios, decks, and siding. Scrub down outdoor furniture and inspect it for signs of mold or rust.

Add a bird bath to help add some life to your yard. Birds enjoy bird baths because they provide a clean, safe place to drink and bathe. Bathing helps birds keep their feathers in good condition by removing dust, dirt, and parasites. Clean feathers are essential for insulation and flight. In warm weather, bird baths also help birds stay cool and hydrated.

Bird baths are a delightful and beneficial feature for both birds and backyard bird watchers.

Wipe Down Fans, Vents, and Air Conditioners

Dusty fans and clogged vents reduce air quality and strain your cooling systems. Wipe fan blades, vacuum vents, and clean filters in air conditioners to keep air fresh and flowing efficiently. This simple maintenance improves energy efficiency and helps your home stay cooler during the hot summer months.

Change air filters too!

A Clean Vision

Written by Chris Wadsworth on April 8, 2025.

Upper Valley Home Cleaning

Keeping your home clean can be time-consuming and stressful. A professional cleaning service offers a convenient, reliable solution that saves time, ensures a higher standard of cleanliness, and creates a healthier, more relaxing living space. Let’s explore the key benefits of trusting your home to the hands of professionals.

A Clean Vision

Written by Chris Wadsworth on March 9, 2025.

The Joy of a Clean Home: How Tidiness Enhances Life

A clean home is more than just an aesthetically pleasing space—it is a foundation for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. From reducing stress to increasing productivity, maintaining a tidy and organized home brings countless benefits that make daily living far more enjoyable. The effort put into keeping a home clean is always rewarded with a sense of peace, comfort, and efficiency that enhances overall well-being.

A Stress-Free Refuge

Waking up to a clean and organized home immediately sets an excellent tone for the day. Clutter and mess can lead to feelings of chaos and feeling overwhelmed. In contrast, a neat environment fosters a sense of calm and control. The mind can feel more at ease when every item has its place and surfaces are free from unnecessary clutter.

Scientific studies suggest that clutter can contribute to higher levels of stress and anxiety, making it harder to relax or focus. On the other hand, a well-maintained living space allows individuals to fully unwind after a long day, making the home a true sanctuary rather than another source of stress.

Improved Health and Well-Being

A clean home is essential for maintaining good health. Dust, mold, and bacteria accumulate quickly in neglected spaces, leading to allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Regular cleaning minimizes these risks and creates a healthier indoor environment for everyone.

Beyond physical health, cleanliness also benefits mental well-being. The simple act of cleaning can be therapeutic—providing a sense of accomplishment and control. Even if you do not do the cleaning, a well-kept space encourages a positive mindset, helping you to feel energized and motivated throughout the day.

Enhanced Productivity and Focus

A cluttered environment may lead to a disorganized mind. Whether working from home, studying, or simply trying to complete daily tasks, an organized space makes it easier to concentrate and be productive. When your home is clean and free from distractions, tasks become more manageable, and efficiency improves.

A tidy workspace, in particular, has been shown to boost creativity and motivation. Instead of feeling bogged down by disorder, individuals can channel their energy into meaningful activities, making everyday life more rewarding.

A More Enjoyable Social Life

Maintaining a clean home makes it easier to welcome guests without the stress of last-minute tidying. Whether hosting a dinner party, having friends over for coffee, or accommodating family visits, a well-kept space fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests feel more comfortable, and homeowners can take pride in their surroundings without worrying about mess or disorganization.

Additionally, a clean home encourages more spontaneous social interactions. Instead of avoiding company due to clutter, individuals feel more confident in opening their doors to others, strengthening relationships, and making socializing more enjoyable.

A Sense of Accomplishment and Pride

A clean home reflects self-care and responsibility. Taking the time to maintain a tidy living space instills a sense of pride and accomplishment. Every small effort, from making the bed in the morning to keeping the kitchen spotless, contributes to greater satisfaction and happiness.

Furthermore, a clean home sets a positive example for children and family members, encouraging good habits that will last a lifetime. Teaching the value of cleanliness and organization helps build a strong foundation for a more structured and enjoyable lifestyle.

The Value of a Clean and Tidy Home – Conclusion

A clean home is more than just a nice-looking space—it directly impacts happiness, health, and overall quality of life. From reducing stress and improving focus to creating a welcoming atmosphere for friends and family, cleanliness is vital in making life more enjoyable. By prioritizing tidiness, individuals can create a peaceful, functional, and uplifting environment that enhances daily living in countless ways.

A Clean Vision

Written by Chris Wadsworth on February 15, 2025.

Seven Common Home Cleaning Questions

How often should I clean my home?

The frequency of cleaning your home depends on the area and how much it is used. Daily cleaning should include wiping kitchen counters, washing dishes, and tidying up clutter. Weekly tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning the bathroom help maintain a fresh environment. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches should also be disinfected weekly.

For deep cleaning, tackle areas like carpets, windows, and baseboards monthly or seasonally to prevent dust buildup. Bedding should be washed weekly, while appliances like ovens and refrigerators need thorough cleaning every few months.

If you have pets or allergies, vacuuming and dusting should be done more frequently to reduce allergens. A consistent schedule prevents overwhelming messes and makes home maintenance easier. Adjust your cleaning routine based on your lifestyle, household size, and personal preferences for a clean and healthy living space.

What are the best natural cleaning solutions?

White Vinegar – A natural disinfectant that cuts through grease, removes odors, and dissolves mineral deposits. It works great on glass, countertops, and bathroom surfaces.

Baking Soda – A gentle abrasive that deodorizes and helps remove tough stains. It’s excellent for scrubbing sinks, freshening carpets, and unclogging drains when combined with vinegar.

Lemon – The acidity in lemons helps break down grease and grime. It also has antibacterial properties and leaves a fresh scent, making it perfect for cutting boards, microwaves, and faucets.

Castile Soap – A plant-based soap that can be used for dishwashing, floor cleaning, and even laundry. It’s gentle yet effective on dirt and grease.

Hydrogen Peroxide – A natural disinfectant that kills bacteria and mold. It’s great for sanitizing kitchen and bathroom surfaces, whitening grout, and cleaning cutting boards.

How do I remove stubborn stains from carpets or upholstery?

Removing stubborn stains from carpets or upholstery requires quick action and the right cleaning approach. First, blot (never rub) the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. For water-based stains like juice or coffee, mix dish soap with warm water, apply it to the stain, and blot gently. For greasy stains, sprinkle baking soda on the area, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum before applying a vinegar and water solution.

For tough stains like wine or pet accidents, use a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot dry. Hydrogen peroxide works well on organic stains like blood but should be tested on a hidden area first to avoid discoloration. After cleaning, let the fabric air dry completely to prevent mold growth. Regular vacuuming and immediate spot treatment will keep carpets and upholstery looking fresh.

How do I prevent mold and mildew in my bathroom?

Preventing mold and mildew in your bathroom requires proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and moisture control. Start by keeping the bathroom well-ventilated, using an exhaust fan during and after showers, or opening a window to reduce humidity. Wipe down wet surfaces like shower walls, tiles, and sinks after use to prevent moisture buildup.

Regular cleaning is key—use a mixture of white vinegar and water or hydrogen peroxide to clean shower curtains, tiles, and grout weekly, as these natural solutions kill mold spores. Fix leaks immediately, as even small drips from pipes or faucets can create damp conditions where mold thrives.

Consider using a squeegee to remove excess water from shower doors and walls after each use. Also, avoid leaving damp towels or bathmats on the floor—hang them to dry properly. Using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products can help maintain a dry bathroom and prevent mold from forming.

How can I reduce dust in my home?

Reducing dust in your home requires regular cleaning, proper air circulation, and effective dust-trapping techniques. Start with regular vacuuming, at least twice a week, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture fine dust particles. Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture trap dust, so vacuuming these areas thoroughly is essential.

Dust surfaces properly using a damp microfiber cloth instead of a dry duster, which can spread dust. Please pay special attention to shelves, baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents, as they collect dust over time. Wash bedding weekly to remove dust mites, and consider using a hypoallergenic mattress and pillow covers.

Reduce clutter, as unnecessary items collect and trap dust. Store seasonal clothes, books, and décor in closed containers to limit dust accumulation. Improve air quality by using an air purifier with a HEPA filter, especially in bedrooms and high-traffic areas. Keeping windows closed on windy days can also help prevent outdoor dust from entering your home.

Finally, consider replacing fabric curtains and blinds with easy-to-clean alternatives like wood or metal blinds. Regular maintenance and good cleaning habits will significantly reduce dust buildup, making your home healthier and more comfortable.

What’s the best way to eliminate odors from my home?

Removing or reducing odors in your home requires cleaning, ventilation, and natural deodorizers. Start by identifying and removing the source of odors—dirty carpets, pet areas, trash bins, and damp spaces are common culprits. Remove trash regularly and clean bins with vinegar or baking soda to neutralize lingering smells.

Proper ventilation is key. Open windows and use exhaust fans to circulate fresh air and prevent odors from becoming trapped. Air purifiers with activated carbon filters help absorb airborne smells, especially from cooking, smoke, or pets.

Natural deodorizers like baking soda absorb odors in refrigerators, carpets, and trash cans. Activated charcoal and coffee grounds are also excellent at neutralizing smells. Simmering citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, or herbs in water can add a fresh scent to your home.

For fabric-based odors, sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery, let it sit, then vacuum thoroughly. Washing bed linens, curtains, and pet bedding regularly prevents lingering bad smells.

Essential oils and homemade sprays with vinegar and water can provide a light, natural fragrance. Keeping your home clean and fresh can eliminate unwanted odors rather than just masking them.

What is an affordable way to keep my home clean?

A Clean Vision

Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support keeping your home clean and tidy. We have been providing Upper Valley homeowners with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.

Here is another set of blog posts you may find interesting.

7 Habits of Home Cleaning

Written by Chris Wadsworth on January 11, 2025.

Top 5 Germ Hotspots in Your Home You’re Probably Overlooking

It is essential to clean some special spots in your home, especially during the winter months, to lower the germ count and help you and your family stay healthy.

When you think of germy places in your home, your mind likely jumps to the bathroom or kitchen sink. While these areas can harbor bacteria, some surprisingly germ-infested spots often go unnoticed. Keeping your home truly clean means paying attention to these hidden hotspots. Here are five common areas where germs thrive and tips on how to keep them in check.

Your Toothbrush Holder

You use your toothbrush daily to clean your teeth, but how often do you clean the holder it sits in? Studies have shown that toothbrush holders are one of the germiest places in the home. They’re often exposed to water, toothpaste residue, and airborne particles from flushing toilets, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and mold.

How to clean it: Wash your toothbrush holder weekly with warm, soapy water or run it through the dishwasher if it’s dishwasher-safe. Don’t forget to rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after use and replace it every 3-4 months.

Kitchen Sponges

Your kitchen sponge may be your go-to tool for cleaning dishes, but it’s also a breeding ground for bacteria. A damp, porous surface and food particles create an ideal environment for harmful germs like E. coli and salmonella.

How to clean it: Replace your sponge regularly—ideally every one to two weeks. Between uses, sanitize it by microwaving it for one minute or soaking it in bleach. Better yet, consider switching to reusable, washable cleaning cloths.

Light Switches and Door Handles

These high-touch surfaces are often overlooked during routine cleaning. Every time you flip a switch or grab a doorknob, you transfer oils, dirt, and bacteria from your hands. With multiple people in a household, these areas can accumulate germs quickly.

How to clean them: Use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with water and rubbing alcohol to clean light switches and door handles at least once a week. For added protection, encourage frequent handwashing among family members.

TV Remotes

The remote control is another frequently touched item that rarely gets cleaned. It’s easy for crumbs, spills, and germs to accumulate on the buttons and surface, especially if you’re snacking while watching TV.

How to clean it: Remove the batteries and wipe the remote with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dipped in a water and mild soap solution. Use a cotton swab to clean around the buttons, then let it dry completely before reinserting the batteries.

Refrigerator Handles

Every time you reach for a snack, you’re touching the refrigerator handle—and so is everyone else in your household. These handles can quickly become a hotspot for bacteria, especially if hands aren’t washed properly before or after handling food.

How to clean them: Wipe down refrigerator handles daily with a disinfectant wipe or a solution of water and vinegar. Make it a habit to clean them more frequently if someone is sick.

Final Thoughts

While these hidden hotspots can harbor germs, keeping them clean doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Regular attention to these areas and good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of germs spreading in your home.

Do you need help keeping your home spotless and germ-free? A professional cleaning service can ensure every corner of your home gets the attention it deserves. Let us handle the hidden dirt so you can enjoy a healthier, cleaner space!

A Clean Vision

Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support to keep your home clean and tidy during winter. We have provided homeowners of the Upper Valley with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.

Written by Chris Wadsworth on December 20, 2024.

Organize and Purge (declutter) Key Areas of the Home

While you might not have time to do a whole-house declutter, perhaps you can at least tackle “heart-of-the-home” zones, including the kitchen, pantry, and mudroom (if you have one). These spaces can become a drop zone for any items coming in or leaving the house, like school backpacks, books, sports equipment, holiday gifts, packages, and returns.

Declutter Your Home Decor

Whether it is things you’ve been keeping out all year long, like the (spring-scent and it is now winter) candle that’s almost completely burned out, or cute holiday items that look OK even after the holidays, my advice would be to declutter your decor. Certainly, declutter broken items. It is also always nice to take some time to freshen your décor and keep it current with the seasons.

You may even, for example, say goodbye to that old Live, Laugh, Love sign. And, as a special note, it is best to avoid buying trendy decor, as it may only get used once, which then ends up as clutter–oh my!

Create a System for Regular Decluttering

I recommend taking the time to implement a system (for example, the first Friday of every month) and scheduling it on the calendar. This will allow you to have a plan, and the calendar will help you stick to it. You may want to include dates for quarterly decluttering and seasonal clothing swap-around on your calendar to hold yourself accountable throughout the year. Putting these items in your calendar will remind you and help you be committed to doing this.

Consider Lighting Redo with Minimalistic Lighting

Minimalist lighting can have many benefits, including:

Creating a calm atmosphere.
Transforming a space into a serene and harmonious environment
Supporting mental clarity.
Helping you to think clearly and make decisions.
Reducing stress.
Promoting a sense of tranquility and calm by reducing visual distractions.
Increasing focus.
Making a space easier to clean.

If you have a home office or work from home, then a clear space can lead to a clear mind, and a clutter-free workspace can be key to increasing focus and productivity.

Feng Shui and Lighting

When redoing certain areas, consider the five Feng Shui elements.

The five Feng Shui elements include wood, metal, Earth, water, and fire. Part of the fire element is lighting, so this can tie in nicely with a lighting makeover. The proper Feng Shui lighting balances yin (calm) and yang (lively) energy. However, some other Feng Shui elements can be utilized when picking out your light fixtures.

For example, go for a wooden light fixture to encourage personal growth. To stimulate mental sharpness and intelligence, install a metallic light fixture, particularly in an office space, study area, or reading room. The other elements—earth (stability and balance) and water (wisdom and peace)—can be achieved through different means, such as adding plants or other elements from nature along with reflective substances or surfaces such as mirrors to your interior design.

Adding the five elements of Feng Shui may not be relevant for every room in your household or office. Thus, you wouldn’t need to implement them everywhere. Use your best judgment.

Enhance The Use of Natural Light

Regardless of our modern innovations, human beings are still biologically programmed to benefit from exposure to daylight. The rapid rate of technological advancement has vastly overtaken the speed of our natural evolution. As a result of artificial lighting, we no longer experience the day and night cycles our bodies are designed to work around.

The benefits of natural light on our feelings apply to our physical well-being, psychological health, and mood. A lack of daylight can make us feel down, depressed, and anxious, and the significance of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) speaks volumes about how important daylight is to our mental well-being. SAD is often more pronounced in northern areas in the winter months.

Here are some ideas:

Hang a mirror on a wall opposite a window.

A mirror’s reflective surface helps bounce light around the room, making it feel brighter and more open. For instance, if you have a small window in your bathroom, hanging a mirror on the opposite wall will help reflect the light and make the space feel larger. You can use this trick in any room of your house—it’s a great way to make a dark and dreary space feel lighter and airier.

Use light-Colored Window Treatments.

If you must use window treatments, choose ones that are light in color. Dark curtains or blinds absorb light rather than reflect it, making your space feel darker.

Let The Sunshine In!

This one may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. Open your curtains or blinds during the daytime to let the sunshine in. Not only will it help to brighten up your space, but it will also help you to get your daily dose of vitamin D.

Add A Plant (an actual plant)

Sharing your living or working space with living, “breathing” plant life can make your environment happier and healthier.

Having plants in your home or office can be a source of pleasure. Indoor gardening relieves stress, boosts creativity, productivity, and focus, and promotes recovery.

There is also evidence that houseplants may also positively influence the air quality in your home.

Indoor Plants May Help Reduce Stress Levels

A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that plants in your home or office can make you feel more comfortable, soothed, and natural.

The living space of modern people has moved from outdoors to indoors – more than 85% of a person’s daily life is spent indoors. Developments in information technology have allowed people to connect and remain connected to the computer environment. However, this diffusion of information technology causes a great deal of stress, such as technostress, a modern disease of adaptation caused by an inability to cope with the new computer technologies in a healthy manner.

In the study, participants were given two tasks: repotting a houseplant or completing a short computer-based task. After each task, researchers measured the biological factors associated with stress, including heart rate and blood pressure.

They found that the indoor gardening task lowered participants’ stress responses. On the other hand, the computer task caused a spike in heart rate and blood pressure, even though the study participants were young men well-accustomed to computerized work.

Researchers concluded that working with plants could reduce both physiological and psychological stress.

Real plants may sharpen your attention.

Sorry, plastic plants won’t help you pass your exams. In a small study involving 23 participants, researchers put students in a classroom with either a fake plant, a real one, a photograph of a plant, or no plant at all.

Brain scans of the participants showed that the students who studied with real, live plants in the classroom were more attentive and better able to concentrate than students in the other groups.

Organize and Declutter, We Are Here To Help

If you need extra professional cleaning help, count on A Clean Vision. Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra cleaning help as you plan holiday parties and dinners. We have provided Upper Valley homeowners with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.