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Simple Ways to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Environment

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:48:52 GMT

What if I told you that the items in your home are weaponized against your health? Would the answer to that question change your perspective about the necessity of an industry designed to help make your home environment cleaner and safer than it is under the status quo?

With the exceptions of opening doors and windows of the home; our home climate control systems are relatively closed systems. This means that the majority of the air circulating through our homes is being controlled and constantly recirculated throughout our homes. While there are safeguards in place for those climate control systems, things like the air filter in the cold air return of the air conditioner or air handler can’t remove everything that floats in and out of the climate control system. This means that there is still plenty of tiny particulate matter that negatively impact our health are constantly being moved through our homes as the air circulates back to the air handling system. Let’s be real for a quick second. How many of us out there change out the air filter in the cold air return every 30 days; as recommended by the climate control system retailers and installers? I rest my case.

So, where does the leftover tiny particulate matter go if it is missed by the climate control system? The answer is primarily the soft textiles in our homes. For example, Carpets, Upholstered furniture, drapes, rugs all act as a natural air filter for a home. Think about the last time you got home from work, tired, mentally exhausted, and the couch became your refuge to seek refuge from the day. Chances are, after the free fall into the comfort zone of the couch, you begin to notice tiny bits of dust fluttering through the air as it floats through the light that passes through the window treatments in your home. The vast majority of that debris in the air came directly from the cushions that you are now are laid out on. As we sit down on cushioned furniture, the air inside the cushion becomes expelled out of the fabric it was in and goes right back into the air where it can be breathed in and cause indoor allergy reactions. Chances are that if most of us are forgetful about the filter in the cold air return, we probably haven’t maintained the natural air filters in our home that are soft textiles in nature as well as we could be.

As the owners of the soft textiles that help filter the air in our homes, we should vacuum the soft textiles in our home as often as we regularly vacuum the carpet in our homes to reduce the amount of allergens and air pollutants in our homes and give our homes the healthy indoor air quality that we all want and deserve.

Tips to Help Your Carpet Last Longer

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:38:51 GMT

Carpet comes in a vast array of colors, types, cuts, finishes, etc, and can be the perfect warming touch to any room or area. But alas, it can easily become dirty, worn, lose its dye stability, delaminated, or separated from the backing of the carpet, etc making the once perfect touch for the room an absolute eyesore. Replacing carpet can come at a great expense as well. So, how, as a consumer, can you make the investment in your carpet last as long as possible? Throughout this article, I intend to show you exactly what to do to maintain your beloved carpets and get the most out of every penny invested in them.

The most important thing to do when maintaining carpets is to vacuum thoroughly and often. Often a minimum of 3 times weekly is recommended by the Carpet and Rug Institute for healthy carpets. Dirt, sand, and dry soil particulate matter are collectively the number 1 reason for premature wear, especially when combined with pivotal distortion from foot traffic. If you took a grain of sand and looked at it through a microscope it would look like a semi-cuboidal shape with razor-sharp edges. Once that sand can work itself down in between fibers of the carpet pile it can cause very severe damage to a carpet.

In comparison, if you looked at a single tuft of carpet under the microscope it would have the appearance of a rope. This appearance is created by the factory and permanently “set” by the Heat Set and Twist portion of the carpet construction. That little rope can easily become frayed when next to razor-sharp cubed-shaped objects like sand which creates the appearance of premature wear. The other part of this proverbial equation is pivotal distortion. Pivotal distortion is created in any area of the floor where it is impossible to walk in a completely straight line. While walking, simultaneously turn your body weight on the ball or the sole of your foot and turn wherever your weight is centered. This slightly slower and grinding type of motion will create a wear spot wherever it is located, again especially if dry soil particulate matter is present in the area of pivotal distortion further exacerbating the problem.

Next, keep in mind that not everything off the shelf at your local grocery store is the best product to use in your own home. In fact, most carpet spotting agents on the shelf will have a warning label on the back advising you to test it out in an inconspicuous area of your home and the cleaning agent may remove the dye stability of your carpet leaving you with a bleached out spot where you once had an unwanted stain. It is always best to start simple, keep it low and slow because whatever you put on the stain to remove it will need to be neutralized when you are done cleaning the spot to prevent rapid re-soiling from a chemical residue left behind.

For most carpet maintenance, it is recommended to have your carpets professionally cleaned once every 12-24 months. Also, pay close attention to your carpet warranty for new carpets as there are several fun ways that the warranty can easily be voided. It does vary from one manufacturer to the next but most new carpet warranties can be voided for reasons such as but not limited to: water damage of any kind, improper maintenance of the carpet (including a professional cleaner that does not vacuum before performing a hot water extraction), improper installation, improper pad for the carpet, etc. As you can see some of these reasons to void a warranty may well be completely out of the control of the homeowner or the tenant.

Lastly, for the overall life of the carpet, the use of fiber protectors is heavily recommended. Fiber protectors come in a pretty wide array of options and price ranges. Standard fluorochemical fiber protectors have been on the market for quite some time and do work fairly well at preventing permanent staining as well as promoting soil suspension. These chemicals are water or solvent (oil) based and cover the exterior of the fiber protecting the fabric and allowing liquid spills to run off the material before it can sink into the fiber to damage it. One of the latest developments in the field of chemical fiber protectors is the advent of using hydrostatic elements with solvent-based carriers added to them. The addition of the hydrostatic element allows the chemical to break the surface tension of the fiber itself to allow the chemical to carry much further than original fluorochemicals deep into the fiber allowing the fiber more protection than standard fiber protectors because the protector is now in the fiber and not just on it.

All of these factors can independently affect the overall lifespan of a carpet. All of the negative situations can easily combine to create a perfect storm that ends with the premature destruction of your carpets. But when properly kept, properly cleaned, and properly protected a good quality carpet can easily last 20 years in a home. For perspective, the average life span of a carpet in a rental property is 7 years. So, to get nearly triple that amount of time by properly maintaining your carpets and adding carpet protectors to the mix is a deal in comparison to the cost of replacement.

Tim Nixon. IICRC Master Textile Cleaning Technician, Journeyman Water Damage Restoration Technician.

Suede! Maybe…

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 07:26:51 GMT

One of the most common types of fabrics that we see in the cleaning industry is “suede”. In modern times the term suede has become synonymous with any fabric that has a suede-like feel to the touch. But not every one of the fabrics that is set to a suede finish or feel is real suede. Genuine suede is actually a type of leather known as nubuck leather. This leather is then put through the “split grain” process which reveals a rough texture. After the “split grain” process is done the sections of leather are then sanded down to the desired finish, creating the feel of suede. Yet, as we all know, just because something bears the look and the feel, and the characteristics of a particular thing doesn’t necessarily mean it is what it appears to be. Sometimes when someone refers to owning a piece of suede furniture said piece of furniture is really microfiber. Microfiber is made identical to suede in every fashion except for the fact that it is a synthetic fiber and not natural leather. This also means there are different cleaning measures that need to be taken to clean each separate piece of furniture.

In order to clean natural suede or nubuck leather, you will need a gallon of distilled water to mix your chemicals with, product-specific nubuck or natural suede cleaner, a horsehair brush for agitation during cleaning, a stiff copper brush for purposes after the cleaning, and some white terry cloth towels. You begin by mixing the nubuck cleaner as directed into the distilled water. Once mixed take the horsehair brush and or a kitchen whisk and whip the cleaner and water solution together to create a nice layer of foam. You then use a dry towel and scoop the foam off of the top of the water line and wipe down the piece of upholstery being cleaned, immediately after wiping a section down with the foam follow it by wiping it down again with a dry towel to wipe up any suspended soil. Then let the piece dry and if desired results are not achieved restart the process. For real suede and nubuck leather, we do not recommend going outside these procedures because of the sensitivity to permanent staining that the leather it is made from could have. There are other options available to professionals, but they are also best utilized in a controlled environment such as a business’s shop.

The single most commonly mistaken fiber for suede is microfiber. Microfiber or microsuede is a material made of a blend of nylon, polyester, and polyamide. The material is then split chemically with either a hot dye bath or a bleach wash with other alkaline chemicals. Once split, dried, and cured the material should then have the soft feel of suede with the even softer feel of synthetic fibers that are less than 1/16 ^th the width of a human hair and individually weigh less than 1 denier. Cleaning processes at home for these fabrics are highly dependent on the exact makeup of the microfiber. If it is a standard polyester and nylon blend, then it should be chemically resistant up to about 11Ph. Any higher than this and it will lose the fluorochemicals and acid dye resistors placed there by the factory, as well as potentially lose its dye stability and could bleach out in areas treated with chemicals over an 11ph. Start by vacuuming all or as much dry soil particulate matter as possible. After this, we recommend a thorough hand scrubbing of the entire piece with fast-drying upholstery shampoo. After being wiped down with shampoo follow it with a dry hand towel to remove any suspended soil that was released by the shampoo, then let the piece dry. If the desired results aren’t reached but the improvement has been made, then continue repeating the process until the desired result is achieved.

Once the desired cleaning level is reached you then make use of the copper brush to set the pile of the fiber so that it runs in a waterfall type pattern. In other words, all knaps or grain to the microfiber will need to be brushed in a direction as if water were rolling off of it in a downward motion. Once the pile is set the job is done. For troublesome spots on upholstery rubbing, alcohol and a white towel are your best friends in a home. Most household spills and stains are water-soluble, the vast majority of spills and stains that aren’t water-soluble are solvent-soluble making rubbing alcohol one of the most effective specialty spotters in almost every home in America. Simply apply some alcohol to a white towel and dab the alcohol wet towel on top of the troublesome stains, after a few dabs check the towel to see if there is any color transfer from the stain to the towel. If so, the stain will likely come out. If not, you will need a professional to have a chance at removing it.

Fun Remedies for a Cleaner Carpet

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 07:24:00 GMT

From time to time we are asked questions that aren’t just about cleaning. Whether that be from being in a settled in-home, packing up to move, or even moving into a new home. Each life circumstance brings its own fun set of new experiences and questions, in the end, is to hopefully have lessons learned.

Carpet is an amazing textile for home flooring. It’s soft, insulating, durable, and acts as a natural air filter for your home. It holds down dust, pollen, dander, and other allergens. But it also needs to be cleaned regularly and vacuumed often to be maintained properly; otherwise, it is susceptible to permanent color damage from stains or even direct sunlight. Another notable problem with carpet is called crushing. Crushing appears when something heavy sits in the same spot for a long period of time (like a table or couch). Once the heavy object is moved there will be a visible indentation left in the carpet. That indentation is a result of crushing, due to the physical force of the heavy object placed on that area causing it to compress and greatly reduce from its original press/depth. Cleaning it professionally may help, but the best remedy is an ice cube. When you put the ice cube down, the colder more dense air sinks forcing the warmer air below up and out, lifting and expanding the fibers as it goes. As the cube melts and the cold water sinks, the water will absorb into the fiber causing it to swell while the coldness helps to restore the fibers’ resiliency. Resiliency is the fibers’ ability to spring back to their original thickness after the compression of the heavy object. Once dry from the ice cube treatment there should be a visible difference from before when it was crushed. The process may need to be repeated but always let it dry completely between treatments.

Sometimes you clean a stain it will look beautiful when it is freshly cleaned but reappears in a few short days. This is due to soil wicking. This process happens as the carpet dries and the water slowly evaporates into the air. The water and chemical chosen at the time of cleaning will carry any dirt or stain below the surface back to the surface. If after several treatments the stain refuses to stay gone then you may have to play a game we call “are you smarter than a stain…” By this point, we already know whatever soil/stain present is brought up by water or chemical. We also know it is moveable while suspended and likes to travel. First, do whatever wet treatment is necessary to suspend the soil. Then place a folded dry towel on top of the wet stain and place a heavy flat object on top of the towel and walk away until it is dry. The suspended soil can’t tell the difference between the fiber of the carpet and the fiber of the towel. The stain can only go where it is carried by the water. Between that and the added pressure from a heavy flat object, the water should carry the stain from the carpet into the towels.

Another question we hear often is “is there anything that can be done about the dark lines by the baseboards or by doors that are often left closed?” The answer is absolutely we can do something about it. As always we have an industry term for it as well. These lines are known as filtration lines . Filtration lines form as dust carrying air passes over or through the carpet and the carpet acts as a natural air filter and trapping the extra dust, pollen, particle matter, etc. First there is a carpet wand that is designed specifically for filtration lines and small corners. If that isn’t available a towel and rubbing alcohol or a very mild mix of dish detergent and water should do the trick as well.

The Do’s And Dont’s Of Wool Carpet Cleaning And Care

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:22:14 GMT

Wool carpets are plush, luxurious and the perfect floor covering for any home but do require some special cleaning and care. A quality wool carpet is extremely durable and can last a lifetime if cared for properly.

1. Wool And Water

Wool is a natural fiber and will not shrink, stretch or become warped when it comes into contact with water. Wetting a wool carpet is, therefore, the ideal way to clean it. However, it is recommended to use an extraction machine or wet vacuum to remove as much excess water as possible and increase drying time. Open windows and doors and use fans to dry the carpet quickly.

Carpets that remain too wet for too long can attain a foul odor, become brown in color or become shrink and warp, especially if walked on before drying entirely. Never use hot water or heat dryers on the carpet as heat will cause the fibers to shrink. Cold and warm water is ideal for removing most dirt and stains from wool carpets without causing damage.

2. Cleaning Detergents

Not all cleaning detergents are safe to use on wool carpets and it is best to check the label of any cleaning product or chemical for the wool mark or ingredients that could damage the fibers. Carpet shampoos that are designed specifically for wool are ideal.

Never use bleach (chlorine) on a wool carpet as this will disintegrate the fibers. It is also not recommended to use laundry detergent on a wool carpet. Instead of bleach, peroxide is a good option for cleaning stains without fading colors. Dishwashing detergent is ideal for gently removing grease and grime without damaging the carpet. Bio-enzyme cleaners will remove stains caused by any organic materials.

3. Cleaning, Maintenance, And Care Tips

Vacuum the carpet regularly and before cleaning with water or a detergent. Deal with wet spills as soon as possible by dabbing with a dry, white cloth – never rub. Also, remove stains as soon as possible before they have a chance to be absorbed. Wool contains a natural waxy coating that is designed to repel liquids and the sooner spills are dealt with, the less likely they are to result in a stubborn or permanent stain.

Have your carpets cleaned professionally at least every two years using a warm water extraction process? The warm water and wool shampoo will dissolve dirt and grime while the extraction process will remove dirt, detergent, and excess water for faster drying.

It is always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and care instructions carefully. If you are unsure about the care instructions, contact the manufacturer or your local professional carpet cleaning provider for advice.

It is also recommended to call the professionals for advice on how to treat blood, red wine, nail varnish, pet, coffee, tea, or any type of unusual stains that may occur. If you cannot remove the stain by following their advice, make an appointment to have the carpet or stain expertly cleaned.

Tile Cleaning Services For Your Residential And Commercial Properties

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:19:36 GMT

As the owner of a piece of land, you are responsible for the upkeep for each of the buildings standing on it. Whether you are looking at a single family home or a multi-unit complex for commercial purposes, it falls on your shoulders to ensure that the interiors are clean and in good working order. One aspect of this is using tile cleaning services on a regular basis to revive older tiles and keep newer ones looking great for a long time!

If you don’t take good care of the tile, it can begin to build up unattractive grime. Mildew, mold and hard water can all discolor and damage the tile and grout. In addition to being an eyesore, poorly maintained tiles can become a breeding ground for microscopic organisms that are unhealthy for you and others.

One mistake that many home and business owners make is to think that a newly constructed building doesn’t need to have regular deep cleaning services. The reality is that all tile needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. The first service might require extensive time if the area has not been properly cleaned and sanitized in a while. Once the entire area has been appropriately serviced, regular visits will help to ensure that the tiles look great and are safe for others to be around.

The frequency of these maintenance visits can vary drastically and are based on how much usage the area has. For instance, the laundry room for a single couple who prefer indoor activities will need far less service than the bathroom tiles at the public swimming pool down the street. However, before you can start planning for the maintenance, you first need to find a company that handles these types of service calls.

In many communities, you can find companies that perform carpet, tile and another type of indoor surface cleaning services. Upholstery, draperies and the like might also be on their list of services. These companies have a staff of experts who can make a big difference in the comfort and presentation of your properties. Whether you have a building that hasn’t been used in a while or a brand new one, you need to be sure that you have a team of experts on your side to keep your place looking great!

Look at reviews for a few different companies that advertise for tile cleaning services in your city. Make sure that you check out recent ones that specifically mention the tile cleaning service. This will help you to eliminate disreputable companies from your consideration.

Check out the websites of those that seem well-liked and contact those that stand up to closer scrutiny. When you find one that has all of the proper licenses and affiliations, along with competitive prices and good reviews, you are ready to close the deal. Just make sure that you talk to representatives from at least two or three companies before making the plunge. Then you can rest assured you have made the best choice for your tile cleaning needs.

How to Properly Clean Ceramic Tile Floors

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:18:05 GMT

Ceramic flooring is one of the most popular options to due to their high durability and variety of styles and designs. Even though these are a long-lasting flooring type, they will need sufficient care and cleaning, if they will live their full lives and look good as well.

The following article has some top tips on how to best clean your tile floors.

Dust is Bad – the many small particles and granules of grit that is tracked through the home or blown in through the windows are going to damage that smooth sheen and clean surface. It is a good idea to collect dirt with a good sweeping and vacuuming a couple times in a week.

The best way to clean the floor is with a mild detergent in a bath of hot water, you can use a sponge mop or conventional mop to do this, but using a rag and sponge will keep the dirt and scum from being pressed into the grout and further deteriorating the tile.

You will also want to keep your mop water clean so that dirty water is not being pushed into the floor. Once the floor has been cleaned like so, you can rinse out the mop and go over once more, this will collect the soapy scum and add the final touches to your clean tile.

If you notice that there is an especially thick film of grease, soap scum and such, use an all-purpose cleaner in a bucket of water to get this right off. You will want to make sure you are using a non-abrasive cleaner to avoid doing any damage to the surface of the tiles. We recommend using 2 ounces ZEP Neutral floor cleaner mixed with 1 gallon of water to keep your floors cleaned. You can find it at Home Depot or Lowe’s in their cleaning section.

Getting the Grout

While the grout represents only a small space between the tiles, it is detrimental to keeping the floor and tiles looking clean and attractive. Dirty grout makes the floors themselves look dingy and grimy.

Grout can absorb grease and oils like a sponge and get it clean may not call for a dedicated grout cleaner. Bleach solutions can also work well. Be sure to wear gloves when working with these stronger chemicals and chlorine solutions. If the grout is especially dirty you may need to allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few moments before scrubbing gently with a stiff toothbrush.

If the grout is putting up a fight with mold and other build up, you may need to bring out the heavy hitters. Baking soda will do it every time, make a paste of baking soda and water and work this into the affected grout, thoroughly. The next day, break out the toothbrush or stiffest nylon brush you can find – don’t use a wire brush, because this will scratch the tile and ruin its durability and beauty.

4 Ways to Keep Your Stone Flooring Clean

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:16:56 GMT

Are you planning on upgrading your kitchen and want to do so by installing stone flooring? Many homeowners consider getting stone flooring to make their kitchen look better because it has become more modern to do so. The only problem that most homeowners encounter when they install stone flooring is that they do not know how to clean the floor afterward. Luckily, there are simple methods to help keep your stone floor looking brand new and clean. Let begin by explaining 4 things you can do today to your stone floor.

Check Manufacturer

If you want to keep your floor clean then you should check the manufacturer. Most manufacturers will post instructions on how to keep your floor clean and tell you what solutions to use. You can also ask the people who are installing the floor if they know of any good tricks to keep the floor clean. Often times the companies who install your floor will know the best ways to keep the specific type of stone you purchased looking new. This should be able to teach you a couple preventative steps, which will help your floor last longer.

Prevention

If you learn the preventive steps, your floor will last a very long time. Some measures that you can take to keep your floor looking brand-new is placing mats or rugs in areas that are highly trafficked. The nice thing about mats or rugs is that they will prevent the dirt from people shoes getting on the tile floor, which will help prevent the stone flooring from getting damaged. You need to make sure that your stone floor is properly sealed to prevent stones from scratching the floor and to prevent anything from staining it. One of the best preventative methods is vacuuming and sweeping your tile floor.

Vacuum or Sweep

Choosing to vacuum our sweet your floor is one of the best preventative methods. You will want to make sure that you minimize the number of abrasives that can damage your stone flooring, which you can easily do by sweeping. You should try to sweep or vacuum your floor every day to get rid of any particles. You can also choose to mop floor once a week. Before you begin mopping your floors you must choose the right cleaner.

Choose the Right Cleaner

Choosing the right cleaner is very crucial if you want to have your floors looking new. If you decide to get marble are limestone you should avoid any cleaning solutions that include lemon juice. You should also avoid cleaning solutions that include ammonia since it is very harsh on your stone flooring.

These are just simple ways that you can clean your stone flooring to prevent them from getting damaged in the future. Be sure to ask your manufacturer if they have instructions, take preventative care, vacuum or sweep to get of dirt, and choose the right cleaner if you want to make sure your stone flooring is clean.

Sofa Cleaning Tips That You Can Use To Get The Job Done

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:15:10 GMT

How you clean a sofa naturally depends on what materials it is made of first of all. There are, however, certain universal steps that can be used to clean every couch before diving into individual cleaning remedies. For example, vacuuming any type of couch is important. When you vacuum a couch, you can use a handheld vacuum or an upright with a hose attachment. Or you could do like my mom and put the entire upright vacuum on the couch. In all seriousness, let’s talk about more tips regarding sofa cleaning so that you can keep your couches in good shape.

Some couches have exposed wood, metal frames and other parts that aren’t upholstered that need to be cleaned separately. This includes the feet of the sofa. To do this, all you need is a mixture of soap and water. Keep it simple as you keep these areas of your couches clean. After you have vacuumed and cleaned outskirts of the couch, it is time to get to cleaning the upholstered parts. Now it’s time to take a look at what materials you are dealing with, and then you can decide on what cleaning solution is best.

Did you know your couch should have a tag with cleaning instructions? Not everyone pays attention to that fact, but the tag will tell you how the sofa needs to be cleaned. You can also look at certain remedies for cleaning specific materials. For example, you can clean a leather couch with a mixture of white vinegar and distilled water. Yet for purposes of this piece, we are going to take a closer look at the tags on couches.

If the tag has ‘WS’ on it, then that means you are going to be able to use a detergent in conjunction with a steam vacuum to do the cleaning. If the sofa tag has a ‘W’ then you can simply use water to do the cleaning. There are other specifications to learn about when it comes to tags and cleaning couches, too. For instance, an ‘X’ means that you can’t use water or a cleaning solution, only a vacuum. plus, an ‘S’ means that you use a dry cleaning detergent.

Those are the specifics about couch tags, but there is still more to the story. You also can learn about removing stains and you will want to learn different methods for cleaning various types of fabric upholstery. Another solution for cleaning leather upholstery, too, is olive oil and vinegar, two parts to one part. There is also synthetic upholstery, which you can use water, vinegar and dish soap to clean.

That’s most of what you need to know in terms of couch or sofa cleaning. It is also important to mention that you need to know to get couches dry fast enough. In most cases, you are going to want to just let the couch dry itself, but it needs to dry in a timely manner. Now it’s time to get to cleaning that couch.

How To Keep Your Shag Rug Clean

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:13:47 GMT

There are a lot of people who are out off getting a shag rug because of the perceived maintenance these rugs require. Shag rugs are actually relatively easy to clean, you simply need to know what to do and when to do this. There are certain steps that you have to take to ensure that your shag rug stays clean.

Loosening The Dirt

Shag rugs are known to collect dirt because of the long fibers. However, it is not that difficult to loosen the dirt that the rug has accumulated. To do this, you should take the rug outside and hang it over a railing or a sawhorse. You should then hit with the side of a broom or the handle of a mop the rug to loosen the trapped dirt and dust.

The rug should then be left in a sunny location for a few hours. The heat from the sun will help to kill any dust mites and bacteria which might be in the carpet.

Vacuuming The Rug

You will need to vacuum your shag rug as needed and the frequency will vary depending on the use of the rug. On average, you will need to do this weekly, but if you have pets and children who play on the rug this might need to be done daily. If the shag rug is in a place where it rarely sees any foot traffic, you can vacuum it monthly.

When you vacuum the rug, you should set the vacuum head to the high pile if you have this option. If the head is not adjustable, you need to invest in one. This is important because you can control the suction and move the head easily on the rug. You should never use the beater bar or powerhead on a shag rug as this can pull strands out

Once a month, you should also flip the rug over and vacuum the woven underside. When doing this, you should use the beater bar to help you remove more dirt. If you have a power head, you will need to be careful and ensure that the suction is not too strong.

Cleaning Up Spills

If there are spills on the shag rug, you will need to soak them up immediately. This should be done with light-colored and absorbent rags such as paper towels or terry facecloths. You should then rinse the rag and squeeze out most of the water before using it to continue soaking up the spill.

When you soak up the spill, you will need to check if more color is being lifted from the stain. This is one of the reasons why you need to use a light colored cloth. The other reason for this is the fact that you will not transfer any of the colors from the cloth to the carpet which will make the stain from the spill more noticeable.

There are many steps that you need to take to clean your shag rug, but they are not very complex. These are steps that you will need to take with most rugs if you want to keep them in good condition.

Put Into Practice These Polyester Carpet Cleaning Tips For Homeowners

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:12:12 GMT

One of the most popular types of carpeting is polyester, chiefly because of it being so affordable. For how much you pay, you get carpeting that looks great and is very stain resistant. While that may be the case, you need to know what to do to keep polyester carpets clean. You also need to be aware that heavy foot traffic can easily mat carpet fibers made of polyester. Now let’s get to looking at what you need to know about polyester carpet cleaning.

Dirt causes all types of carpet fibers to break down over time. Therefore, one of the key essentials to keeping polyester carpeting clean is vacuuming. For most areas of a room with polyester carpeting, you only need to vacuum about once each week. Yet for those high traffic areas, you are going to want to vacuum a little more often. Call it spot vacuuming and lightly go over the areas that get the most traffic, perhaps every other day or every few days.

It was mentioned that polyester carpeting is stain resistant, but hey, all carpeting is prone to stains. Therefore, you need to be vigilant when it comes to spills and know what’s necessary in order to clean them up properly. If a spill occurs, use the blotting method to extract the extra liquid. Notice I said ‘blotting,’ which means you want to be gentle. Additionally, the next step is to use a carpet stain remover or an all-natural solution of your choice. No matter which one you decide to use, it has to be okay for use on synthetic carpets.

You don’t just apply the stain remover and start scrubbing either. What you want to do is apply the solution, blot once again and then vacuum. For the most part, that’s all you need to know about carpet cleaning in terms of polyester fibers, yet you also are going to want to have those carpets cleaned professionally once a year, too. Furthermore, it’s best if we talk for a moment as well about the heavy traffic situations that can ruin or damage polyester carpeting.

It is important that you do not allow for heavy traffic patterns to persist on this carpeting for too long of a period of time. That means you need to rearrange furniture every so often. Additionally, you are also going to want to make sure that you move the furniture a few inches from time to time so that it never settles too much. Crushing the polyester carpet fibers with heavy traffic and heavy furniture is the biggest threat to this type of flooring solution.

Do you already have polyester carpeting, or are you thinking about having it installed? Putting these cleaning tips into practice and also taking into account the advice about heavy traffic will go a long way to keeping your carpeting in good shape. Of course, if you don’t have the carpets cleaned professionally from time to time, the dirt, traffic and everything else will have compounded and will cause you to have to change out your carpeting way too soon.

The Different Myths Associated With Mattress Cleaning Services

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:10:46 GMT

Almost all people will admit that it feels more relaxing to sleep on a clean mattress with fresh linen. This is because a clean mattress with fresh linen provides softness, comfort, and a sense of relaxation. Unfortunately, as time progresses, the mattress and its linen will become dirty once more, and the mattress will lose its feeling of comfort. Furthermore, dirty mattresses can place one’s health at risk, and this should be approached.

Despite the discomfort and risk to yourself, most people do not clean their mattresses for many years. In fact, statistics have shown that a large proportion of US homeowners do not clean their mattresses for the full time of ownership. While this lack of cleaning may be put down to negligence or an inconvenience, some people believe they do not need to clean their mattresses. This article will provide information to discard this misconception about mattress cleaning services.

1. Mattress Cleaning Should Be Cleaned When They Look Dirty

Many people in the US believe that mattress cleaning should be postponed until the furniture appears to be dirty, but this is untrue. Mattresses are created using soft materials that can attract invisible pollutants, such as pollen, fungi, and dust. The material can absorb these items quickly, and if left untreated for a long time, the mattress will accumulate more filth that can be difficult to clean. It is, therefore, important to clean the mattresses regularly and avoid any dirt collecting in its fibers.

2. New Mattresses Do Not Need Cleaning

The majority of people feel that new mattresses do not require any cleaning because, well, they are new. This is a misconception as new mattresses are as susceptible to dirt as old mattresses. In the same way that an old mattress absorbs pollutants, the new mattress will attract these items and become dirty. It is best to have the furniture cleaned regularly to maintain its new appearance for as long as possible.

3. A Person Can Clean His Or Her Mattress

Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to clean your mattress independently. It is common for a homeowner to use local products such as soap and water to clean the mattress; however, this tends to result in stains and streaks. If the mattress is not clean correctly, it will not only lose its quality but will also experience damage to the fabric. This is why it is recommended that you hire a professional cleaner to have the mattress cleaned correctly.

4. Any Cleaning Company Can Be Used

Remember, it is not possible to use any cleaning company to clean a mattress. Some companies will provide cleaning equipment, but if they do not have trained professionals, they could damage the mattress. When hiring a cleaning service, it is recommended that you review their credentials and read testimonials from prior clients to determine the level of service. You don’t want to spend money on a service and have to purchase a new mattress afterward because of damage to the old one.

Clean Your Leather Goods Efficiently & Effectively Using These Tips

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 07:08:37 GMT

There are many ways to clean leather, but there are also methods that shouldn’t be used. Leather has to be cleaned often. Therefore, it helps to know that most efficient, cost-effective ways to keep your leather goods in great shape. It wouldn’t hurt to know some of the all-natural cleaning solutions for leather either. So let’s look at some of the ingredients that can be used for cleaning your leather goods, as well as some tips for getting the job done.

First, there are three cheap and very efficient over the counter products that can get the job done. They are rubbing alcohol, saddle soap, and moisturizing soap. While all three of these are great solutions, natural remedies are better, in my opinion. First of all, who wants their leather products smelling like rubbing alcohol?

Not only do you want to clean your leather consistently, but there are times when you might notice water spots and other spots. In those situations, a natural remedy involves using cream of tartar and lemon juice as a mixture. If for any reason you need to dry your leather because you employed heavy duty cleaning methods, you don’t want to put your leather goods under the sun.

Leather looks good and stays in good shape when you condition it properly. To keep it nice, another solution for leather maintenance is a mixture of linseed oil and white vinegar. White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are both great cleaning solutions, too. If you use one of them to clean your leather good, mix them with distilled water.

Now let’s say that you have an ink stain on your leather jacket or on a leather couch. How can you get it off? Well, that’s actually where the rubbing alcohol comes back into play. There are other stain removal options for leather goods, but rubbing alcohol is said to be very effective.

Some people use a mixture of regular dish soap and water to clean a leather jacket. That would be fine, but just remember that it’s also about what not to use. You have many options, but you don’t want to use solutions like ammonia or bleach. Did you know that nail polish remover is also a great way to help remove those stains? It works especially well on ink stains. So when it comes to those stains on your leather goods, two great options are nail polish remover and rubbing alcohol.

If you have a grease stain that needs to be removed, then you can count on baking soda to do the trick. Of course, you’re going to try really hard not to stain your leather goods. Things happen though from time to time. Now not only do you know how to clean your leather, but you know how to remove certain stains as well. Keep those leather goods looking their best, and make sure you clean them often enough. The leather is very durable and long-lasting, but the maintenance is of course absolutely necessary.

Helpful Grout Cleaning Tips

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 07:06:42 GMT

Have you noticed mold and dirt on the grout in your home? If so, there are a few different ways to get rid of it in no time. It’s best to take care of the mold and dirt as soon as you see it. If you let it go for a while, the problem will only continue to get worse, and then it’s going to take you a bit more time to get rid of it all.

Make a Grout Cleaning Solution

There are different cleansers on the market that you can use to clean the grout. However, if you don’t have time to go to the store or you personally prefer using something you already have, it’s possible to make a grout cleaning solution at home with only a few ingredients. You’ll need some bleach, baking soda, vinegar, and your favorite dish soap.

Making the solution is simple. Combine a cup of the baking soda with two tablespoons bleach, two tablespoons vinegar, and one tablespoon of the dish soap. Mix the ingredients together until you have a thick paste to use as a cleanser on the grout. Once all ingredients are mixed together, you’ll be ready to get started.

Start the Cleaning Process

Before you start scrubbing away at the mold and dirt on the grout, make sure to put on a pair of protective gloves. It’s better to wear gloves so that you won’t have to touch the cleaning solution with your bare hands nor you will have to touch any of the mold or dirt with your bare hands. After putting gloves on your hands, grab a scrub brush and dip it into the cleaning solution you’ve created. Make sure you have a generous amount of the solution on the scrub brush.

Start scrubbing away at the grout to remove the dirt and mildew or mold. It should start coming off with ease. If you have any difficult spots, apply a bit of the solution with your hands and give the solution about 30 minutes to sit on the grout before you even start scrubbing away at it. After scrubbing away at the grout, grab a damp cloth and then wipe away the solution so that it’s no longer visible.

As a finishing touch, grab a dry cloth and wipe down all areas of the grout. Make sure you’re not leaving any wet surfaces behind. You don’t want to leave the grout wet or moist because then the mold can start growing all over again.

Dealing with dirt and mold on grout is annoying because it’s quite the eyesore and it can become a health hazard. However, there are some things you can do to quickly get rid of it. In fact, you won’t have to spend a bunch of money to have the grout cleaned by the professionals.

All you’ll need to do is make your own solution at home with a few common household products and then apply the solution to the grout using a scrub brush. The cleaning process shouldn’t take up too much of your time and the grout should look a lot better when you’re done.

Helpful Information You Need to Know About Floor Cleaning

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 06:56:12 GMT

When it comes to floor cleaning, there is a comprehensive range of floor care services to suit different floorings. In so, many people have a generalized approach to cleaning their floors and often end up damaging the surfaces; which is an issue that may stem from being less educated about the best ways of cleaning and maintain any floor.

Use The Right Products And Cleaning Techniques

Firstly, the cleaning approach should account for specific product formulations given the diversity of floors due to the type of materials used. For instance, the method used for stone flooring will not work for wooden flooring. The cleaning, therefore, will require an in-depth understanding of the composition and applications specifications of the products to use.

Regarding the application specifications, the cleaning techniques employed will differ based on the type of flooring in question. Cleaning may range from carpet stain removal and tile stain removal to surface restoration. As such, the use of the right cleaning methods will play a pivotal role in delivering the desired finish and the overall success of the job.

Establish A Maintenance Schedule

Cleaning in and around the home is more of a daily routine, but that should not always be the case. It is possible to lessen the amount of work to be done by establishing an appropriated maintenances schedule. As mentioned earlier, the right approach will require you to have adequate knowledge of the product formulations and the appropriate cleaning techniques to employ. With that in the bag, it is possible to create a regular cleaning routine that has much of what you do is more of maintenance which reduces the amount of deep, thorough cleaning.

Cleaning As A Restorative Tactic

The cleaning approach should also account for any would-be repairs. Consider the fact that the cleaning can at times be one of the essential steps of doing surface restoration; it can even be all that’s needed to restore a surface to its former look. Therefore, the floor cleaning can be a restorative process that helps mitigate or removes the signs and impacts of day-to-day wear. However, the same cleaning can cause more harm than good, becoming a restrictive element when overdone or done using the wrong products or techniques.

Hire Professional Cleaners

Overall, it is vital to know as much as you can about your flooring and its cleaning specifications. Nevertheless, it also is wise to consider bringing in professionals when the time comes for deep cleaning. Most of the floor cleaners and experienced specialists that have an in-depth knowledge of the nature of various flooring materials and the best products and equipment to use. They are the best bet when it comes to having an efficient floor care approach that encompasses the cleaning and maintenance of your floors and other surfaces in your home or workplace.

Information is power; if you know that it takes and is required to cleaning your floors, then you are bound to have floors will retain their beauty for an extended period. Calling in the cleaning experts will also ensure that your floors get tailored services as these specialists work towards the delivery of a superior finish.

Carpet Cleaning Tips

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 06:53:52 GMT

You may have a lovely home with nice furniture, but the last thing you expect is being embarrassed by stained carpets when your guests come over. Maintaining a spotlessly clean rug is quite a hard task since most of the activities done around them eventually get them stained. Cleaning a carpet should not be done haphazardly and you need to do it carefully. Luckily, you can clean your carpet within a few minutes and leave it dry enough for one to walk on again. Here are some carpet cleaning tips to ensure that it remains clean and spotless all the time.

Assess Your options.

Before cleaning your carpet, be informed that there are several methods of going about it. Some of these methods are suitable for specific types of stains while some might spoil your carpet’s color if not done correctly. If you live in a busy household and find that your carpet gets dirty from time to time, it might be prudent to invest in a carpet cleaning system. These cleaners will save you a lot of money in the long run as opposed to hiring a professional time after time. However, if you live in a quiet house and find that you need to have your carpet cleaned a few times every year, consider hiring a professional and have them clean the carpet thoroughly when they come over. Alternatively, if you feel that you can do the job on your own, consider hiring a carpet cleaner when you need to clean. This is more cost-effective as opposed to buying a machine that you will only be using for a few times every year.

Tackle The Spills Promptly.

Most of the stains on our carpets are as a result of spills. To avoid these stains, which may be harder to remove, deal with the spills the moment they happen. Your carpet cleaner should be able to collect most of the spilled liquid before it soaks into the fabric. If you do not have a cleaner, use a piece of cloth to soak up the spilled liquid from the carpet before most of it gets into the carpet fabric. Do not be tempted to rub against the spill as it will only drive the spilled liquid further into the carpet.

Vacuuming Should Be A Priority.

Do not be in a hurry and try to clean your carpet before vacuuming it. Your carpet may have stains, but it cant miss some surface debris which should be first cleared out before cleaning. This will make your task easier and stop your cleaner from getting clogged up. This tip is essential when cleaning your carpet after an event which may involve a lot of people who may have deposited a lot of dirt on the mat.

The few carpet cleaning tips can help you to decide on the best way to ensure that it is clean when you need it to be. A rug can go a long way in enhancing the aesthetic qualities of your home, and you should not leave it stained.

Vinegar and Grout

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 11:43:39 GMT

We were asked to put together some articles or references when it comes to the use of vinegar with your grout. We at Elite Services Quality Clean recommend for homeowners to not use vinegar during your maintenance cleanings to clean your grout. This is because it is acidic and breaks down the calcium in the grout, thus weakening the grout. We always recommend getting a Neutral pH cleaner to use. You can find this at your local Sam’s club, Janitorial supply store or Lowe’s or Home Depot. As always we are happy to help you with your cleaner choice. Please see some articles blow and the links where we found them for more helpful information. What you see below has been copied and pasted from the source sites and the source sites referenced.

How do I clean grout?

Source: Tile Council of North America, Inc

Cementitious grout, as you may have observed, is porous – it can absorb a stain. Looked at under a microscope, there is a large surface area to absorb stains. For this reason, many owners choose to seal their grout – usually the better the sealer, the more the grout joint is protected. Even better, if epoxy grout is used, it is virtually the same as stain proofing the tile.

Removing stains from cementitious grout is similar to removing stains from clothing. The same cleaners you might use on clothes to get out a stain should also work on grout.

Keep in mind though, that grout is based primarily of cement and sand. Sand, like glass, is unaffected chemically by most cleaners. Cement is not – rather it is alkaline based and is dissolved by acids. As baking soda and vinegar react, so do grout and vinegar.

Accordingly, it is better to clean grout with an alkaline cleaner (Spic and Span, Mr. Clean, etc.) than an acid-based cleaner. There are also specialty cleaners available at most tile retailers that are designed for tile and grout. There are also cleaners with enzymes that attack stains similar to enzyme pre-soaks for laundry.

The same cleaner that works on the grout generally will work well on the tile. In fact, since the tile is usually so easy to clean, the tile can often be cleaned with water.

Just a few more important points: As the grout can absorb the soap as well as a stain, do not clean with oil or wax-based cleaners (Murphy’s Oil soap, Pine-Sol, etc.). These products will leave a waxy or oily film in the grout. Even good alkaline cleaners, if not properly rinsed, will leave a sticky soap film. This usually attracts dirt. In fact, truly clean ceramic tile without any sticky soap film will stay very clean as the tile does not tend to hold an electrostatic charge (which can attract some kinds of dirt).

The absolutely best way to clean grout is to apply the cleaner and then vacuum (“shop vac”) up the dirty water. This lifts the dirt off the joint. Apply water and vacuum that water up. This lifts off any remaining soap film.

Just to mention it, there are tile installers that remove very stubborn stains on the grout with an acid (like straight vinegar or a stronger acid). There they have elected to dissolve the top layer of grout molecules so the stain is no longer attached to anything. While this works, it is not recommended by the grout manufacturers – needing to replace the grout is sometimes the result. Also, extreme care should be used when handling any acids.

Should you be unable to get your grout clean through conventional methods, you may also want to try steam. Some stains that do not respond to conventional cleaners will come clean when subjected to pressurized steam. As a last resort, some installers elect to cut out the grout and grout again. This is possible although care must be taken to not damage or loosen the tile. Generally, it is not possible to grout directly over the old grout without cutting the old grout out. The same contaminants that made the old grout dirty may prevent new grout from sticking properly.

Source: Marblelife

IF YOU HAVE MARBLE, TRAVERTINE, POLISHED CONCRETE OR GROUT (AKA TILE) THERE ARE HUGE REASONS NOT TO USE VINEGAR.

Urban legend suggests vinegar is a good cleaning agent. In truth, it has the insidious ability to attack your floors in three distinctly different manners. In each case, the damage is done over time; kind of like eating sweets. One isn’t going to hurt you but eating the bag over time can impact the eater’s weight.

Etching – Vinegar’s ability to dissolve CaCO3 will dull your marble, travertine, concrete and terrazzo surfaces. It may “clean” the surface but it is also dissolving pits into the finish and effectively dulling it. Over time, what appears as wear on your floor may in fact be a broad acid attack resulting in an etched surface. Wear is characterized by long shallow scratches created when a piece of sand or other debris is trapped under one’s foot and is scraped across the surface. An etch is characterized by pinholes in the surface where the acid has dissolved away the CaCO3 in the stone or grout. The difference can be seen with a magnifying glass. This will affect marble, travertine, concrete and concrete terrazzo surfaces.
pH Shift – Vinegar’s ability to shift the pH of a surface due to its acid nature creates a condition which reverses the reaction used to seal your grout and stone surfaces- allowing the seal to be floated away while in its un-reacted state. At pH 7 your seal is like glass but at ph 1 it has been reverted back to its liquid raw materials form and can seal nothing.
Leeching – Vinegar’s ability to leech out grout dyes will lighten and eventually decolor grout over time.

WHAT’S IN VINEGAR? Vinegar consists of acetic acid, a natural and inexpensive acid. Its low cost is why it has become so popular as a cleaning product ingredient. In fact, we have been using it since Roman times, however, this was not one of their great gifts to mankind. They just happened to be the first to be tricked by this trickster “cleaner.”

GOT CERAMIC TILE?:
Ceramic tile surfaces are impervious to acid. BUT, for the accompanying grout, it is NOT. In fact, this may be THE major reason why your grout has discolored and unable to return to a like-new appearance. Don’t worry, once you understand what is happening, there are solutions that cannot just restore a fresh clean appearance, but will allow you to greatly simplify your cleaning going forward. Think COLOR SEAL and TILELOK. Your grout has been protected with a penetrating sealer designed to fill in the pores in what is otherwise a concrete-like matrix- unsealed, and it would absorb liquids just like rain on a concrete sidewalk. Acids and kinds of vinegar have the nasty effect of changing the pH condition of the grout in such a manner that it unzips the penetrating sealer’s chemistry returning it to its raw materials state. The act of washing literally floats these materials out of your grout. Over time your grout becomes unsealed and is now free to absorb dirt. Particularly dirt from your mop water as you clean the floor. Once inside the grout, it gives a stained appearance and is extremely difficult to remove, particularly if it is an oil to grease-based dirt, which of course will not mix well with the water in your mop bucket (unless you are using a MARBLELIFE CLEANER – but that is a subject for another article).

GOT GROUT?
If you have a tile floor you sure do. In addition to breaking down the seal as noted above, vinegar has the ability to leech out the grout’s color and any dyes. The fact that a floor looks lighter and whiter after its use is a major reason people have gravitated to it. However, the real reason this occurs is not cleaning but rather more closely associated with bleaching. The grout is being robbed of its color. Overtime your grout will trend towards a light cement grey color. The good news is that the color CAN be restored to your grout using a process and technique called COLOR SEALING. This requires a colorized seal to be re-applied to the grout, where it will be absorbed. The treatment is reapplied until a uniform color is obtained. Once completed, a color-sealed grout line will have greater uniformity in color than the original grout. Hard to believe, but factually true! This has to do with the grout’s loss of water overtime during the short period the installer is installing it (another article).

Grout suffers a second issue in that many dyes used to color the grout can be leached out of the grout using an acid, like vinegar. As such, the lightening that is perceived to be the acid cleaning is actually the removal of the dye and the grout’s color. Overtime continuous use can turn a colored grout back to its cementitious gray root color.

Your Carpet Does Not Need To Look Dirty | Pensacola

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:40:58 GMT

Lots of people have dirty carpets and don’t know what to do about them. Many think that it’s a complicated process to clean carpets. However, with the right carpet-cleaning company, this simply isn’t true. This article will teach you what you need to know about hiring a professional carpet cleaner.

You should always check out the reputation of a company prior to hiring them. Find one that has a long history of customer satisfaction. Get personal references from family members, friends and acquaintances. Check for online reviews to get more information. You’ll be able to make the best choice for you this way.

Before cleaning your carpets, a professional should vacuum them. Vacuum loose soil to avoid spreading stains or making them penetrates deeper into your carpet. Applying the cleanser on rugs that are full of dirt will only exacerbate the problem. Therefore, the company should allow the stain to dry prior to vacuuming.

Harsh chemicals and big machines are not needed to clean every type of carpet. Be sure to apply a little bit of solution to a small area of your carpet in an unobtrusive location a full day before applying a cleaning solution to the whole carpet. The cleaning process can damage delicate materials such as silk or wool. If you are not confident in your carpet cleaning skills, it is time to contact a professional.

Remove anything breakable off of furniture that is going to be moved. You should not risk trusting your valuables with the crew; regardless of their promise of that they will be careful.

Before agreeing to a stain treatment from a professional carpet cleaning company, check the warranty on your carpets. The warranty might be voided if the carpet already contains a stain treatment. This can cost you more money later on.

Be aware that the chemicals that carpet cleaners use are potentially hazardous. You must read cleaning product labels every time. Also think about green solutions like salt, baking soda or vinegar applications for carpet rinsing.

Make sure the carpet cleaning professionals are aware of any electrical outlets located on the floor. These sockets can cause injury if they are cleaned. This could damage your home, the carpet cleaning equipment, and the carpet cleaning personnel!

If you are renting a carpet cleaning machine, be sure to read and follow all instructions carefully. There may be special instructions on what material it works best on, ventilation requirements and what to do if the chemical comes in contact with your skin, eyes or mouth. Be careful when using chemicals and test the product on a small area first to make sure it will not damage your carpet.

Invest serious time in vacuuming your home. The longer time you take cleaning, the cleaner the carpet will become. Removing this excess dirt improves the look of your carpet and adds a few years to its life. It takes only a little time, but the end result is noticeable.

As you can now see, it is simple to have your carpets professionally cleaned. You don’t need to put up with dirty carpets any longer. A professional cleaning of your carpets can transform your home’s decor. You’ll feel like your whole house is fresh and new again.

How To Find Carpet Cleaners Who Really Know Their Stuff Pensacola

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:38:17 GMT

Stained carpeting can be extremely annoying and unsightly. This is even more frustrating whenever you attempt to clean them yourself with no luck. It just might be time to have your carpets professionally cleaned. If you have to get a professional carpet cleaner, use this article to help you.

Check out the customer testimonials for the companies you are considering in your local area. Even some well-established companies may not live up to expectations. It’s important to research no matter the age of the company.

Take responsibility for your fragile items before the cleaning crew arrives even if furniture moving is included in the cost of cleaning. Never entrust your valuable items to someone else unless you absolutely have to, even with a promise that they will be cared for.

Many cleaning companies use chemicals; if you don’t want these substances in your home, find someone that uses “green” methods. You must read cleaning product labels every time. Also think about green solutions like salt, baking soda or vinegar applications for carpet rinsing.

If you are considering the use of a professional cleaning service, be sure that this business has an actual physical location. You’re going to need a real address where any issues can be resolved if you should have a problem with the work the cleaner does. You’ll want to keep looking if there is only a P.O. Box and no actual street address.

Talk to your carpet cleaners about what you can do to continue to care for the carpet once the cleaning is complete. The majority of carpet-cleaning companies should be able to provide you with advice on vacuuming and drying your carpets, as well as which stain removers are best. The advice they give you can help keep your carpet looking great for a long time after the cleaning.

Carefully follow the directions on any home carpet cleaning product you are considering using. The directions may indicate what the product can be used on and under what circumstances it should be applied. Before you even turn on the machine, you need to know all this information.

Shampoo your carpet with some warm water and some vinegar. A professional carpet cleaner can make your carpets looking new again. The professional should mix an equal amount of vinegar and warm water together. Then, they should pour the mixture over your carpet, scrubbing it with a sponge. Use more water to rinse and dry the area with a fan.

Before hiring a company, ask them what they do before they actually start cleaning. The answer you’re listening for is that the cleaners vacuum first, and then proceed to deep cleaning. Doing this will result in a much better-looking carpet; therefore, if the cleaner does not vacuum, you should find a service that does.

You may be sick and tired of your carpet stains, but take heart! You can have them removed. With just a quick phone call, you can easily have your carpets cleaned. Use the information here to your advantage. Hire a company that will help you get rid of stains permanently.

Dirty Floors? Then You Need Help With Carpet Cleaning Pensacola

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:35:49 GMT

What do you first notice when you walk into a room? If you view the carpet, you could have an issue. The best carpets are ones that people are likely to notice. If you see a carpet when you first notice a room, then it’s probably time to hire a professional to help. Follow these guidelines to make good choices.

Do not use a lot of heat for carpet cleaning. If the temperature is too hot, you can damage your carpet and negatively affect patterns and colors. Heat can lead to permanent stains, which can ruin your carpet entirely.

When your carpet cleaning is complete, ask the company who performed the task for recommendations. Most professionals can guide you toward the best stain removers, how long carpets should dry, and a vacuuming schedule. By using this advice, your carpet can be attractive for a long time.

Take time to vacuum all of the carpets. By going over areas frequently, you can pick up all the dirt and grime. This is a good way to extend the longevity of your carpet and remove stains as well as dirt. Your time will be well spent in the end.

Use baking soda as a deodorizer while cleaning carpets. For especially stubborn odors, add lavender oil to your baking soda before sprinkling on the carpet. You can save money if you use baking soda. If you want a fragrance, simply mix some essential oils to the baking soda prior to applying it to your carpet.

You can check with the chamber of commerce or yellow pages for a good list of the available companies. You should also check which companies have a certification and ask about complaints filed by customers. This will ensure a positive experience with a qualified carpet cleaning business.

Pets can wreak havoc on your carpets. If you have some high-maintenance carpet, it might be best to keep your pet away from certain rooms or place rugs over your carpet. Take the time to vacuum twice a week or apply some quality carpet cleaning products if needed.

If the carpet cleaners are coming, get all your houseplants out of the way. Take this precautionary measure as these chemicals may harm plants. Many companies don’t reimburse for this kind of loss, so you must be proactive.

Of the many types of carpet stains, red wine can be one of the most difficult to remove. Minimize damage by treating the wine stain right away. Be sure to dilute the effect of the red wine with a bit of white wine. Blot the wine with an absorbent rag to remove as much liquid as possible. Then place table salt all over the area for around ten minutes, and finally vacuum.

After having your carpets cleaned, they will look as good as new, or even better. You’ll probably want to clean them at higher frequencies so that you’ll be able to concentrate on other aspects of your home. Use the tips here to help you, and you can finally move on!

Destroying Stains: Carpet Cleaning Tips And Tricks Pensacola

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:30:42 GMT

There are so many carpet cleaning companies out there. How do you know which one to trust with your business? Most articles focus on the obvious aspects of carpet cleaning, but this article will go to great lengths to provide some in depth information. Keep reading to find out all there is to know about cleaning carpets!

Excess heat should be avoided when cleaning carpets. Carpet is typically made from synthetic materials, and the color or pattern can be reduced when too much heat is used. They can easily remove stains from these delicate floors.

Wash new carpet you buy the moment it’s in your home. Some carpets contain chemicals that are meant to preserve their quality. By having a professional clean new carpets as soon as you get them, you can ensure your loved ones’ exposure to these chemicals are minimized.

Prior to agreeing to any sort of professional stain treatment, check to see if your carpets are under warranty. You may have a carpet that has a stain treatment built in, and putting a different product on it may affect the warranty. This can actually result in your carpet becoming damaged.

Remember that certain companies use chemicals that could be harmful to your family. Always hire the best company, so you can be sure to get the best service.

Using the right cleaning agents doesn’t make a company reputable. Always investigate to make sure the cleaning company you are interested in has the proper certifications. You should ask them about their certifications and then do some research to see if they’re telling the truth.

Regularly vacuum your home. The more you spend vacuuming each area of the home, the more grime you will remove. This can help them avoid cleaning unnecessary stains, which will make it go faster. It takes only a little time, but the end result is noticeable.

Save money on carpet deodorizer by using plain baking soda. Most commercial carpet deodorizers are nothing but baking soda and fragrance. Save money by using regular baking soda. If you prefer fragrance, add essential oils to the baking soda, and spread the baking soda on wax paper so it can dry.

Take plants out of your home before cleaning time. Carpet cleaning chemicals can kill plants. Your plant loss will not likely be reimbursed by the cleaning company.

There is not just a single method of getting a carpet clean; therefore, every carpet-cleaning company might use different methods. For instance, many companies will clean with absorbent pads. This equipment resembles something you use to buff floors. The pads absorb dirt, mold, germs and allergens from your carpet.

As you now see, there is a good number of things to be mindful of when choosing a carpet cleaning company. These tips should give you a better idea of what you need to do in order to find a good carpet cleaner. Now you can hire the best carpet cleaning service for you by applying what you’ve learned in this article.

Caring for Your Christmas Tree and Protecting Your Floors

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:28:02 GMT

Christmas will be here before you know it! The day after Thanksgiving is usually the day the family decorates the Christmas Tree. For many people buying a Christmas tree is a family event. Choosing the right tree, getting it home, putting it up, and then decorating is an exciting experience which both children and adults look forward to, and for many marks the true arrival of Christmas into the home.

The joy of seeing the look on children’s faces when they see their first Christmas Tree brought into the home is only hindered by the knowledge that its arrival also means a bit more work each day to care for the Christmas tree and keep the house looking neat and tidy.

So here are our tips on how to care for your Christmas tree and look after your carpets and floors…

Position –Think about where to position your tree, as people brushing past it which will encourage needles to drop quicker, meaning you will spend more time vacuuming!
Measure– Don’t forget to measure the height and width of where you want to put the tree and take a tape measure with you when you are buying.
Type of tree – There are lots of varieties of trees available, some are better at retaining their needles than others. Get advice from your retailer or do your research online. However, don’t forget that if you have a real tree you will always get a certain amount of needle dropping regardless of variety.
Cut, rooted or container trees – The sort of tree you buy will determine the type of container you use and how you look after them. Cutting half an inch from a tree trunk that has already been cut will enable easier intake of water.
Fresh is best – Test before you buy – branches should not be brittle and outer needles should not fall off the tree when it is gently shaken.
Tree stand safety– Make sure you have the right size tree stand (with a container to water the tree) especially if you have children (touching decorations especially chocolate ones!) or cats (who think you have supplied them with a scratching pole!). It should be wide enough to support the tree and make good contact with the floor. Having to taper the tree trunk to fit the stand means you need a bigger stand to prevent it from toppling over and becoming a safety issue to your family and home.
Deep carpets– To protect the carpet and ensure that the tree stand has a solid standing, cut out a sturdy piece of plywood for the base of the tree to stand on. Use a tree skirt or Christmas wrapping paper to hide the wood and tree stand.
Hard floors – Tree stands can easily scratch hardwood floors so put a non-skid piece of carpeting or similar non-slip mat under the stand.
General carpet protection – It’s a good idea to place some plastic sheeting (with non-slip tape) and a scrap piece of carpet under the tree stand to protect hardwood floors and carpets from accidental water spills, leaks, and weight marks. It also makes it easier to clean up when the tree is removed.
Avoid direct heat– A dry tree is a fire hazard so keeping it away from direct heat is important. The risks of being too close to open fire are obvious, but being too close to radiators and not watering adequately will not only dry out the tree but also limit the tree’s ability to maintain its shape and sheen and will encourage faster needle shedding.
Water daily – Whether it is a cut, rooted or container tree they all need watering daily. You will be surprised at how much water they actually require.
A long spouted watering can enable easier watering, but care should be taken not to let the tree base overflow as this will spill onto your carpet and create a damp area which could then develop mildew and mold.
Sweep or vacuum regularly to clear any needles, whilst at the same time taking care not to knock branches or the tree trunk as this will cause more needles to drop off!
Stubborn needles– To clear needles that have lodged into carpets, rugs and between the slats of a wooden floor use the smaller attachments on your vacuum or use some duct tape to pull them out.

Caring for your Christmas Tree is well worth the effort to clean and maintain. The twinkling lights and the wonderful pine smell truly make Christmas enjoyable!

Big Strides In a Male Dominated Industry

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:13:13 GMT

featured in Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast the Magazine October 2015

Elite Services Quality Clean would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Elizabeth Nims on becoming an IICRC Certified Master Textile Cleaning Technician. By receiving this certification, she has entered the ranks of the select few in the textile cleaning industry; a highly male-dominated field. The Greater Pensacola area contains five individuals. This also makes her the third person on staff at Elite Services to receive this distinction.

Obtaining this level of education requires hard work and dedication; several instructional classes and multiple hours of on the job training at a minimum. Classes such as the Odor Control Technician and the Color Repair Technician classes are ones in which women have a higher percentage of passing. Why is this? Women are able to determine the minuscule differences required to spot issues, and many are also able to relay these into simpler terms to be understood by most clients.

What led her to become a master textile cleaning technician? Even though she grew up in a home where there was a family business, Elizabeth wanted to have her first job be outside of the family business. She said she wanted this so she could learn other skills to help push her father’s business to a higher level. She got her first job in the retail industry. Through this job, she learned the customer comes first. She also learned to listen to their needs first, then find a way to accommodate them. Elizabeth said education was important to her, so while working that job, she put herself through college earning a degree in business management.

Again, looking for ways to improve the promotion of the family business, she began to look to her father, David Nixon, as an example. He is most likely the most certified person in the upholstery and carpet cleaning industry in our area. He currently holds 18 certifications. She saw him leading by example and wanted to follow. Since she had gained certain business skills through her first job and college, she figured it was time to begin learning the dirty to clean details of the textile cleaning industry. Thus began her journey into obtaining the coveted IICRC Master Textile Cleaning Technician Certification.

As most of the decisions in the care and cleanliness of the home are made by the lady of the house, Elizabeth is able to use a woman’s point of view to see how things should look and be handled during cleaning. She also understands patience is needed in some areas. She was able to learn this in greater detail by going to five different classes over three years while working in the industry; as well as taking comprehensive exams for each class. Most of her male counterparts in the industry do not have the understanding and patience for certain aspects of the business, such as color repair.

This is why she is choosing this art as her specialty, thus adding this much-needed service to our repertoire. A motivational goal was to outdo her “Master Daddy.” Thus, she was able to score higher than he did on some of the exams; but she still looks to him for wisdom and guidance on tricky situations as he is the local expert in the field.

What sets Elite Services Quality Clean apart from everyone else? Elite Services Quality Clean was founded in 1985 by David and Karen Nixon. David saw a need to build a company that everyone could trust with the cleaning of their textiles. Early in his own career, he saw how each company had its own special and unique way of serving their customers. He decided to integrate these into his own style of customer service, and thus began the adventure of ESQC. Over the years, he has encouraged education not only for himself but his employees also. By doing this, this gives the employees greater ability to explain steps and processes to the clients. He also strives to provide quotes that do not change unless the scope of the job itself changes. But above all else to arrive on time, explain what he or his team is going to do, provide an outstanding service experience, and charge the price he quoted.

To this day, we at Elite Services Quality Clean still adhere to these principles. Keeping this in mind, we have a 30-day guarantee, just in case a spot returns begging for more attention. Our expectation is for the customer to be happy with all the services provided. We believe in doing the job right. This means we do things such as vacuum all carpets we are cleaning before we put any moisture on them. This allows for the maximum efficiency of purifying your textiles. Also, if we did not pre-vacuum, most carpet manufacturer warranties would be voided. We will also do a pre-inspection and a post-inspection with you to be able to listen to your needs and address them. We know the best offense to a problem is having a good defense. This is why we choose to leave you with your own bottle of spotter solution in order for you to get to that spot or stain right after it happens. Rest assured, if a stain should fail to go away; this is where a color repair can correct the problem.

Finally, look for more blogs each week from our own Elizabeth Nims to come in the future with tips and tricks for you to have the best offense in your own home.

Want to pick the Master’s brain??? Catch David or Elizabeth every third Monday at 10 AM on News Radio 1620 AM.

We hope you understand a bit more of what sets us apart from other companies in the area and got some new tips from us to help you maintain your “investments” (carpet and upholstery) in your home.

Elite Services Quality Clean is our Family, serving your family because it isn’t clear if it is not cleaned by Elite Services Quality Clean!

A Guide To Working With Carpet Cleaning Companies Pensacola

Sat, 12 Aug 2017 11:09:57 GMT

Your flooring is among the most noticeable aspects of your home. People with carpets in their home may find it hard to keep them clean and might want a company to do the work for them. Continue reading for great advice on hiring a professional carpet cleaner.

You need to make sure a carpet is vacuumed before you clean it. Carpet must be vacuumed before you apply liquid cleaning products. Your carpets won’t get clean if there is a lot of loose dirt lying around. You won’t be sorry you did that.

Be certain to wash new carpets when you bring them home. Some carpets possess chemicals to help preserve their quality. You can reduce the chances of your loved ones being exposed to these chemicals by having the carpet cleaned as soon as you bring it home.

It’s important that you are comfortable with the carpet cleaning company you use. From just asking about what they can do for you, to getting the job done, you need to be content with what they give you. A good company is going to make sure that you’re happy throughout the whole experience.

For quick cleaning, use distilled white vinegar. Even so, to make sure your carpeting is not damaged, hire a professional to do the cleaning. Don’t make the mistake of doing your own work and making your carpets worse, though.

When your cleaning professional arrives, be sure to inform them of any electrical sockets embedded in your flooring. The cleaner will have to avoid these areas to prevent accidents. It can hurt them or their equipment, and it may also damage your home.

Vacuum all of your carpets thoroughly. The longer you spend vacuuming a room, the more dirt will be picked up. This is a good way to extend the longevity of your carpet and remove stains as well as dirt. A small amount of time cleaning can yield great results.

Your local chamber of commerce and the better business bureau are good resources for finding qualified local carpet cleaners. Your chamber of commerce will also be able to provide you with information regarding complaints against local businesses. This will ensure a positive experience with a qualified carpet cleaning business.

Many carpet cleaning companies have their technicians work on the upsell. What this means is that they’ll provide you with a small price but will add on charges for services people think are standard. Spot treatments, cleaning high traffic areas and more will often be discussed after the work has started and will increase the price substantially.

Keep a stain remover close by to remove some of the nastiest stains like red wine and sauces in between professional cleanings. You should apply this solution without rubbing on the stain, and leave it for approximately five minutes. Clockwise sprays help to cover the whole stain and provide the best results.

You should clean your carpet regularly if you have pets, children or invested in a high-maintenance carpet. Either way, you’ll probably need a professional carpet cleaner. You should apply the tips you just read to find a reliable carpet cleaner in your area that will provide you with the services you need.