During hectic times or between deep cleanings that are done seasonally, it can be challenging to maintain all the necessary housework.
Moreover, many people feel that house cleaning is a lengthy process. However, if you are organized and maintain a routine, it can be accomplished quickly and effectively. This blog post will discuss the most efficient methods of tidying up your home daily and the best practices to keep it attractive despite the circumstances.
The Kitchen Sink Area
Maintaining the dishes and the area around your kitchen sink is the best way to keep things clean to ensure your home remains orderly, even during busy times.
This advice is obvious, but many people – myself included – only sometimes abide by it. Get your family to rinse their dishes and put them directly into the dishwasher – a quick 30 seconds of cleaning can save you a lot of time compared to spending time scraping off dried food. Doing the dishes also doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be a terrific way to bond if everyone contributes.
Wipe Down Your Kitchen Sink
After taking care of the dishes then, it’s easy to maintain a clean kitchen sink. An almost effortless way to avoid hard and time-consuming scrubbing is to wipe down the sink after each use with a cleaning wipe — it only takes 30 seconds! Doing this will help keep your sink hygienic and sparkling. If you don’t have a store-bought cleaner, a mixture of lemon juice and salt can help make your faucets shine. Additionally, lemon peels can be put down the garbage disposal to kill germs and deodorize. This easy-to-accomplish activity will leave your sink looking great and your kitchen smelling fresh!
Make Your Bed!
When you return from a long day at work, entering a disorderly room is the last thing you want. Taking a minute to arrange your blankets in the morning may not seem like much, yet the outcome can be remarkable. It makes you feel better and keep your bedroom looking tidy.
Shoes At The Door, Please!
Shoes should never be brought inside the house; they should remain at the door.
It may sometimes be inconvenient, but the impact this simple approach has will help significantly to keep your home clean. You would be surprised at the distinction it makes to keep your home clean and HEALTHY! Shoes are notorious for carrying dirt and germs and can transfer them to carpets. If you leave your shoes outside, your floors will stay cleaner for longer, and you will need to sweep and vacuum less. Also, the germs won’t be spread around your house, which can reduce the risk of illness.
By regularly following an approach to take care of simple things as a habit, with the occasional in-depth cleaning when you can, you will soon notice the improvement in your home’s appearance. Although house cleaning is time-consuming, some simple steps can create an enormous impact!
We Can Help!
We can help you to gain and maintain a clean and tidy home. We have helped homeowners of the Upper Valley with home cleaning services since 1993. Call us at 802-295-6065 to learn more about what we can offer you.
We are always researching how to do the best possible job cleaning a home – your home. We are always reading articles and blog posts on home cleaning and home cleaning products.
While conducting this research, we see people’s typical questions as they do similar home cleaning research. We, therefore, have decided to write a blog post that asks and answers the most common home cleaning questions we see.
What are the dos and don’ts of home cleaning?
Do clean before disinfecting. Cleaning means using soap or detergent to physically remove dirt and grime from surfaces. Dirt and grime on surfaces can lessen the effectiveness of disinfectants, so it’s important to clean the area with either a multi-purpose cleaner or soap and water first. Disinfectants are regulated by the EPA and must kill 99.999% of germs.
Don’t wipe or spray disinfectants and wipe them up right away. Look at the label for instructions on how long to leave it on a surface before wiping it away.
Do spray or wipe the area thoroughly, leaving it slightly damp.
Don’t use vinegar as a disinfectant or anything else that the EPA doesn’t list as a disinfectant.
Do use heat when cleaning. Heat is thought to kill the coronavirus at temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash your clothes in the warmest/hottest setting recommended, and dry them completely. Wash dishes in the hottest water possible, but optimally, use a dishwasher if possible because it can wash and steam dishes. Handwashing in hot water may not be hot enough to kill the virus.
Don’t wear shoes in the house. This brings in more dirt and germs. Remove them before coming in from outside.
Have a dedicated area to enter when coming home, where you can leave your jacket, mail, packages, food takeout, etc. This will also reduce the amount of germs entering your home.
How can I stop hating the messy one in my household while cleaning?
It can be difficult to deal with messy individuals in a household, especially when it comes to cleaning. One approach you can try is to focus on the task at hand and avoid getting caught up in feelings of resentment or frustration.
You can also try to communicate your concerns and establish clear boundaries and expectations for cleaning and organization.
Additionally, it may be helpful to practice empathy and understand the reasons behind the other person’s messiness rather than just focusing on the mess itself. Finding ways to work together to keep the house clean, such as setting up a cleaning schedule or assigning specific tasks, can also be helpful.
What is the most efficient order to clean a house?
One of the most common home cleaning questions relates to home cleaning efficiency. As professional home cleaners, we are also very interested in this, as with a business, efficiency counts!
The most efficient order to clean a house depends on the specific layout of the house and the cleaning tasks that need to be done, but some general guidelines can help to streamline the process.
One approach is to start with the highest surfaces and work your way down, as dirt and dust tend to settle downward. This would mean starting with ceiling fans and light fixtures, then moving on to shelves, countertops, and other surfaces. This way, when you move on to cleaning lower surfaces, you’re not just pushing dirt around.
Another approach is to start in one room and clean it from top to bottom, then move on to the next room. This can help to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the cleaning task and allows you to focus on one area at a time.
Here is a possible order that you can follow:
Start dusting and cleaning the ceiling fans, light fixtures, and blinds.
Next, clean the surfaces such as shelves, countertops, and tables.
Tackle the floors, starting with vacuuming or sweeping and then mopping.
Clean the bathrooms, including the toilet, shower, and sink.
Finish with the bedrooms, making the beds and straightening up.
It’s also important to remember that the above-mentioned order is not strict; it’s important to adjust the order based on your preference and the size of the house.
Establish a routine: Cleaning should be done regularly, and it is important to establish a cleaning schedule that works for you. This can help to prevent the build-up of dirt and grime, making cleaning easier and more efficient.
Start with a plan: Before cleaning, plan what needs to be done and how you will tackle it. This can help to make cleaning more efficient and less overwhelming.
Work from top to bottom: Cleaning surfaces and floors from top to bottom can help to prevent dirt and dust from settling on areas that have already been cleaned.
Use the right tools: Different cleaning tasks require different tools and supplies. Using the right tools and cleaning products is important to ensure you get the best results.
Focus on one area at a time: Instead of cleaning the entire house, focus on one room or area at a time. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and give your full attention to each task.
Be consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to home cleaning. It’s important to be consistent with your cleaning schedule, tools, and technique to achieve the best results.
Prioritize: Prioritize the cleaning tasks based on their importance and urgency. Tackle the most important or urgent tasks first and work your way down.
Be mindful of the environment: Cleaning products can have a negative impact on the environment, so it’s important to choose cleaning products that are non-toxic and biodegradable whenever possible.
You may want to read our blog series on the Seven Habits of Home Cleaning based on the classic book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.
How can I remove stains from carpets and upholstery?
Removing stains from carpets and upholstery can be challenging, but some methods can help remove stains effectively and restore the appearance of your carpets and upholstery.
Here are some general tips for removing stains from carpets and upholstery:
Act quickly: The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. So, try to address the stain as soon as possible.
Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean, white cloth or paper towel to blot up as much of the stain as possible. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers, making it harder to remove.
Use the right cleaning solution: Different stains require different cleaning solutions. For example, a mild detergent and water solution can effectively remove most food and drink stains, while a specialized carpet or upholstery cleaner may be needed for more stubborn stains.
Test a small, inconspicuous area first: Before applying any cleaning solution to a large area, test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t cause any damage or discoloration.
Be patient: Stains can take multiple cleaning attempts to remove completely. Don’t get discouraged if the stain is not completely removed after one cleaning.
Here are some specific cleaning solutions to remove different types of stains:
Blood: Mix a solution of one part water and one part hydrogen peroxide. Apply to the stain and let sit for a few minutes before blotting with a clean white cloth.
Wine: Mix a solution of one-part white vinegar and one part water. Apply to the stain and let sit for a few minutes before blotting with a clean white cloth.
Coffee: Mix a solution of one-part white vinegar and one part water. Apply to the stain and let sit for a few minutes before blotting with a clean white cloth.
Ink: Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean white cloth and use it to blot the stain. Repeat until the stain is gone.
It’s important to note that the above-mentioned solutions are general guidelines; you should always check the label of the cleaning product you are using and follow the instructions.
If you try to clean your carpet without success and want to use a carpet cleaning professional, then you may find this blog post useful: Carpet Cleaning Preparation
What are the differences between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting?
Cleaning: Remove clutter, dust, crumbs, and other detritus.
Sanitizing: Reduce germs and decrease the opportunity for microbes to gather by providing antibacterial solutions.
Disinfecting: Destroy germs on contact by eradicating them where they live and inhibiting their spread at the source. EPA-approved disinfectants are the only products qualified to kill viruses and bacteria, whereas sanitizers can only claim effectiveness on bacteria alone.
How can I remove mold and mildew from my bathroom?
Mold and mildew can be unsightly and have negative health effects, so removing any mold or mildew soon as they are noticed in your bathroom is important. Here are some steps you can take to remove mold and mildew from your bathroom:
Identify the source: Before removing mold and mildew, you need to identify the source of the problem. Look for high humidity and moisture areas, such as around the shower or bathtub, under the sink, or around the toilet.
Ventilate: Open windows or use a bathroom fan to increase airflow and reduce humidity in the bathroom.
Clean surfaces: Use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar to clean surfaces where mold and mildew are present. Scrub the area with a brush or sponge, paying special attention to the grout lines. Rinse the area with water and dry it with a clean cloth.
Use a mold and mildew remover: If the mold and mildew are not easily removed with water and vinegar, use a commercial mold and mildew remover. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the product in a well-ventilated area.
Repair leaks: If the source of the mold and mildew is a leak, repair the leak as soon as possible to prevent the problem from recurring.
Repeat: Repeat the cleaning process until all mold and mildew are removed.
Prevent: Once you have removed mold and mildew, take steps to prevent it from returning. Use a bathroom fan or open a window to increase ventilation, keep the bathroom clean and dry, and fix any leaks or other sources of moisture as soon as they are noticed.
It’s important to note that some cases of mold may require professional attention, especially if the affected area is large or if you have a health condition that makes you more susceptible to mold exposure.
Are there any critical mistakes to avoid while cleaning a home?
We see this next set of Common Home Cleaning Questions as issues with people often. It seems people are sometimes confused and make mistakes.
Never Mix Bleach With Ammonia
Adding bleach to ammonia — or ammonia-containing products, like some window cleaners — can be seriously dangerous. When combined, they produce gas that can constrict breathing. The only thing you should mix bleach with is water.
Don’t: Use Vinegar on Stone Counters
The acidic liquid can etch and damage materials like granite. Use a mild stone cleaner
Don’t: Use Laundry Stain Remover on Carpets
The stain treatment can leave a sticky residue that’s a magnet for dirt. Use a spray specifically formulated for carpets instead.
Don’t: Dust Furniture With a Dry Rag
This will move dust around and can scratch the finish. Spray a cloth with furniture polish or use a microfiber cloth or an electrostatic duster like Swiffer Duster.
Don’t: Use Bleach to Clean Rust
It will set the stain. Try a specially formulated rust-stain remover.
Summary – Common Home Cleaning Questions
These are the most common home-cleaning questions that we often are asked or come across when we do some home-cleaning research. We hope you find this Q&A blog post useful and helpful.
We can help you to gain and maintain a clean and tidy home. We have helped homeowners of the Upper Valley with home cleaning services since 1993. Call us at 802-295-6065 to learn more about what we can offer you.
The Perfect Cleaning Gifts to Spoil the Neat Freak in Your Life
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cleaning Gift
Are you looking for the perfect cleaning gifts to surprise the clean freak in your life? You’ve come to the right place! Cleaning gifts are not only a thoughtful gesture, but a cleaning gift can also help make life easier for the recipient.
This blog will explore the different cleaning gifts available and present tips for choosing the perfect cleaning gift.
Introduction – What Are the Perfect Cleaning Gifts?
Cleaning gifts are a great way to show someone that you care about them but, most notably, that you desire to make their life easier. As a neat freak, I know how much I appreciate it when someone buys me something that simplifies my life. Cleaning gifts come in many forms, ranging from heavy-duty cleaning tools to smaller cleaning gadgets.
They can be anything that helps to make cleaning easier and more efficient. The best cleaning gifts are practical and valuable but also thoughtful and meaningful. The best part about giving a cleaning gift is that it can be used for years – helping someone for a long time. A thoughtful cleaning gift is perfect for a clean freak in your life, as it will be both practical and thoughtful.
Benefits of Cleaning Gifts
Cleaning gifts are not only a great way to show your appreciation for someone, but it can also be incredibly practical. Cleaning gifts can also reduce the amount of time that someone spends on cleaning tasks.
For instance, if you give someone a robotic vacuum cleaner, they will not have to spend time vacuuming their home or office. A robotic vacuum cleaner can be programmed to do this home-cleaning task for them, and it can even be set to clean regularly. A clean home and the methods used to achieve it will always be appreciated.
Types of Cleaning Gifts
There are many different types of cleaning gifts that you can get for the clean freak in your life. These include cleaning tools, cleaning gadgets, and cleaning supplies. Let’s take a closer look at each of these types of gifts:
Cleaning Tools
Cleaning tools are items that are specifically designed for cleaning. These include mops, brooms, dusters, vacuums, and other cleaning items. These tools can help to make cleaning easier, faster, and more efficient.
Cleaning tools can also be used to clean difficult items (such as floors) or enable an easy way to hard-to-reach places (the overhead fan) and tight or difficult spaces (grout). For instance, a steam mop can clean floors and carpets, and a handheld vacuum can clean furniture and upholstery. A microfiber duster can clean the overhead fan, and a special grout cleaning tool helps clean grout lines.
Cleaning Gadgets
Cleaning gadgets are items designed to make cleaning easier and more efficient.
Here are a few ideas for home-cleaning gadgets that also make fine home-cleaning gifts.
Power Scrubber with Grout Head
The oscillating head of a powered scrub brush can move up to 60 times per second. This oscillating movement means the scrubbing can be done for you at a faster rate than you can do it yourself. The scrubbing task becomes both easier and quicker. A power scrubber can be used around faucets and the hard-to-reach places of your sink, stove, or other fixtures to do an excellent and effective deep clean. Faster and Better!
Blinds Cleaner
A blinds cleaner makes cleaning your blinds much simpler. The dual-ended brush tackles every part of your windows as the microfiber fingers quickly get the dust between your blinds. Moreover, the microfiber cloth can be removed and thrown in the wash to be used again and again. Your blinds will be easier to reach and clean up nicely!
Cat Litter Trapper Mat
Even if you love cats, I bet you do not like scattered litter. This Cat Litter Trapper mat solves the problem. This soft, simple mat traps litter from your cat’s paws and excess litter from their box. When it’s time to clean up, simply shake the litter back into the box. Easy!
Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner
Now here is a fun and helpful cleaning gadget. Nobody likes to clean the microwave, but it can be done in seven minutes flat. Just fill this angry lady with water and vinegar and place it in the microwave. The steam produced will loosen up all the gunk and grime — afterward, just wipe with a towel. No scrubbing is required. Excellent!
Reusable Silicone Dishwashing Gloves
This item is not a gadget but an improvement on a standard cleaning aid that most homes have.
These BPA-free silicone gloves are better than average — what makes them stand out is the dense bristles on the palms, which you can use to clean anything from dishes to your car to your bathroom. The material doesn’t hold onto bacteria and won’t get that mildew smell over time. They even have a hanging hole, so you can hang them to dry anywhere. They’ll create a rich lather easily and are safe to put in the dishwasher for cleaning because they’re heat-resistant.
Fun fact: These gloves will come in handy when it’s time to clean your pets.
Ribbed Fridge Liners
People need to clean out their fridge more often. Now’s the time if you last cleaned out your fridge a while ago. Throw out any food or produce past its expiration date and ditch all the crusty leftovers.
Empty your fridge and clean it up shelf by shelf. After it’s clean, grab a few shelf liners. The next time you tackle a fridge clean-up, you can take out all the liners and throw them in the dishwasher. You’re practically done before you start. A clean and tidy fridge is a wonder to behold!
Cleaning Caddy
Any neat freak will appreciate a cleaning caddy. It supports the cleaning process and keeps cleaning products, and cleaning tools organized when not in use. Now that double the value!
You may also want to consider a gift that helps to make the air smell better.
With some research, you will find a valuable, practical, and thoughtful gift for your home-cleaning neat freak.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cleaning Gift
When choosing the perfect cleaning gift for the clean freak in your life, there are a few things to consider:
Consider their needs –Consider what cleaning tasks your clean-freak friend needs to do and what type of cleaning items they already have.
Think about their preferences – Consider the recipient’s style and preferences. For instance, if they prefer an eco-friendlier approach, you could get them a steam mop or a robotic vacuum cleaner.
Choose a practical gift – Cleaning gifts should be practical and useful. Choose something they’ll use rather than something that will just sit in a cupboard (creating clutter which is a no-no).
Consider your budget – Gifts that can be perfect for your neat freak can range from a few dollars to hundreds.
Gift something meaningful – The best cleaning gifts are practical and meaningful. Consider buying something that the recipient will appreciate and remember.
Conclusion – Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cleaning Gift
Cleaning gifts are a great way to show appreciation for someone and can also be incredibly practical. Cleaning gifts come in many forms, including cleaning tools, gadgets, and supplies.
Moreover, suppose you have experience with a particular gift. In that case, you can inform them of tips on using it and why you find it valuable. Personal experience goes a long way when deciding on your cleaning gift.
If You Are Still Stumped!
If you have given the idea of a worthy, functional, and practical cleaning gift some serious thought but are still unsure. Then consider an exceptional gift – a cleaning session by A Clean Vision.
We can relieve the stress of deciding on a special cleaning gift for the neat freak in your life. A Clean Vision has been helping homeowners of the Upper Valley keep their homes clean and tidy since 1993!
If you need help deciding on a cleaning gift or cleaning your own home or office, call us at 802-295-6065.
Having a clean home has many benefits and can make your living space more enjoyable and relaxing. A clean home can reduce stress, improve air quality, and help you and your family stay healthy. Not to mention, it looks great and can help boost your morale and pride.
Home cleaning is a task that many of us would rather avoid, but with the right tools and techniques and a little help from a home cleaning service, it can be quick and simple. Taking the time to give your home a deep clean not only benefits you now but can also help prevent dust and dirt build up, making it easier to maintain a clean home.
Benefits of Home Cleaning
Reducing Allergens
Dust and other allergens can spread easily through your home and can build up in your furniture and flooring. Regular home cleaning removes these harmful allergens from your home and helps keep your family healthier.
Home cleaning is an important part of preventing allergens in your home.
The outdoor air can smell fresher but can also contain many allergens, such as pollen or grass, that can be difficult to remove from your indoor air. If you are concerned about the quality of your indoor air, then air purifiers, or air filters, can help reduce indoor allergens by catching and removing particles from the air.
Few people may think about their bedding, but your bed is a major source of allergens in your home. This can be a problem for people who suffer from allergies. Wash your bedding often in hot water to remove allergens, and avoid using a humidifier in your bedroom to reduce indoor pollutants.
Improving Air Quality
Air quality in your home can greatly impact your health, especially if you suffer from allergies or other health issues. There are many ways to improve the air quality in your home.
Air purifiers and filters can help remove harmful particles from the air, such as dust and pollen, and slow down the rate at which mold grows.
Air fresheners can also help improve the smell of the air in your home, and your family will appreciate a clean/fresh smell rather than a musty odor. Home cleaning can be a great way to improve the air quality in your home.
Regular home cleaning can help remove these particles from your home and improve the smell of the air.
Ventilate your home when the pollen count is low. Fresh air can help clean the air of particles and make your home feel less stuffy and smelly.
Creating a More Pleasant Atmosphere
The smell of your home can make a big difference to your mood and how you feel at home. There are many ways to improve the smell of your home, including adding plants, using scented candles, and using air fresheners.
Home cleaning can also help improve the smell of your home by removing dust, dirt, and other odor-causing particles.
Everyone will benefit from having a clean and tidy home environment.
Staying Healthier
Home cleaning is an important part of staying healthier, but there are other things you can do to keep your home clean. For example, clean your floors regularly. Regularly cleaning your floors can help keep your home cleaner for longer and prevent harmful particles from accumulating in your flooring.
Clean your floors with a damp mop or a vacuum with an attachment, and regularly clean your furniture with a damp cloth or brush.
Making Your Home Look Great
Home cleaning can help your home look great and can make it a more pleasant and enjoyable place to be. Many areas of your home can benefit from regular cleaning, including your flooring, furniture, and walls.
A regular cleaning performed by a well-respected home cleaning service can supplement your cleaning. If you are too busy to do regular cleaning, then a cleaning company can be a great solution.
Regularly cleaning your furniture can help make it look fresh and new.
Dirt and dust can easily build up on your walls, making them look dull and unclean. Regularly cleaning your walls can help make them look cleaner and brighter.
Boosting Morale and Pride
Home cleaning can help boost your morale and pride in your home, making it a more enjoyable place to be. Cleaning your home regularly can help boost your morale and pride in your home.
Your emotional state of mind greatly impacts all areas of your life. Boost your mental state by having a clean and organized home.
Preventing Future Dust and Dirt Build Up
If you do not regularly clean your home, it can become a big task and require a major effort and time to recover from a very dirty home.
Regular cleaning prevents the need to do a major time-consuming cleaning. Stay ahead of the need to do a big cleaning by regularly cleaning your home.
Do not let dirt and dust can accumulate.
If you need help with cleaning your home or office, call us at 802-295-6065. We can relieve the stress of cleaning, save time, and help make your home or office a more pleasant place to be. A Clean Vision has been helping homeowners of the Upper Valley keep their homes clean and tidy since 1993! We can help you too.
How to achieve a clean home without yelling. A clean home and no yelling, you say. The key is getting your kids to listen.
Did you know you can stop yelling, which will help get your kids to listen? You want them to listen, but the more you yell at them, the less they will listen.
Stop yelling and
The respect will grow.
You will feel more connected with your child. And …
Your child will listen more.
I know that we usually write about home cleaning and do have posts about creating a team environment to support keeping your home clean.
This post will be about some ideas on how to encourage your children to listen more. It will be better for everyone as extensive research shows that when parents stop yelling and getting upset with a child, the child has fewer discipline issues and misbehaves less. Now that’s a win for you, the family, and most importantly, the child.
An added benefit is that your child may tend to talk with you more as you yell less. You will learn more about what is going on, creating a better communication atmosphere as both will communicate respectfully.
Let’s ask a question.
Why do you feel the need to yell at your child?
If we examine this question, there may not be easy answers. Perhaps you have had a difficult day. Maybe you wanted to stop by a store to pick up something, and you expected to be in and out quickly only to learn that they were out of stock. A difficult day or an unexpected adverse event can cause your blood pressure to go up and your patience to go down. Your breathing may change, and you may feel more nervous.
Your yelling or getting upset may be due to underlying issues. Your stress may lead to you being hard on your children. If you are stressed, how do you go from being a stressed parent to being a calm, composed, and relaxed parent?
We often feel frustrated when we do not have the control we expect. Sometimes, we wish we had control over things where we have very little control. The example of the store being out of stock of an item you needed is an example.
So, what can you control to reduce your stress level?
Can you do some dinner prep in the morning to reduce evening stress? This is something where you have some control. Could you ensure that backpacks, school bags, and the like are all organized and ready to go the night before to streamline getting prepared to leave your house in the morning? Again, you have some control over this.
Here are some ideas to help you to be a less-stressed parent and work towards win-win communication (with no yelling).
Apply Positive Parenting
To move towards a positive parenting approach, focus on developing a strong, committed relationship between you and your child. Practice communicating based on mutual respect. Part of this approach means explaining what you would like them to do and why it is valuable and important. A positive parenting approach means helping your children learn self-control, which is very valuable to learn (hint, hint).
To make this work, do not resort to punishing immediately, such as yelling. You may not want to resort to punishment at all. Focus on examining why you feel the need to yell and get upset and look for alternative ways. For example, walking away until you are calm and talking to your kids when ready.
You want your children to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do… not because they fear you. Explain to your child why specific tasks and rules are valuable and essential. Teach them to do the right thing. Always show respect; this way, the child will tend towards respect rather than fear.
We show respect by listening to our kids; this will, in return, help your children also respond with respect because your children feel that they are being heard.
Let Your Children Know They Have Some Control
Inform them that if they break a rule, they will lose privileges. Let them know that you are there to enforce the rules, but they can decide if they want to follow the rules or not. They can determine whether they receive a reward for following the rules or face the consequences for breaking the rules.
Never Follow The Monkey
Monkey see . . . Monkey Do. You only have to do it yourself if you want to see your child lose control in frustrating situations. Teach them not to yell by setting an example and not yelling.
If you get mad and start yelling, you are teaching them that it is proper to yell when they are angry or frustrated.
Don’t Break The Rules
If a toy is lost or broken because it was left out, don’t replace it.
If they don’t get to go outside because they didn’t do chores, don’t “give in.”
Don’t even hint that a broken rule/consequence can be ignored.
Remember, They Are Children
Decisions made by a child are not always good decisions. They still have a great deal to learn. if they make a mistake, consider how you can make it a teachable event that does not involve yelling.
It’s OK to Say You’re Sorry
After thinking something over and realizing that you could have managed it differently, it is acceptable to say that you are sorry. This also is mature behavior and is a teaching opportunity too.
Talk
Talking is a very civilized way to work through issues. Yelling and displaying frustration are much less so. If you get into the habit of regularly talking to (not at) your child, you will find it rewarding and enjoyable.
Here are some ways to start a conversation about an event that broke a rule.
“The way that you are acting is making me really sad.” “Let’s talk about it.”
“I don’t understand why you would do that when you know it isn’t right. I believe that’s not who you are or want to be.”
“I feel you should work harder to control your emotions. It may not be easy, but I am confident you can do it. I know you are not a mean or rude person.”
Consider how you can make housecleaning chore rules with rewards and consequences. People like to know where the boundaries are (even children), and everyone likes a reward.
These are some ideas on how to move towards a clean home and no yelling. However, you may really need some expert home-cleaning support.
Call us if you need help with certain aspects of house cleaning. Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support to keep your home clean and tidy. We have provided homeowners of the Upper Valley with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.
Everyone loves a clean and organized home, but most of us hate to clean. Cleaning your home quickly and efficiently is a significant advantage, even if you love to clean!
How, might you ask?
Here are some house cleaning tips that we think will help you to clean your home quickly and effectively.
If given the time to think about it, many people could be confused about some basic principles. For example, what should be done first; vacuum the floor or dust the furniture? Is it better to clean the kitchen before the bathroom, or could you efficiently clean both simultaneously?
Here is some advice on becoming more efficient at cleaning your home. With an increase in efficiency comes a decrease in the time needed to clean your house.
Efficiency Increasing Home Cleaning Advice
1. Single-Task Cleaning
Have you ever considered cleaning the whole house for a single task rather than cleaning one room at a time?
For example, pick a tack such as dusting. You will then select everything you need to dust surfaces. You will not have to put all the tools for effective dusting down to mop the floor.
If you vacuum, you can stay focused on vacuuming and not have to focus on dusting.
Your cleaning efficiency will increase by selecting one task (dusting, vacuuming, mopping) and performing this specific cleaning task in every room. This approach will be more efficient when compared to cleaning the bathrooms, then the kitchen, and finally the bedrooms.
A single-task multi-room approach is more efficient. Psychologically, there is an advantage as well as you will not feel that you are in an “endless” loop.
2. Use A Cleaning Caddy
Cleaning efficiency means you do not stop to look for something you need. Keep everything you need for your specific cleaning task in one portable place. This will cut down on time spent looking for the tools you need. Moreover, you will not have to think about gathering them for the next time cleaning is necessary.
3. Declutter First
Before you start cleaning, declutter the areas you will be cleaning.
The decluttering process will also require you to make some key decisions.
Where will you put it away?
Is this item no longer useful, and can it be donated?
Is this item no longer useful, and can it be thrown away?
4. Dust and Vacuum
If you have ceiling fans, turn them off before the start of any dusting. Focus dusting on the tops of furniture and the undersides of shelves, picture frames, knickknacks, and TV screens. For areas that are hard to reach, such as blinds or upper shelves, use a microfiber cloth attached to a mop or broom.
If you change the sheets in a bedroom, do this before starting to vacuum.
5. Clean Mirrors and Windows
Start with a microfiber cloth that has been dampened with your cleaning solution. Have a separate dry cloth to wipe down each glass surface after cleaning with your damp cloth.
6. Use A Disinfectant
Some surfaces should be disinfected. Countertops, appliances, cabinets, doorknobs, light switches, and TV remotes should be periodically disinfected. Cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces will help to make your home a healthy and germ-free environment. An excellent solution to use is one that you can make yourself. Create a solution by mixing one-fourth to a half cup of white or apple cider vinegar with a cup of water.
7. Tubs, Sinks, and Toilets
You can perform this step all at once. Spray cleaner on the kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, tubs, and toilets. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes. Allowing the cleaning solution to sit, it will have time to dissolve dirt and stains. Your first room will be the kitchen, then proceed to the bathrooms. The last to clean will always be the toilets.
We refer you to the blog post if you also want to clean your garbage disposal.
8. Sweep First, then Mop
Always start with the sweep. After sweeping then, you proceed to mop. You must begin at the point furthest away from where you want to stop. Never mop yourself into a corner. When you have mopped an area of about four feet by four feet, then stop and rinse your Mop.
9. Vacuum In One Pass
You will be able to see anything significant, so do not focus on vacuuming every single square inch. Run your vacuum over every carpeted service just once. If you think you may have missed something or a section needs a double pass, then go for it.
Again, for efficiency, consider what needs to be done and how often. Some tasks may need to be done every week, and others once per month. Make decisions on how often based on your judgment.
10. Keep your Cleaning Tools Clean
We have found that an overlooked part of cleaning the house is keeping your cleaning tools in good shape. Make sure that your vacuum bag is not filled. It will not vacuum as well if the bag is full. In the name of efficiency, keep your cleaning tools operating at an efficient and effective level.
11. Teamwork Counts
If the members of your household can work as a team, then this is a very effective way to clean your home quickly. It may be best to set a schedule with assignments for each person. Do not underestimate how to keep these cleaning task assignment fun and rewarding. A special treat for the team will go a long way toward maintaining a positive team attitude leading to a clean home for everyone.
Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support to keep your home clean and tidy. We have provided homeowners of the Upper Valley with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.
House cleaning can feel like a full-time job for any busy professional. No sooner have you finished cleaning one area then you need to tidy up someplace else. You are trying to run a household while participating in many other activities.
For example, you may need to:
Take the kids to sports practice
Prepare dinner
Take the dog for a walk
You need to establish a balance. But how?
Here are some tips for maintaining a balance between clean and dirty without spending hours with a scrubbing brush.
Take Something Out, then Put it Away
It can seem like a no-brainer, but you would be amazed how many families don’t follow this rule. If you take Something out, put it away. Parents andchildren can follow this rule for a clutter-free, tidy home.
There are many ways you can establish this rule in your household.
For example, children can learn quite quickly that if they want to play with their toys, they must put away anything they are no longer playing with. When they get home from school, school uniforms are hung in their room, and school bags go in a set area. A home can run like a well-oiled machine when everything has its place. A well-oiled “machine” (metaphorically) is a home that does the same thing in the same way, over and over, every day.
Establish house rules so that everyone in the household knows what their responsibilities are. Here are some ideas for simple rules that even young children can follow.
If you take something out, put it away.
If you drop something, pick it up.
If you make a mess, clean it up.
If you break something, you need to fix it.
If you can’t fix it, then call someone who can.
If you take it off, put it away where it belongs!
Daily Bathroom Cleaning
Bathroom cleaning is most people’s leastfavorite job – and it’s not surprising. After all, who wants to spend their free time scrubbing showers, sinks, and toilets? Cleaning as you go can save a lot of elbow grease.
Sprayed toothpaste on the mirror? Clean it off right away. Smeared soap on the shower glass? Wipe it off with a cloth. Taking care of messes as they happen will mean a far smaller job when you carry out a detailed clean on an infrequent basis.
Dishes After Each Meal
According to many studies, house sizes are getting smaller. New home designs often focus on efficient layouts and energy efficiency. A smaller house may translate into a smaller kitchen and a smaller area to stack dishes.
An excellent way to be more efficient is to ensure that the “machines” operate while you do Something else. For example, when you work, ensure your dishwasher is running to clean your dishes. If you have a dishwasher, stack and set it before you leave for work so you can arrive home to clean dishes and a tidy countertop.
If you want to avoid spending valuable leisure time cleaning endless mountains of plates and cups, then clean as you go. Be strict with yourself and do the dishes after each meal.
Invest in Storage Solutions
Clutter can offer the illusion of an untidy and even dirty home. When surrounded by mess, it can affect your stress levels and happiness. Use new storage solutions to regain control and maintain your clean versus dirty balance.
Add more shelving to bedrooms, cabinets to central areas, and even storage tubs for the kids’ toys where they play with them the most. When everything has its place, you maintain that sense of order.
Hire a Cleaner
If you feel like you spend half your life cleaning your home, why not hire someone to take care of the hard work for you? When you hire a cleaning company, you get to enjoy the simpler things in life without the hassle and worry about whether you have time to clear the breakfast dishes or scrub the bathroom.
Cleaning is one of those tasks you just can’t avoid. However, there are ways to make it a whole lot easier. Encourage your family to operate under a system that reduces the need to spend time keeping your home clean. Everyone will benefit!
Call us at 802-295-6065 if you live in the Upper Valley and need extra support to keep your home clean and tidy. We have provided homeowners of the Upper Valley with top-notch home cleaning services since 1993.
