Ever walk into a sparkling clean space and just breathe easier? Professional cleaners have the inside scoop on making that a reality in your own home, and it’s not just about elbow grease! Ready to unlock their secrets? Let’s dive into the top five things the pros swear by!
Conquer the Clutter, Conquer the Dust Bunnies
Think of clutter as dust bunny condos! Piles of paper, stacks of clothes, and overflowing shelves provide the perfect breeding ground for dust mites and allergens. Professional cleaners always start by decluttering.
Step 1: Grab three boxes or bags and label them “Keep,” “Donate/Sell,” and “Trash.”
Step 2: Go room by room, sorting items – be ruthless! Not sure how to let go of things? Ask yourself one question: have you used that gadget in the last year?
Step 3: Immediately remove the “Donate/Sell” and “Trash” items from your home.
Ventilation is Your Secret Weapon
Fresh air is a natural purifier! Professional cleaners understand the power of good ventilation in flushing out stale air, pollutants and excess moisture that can lead to mould growth.
- Get in the habit of opening windows for at least 10-15 minutes each day, even in colder weather. A cross breeze is ideal.
- Kitchen & bathroom boost: For a boost in the kitchen and bathroom, use exhaust fans while cooking and showering to remove airborne grease and humidity.
- For an extra layer of defense, especially if you have allergies or live in an area with poor air quality, a HEPA air purifier can significantly reduce airborne particles.
Embrace the Power of Microfibre
Ditch those old rags! Professional cleaners swear by microfibre cloths for their superior cleaning power. The tiny fibres trap and lift dust, dirt and allergens more effectively than traditional cotton cloths.
- Invest in a set of high-quality microfibre cloths for different cleaning tasks (e.g., blue for bathrooms, green for kitchens) to prevent cross-contamination.
- Launder microfibre cloths separately and avoid fabric softeners, which can reduce their effectiveness.
- Use different coloured cloths for different areas (e.g. blue for bathrooms, green for kitchens) to prevent cross-contamination.
Focus on High-Touch Hotspots
Think about all the surfaces you and your family touch throughout the day – doorknobs, light switches, countertops and remote controls. These are breeding grounds for germs.
- Use your favourite multi-purpose cleaner or a simple solution of equal parts water and vinegar to wipe down these surfaces daily.
Vacuuming is Non-Negotiable (and Do It Right!)
Vacuuming isn’t just about tidiness! It’s crucial for removing dust, pet dander and other allergens embedded in carpets, rugs and drapes.
- If possible, invest in a HEPA Filter Vacuum. This type of filter traps even the smallest particles, preventing them from being recirculated into the air.
- Vacuum slowly and methodically, overlapping strokes to ensure you pick up as much debris as possible – and use the appropriate attachments.
