Tag: green cleaning

Maid Brigade Busts Common Green Cleaning Myths

Posted on November 26, 2024 by maidbrigade - Cleaning Tips, Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Sustainable packaging. Sustainable lifestyles. Sustainable business practices. It seems as though sustainability and environmental consciousness have been hot topics recently. As the idea of reducing your carbon footprint and adopting more eco-friendly practices has gained momentum, cleaning products and services have also experienced a shift towards safer, greener alternatives.

But is green cleaning really effective? Can you trust that eco-friendly cleaning solutions are the right choice for your house and your family? At Maid Brigade, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean, healthy home. We’re also passionate about the powerful, non-toxic cleaning and disinfection solutions we provide, which is why we take your concerns about green cleaning seriously. In this article, we’ll address four common myths about green cleaning so you have the knowledge you need to clean or choose a cleaning service with confidence.

Myth #1: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Can’t Cut Through Grime Like Traditional Chemical Cleaners

Many people believe that products formulated to be safer for the environment are too weak to actually clean the way they’re supposed to, but this simply isn’t true.

Modern chemistry has formulated countless green cleaning solutions that then undergo rigorous testing and refinement to create an end product that meets and exceeds your cleaning expectations — without harming the environment, of course. Whether it’s plant-based ingredients or naturally occurring cleaning compounds like baking soda, a truly eco-friendly cleaner will deliver exceptional results without compromising your environmental values.

Fact Check: Green cleaning products are effective, and they’re here to stay.

Myth #2: Green Doesn’t Mean Safe

A commonly held belief is that green cleaning products are toxic or unsafe. Thankfully, this is incorrect.

Safe cleaning products are essential to disinfecting and protecting your home, and green cleaning products undergo the same testing as traditional cleaning agents, ensuring quality and safety. Safer Choice and Design for the Environment labels not only certify that the EPA has deemed a cleaning product safe for the environment, but they also signal that the active ingredients used in these products are low toxicity and won’t have a long-term impact on water streams and other environmentally significant areas.

Think regular cleaning products are always the safe option? Well, think again. Just a quick glance at the safety risks posed by typical chemical cleaners will reveal that they’re often the not-so-safe alternative to their green counterparts. For example, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in standard products can add a toxic element to the air around them, and additional organic compounds can irritate your skin and eyes.

Fact Check: If you’re searching for safe cleaning products, green may be the way to go.

Myth #3: Green Cleaning is All About Products

It’s easy to imagine that green cleaning simply means using proven eco-friendly products, and many people do. However, green cleaning is a process more than it is a set of sprays and disinfectants.

It involves reducing waste, minimizing water usage, and limiting environmental impact by adopting equipment and practices that can be used again and again. The cleaning professionals at Maid Brigade, for instance, use antibacterial cloths rather than paper towels or other disposable products to achieve an eco-conscious clean in every home.

Fact Check: Products are only the beginning of an intensive, eco-friendly cleaning process.

Myth #4: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products Aren’t Really Helping Our Environment

When it comes to saving the planet, doubters and nay-sayers may believe that green cleaning methods can’t make a difference. Once again, they would be wrong.

True, some bad actors have been busted for making false claims about the positive environmental impact of their cleaning products, but the standards provided by the Green Guides require companies to provide context and information to support their claims. This can include testing for lower quantities of certain chemical compounds or proving the biodegradability of a cleaning product under “normal” conditions.

Fact Check: Green cleaning products do what they say: clean up your home and the environment.

Experience Next-Generation Cleaning with Maid Brigade

So, eco-friendly cleaning is a great way to disinfect your home and do your part as a resident of planet Earth. We’re glad we could convince you. The next step is experiencing the benefits of this cleaning method for yourself.

As a green cleaning expert, Maid Brigade is obsessed with eliminating irritants from your home, not introducing new ones. Our disinfection services use only safe cleaning products to rid your home of all things grimy and greasy. Our PURECleaning® process is the healthiest, most advanced green cleaning system available. It’s safe for all your surfaces (including kitchen countertops) and it won’t hurt your plants, pets, or kids.

Here’s what PureCleaning® looks like in action:

Remove Dirt and Debris: Bye-bye, 99.999% of dirt and irritants! Using allergy-free, antibacterial cloths and HEPA-filtration vacuums, we clean your home from top to bottom for 4x better air quality and no cross-contamination between rooms.
Clean and Sanitize: The real secret to PURECleaning® is our electrolyzed water. From mold and mildew to viruses and bacteria, this powerful cleaning solution eliminates them all without leaving behind residues and unpleasant chemical smells.
Disinfect: This is the finishing touch. PUREmist®, our handheld electrostatic sprayer, allows us to apply an aerosolized mist of hypochlorous acid to even the most sensitive surfaces. It’s how we tackle hard-to-reach areas that regular cleanings can’t, and safely disinfect everything from children’s toys to computer keyboards.

Are you ready for a simple, safe, and effective cleaning that leaves your home sparkling? Contact your local Maid Brigade today to set up your first green cleaning service!

Green Cleaning 101: Why Non-Toxic Solutions Matter for Your Home

Posted on June 5, 2024 by maidbrigade - Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Maintaining a clean home isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about creating a healthy, safe environment for your family. This is where green cleaning comes into play, offering an eco-friendly approach to home cleaning that benefits both your health and the planet.

At Maid Brigade, we are dedicated to providing top-tier professional cleaning and disinfection services with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our PUREcleaning system, which utilizes non-toxic solutions like electrolyzed water, is at the forefront of this green-cleaning revolution.

Our goal today is to educate you on the importance of green cleaning, introduce effective techniques, and highlight the many benefits of hiring a house cleaning service that uses non-toxic solutions for your home. By understanding and implementing these practices, you can ensure a safer, healthier living space for your loved ones.

Understanding Green Cleaning

Green cleaning is all about using environmentally friendly products and methods to maintain a clean home. It emphasizes the use of natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for both people and the planet. Unlike traditional cleaning methods, which often rely on harsh chemicals, green cleaning focuses on sustainable practices and reducing environmental impact.

Two of the fundamental principles of green cleaning are:

Use of Non-Toxic Products: Green cleaning products avoid harmful chemicals like ammonia and bleach, instead using natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Sustainable Practices: This includes using reusable cleaning tools, reducing water consumption, and proper waste disposal.

The Significance for Home Disinfection and Health

Traditional cleaning methods often involve chemicals that can cause health issues and environmental damage. Green cleaning, on the other hand, promotes a safer approach by using biodegradable and non-toxic products, which are just as effective in maintaining cleanliness.

Non-toxic cleaning is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. It helps eliminate germs and bacteria without introducing toxic substances into your living space. This is particularly important for households with children, pets, or individuals with respiratory issues like allergies or asthma.

Benefits of Green Cleaning

Let’s consider some of the key benefits of green cleaning:

Health Benefits: Green cleaning reduces your exposure to harmful chemicals. By using non-toxic products, you reduce the risk of chemical burns, skin irritations, and respiratory problems. You also benefit from improved indoor air quality, which can help with respiratory health.
Environmental Benefits: Green cleaning products are biodegradable and reduce water and soil pollution. They often come in recyclable packaging to minimize waste as well. You can help contribute to sustainable resource use and the protection of ecosystems by using renewable resources and reducing your reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Home Benefits: Non-toxic products are gentle and safe for all surfaces, prolonging the life of your household items and furnishings without sacrificing cleaning effectiveness. Green cleaning products are also less likely to produce overpowering smells like chemical cleaning solutions.

By understanding and prioritizing green cleaning practices, you can create a better, more sustainable home environment. This approach not only protects your family’s health but also contributes to the well-being of our planet.

Key Green Cleaning Techniques

Natural ingredients are the cornerstone of green cleaning. Many common items are effective and safe for various cleaning tasks.

Vinegar: Great for cutting through grease and removing mildew.
Baking Soda: Excellent for scrubbing surfaces and neutralizing odors.
Lemon Juice: Acts as a natural disinfectant with a pleasant scent.

Eco-Friendly Tools

As you bring more environmentally friendly cleaning practices into your life, you’ll also want to make sure you’re using the right tools. For example, microfiber cloths are highly effective at picking up dust and dirt without the need for chemical cleaners. They can be washed and reused many times. Opt for mop heads that can be washed and reused to reduce waste and cost over time.

Proper maintenance of eco-friendly tools ensures their longevity and effectiveness. Wash microfiber cloths regularly to maintain their cleaning power, and follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and storing reusable mop heads.

Proper Disposal and Recycling

Disposing of cleaning products and materials responsibly is a key aspect of green cleaning. Follow local guidelines for disposing of hazardous materials. Avoid pouring chemicals down the drain. Recycle containers and packaging when possible.

Choosing the Right Green Cleaning Products

When selecting green cleaning products, it’s essential to be able to decipher product labels to ensure they meet environmental and health standards. Here’s how:

Ingredients: Look for clear, transparent ingredient lists. Avoid products with vague terms like “fragrance” or “dye.”
Certifications: Seek out certifications such as EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and Ecologo. These indicate that the product has been tested and meets rigorous standards for safety and sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Claims: Verify claims like “biodegradable,” “non-toxic,” or “plant-based” through reliable sources or certification bodies.

Maid Brigade’s PUREcleaning System

Maid Brigade’s PUREcleaning system represents a leap in green cleaning technology. At its heart is electrolyzed water, produced by combining electricity, water, and salt. This solution is a potent disinfectant, eradicating bacteria and viruses without leaving harmful residues.

This system offers tremendous benefits for homeowners. First, it is non-toxic and safe. Electrolyzed water is safe for families and pets, posing no risks like those associated with conventional cleaners. It also provides more effective cleaning. Electrolyzed water is highly effective against pathogens, ensuring a deep clean without harmful chemicals. Our cleaning process also removes 99.9% of harmful airborne particles, dramatically improving air quality in your home.

The PUREcleaning system employs electrolyzed water throughout the cleaning process. This solution is sprayed on surfaces to disinfect and clean, breaking down bacteria and viruses efficiently. Compared to traditional methods, electrolyzed water offers a safer, greener alternative that maintains high cleaning standards without compromising health or the environment.

By understanding labels and choosing products certified for their safety and effectiveness, and considering systems like Maid Brigade’s PUREcleaning, you can ensure your home is cleaned in a way that is safe, sustainable, and highly effective.

Embrace the Green Cleaning Revolution

Green cleaning is more than a trend; it’s a commitment to a healthier home and a healthier planet. By using non-toxic, eco-friendly products and methods, you can protect your family from harmful chemicals, improve indoor air quality, and contribute to environmental sustainability. We encourage you to adopt green cleaning habits and practices in your daily routine.

If you’re looking for professional cleaning, Maid Brigade uses top-notch green cleaning products and services with our innovative PUREcleaning system. Schedule your service with Maid Brigade today to experience a safer, cleaner home.

What's Included in a Standard House Cleaning Service

Posted on May 31, 2024 by maidbrigade - About Us

Introduction

In the rush of modern life, keeping a home clean can seem like a daunting task. Between work, family responsibilities, and personal commitments, finding the time to scrub, dust, and polish is easier said than done.

That's where professional cleaning services like Maid Brigade come in. Even better, Maid Brigade’s experts not only ensure a sparkling home but also promote a healthier environment for you and your family thanks to their emphasis on green cleaning with their proprietary PUREcleaning system.

The Importance of a Clean Home

A clean home is more than just visually appealing. It's a sanctuary that supports mental well-being and physical health. Clutter and dirt can contribute to stress and anxiety. Clean spaces, on the other hand, promote relaxation and peace of mind. Moreover, regular cleaning reduces allergens and bacteria, safeguarding your health. Maid Brigade’s cleaning services play a vital role in maintaining this clean and comfortable living space, allowing you to enjoy the benefits without the hassle. Their unique Electrolyzed Water is powerful yet safe; it breaks down viruses and bacteria while cleaning surfaces, cutting grease, and removing residues. It is a more powerful and healthier clean than other products.

What Do Our House Cleanings Include?

Maid Brigade offers a comprehensive range of cleaning services that they can tailor to meet the unique needs of each household. Their trained professionals use green cleaning techniques to deliver top-notch results without compromising your health or the environment.

Regular Services

Whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cleanings, Maid Brigade has a schedule that will fit your lifestyle. Regular cleanings are perfect for maintaining a consistent level of cleanliness throughout your home. To get a sense of the level of service, here are some of the things included in a standard cleaning just for a bathroom:

Clean shower and tub enclosure
Clean & disinfect inside and outside of toilet
Clean mirrors
Clean soap dishes
Empty trash
Dust light fixtures
Dust decore items
Dust woodwork
Clean and polish chrome
Clean vanity and sink area
Sweep and wash floors
Spot clean cabinets
General tidying

One-Time/Specialty Cleanings

Sometimes you need a bit more than the usual clean. Maid Brigade’s one-time and specialty cleanings are ideal for these unique occasions, like after a home renovation or moving in and out of a home. They have designed these services to handle bigger cleaning challenges that require special attention. In addition to all of the standard cleaning services, a specialty cleaning in your bathroom might also include:

Remove all items from bathroom cabinets, clean inside, and replace
Wash exterior of bathroom cabinets
Wash walls from ceiling to floor, or prep walls for painting
Wash woodwork

You may also be interested in seasonal cleanings, which are a great way to freshen up your home after the gloom (and grime) of winter. “Spring Cleaning” is a popular term for a reason!

Custom Services

Maid Brigade understands that every home is unique. That’s why they offer custom services upon request, like detailed cleaning of appliances such as refrigerators or ovens. Just let them know what you need, and they’ll tailor their services accordingly.

Added Benefits Beyond Cleanliness

Choosing Maid Brigade isn’t just about keeping your home clean; it’s about gaining back your time and freedom. Imagine what you could do with a few extra hours each week—more time with family, hobbies, or simply relaxing. Maid Brigade makes this possible by taking the burden of house cleaning off your shoulders.

Understanding House Cleaning Prices

Maid Brigade is committed to providing exceptional value, tailoring their services to fit different homes and budgets. Potential clients should call the local office in your area or complete their estimate form for a personalized cleaning quote. This will ensure you get exactly what you need for one of your most valuable assets: your home.

How to Schedule a Cleaning

Scheduling a cleaning service with Maid Brigade is straightforward:

Visit the Maid Brigade website or contact them directly.
Discuss your cleaning needs and schedule preferences.
Set up a cleaning plan that suits your timetable and budget.
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is taken care of.

Maid Brigade prides ourselves on excellent communication to ensure that they always meet customer expectations.

FAQs and Additional Support

Have questions? Maid Brigade is here to help. From inquiries about specific cleaning methods to understanding how they choose our products, their FAQs and customer support are ready to provide all the information you need. Visit the Maid Brigade website or reach out directly for more detailed information.

Choosing Maid Brigade for your house cleaning needs means choosing a cleaner, healthier home and reclaiming your time to enjoy life’s pleasures. Don’t wait to transform your living space. Contact Maid Brigade today and start experiencing the joy of a professionally cleaned home.

Why Are HEPA-Filtered Vacuums Essential to Your Home Cleaning?

Posted on October 11, 2023 by oi_admin - Healthy Home

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. A HEPA filter is a high quality type of air filter designed to capture small particles, including dust, pollen, pet dander. These filters are incredibly efficient, trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns with a 99.97% efficiency. HEPA filters are known for their ability to improve indoor air quality, which is essential for a healthy home.

As a professional cleaning service, we use HEPA filtered vacuums because of the immense benefits for our cleaning teams and our customers. Here's why:

Improved indoor air quality: HEPA filters trap and remove a wide range of airborne particles, including allergens, dust mites, and mold spores. This can lead to significant improvements in indoor air quality, especially for people with allergies or asthma.
Reduced risk of respiratory problems: Exposure to airborne allergens and other irritants can trigger respiratory problems such as asthma attacks and allergic reactions. By using a HEPA filtered vacuum to remove these particles from the air, you can reduce your risk of developing these problems.
Cleaner, healthier home: HEPA filtered vacuums remove more dirt, dust, and other allergens from your carpets and floors than traditional vacuums. This can help to create a cleaner, healthier home for you and your family.

Maid Brigade's cleaning professionals are trained to use HEPA filtered vacuums effectively and efficiently. We understand the importance of proper vacuuming techniques and the significance of HEPA filtration in the cleaning process. We have always been committed to the highest quality cleaning supplies, including vacuums that improve indoor air quality! If you are looking for a cleaning company that can provide you with a cleaner home and a healthier home, Maid Brigade has 30+ years of experience to bring you exactly that.

Pet-Friendly House Cleanings by Maid Brigade

Posted on May 30, 2023 by oi_admin - Healthy Home

We love pets, and we want to make your home the paw-fect oasis for you and your furry loved ones. That’s why we have designed our cleaning services that cater perfectly to homes with pets. If you are learning about which cleaning service company to choose for your pet-friendly home, we are here to share why Maid Brigade is the best choice for your home and family.

Special Care for Homes with Pets

When you have a pet at home, we take extra measures to keep them safe while we handle the house cleaning. We carry out the cleaning so that our teams are as non-intrusive as possible to them. Having new people come into your home can be a stressful experience for pets. We will communicate with you prior to your cleaning to ensure we’re all on the same page. Some of our team members are pet owners themselves and care deeply for our customers pets, as if they were their own.

Safe, Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

While taking care of your home with pets, you can feel confident knowing that the cleaning products and equipment we use are completely safe for your pet family members. Our proprietary PUREcleaning system uses the safest and most advanced cleaning products. All of our cleaning solutions are EPA Registered, FDA Approved, and safe for pets upon application.

Pet-Loving Cleaning Crew

Our cleaning staff has lots of experience working in homes with pets. Their long years of experience plus genuine care for customers’ pets means your home and furry family members will be given the best care. In our conversations before your cleaning we can discuss your pet and what your preferences are when it comes to having our cleaning crew visit at your scheduled time.

We Know How to Clean Homes with Pets

Pet hair, dander, and odor can be one of the most challenging parts of cleaning homes with pets. Our industry-leading HEPA-filtration vacuum equipment, powerful electrolyzed water (e-water) solution, and trusted cleaning experience will give your home a top quality cleaning.

To ensure the healthiest environment in your home with pets, find your local Maid Brigade today and schedule your cleaning for your home’s well-being. Our pet-friendly, trusted, and reliable employees are always there to make the best cleaning happen for you!

Hiring a Professional Cleaning Service

Posted on February 6, 2023 by oi_admin - Healthy Home, Healthy Soul

Having a clean home and living space is important but hiring a professional cleaning service can be quite daunting. There are many advantages to finding the right cleaning service near you, plus they offer many advantages over competitors.

We will look at some of the important factors to consider when making your selection.

The Benefits of a Professional House Cleaning Service

It is important to understand the advantages of a cleaning company that employs a team of full-time professionals who are insured, bonded, and certified.

When you find the right house cleaning service, you can expect a professional and reliable experience. Staff are trained and have the experience, equipment, and solutions to do the job safely and effectively. Owners monitor your satisfaction and assess their team members frequently. The best ones have a solid reputation built over many years of service in local markets.

Another advantage of working with a professional team is you don’t have to worry about missed cleanings. Vacations, illnesses, or vehicle troubles won’t impact you as they customer since they have other professionals with the same training to fill-in. Independent cleaners may not. Another advantage is that the trained teams work faster than a single individual and will be in and out of your home in less time.

Creating Room in Your Budget for a Professional Cleaning Service

While a professional cleaning service might appear a bit more expensive at first glance, there is more to the story. Apart from the advantages mentioned above, the reliability and professionalism will provide more value throughout your relationship.

There should be no hidden costs or surprise fees. Your quoted price for maid service should include everything from labor to house cleaning equipment to the cleaning solutions. This will allow you to properly budget.

How Frequently a Home Should Be Cleaned

Professional maid and cleaning services will give you an option of how often you want your home cleaned. You often have the option of “weekly”, “biweekly” (every two-weeks), and “monthly” (every four-weeks). Professional services have a standard of cleaning that they want to establish and maintain, so it will likely cost more for the first home cleaning. After that, you will have cleaning service in a specific day of week and at a consistent price to know and budget.

Weekly Cleaning Services

Weekly service is the most frequent cleaning that most professional cleaning services offer. This will keep your home’s condition in top share and your workload to a minimum. Now if only someone could do the laundry!

(Note: If you need daily service, then call your local Maid Brigade to discuss.)

Biweekly Cleaning Services

BiWeekly is the most popular cleaning frequency. It means every two-weeks and is a more budget-friendly option. Cleaning service every two weeks is priced slightly higher than weekly because it’s been longer since the team has been in your home to clean, but it’s still a high-value option.

Monthly Cleaning Services

Monthly cleaning service occurs every four-weeks vs the same date of each month. This is a distinction you need to know. Maid service every four-weeks is the most expensive cleaning frequency. Because of the time between cleanings, it will take the maids longer to complete their tasks. This means that the cost will be greater per service for clients.

Why Maid Brigade is the Best Choice for Professional Home Cleaning Services

Maid Brigade has been in the house cleaning business for over four decades with numerous locations across the U.S. and in Canada. We have dedicated teams of skilled and experienced cleaning professionals and have a great reputation for reliability, performance, safety, and innovation.

Our teams are fully insured, bonded, and certified.

PUREcleaning - Safe, Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions

It is not enough for the home to simply be clean and tidy. It also needs to be disinfected. Unfortunately, the solutions used by many companies contain toxins that are left behind in your home after the service is complete. This is why Maid Brigade developed and uses the innovative PUREcleaning system.

It is a powerful, safe, and non-toxic method of effectively cleaning and disinfecting your home. This technology is exclusive to Maid Brigade and further proof of our commitment to you and your family.

Maid Brigade offers a range of flexible and customizable cleaning services. Contact your local Maid Brigade for a quote or more information.

Green Cleaning Tips for Your Pet's Bowls & Toys

Posted on February 19, 2020 by oi_admin - Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Your pet’s bowls and toys are probably not on your regular cleaning list, but they should be. Pet bowls, both food bowls and water bowls, build up with food leftovers mixed with your pet’s saliva. This creates the perfect environment for bacteria and microbes. Vets and other experts actually recommend washing your pet’s food and water bowls daily. Pet toys have saliva that mixes with hair and dirt from floors and make the toys extremely dirty and smelly. Experts recommend these toys be cleaned weekly. Let’s look at some tips on how to clean these items:

Safe Cleaning Solutions for Food & Water Bowls

Natural Solutions: Never use traditional cleaners to clean either pet bowls or toys. Our pets are extremely sensitive to the ingredients in cleaning products so avoid them at all costs. Instead use items like baking soda, vinegar and hydrogen peroxide to clean pet bowls and toys.
Dishwasher Safe: If your pet's bowls are dishwasher safe, that is a great option for disinfecting them. Use the hot water rinse cycle and hot air-drying cycle to make sure the bowls are rinsed well and disinfected.
Wash By Hand: If washing your pet bowls by hand, use distilled white vinegar as your “soap” and clean with a scrubby sponge by going over the bottom and sides of the bowl. Rinse the bowls with very hot water and let them air dry.

Safe Cleaning Solutions for Pet Toys

Natural Solutions: Hard toys can be soaked in distilled white vinegar to kill bacteria. You can use a stiff toothbrush to clean crevices. Let the toy soak in the vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes, scrub the surfaces, and then rinse with hot water and let them air dry.
Washing Machine: Stuffed pet toys can be placed in the washing machine. Use a mesh laundry bag and place the stuffed toys inside it. Set the machine on the gentlest cycle so as not to damage the toys. Instead of using traditional laundry detergent, use a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in the soap dispenser. The baking soda will help lift out the smells and the hydrogen peroxide will work to disinfect the toy.
If your pet’s toys are smelling a little funky and you just don’t have the time to put them in the washer, spray them with some distilled white vinegar and place them in a hot dryer. The acid in the vinegar and the heat in the dryer will work to kill the bacteria and get rid of the smells.

Regular cleaning of your pet's bowls and toys is just as important as cleaning our own dishes. After all, they're part of the family!

For more cleaning tips and tricks from our DIY green cleaning expert Leslie Reichert, visit https://www.facebook.com/GreenCleaningCoach/

How to Clean Your Coffee Maker

Posted on January 17, 2020 by oi_admin - Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Whether you use a traditional coffee maker or a single cup coffee maker like a Keurig, both need to be cleaned on a regular basis. If your coffee maker is not cleaned, the coffee can start to taste bitter. This can be caused by hard water scaling that builds up inside the water reserve tank and the machine itself. There can also be caffeine that builds up and creates sludge inside the filter area, the glass pot, and inside the machine. A Keurig machine has the added problem of water that constantly stays in the reserve tank and throughout the system. The water is kept warm to give you a quick cup of coffee but it also becomes a breeding ground mold, mildew and bacteria. This combination can actually make you ill.

CBS did some research on the question; “do coffee makers really make you sick?” They took swab samples from different single cup coffee makers and found that some had up to ten different types of harmful bacteria in their coffeemakers. These concerns do not mean that you have to stop using your coffee machine. As long as you follow regular cleaning steps, your coffee maker won't be filled with harmful bacteria, mold & mildew.

How to clean your traditional coffee maker

Fill the water reserve with a 50/50 mixture of cleaning vinegar and water. Let it sit in the reserve for 30 minutes. Plug in the coffee maker and brew a pot of water without a filter. Let the vinegar mixture stay in the pot for a few minutes to work on the stains in the pot. Dump out the dirty vinegar water and run a full pot of clean water through the system. Repeat this process one more time. The acid in the vinegar will work to remove scaling and mildew that has built up inside the machine. After the machine has had its last rinse, place the filter holder and the pot in the dishwasher on a hot cycle.

How to clean your single cup coffee maker

Similar to your traditional coffee maker, vinegar is a natural cleaning agent for your single cup coffee maker. Fill the water reserve half way with cleaning vinegar. Fill it the rest of the way with water. Run the coffee maker on brew without putting in a coffee pod. You should continue to brew until all the water in the reserve is gone then place clean water in the reserve and brew without a pod until all the water is gone. The vinegar will cut through any coffee buildup as well as remove mold and mildew. Once the rinse cycle is complete, place the plastic reserve container in the bottom drawer of your dishwasher on the hot cycle. This will completely remove any slimy, scaly buildup.

How often should you clean your coffee maker

It's important that either type of coffee maker is cleaned every month if they're used regularly. For a traditional coffee pot, you can place the glass pot and filter holder in the dishwasher daily to keep it clean and free from buildup. The water reserve in a single cup maker can also be placed in the dishwasher on a weekly basis to keep it free from slime and scaling.

Recycling your single use cups

Single serve coffee makers have a bad reputation of filling our landfills with their small, plastic pods. Coffee companies began to realize the harm they were causing and several have taken the necessary steps to find a solution to the problem. Two of the major companies taking part in finding a solution are Keurig and Nespresso. Keurig has stated that by the end of 2020, all of their K-cups will be recyclable. Nespresso has built their own facility dedicated to recycling their coffee pods. We're excited to see environmentally conscious developments in the single cup coffee maker such as this! Brew on!

How to Take Care of Hardwood Floors

Posted on November 7, 2018 by oi_admin - Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks, Healthy Home

Taking care of your hardwood floors can be difficult, especially if you are using the wrong cleaning products, mop or vacuum. Foggy, smeary floors look old and abused, but with a few simple tips and tricks we can have your floors looking shiny and new!

Vacuum often with a canister vacuum - Sand and dust can damage the shine on your hardwood floors. You’ll want to vacuum them as often as you can. Use a soft, horsehair brush attachment made specifically for hardwood floors. The gentle brush picks up the dirt without scratching the floor.

Use the correct vacuum - Don’t use an upright vacuum that has a beater bar, as it will scratch the wood. It’s fine to use an upright vacuum if it has a switch that will turn off the beater brush, but the best vacuum to use on a hardwood floor is a canister vacuum. The hardwood floor attachment gently glides of the hardwood floor.

Dry mop the floor - Use a microfiber mop to dry dust your floors in between vacuuming. Dry dusting is a quick way to pick up dust and hair when you don’t have time to vacuum. Use a microfiber mop head that will pick up and hold the dirt.

Washing your hardwood floors - You can use a microfiber mop to wash your hardwood floors. Try my bucket-less mopping technique to have them looking perfect. Bucket-less mopping is a system that uses a microfiber mop and a spray bottle of diluted cleaner. You simply spray the cleaner onto the hardwood floor and wipe it away with the microfiber mop.

Winter time tip - During the winter you’ll want to wipe off any salt that gets onto your hardwood floors immediately, as salt can damage the finish on your hardwood. Make sure you have plenty of area rugs near the doorways. Should someone come in with salt on their shoes, use a wet towel on the area and wipe off all the salt.

Shoes must come off - Ask your family and guests to remove their shoes when they come into your home. This habit will prevent dirt and dust from scratching the floor.

Use area rugs at entrances to catch dirt before it gets to the hardwood floor. Area rugs will capture dust and dirt at the doorway. There are some great brands of area rugs that are designed to really grab the dirt from the bottoms of shoes as you walk over them. These will remove the maximum amount of grime before walking into the house.

Don’t use straight vinegar to clean your hardwood floor - The acid in the vinegar will damage the finish on your floors. You can use a tablespoon or two of vinegar in a 16-ounce spray bottle but don’t use too much or the acid will work against the finish of the floor.

Consider bringing in an expert if the floor has lost its’ luster. A professional can apply a new coat of finish and recommend other products that will keep it looking its best. He may also recommend having the floor refinished if it’s very damaged.

Protect your floor from sunlight - UV rays can change the color of the wood which may not be obvious until it’s too late. If you have an area rug, you’ll find that when you remove the rug the wood underneath will be much darker. You can protect the wood with UV filtering blinds or curtains.

Black scuff marks? You can remove black scuff marks with a tennis ball. Just rub the ball over the scuff and it will disappear.

Keep pets nails trimmed at all times - Their claws can really damage hardwood floors.

Try to keep your humidity between 35 and 50% to avoid too much moisture which can warp and damage the wood. You’ll see the wood cup if there’s too much moisture in your home. If the room under the hardwood is damp, make sure you run a dehumidifier to keep the moisture from damaging the floor from underneath.

Microfiber Cloth Cleaning Hacks

Posted on August 6, 2018 by oi_admin - Green Cleaning Tips and Tricks, Healthy Home

Microfiber was developed in Japan during the 70’s for swimwear. Ten years later, European scientists found that it was the perfect fabric for cleaning due to its absorbency. By the early 2000s, the microfiber industry had exploded. Even though microfiber has been around for decades, there are many who have yet to try cleaning with microfiber tools. Take a look at all you can do with microfiber – it’s worth the investment!

Perfect windows – There are many different types of microfiber cleaning cloths. For windows, use a fine woven microfiber. It almost looks silky. The microfibers are very small and will leave windows perfectly clean. Dunk the cloth into hot water and wring it out well so it’s damp. Wipe it over the glass and then watch as it picks up dirt then dries perfectly without streaks or smears. Or spray the glass with water and use a dry microfiber cloth as if it’s a paper towel. Dry the glass completely and it will be free of streaks, smears and lint.

Save on paper towels – Use microfiber cloths in place of paper towels when cleaning. Microfiber is more absorbent than paper towels and better for the environment since they are reusable. Be sure to launder microfiber cloths, towels and mop heads with only other microfiber materials.

Chemical free dusting – Most spray dusting polishes leave layers of silicone on furniture. Instead, use a dry microfiber cloth to dust your furniture. Microfiber has tiny fibers that hold onto dust. It will hold onto dust and dirt particles until laundered which makes dusting much faster.

Preventing cross-contamination – Hospitals have used microfiber mops for years to prevent cross-contamination. You can use in your home for the same reason! Microfiber mops have a cover that attaches with Velcro onto the end of the mop. Once it’s dirty it can be removed and laundered. It’s like using a brand-new mop every time you clean. No more smelly, moldy mops!

Large outdoor windows – Homeowners may struggle keeping large windows clean from salt, pollen and other outdoor elements. A damp microfiber cloth wiped over large windows will remove any salt or pollen and leave the windows looking crystal-clear.

Dusting walls – Instead of washing the walls in your home, try dusting them instead. Use a microfiber mop with a dry mop head and dust your walls in minutes. The microfiber will pick up the dust without dealing with a bucket and rag.

Ceiling fans – Have you looked at the paddles of your ceiling fan lately? Dust them quickly with a large-looped microfiber cloth. Using the dry cloth, wipe it gently over the fan paddles to pick up and remove dust. This task will takes minutes and leaves the fan dust free.

Perfect granite – If you have dark granite counter tops, you may struggle with streaks and smears from cleaning. Try using a microfiber cloth designed for glass. Dampen the cloth and wipe over the granite to leave it looking showroom perfect!

To read more from Leslie about cleaning with microfiber, check out this blog:

https://maidbrigade.com/blog/microfiber-for-cleaning/

Healthy Home Allergen Treatments for Spring

Posted on April 18, 2018 by oi_admin - Healthy Home

Protecting your home from allergens is simpler than you may think, however, some time and financial investments may need to be made in order to keep your allergy symptoms to a minimum and to reduce medical expenses. Preventative tools and products are worth the investment when it comes to allergies.

The goal is to create a safe, dust-free place where your body and lungs can rest after exposure to air pollution and other impurities. Cleansing the bedroom is a great place to begin since 30% of our lives are spent sleeping. Here are some tools and tips to follow.

The first step is to invest in an allergen-free pillow. Even though down pillows are soft and comfortable, they can aggravate allergies. You can also find allergen-free pillowcases to create a barrier between you and the pillow.

Mattresses are the perfect breeding ground for dust mites. They love dark, warm and moist conditions. Start by vacuuming your mattress twice a month by using an upholstery tool to vacuum the top and the sides. After vacuuming, mattress covers are the best defense against dust mites. Similar to allergen-free pillowcases, a mattress cover will create a barrier between you and the mattress that will allow air to flow but will keep out dust mites.

The next step is to use a high quality, HEPA filtered vacuum when cleaning your bedroom and home. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. HEPA filters force air through a fine mesh to trap harmful air particles like pollen, pet dander and dust mites. Vacuuming at least twice a week with a HEPA filtered vacuum will help keep your bedroom dust free. Be careful when choosing a new vacuum as some are marketed as “HEPA-like” and may not be truly HEPA filtered.

Using a HEPA air purifier in your bedroom will also help prevent dust. When you’re out of the home, turn the air purifier to its lowest setting and turn it back up when you return. Purified air will help you sleep soundly and help your lungs rest after fighting polluted air during the day.

Next, dust your bedroom with a soft, large-loped microfiber cloth with a spritz of water. This tool will pick up dust and hold onto it. Aerosol cleaning products contain irritants that can aggravate allergies and should not be used in the bedroom. By using a microfiber cloth, you can clean your bedroom quickly without using toxic chemicals.

Fabric curtains and draperies harbor dust mites. You can either remove them completely and replace them with non-fabric blinds or shutters, or remove them at least twice a month and place them in the dryer on a hot setting. The heat will kill dust mites and remove dust and dirt.

Although this last tip is a major investment, it will help reduce allergens, dirt and germs in your home. Remove wall-to-wall carpeting in your room and replace with hardwood flooring. Carpets absorb dust and hold onto it. It’s very difficult to rid carpet of dust, dirt and allergens completely. Once carpet has been removed, you can use small area rugs. They will need to be placed in the dryer at least once a week to remove dust.

Keeping dust and dirt to a minimum within your home is the real goal when protecting yourself from allergens. These tips and tools will help reduce dust and allergens within your home and will lead to decreased medical costs and better health.

For more information on how you can protect your home safely, visit Leslie's website!

Celebrate Our Earth This April

Posted on April 5, 2018 by oi_admin - Healthy Home

This year, we celebrate the 48^th Earth day across the world. In 1969, Senator Gaylord Nelson decided to create an official day to celebrate the Earth and raise awareness of the environmental concerns he had after the devastating oil spill in Santa Barbara that year. The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. An incredible 20 million people attended celebrations and festivals around the country. It was a national event that was held to demonstrate support for the environment. The stage was set by Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring Book which raised public awareness and a concern for all living organisms. The book was sold in 23 countries and began a worldwide movement. It shared Carson’s compassion for the future of the planet and all living things on it. Since then, Earth Day is recognized every year across the world. At Maid Brigade, we’re proud to keep our earth healthy by using green cleaning products that are safe for the environment.

In 1990, a campaign began which would make Earth Day a worldwide event. This brought the environmental issues to a world stage that included 122 countries and over 200 million people. EarthDay.org states, "Earth Day is the largest secular observance in the world, celebrated by more than a billion people every year, and a day of action that changes human behavior and provokes policy changes.”

Earth Day will be celebrating its 50^th anniversary in 2020. There are ways you can celebrate this special day in your own home.

Here are some things you can do:

Plant a tree in your backyard
Check the air pressure in your tires and make sure they are at the right levels for the best gas mileage.
Donate your clothing instead of throwing them out.
Try growing your own organic garden. You can start with an organic herb garden.
Wash your laundry in cold water and dry them on a line.
Lower the temperature on your hot water heater by 5 degrees.
Buy energy efficient light bulbs for your house.
Have an energy audit done in your home. This audit can be free.
Invest in a reusable coffee cup.
Use earth-friendly cleaning products.
Switch your bills to e-bills so you use less paper.
Check your faucets for leaks.

Be on the lookout for more of our earth-friendly tips this month!

For more green cleaning and green living information, check out Leslie’s website.