House Cleaning London Ltd. - Blog » Housekeeping

How to reduce and reuse household items

Melinda Davis — Thu, 31 Jul 2014 10:01:25 +0000

Reduce and reuse. That is a ‘rule’ to remember in order to save some money. It is never redundant, isn’t it? What is more, you will be really pleased with the final results. You will have beautiful and unique house decoration.

So follow that ‘rule’ and resolve your storage problems. Here are our ideas:

Shower curtain rings – use them as a hanger for neckties and silk scarves. All you need to do is clip them together and hang from the closet rod;

Paper towel holders – they may be used for stacking bangle bracelet. You can attach one that mounts to the back of your closet door or a wall. That will serve as a necklace hanger;

Ice cube trays – they are good to store your accessories not to lose them easily;

Use coffee mugs to plant a garden – chipped coffee mugs could make an ideal home for herbs and small flowers. You simply need to fill with some soil, plant flowers or seeds and you will enjoy your small portable garden! You may take it even if you move. Once you decide to do that, however, you’d better rely on end of tenancy cleaners for better and quicker done job.

Cut up placemats into coasters – transform placemats into drink coasters. Most mats are water-resistant so you don’t need to make any extra preparations;

Save some cereal bags – if you and your family like cereal the wax paper could be very useful, actually. You may wash the plastic bags which are in the cereal boxes and then save them. They can be used to wrap cold-cuts or sandwiches, store freeze meats and leftovers;

Put useless T-shirt to second use – add worn-out and ripped shirts and blouses to your cleaning supplies. They surely will come in handy when you run regular home cleaning;

Letter sorters – you could place them in your cabinet so you might hold plastic storage lids in them;

Side-loading letter trays – we advise you to use them to organise phone lists, recipe ideas, takeout menus, for instance.

Plant urns – in case your utensils don’t fit in the kitchen cabinets, the plant urns can hold them.

Home upgrades that pay off

Melinda Davis — Mon, 28 Jul 2014 07:36:23 +0000

Surely, a beautiful and well-decorated house will raise yours and your family’s mood. The best part is that you can make home upgrades with just a few quick, affordable and easy steps. Check out our suggestions:

Picture frames are an inexpensive way to freshen up the decorations on the walls. When was the last time you changed the paintings on your walls or even you noticed them? You don’t even need to spend lots of money
on luxury photos and framed pictures;

Painting – that is a cheap way to give a new look to the room. In case you live in a house rental, first, you must ask your landlord for a permission. If you maintain a good relationship with him, when you move out your biggest responsibility will be the post tenancy cleaning. Use light and bright colours to make the room unique and to create an optical illusion for more space. If you don’t want the room to be too colourful, try neutral shades or look for experimental deco accessories;

Once you paint the room, add a few cheap accessories like mirrors, paintings, decorative pillows. Adding mirrors to a room adds some kind of charm and magic, sparkle and light as well;

Pay attention to the small details – major home improvements such as replacement of furniture, carpets can be overwhelming and expensive. Think about the details instead. For example, change the light switches and power points in all rooms to make simple upgrades of the walls. If you, however, decide to buy a new carpet, keep in mind that it will need regular care. For that purpose, you’d better rely on carpet cleaning specialists;

Fix the leaks – did you know that an average of 15% of water consumption actually poured as a result of a leak? Do not delay and fix the cistern of the toilet if it is flowing. It’s easier than it looks, and besides, in a long-term period you will save some money.

Finally, we recommend you to concentrate on the most used rooms in the house. If you do not have enough time or funds to ‘refresh’ the whole house, the living room, kitchen or bathroom are good starting points when trying to give your home a new look.

Appliances troubleshooting

Melinda Davis — Fri, 25 Jul 2014 07:37:32 +0000

Sometimes the appliances at home give us up, usually in the worst possible moment. Some troubles you can repair by yourself are easier than you think and others require professional attention. What are the most common issues and what are their solutions?

Noisy or not cooling refrigerator. The condenser coils can be dirty. You can find them on the lower part of the fridge in front or in the back. Unplug it and remove the dirt with brush, vacuum after that. The problem can be also in the door strips, they can be replaced by you: unscrew the old and screw the new ones, be sure it is perfectly aligned. If you have frosting in self-defrosting fridge, then the problem is in the compressor or the thermostat and expert is needed. If the sound is the problem, it could be object in the fan in the back, the compressor or the freezer fan motor. In the first case unplug, unscrew the back and clean the fan; in the other two occasions call technician.

Cooktop and stove problems. Depends very much if the units are on gas or electricity. If they are on gas: burners may spark but there is no flame, the holes of the burners can be blocked or the spark plugs can be covered in oil or other food. The holes can be cleaned with needle or pin; don’t use something that can break inside. The plugs can be cleaned with soap, warm water and toothbrush. If you have gas oven, call an expert, no matter what is the problem. If it’s electric and it’s not heating, the bake element can be broken and you can replace it yourself; if it’s the selector or the thermostat, you need specialist. If you break the glass cooktop during your post tenancy cleaning, you can fix it easily instead of losing your deposit.

Dishwasher issues. There are a couple of options: dirty plates after process, puddle on the floor or not drained water. For the first, causes may be overloading, obstruction (clean the machine thoroughly) or damaged spray arm (replace it). If the water is filling slowly, may be the valve is clogged, call pro. Puddles can be from too much soap or damaged gasket or door latch. First is amendable with half cup of white vinegar and the second needs a look from a specialist. If the water doesn’t drain, it could be the garbage disposal or the drain-pump motor is clogged. First repair is yours: remove the hose of the dishwasher from the disposal and with screwdriver pop out the plug from the nozzle, the second is for technician.

Washer needs expert care in 85% of the occasions, so don’t experiment with it.

Dryer. Too long drying or strange noise. For the sounds turn the drum by hand, if you can’t, something is blocking it; if you can, repairman needs to see it. For the drying, check for lint and once a week vacuum the dryer. If you have maids, add this to their tasks and check the vent outside once a month for blocking objects: leaves, grass, plastic bags, etc.

Before you start any repair, check your warranty, because repair can void it. Consult the manufacturer because this is not “all possible problems guide”.

Are there carpets, that specialists don’t recommend for anything in the world?

Martin Cable — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 09:16:51 +0000

What kind of carpet specialists do not recommend at all? If that is the question on your mind, then here is our answer: synthetic rugs. They may be cheap, but are tough to get released from grime, hair and lint. Look at the reasons we have selected for you why not to buy a synthetic carpet:

Synthetic carpet could not be kept looking clean for longer – even the smallest stains are easily visible;

Synthetic carpet is hard to sanitise – that type of carpet is known to accumulate dust, dirt and allergens. Even regular cleaning will not remove the germs completely. Anything on the carpet, whether that is wheels or shoes could be lodged in it. Frequent vacuuming could reduce that bad effect but will not eliminate it at all. In that situation, the best you could do is seek help from the professional carpet cleaners;

Old, natural area rugs are quite easier to maintain than the synthetic ones – wool carpets could be rolled up and tossed out by one person only. The synthetic rugs have to be torn out and discarded;

Natural carpets are safe for the environment – natural carpets which are made of 100% raw materials emit no harsh chemicals during its manufacturing process;

Synthetic carpets are bad for your health – some of the chemicals which were used in making those rugs include ethylbenzene, which is a cause of eye irritation; azulene, which is a reason of headaches and some other substances, which could cause nausea, asthma and nervous system disorders;

Synthetic carpets are bad for the environment – not only those carpets but even carpet pads, cushions would be a bad decision for your home as well;

Tile and wood floors are easier to disinfect – nail polish remover, nail polish, wine stains, paint, pet stains, the examples could be many, but they all have one thing in common: they make the carpet useless and ugly. If you live in a house rental, you should think about your possible moving out and post tenancy cleaning as well. By replacing carpets with natural rugs and wood floors, when you need to add some warmth, you will make the right choice.

In the end, you all know that everything natural is preferable. So, natural carpets are more stylish than the synthetic ones – they are more various and more beautiful, aren’t they?

The Bathroom: from boring to amazing

Martin Cable — Mon, 07 Jul 2014 08:51:56 +0000

Your bathroom is one of the first things you see when you wake up. Are you bored to see again and again white sterile tiles? And how about this boundless mirror and all this whiteness and lack of personality? Where to start and how to give it a personal vibe? Let’s check a couple of ideas!

Make a plan – decide what exactly you want and what you can have – measure the space and enlist all the things you want to fit in it.

Test the project – before you start taking downwalls and tiles, go to specialist and get advice and project. This will help you prepare for the expenses and the time when you will need to use another “intimate space”.

Check if you will need to make something more than just cosmetic changes. Sometimes it turns out that you need to change also a couple of pipes and drains.

Choose tiles and wallpapers fitting your idea – pink, blue, green or bold red and black. The options are infinite. You can play with the variety and with the arrangements – shapes and forms can be put together no matter what tiles you have chosen.

Middle stage – the process that transfers you from rough work to creatingisthe after builders cleaning. Be sure all the glue and cement are dry, all the dust and pieces are cleaned and all the surfaces are spotless. You have two possibilities here – do it alone or get someone to do it for you.

Choose The Mirror with capital M – it should be not only big and beautiful, but also well lit. You may choose wall mirror or cabinets with mirror doors. It may have a frame or not. If you want to turn it into masterpiece you can put picture frame to outline it.

The light in the spotlight – no matter if you choose to put one or many lights, the bathroom should be well lit. You shave or put your make up there so you should be able to see clear the tiniest details.

Colour on the floor – put a rug in the same colour as the towels, but different from the walls or the cabinets.

Add artwork – according to your taste and style – sculpture, picture, even a poster. Anything to give you positive push when you get through the door.

Bathroom is rarely cheap and fast project so do the pre-work and be sure the consequences will be long term. Wish you luck!

Kitchen of heaven

Melinda Davis — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 07:15:12 +0000

All women dream of a big organised kitchen (even the ones that don’t like to cook). Unfortunately, we can’t always have what we want… But we can make the best of it. No matter the size and the orientation of your cooking area, there are tips that can help you bring out its maximal potential. Since Antiquity kitchen has been the heart of the home. Let’s see how we can mix and match traditions and modernity to turn it into ultimate dream space of every housewife (and not only):

Make a list of the essentials: include basic appliances and tools – stove, fridge, dishwasher, pots, pans, set of utensils, set of good knives, etc. Think before you buy unnecessary gadgets with specific purpose that you will use only occasionally.

Match it with the rest of the house. Put common elements or colors and textures to make it part of your home.

Design according to space. As you look at what you have as area and what you need to put in it, look around for professional help: many furniture stores offer free project according to your room and its specifications. Think not only of the storage spaces and appliances but also about the space they need for opening and maintenance. End of tenancy cleaners say that kitchen is one of the hardest areas to keep clean and ordered (and I bet they have seen a lot of disasters).

Isolating the kitchen in anyway (style, separation with walls and so on) will not only reflect on its look but also on your perception of it – taking cooking as a punishment is wrong approach.

Efficiency: don’t ignore the simple logic when organising your kitchen: it’s good if fridge is a bit away from appliances that emit heat, trash bin should be as closest as possible to the sink and the preparation area (my personal favorite is the one that stow into a cabinet).

Surfaces. Use countertops, sinks and materials that are durable and easy to clean. Invest in them during the renovation or re furnishing and you will save not only money in long-term plan, but also nerves.

Natural light – the more, the better. Try to place the surfaces or the sink (whatever you use at most) facing the window – this way you won’t need extra lights.

Maintenance. In kitchen, regular cleaning is a must – be sure that you keep it clean and disinfected or it will give you something much more dangerous than bad impression.

Embrace your favourite energy-saving gadgets at home

Martin Cable — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 09:58:11 +0000

Home expenses might reach sums that will even exceed your rental payment. This is not a good thing and you probably should consider how to reduce these extra charges and harming factors on your own family budget. Mostly, the big bills come from the electricity consumption and what you can take advantage of is the large abundance of energy-saving appliances.

Embrace your favourite energy-saving gadgets at home and start spending your money for more entertaining and nicer things and goods:

LG 9-Cycle Ultra Capacity Steam Washer. Besides the low usage of electricity, this super cute red washing machine will definitely become your favourite interior decor. Also, the gadget is designed not to waste too much water, which is a good sign for a real green appliance of first class.

Kitchenaid Architect Series II Bottom-Mount Refrigerator. Start cooling off your food products smarter! This fridge might reduce your electricity bill with up to 15 per cent, which is a great opportunity, isn’t it? The extra money might be even used for professional carpet sanitising you have always wanted to afford.

Kitchenaid Counter-Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator – another awesome alternative to save some money, while having your food stored finely and your meals kept for longer. The device is tiny and luxurious, but besides its amazing look, it has also a super organiser for clever food storage.

Single-Drawer Dishwasher System. This home gadget is suitable for a single person or for a couple without kids. You might be already guessing that it will save you money from both – electricity and water consumption. It might be a little bit costly, but the investment is really worth it.

GE Profile Built-in Dishwasher. This wonderful futuristic home helper does not clean your dirty dinner dishes, but everything you can guess – from small doormats to your real leather wallet or even your kid’s hats and football T-shirts. Why not using the dishwasher for so many house cleaning chores, if it allows it?

So, have you found your own personal favourite energy-saving home appliance? If we did not mention it, do not hesitate to write us back with your suggestions.

How to improve indoor air quality in a natural way?

Melinda Davis — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 08:55:32 +0000

On average, a person can live without food for three weeks, three days without water… but only three minutes without air! You know that, right? Air quality is really important if you want you and your family to be healthy for a long time.

Well, actually external air pollution is not the biggest problem. The air in the rooms is 2-5 times more polluted than the air outdoors in some places, and the air indoors is often much more stale. Substances such as chemical-based cleaners, air fresheners, fragrances and detergents contribute to poor air quality. An easy way to reduce this type of air pollution is to switch to non-toxic cleaning options.

Plants like air filters? Running one off cleaning at home, make a change in the interior. Add some plants. Except they will make your rooms different and more beautiful, they do not cause allergies and even help people with asthma and lung problems.

So, which are the most useful plants? Here’s a short list of plants that are good for filtering the air in enclosed spaces, they are resistant and are considered as non-toxic for children. These are houseplants that are recommended by scientists:

Aloe Vera – it is also great for many other things – eczema, burns, irritated skin;
Green Lily – very tough and smaller plants that can be replanted;
Sansevieria – this plant is one of the best for filters of formaldehyde, which is commonly found in toilet paper, cleaning products, tissues and products for personal care. Put this plant in your bathroom – it thrives in low light and moist conditions, while helping to the filtering of air pollutants;
Drazena – this plant can reach a height of 12 meters. It’s best for removing trichloroethylene, formaldehyde and xylene which can be imported into the air inside by lacquers, gasoline;
Fern – easy to grow, good at filtering the air;
Bromelia – colourful tropical plant – great to air filtration;
Yucca – it’s good for filtering the air, but needs a lot of light.

The most important “rules” to remember are the following:

Reduction of harmful chemicals, using natural cleaning and cosmetic products;
Using of domestic plants for air filtration.

The truth is that nature remains the most insightful solution for any of your problems. Don’t you think so?

Make your home cleaning funny and memorable experience – useful tips

Melinda Davis — Tue, 29 Apr 2014 07:50:12 +0000

The long awaited weekend is finally here, but your face is without your beautiful smile. Why? Maybe the reason is that you’re looking your messy house area and all you see is clutter, cobwebs, filth and thick layers of dust. Your soul cries: “Oh, God! Why me?” Before sinking in despair, read our smart advices of how to make your sanitising process funny and exciting:

What is your biggest temptation? Probably sweets – cakes, puddings or chocolate? Whatever you intend to clean, keep your eyes on the prize afterwards. Imagine the incredible feeling of melting chocolate in your mouth, right after you finish with vacuum cleaning and floor mopping. Are you already motivated to do some wiping and scrubbing?

What about your favourite music? Put it on and start dusting your shelves and furniture. You will be drifted to the beat of the music and you won’t feel the annoying and tedious household chore, you’re accomplishing in the moment. Sing, dance with the broom or the hoover, make it funny and finish the exhausting sanitising tasks in no time!

Invite your best friend to help you! After you finish with window wiping and disinfecting of your messy kitchen, drink some coffee and chat with delight. Gossiping after efficient house cleaning was never more exciting, right?

Clean your drawers inside out, find your old school notebooks and remember some funny moments in high school. You can even find your old numismatic collection. Look at your old treasures and have a good time all by yourself! Meanwhile if you find some unnecessary items, you can get rid of them.

Call your mom and ask for a piece of advice regarding disinfecting. She will share her own experience and she will be very glad to hear your voice. Use cleaning topic as a base of friendly conversation and warm your chilled relations.