4 Tips to Have a Successful Clean Between Tenants

In Toronto, landlords must comply with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards. Although tenants share responsibility for maintaining a reasonable level of repair and cleanliness in the unit, the bottom line is that you won’t find new tenants if the unit is dirty. 

4 tips to have a successful clean between tenants

In this article, we will share four professional cleaning tips for a successful clean between tenants.

1. Enlist current tenants

In Ontario, tenants leaving their rental units must give at least 30 days’ notice for yearly or monthly leases and at least 28 days’ notice for daily or weekly leases. 

Once a tenant gives notice, send a polite note reminding them they are responsible for cleaning their unit before they go. You can include a list of tasks to help them understand what this involves. 

It sometimes helps to highlight the clause in the lease indicating the terms related to the condition they must leave the unit in when they move. This ensures they know what needs to be done while reducing the amount of cleaning you’ll have to complete once they move out, thus saving you time and money.

2. Inspect the unit

You have a right to inspect the unit before your tenants move out. You must provide 24 hours’ written notice to inspect the unit. To keep things amicable, try to work with your tenant to find an agreeable time for your inspection. This will just make it easier for everyone involved. 

Although normal wear and tear is a given, look for obvious damage caused by the tenant and create a list, preferably with images, of anything that needs to be repaired or replaced. Share the list with the tenant and let them know they need to address the damage before they go. 

In most cases, this will not be necessary. However, in Toronto, tenants are responsible for repairs to damage caused while they live there—even if it was damage caused by guests. 

Make a list of major concerns that you can address before showing the unit to potential tenants. This is important as it ensures the unit is as presentable as possible. You want tenants to feel safe in the space and clean apartments in good repair feel secure and homey. 

If you need to make repairs or updates in the unit, the law requires you to give the current tenant 24 hours’ notice if they are still living there. This is especially important for things you are responsible for providing under landlord regulations, such as heating, running water, etc.

3. Create a go-to apartment turnover checklist

Create an apartment turnover cleaning list you can use for every cleaning between tenants. This will include:

Kitchen:

  • Floors
  • Cabinets
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Refrigerator
  • Stove and oven
  • Counters, sink, and garbage disposal

Bathroom:

  • Toilet
  • Floors
  • Vanity
  • Sink and cabinets
  • Bath, shower, and surrounding area
  • Grout

All rooms:

  • Light fixtures
  • Trim moulding
  • Walls and doors
  • Windows and blinds
  • Ceilings
  • Floors
  • Professional carpet cleaning
  • Laundry and storage areas

You can also include general maintenance on your checklist, such as:

  • Paint touch-ups or repainting
  • Replacing air filters and lightbulbs
  • Tightening loose cabinet and door knobs
  • Clearing clogs
  • Ensuring smoke detectors are working with new batteries
  • Addressing leaks in drains and pipes
  • Mould clean-up
  • Appliance maintenance


This will ensure you have a solid apartment turnover process that you can follow between tenants.

4. Schedule professional Toronto cleaning services

Once you receive notice that a tenant is moving, schedule move-out Toronto cleaning services to manage the work. No matter how hard you clean, you won’t reach the level of cleaning that your tenants deserve. 

You can reduce your own workload and ensure the job gets done to the highest possible standards. It will also save time and money in the long run by avoiding complaints and keeping your new tenants happy. 

Before choosing Toronto cleaning services, review their move-out cleaning list to ensure it meets your expectations. Discuss any specialty jobs you might want to see if they can handle those details as well. For example, a deep cleaning is advisable, as this ensures every inch of your unit is spotless. In fact, many landlords opt for a disinfecting clean to kill germs and bacteria. Our Germblasters service is an excellent option.

Tips to Help Attract and Retain Tenants

To help attract and retain tenants, you should always take a proactive approach to maintenance, including:

  • Keep up with tenant requests: Listen to current tenants’ needs when they request repairs to reduce tenant churn. They live in the unit and are familiar with its shortcomings. In most cases, requests are reasonable, and it is a major benefit to make repairs while they are affordable instead of waiting for the issues to cause further damage. 
  • Manage unit systems: Pay close attention to things, like in-unit HVAC and appliance maintenance, to increase life and improve performance and energy efficiency. It takes minimal time, and when part of a comprehensive maintenance plan, it also saves money. 
  • Examine plumbing: Leaks can lead to mould and water damage, which are hard to clean and costly to repair. They can also compromise the structure of floors and walls if the leaks are allowed to settle in major wood components such as joists and supports. 
  • Check smoke detectors: Let tenants know you will check smoke detectors in the spring and fall to make sure they work. This way, you keep tenants safe and avoid liabilities should a fire or C02 leak occur. 
  • Clean exterior windows: Exterior window dirt and grime interfere with natural light and make units appear uncared for. Cleaning exterior windows at least once a year improves views from inside the unit while increasing natural light, a highly desirable feature for most tenants. 
  • Maintain doors and windows: Replace damaged door and window seals with the change of the seasons. This helps provide a tight seal to protect against air and water infiltration and also improve energy efficiency.
  • Replace anything broken: Replace broken light fixtures, window panes and screens, etc. as soon as possible to keep the unit and common areas looking their best. 
  • Improve security: Ensure unit entry doors are secure with functioning locks and consider installing smart locks to make the change over to new tenants easier, safer, and more affordable. 

Your tenants will appreciate your efforts and might even decide to stay, so you won’t have to worry about cleaning between tenants as often.

Call the Cleaning Professionals

If you would like more information about Maid4Condos’ professional Toronto cleaning services between tenants, click here for a free quote. You can also call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us online.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Housekeeping

It’s true that house cleaning is a pain. However, using the right approach to cleaning can make life easier. In this article, we will share our do’s and don’ts to keep your home clean without causing more harm than good.

The do’s and Don’ts of housekeeping

Professional Cleaning Services Housekeeping Do’s

  • Do wash before you disinfect: Although washing with soap and water first adds a second step to your washing, it is particularly important in the bathroom and kitchen. These areas call for disinfecting cleaners. However, they won’t work if you use them on a dirty surface.
  • Do kill viruses and bacteria on high-touch surfaces daily: COVID-19 taught us that germs spread when we cough and sneeze, as well as through touch. Washing high-touch areas with an antibacterial wipe will reduce the spread of germs.  
  • Do wash toys: Tossing dryer-safe soft toys in the dryer every now and then kills dust mites and helps remove allergens. You can also put most plastic toys in the dishwasher. Just check labels to make sure you won’t ruin them.
  • Do use surface-appropriate cleaners: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations before using any cleaning product on the surfaces in your home.
  • Do clean your coffee machine: The reservoir in your coffee machine can become contaminated if you don’t clean it often enough. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how often they recommend cleaning and follow the recommended steps.
  • Do clean your garbage disposal: If you have a garbage disposal, keep it germ and odour-free by feeding it some lemons or baking soda and white vinegar weekly.
  • Do deep clean your major appliances monthly: Use this schedule to keep your appliances clean:
    • Dishwasher: Run an empty cycle using baking soda and white vinegar once a month.
    • Fridge: Clean your fridge shelves and drawers every month or two.
    • Washer: If you have a front-loading washer, use a washer-cleaning product every three to four months to remove soap scum from the seal.
    • Oven: Deep clean your oven every three to four months to remove greasy buildup.
  • Do dry work first: Dusting and sweeping/vacuuming should always be done first before you apply wet cleaning solutions. Otherwise, you’ll be creating a mess that adheres to surfaces.
  • Do clean from top to bottom: Cleaning from top to bottom allows you to remove dirt as you work. If you start at the bottom, any cleaning you’ve done will be ruined as dust falls from areas you clean above. 
  • Do use the least harmful cleaners first: Instead of always reaching for the bleach and heavy-duty toxic cleaners, use a mild cleaner to see if it works first. This reduces toxins in the home and avoids wear and tear on your surfaces.
  • Do put together a cleaning caddy: Use a cleaning caddy stocked with all your housecleaning staples. You can carry it around from room to room to make your cleaning more efficient. You won’t have to keep running to grab the right tool or cleaning product. Opt for all-purpose cleaners that tackle multiple jobs and surfaces so you’re not lugging around a massive caddy.
  • Do be careful using cleaning products: Drips from cleaning products should be avoided, as they can damage other surfaces. For example, a strong cleaner used on your oven will damage wood floors. Drips into electronics can also cause permanent damage.  
  • Do follow manufacturers’ instructions: When using any cleaning product, always read the instructions first. You might find that you can’t use it on certain surfaces, or it requires a soaking period or special protective equipment like gloves or a mask. The same rule applies to your belongings. Don’t try to wash anything without reading the manufacturer’s care manual or label.

Professional Cleaning Services Housekeeping Don’ts

  • Don’t forget out-of-sight areas: Out of sight is out of mind, but that hidden dirt is still harmful. Dusty buildup can irritate allergies and asthma symptoms, so don’t overlook those nooks, corners, and areas like ceiling fans/lighting fixtures, baseboards, under the furniture and appliances, the tops of kitchen cabinets, etc.
  • Don’t ignore spills: If you spill something, whether it’s on the kitchen counter, the floor, or anywhere else, always wipe it up immediately so it doesn’t get sticky or cause stains.
  • Don’t wipe away disinfectants before they do their job: Disinfectants need time to kill bacteria and germs. Follow the directions on the bottle to ensure they’re doing their job.
  • Don’t use bleach if you don’t have to: Bleach is a harsh cleaner and disinfectant that can be hard on your skin, lungs, and eyes. If you don’t need it, use other cleaners instead, including natural solutions like vinegar. If you do use it, keep the windows open.
  • Don’t assume natural cleaners are safe on all surfaces: Natural, non-toxic cleaners like white vinegar and baking soda can damage surfaces such as marble and wood. Don’t assume it is safe to use just because it’s natural.
  • Don’t put cleaning off: Putting basic cleaning tasks off just leads to a bigger mess. As a result, you end up working much harder. Keeping on top of small cleaning tasks allows you to avoid major cleaning marathons.
  • Don’t waste time: Work smarter, not harder. You’re probably catching on that working in small bursts with regular cleaning avoids long-haul cleaning marathons. You can also do double duty by tackling a few jobs at once. If your disinfectant is at work, move on to another job, like washing the dishes. You’ll finish your cleaning sooner.  
  • Don’t forget to spot-test cleaning products: When cleaning soft surfaces, always do a spot test in a hidden area first. This will avoid damaging items like upholstered furniture or carpeting.
  • Don’t mix cleaning products: Never mix cleaning products. For example, if you’re scrubbing your tub and find the cleaner you used isn’t working, don’t apply another cleaner. First, thoroughly rinse the other cleaner away. Also, don’t try to make your own concoction by mixing full-strength cleaners together. Most cleaners will cause a chemical reaction that produces toxic fumes that can lead to serious injury. 

These do’s and don’ts will keep you safe, protect your belongings, and also make the job easier.

Maid4Condos: Your Cleaning Experts

If you’d prefer to avoid house cleaning altogether, click here to learn more about Maid4Condos’ deep cleaning and professional cleaning services. You can also call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us online for more information.

How to Achieve a Sparkling Clean Bathtub: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

If you just moved into your first apartment, you might be eyeing that dirty bathtub with dread. We get it. Cleaning bathtubs isn’t fun. Still, you don’t want to step into a tub covered in black grime!

How to achieve a sparkling clean bathtub: A beginner-friendly guide

In this article, we will share our beginner-friendly guide on achieving a sparkling clean bathtub so it doesn’t feel like back-breaking work.   


Clean Your Bathtub Regularly

Although this might sound like we’re adding more work to your chores, this is the best way to avoid unnecessary scrubbing when cleaning the bathtub. A good cleaning every two weeks will keep it manageable and, more importantly, remove bacteria that can make you sick. A monthly deep cleaning then keeps your tub sparkling.

Use the Right Tools

Porcelain and fibreglass tubs have delicate surfaces. Using the right tools will protect your tub from wear while providing enough scrubbing power to remove stubborn stains. You’ll need the following:

  • A cup (if you don’t have a handheld showerhead)
  • Angled broom with soft bristles
  • Dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Eraser sponge
  • Baking soda

The soft-bristled broom acts as your scrubber, so you won’t ruin your back and knees. However, you can’t use this broom for other jobs. It needs to be kept nice and clean.

How to Clean Your Bathtub

Make your monthly tub-scrubbing easy with these steps:

  • Use your showerhead or cup to splash the tub with warm water.
  • Squirt the areas that look dirty with dish detergent.
  • Grab your broom and scrub the tub to remove the grime.
  • Rinse the tub with cold water.

Stand back and admire your work. If there are still signs of grime and black streaks, follow these steps:

  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and dish soap in a microwave-safe dish and zap it for about 30 seconds.
  • Pour the mixture along the rim of the tub, allowing it to trickle down the tub walls.
  • Let it sit for half an hour.
  • Scrub the tub with your broom.
  • Rinse the tub thoroughly with cold water to remove the soap and vinegar residue.

Once you’re done, give your broom a good rinse and then let it dry. 

Bonus Whitening Tip

If it seems you can’t get your tub clean, baking soda is a gentle abrasive that brings back the white. Lightly wet the tub and sprinkle the baking soda around. Spritz it with a mix of equal parts water and vinegar, and let it sit to create a paste. Then, use your broom to scrub it away. Rinse, and you should see a whiter tub.


How to Avoid Buildup 

The main dirty culprits in your tub are mould, mildew, soap scum, and lime buildup caused by hard water. You can help keep your tub sparkling by preventing buildup with these tips:

Spritz Your Tub Daily

Handy “no scrub” tub cleaners help remove soap scum that can cause those ghastly black rings. We won’t lie; they don’t actually “scrub,” and won’t work on existing black rings. Unfortunately, that mess needs scrubbing with your handy broom. However, using the cleaner to spritz your tub and surrounding tile walls daily helps break down soap scum, thus preventing dark rings. 

Rinse Away Soap

If you have a handheld shower head, use it to rinse the soap and shampoo residue on the tub and walls down the drain. You can also keep a cup in the bathroom for rinsing if you can’t use the shower head.

Towel Dry

This is a bit of an extreme thing to have to do every time you use the tub. However, if you have hard water, sopping it up helps prevent water spots from forming.

Always Use the Fan

Bathrooms have fans for a reason. They help reduce moisture caused by steamy hot water. Always use the fan when bathing or showering to avoid mould and mildew growth.

Keep the Drain Clear

Hair and other debris will eventually lead to clogs that slow the draining of soapy water. This increases the odds of soap scum buildup and unsightly tub rings. Keep your drain clear by either using a drain strainer that blocks hair from entering the drain or removing hair weekly. It’s gross work, but it helps keep the tub clean.

Spritz Mould and Mildew

Mould and mildew tub sprays should be used whenever you spot that weird orange, discoloured staining or black mould. The spray usually kills growth on contact.

Use Mould/Mildew-Resistant Caulking

Pop into your local home improvement store and buy a tube of tub caulking that is mould and mildew resistant. Use it along the seam where your shower walls meet the tub to prevent mildew and mould growth.

To Bleach or Not to Bleach

As long as your tub is not acrylic, you can use bleach to help kill germs and bacteria. Never use bleach in hand with any other type of cleaner, as it can produce toxic gas. Follow the instructions to be safe.

Eraser Sponges

If you notice a particularly black or stubborn stain in the tub before your monthly deep clean, use an eraser sponge to tackle the spot right away. The eraser also works on stubborn tub rings if you’ve let the tub cleaning go for too long. They’re easy to use and don’t need rinsing after use.  

Bathtubs can become icky pretty fast. Using these tips will keep your tub sparkling and ready for a nice hot soak on those stressful days. 

Contact the Cleaning Experts

If you aren’t ready to clean that bathtub yet, Maid4Condos can help. Click here for a free quote on our apartment cleaning services or to book a cleaning. You can also call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us online for more information.

9 Summer Cleaning Tips for a Spic and Span Home

When sunny, warm weather lures you outside, it can be hard to keep up with your house cleaning. Although your spring cleaning helps set the stage for a more organized home this summer, cleaning is still a necessary evil. However, you can make it less tiresome by trying to keep on top of the mess. 

9 Summer cleaning tips for a spic and span home

In this article, we will share nine tips from our team at Maid4Condos, who offer deep cleaning services in Toronto, so you can spend less time indoors and more time enjoying those fleeting months of summer.

1. Clean the ceiling fan

Over the winter, your ceiling fan is a major dust collector. The first time you flip the switch on when the weather is sweltering, you’re going to release a cascade of dusty mess. Before that happens, grab yourself a stool or ladder and tackle the dust with this smart little trick:

  • Grab an old pillowcase.
  • Spray the inside with a nice-smelling all-purpose cleaner.
  • Pull the case over the blades one at a time.
  • As you pull it off, you will remove the dust, which stays in the pillowcase.

Bonus tip: Reverse the direction of the blades to pull warm air up and cooler air down.  

2. Clear and clean the fridge

In the summer, your fridge is stocked with more cold beverages and fresh, seasonal produce. Get ready for barbecue season by clearing out old jars of random condiments, way-too-old leftovers, and anything that smells or looks past its best-before date. Place the remaining food in a cooler and follow these cleaning tips:

  • Clean off the shelves with a damp, clean cloth and a toxic-free, all-purpose kitchen cleaner.
  • If the shelves are removable, wash them in the sink with warm water and dish detergent, then rinse and dry them.
  • Pull out the drawers, shake them out, and wash them in the sink, making sure they are completely dry. 
  • Lay paper towels in the drawers and put them back in the fridge.
  • Organize your food and jars as you put them away so you can find everything easily.

Your fridge will then be clean, and you can keep it that way by wiping any drips you notice right away.

3. Tackle your balcony/outdoor area

If you have an outdoor space, get it ready for summer through the following steps:

  • Get out your porch furniture and wipe it all down with an all-purpose cleaner.
  • Use a broom to remove spider webs from the area above windows or in corners of the balcony if you live in an apartment.
  • Sweep up and remove debris.

You now have a tidy spot to sip your coffee, enjoy a cool drink with friends, or just chill.

4. Wipe down kitchen cabinets

A good wipe-down of the kitchen cabinets creates a clean slate for the summer. Follow these steps:

  • Fill your sink with warm water and dish detergent.
  • Dip a clean cloth into the sink, wring it out, and then wipe down the cabinets.
  • Use an eraser sponge to tackle stubborn stains. 
  • If your cabinets are made of wood, follow up with a clean, dry cloth to remove moisture.

Throughout the summer, watch for drips and remove them right away to keep your cupboards clean.

5. Speed clean your bathroom

The added humidity in the summer increases the risk of mould and mildew growth in the bathroom. To help prevent this, speed clean your bathroom with these tips:

  • Keep a squeegee in your shower and wipe down the walls after you take a shower.
  • Spray the shower with a foaming shower scrubber that removes limescale and soap scum at least once a week. This will keep the walls clean and the shower smelling fresh.
  • Give the toilet bowl a daily swish of your toilet brush. 
  • Add a drop of toilet bowl cleaner to the bowl once a week and let it sit until the next flush.
  • Keep on top of extra-stinky toilet bowl messes as they happen instead of letting them cake on. Don’t forget to scrub the area under the rim of the bowl.
  • Place a container of fresh-smelling cleaning wipes in the bathroom so you can wipe up your counter, tap, and sink after use.
  • Give the mirror and faucets a weekly clean with your choice of bathroom cleaners.
  • Wash the floors with a wet mop weekly.

Bonus tip: If you have an outdoor space with sun exposure, lay out your bath mats and shower curtain in the sun for a natural refresh while you relax with a cocktail or iced coffee.

6. Give window treatments a good cleaning

Soft window treatments like curtains are major stink and dust magnets. Take them down and give them a good shake outside to remove dust. Clean your curtains if they are machine washable. If not, toss them in the dryer on low with a fresh-smelling dryer sheet. 

Although blinds don’t absorb odours, they do collect dust. Use a static duster to dust off the individual slats.

7. Dust air vents

In the season of air conditioners, you want that cool air to fill your home with as little dust and debris as possible:

  • Clean your vents to remove dust and debris.
  • If you have vents or returns higher up on the wall, you can use a broom or extender duster to remove the dust. 
  • For extra-grimy vents in the kitchen, you might need to use a cloth and warm, soapy water to scrub away the mess.

8. Invest in a wet mop

Wet mops keep the floors clean in a snap. They are perfect for all floor surfaces and far less cumbersome than lugging around a mop and bucket! Wet mops are available with disposable pads or washable microfibre cloths. 

Make sure your wet mop cleaner is safe for use on your floor type. If not, fill a spritzer with these homemade cleaners based on your floor type:

  • Linoleum/vinyl: Fill a spritzer with a gallon of water and your choice of:
    • 1 tablespoon baby shampoo
    • 1/2 teaspoon eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner
    • 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
  • Wood/laminate: Spritz the floors with a small amount of 1 part distilled vinegar to 30 parts water, and be sure to follow up with a dry, clean cloth.
  • Stone/tile: Hot water tends to be the best for these floor types, as most cleaners, including vinegar mixtures, can damage the finish.

Have a no-shoes policy to keep the floors cleaner.

9. Clean as you go

Keep on top of the mess, and clean as you go:

  • Put dirty clothes in the laundry basket instead of the floor.
  • If you take something out, put it back where you got it from.
  • Stick to our bathroom cleaning tips to avoid major bathroom messes.
  • Dust a different surface in your home quickly every day.
  • Sweep the kitchen floors after dinner. 
  • Put things like old newspapers, flyers, junk mail, etc. in the recycle bin. 

While you can’t stop cleaning altogether in the summer months, these fast and easy cleaning tips will help keep your home spic and span.

Contact the Cleaning Professionals

If you’re too busy worshipping the sun in the summer months, Maid4Condos provides deep cleaning services in Toronto, ideal for cutting down on your summer cleaning tasks. You can call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us online for more information.

Why You Should Choose a Professional Cleaning Company For Your Rental Property

Managing rental properties is a time-consuming job requiring a team of professionals to keep things running smoothly. You have a responsibility to maintain the building to meet the needs of your tenants, whether it is a three-story “walk-up” or a high-rise building with over 100 units. 

Why you should choose a professional cleaning company for your rental property

Building a relationship with a professional cleaning company can help streamline cleaning processes and maintain a high standard of cleanliness to attract and retain tenants. Cleaning companies make your job easier, taking over the daunting task of cleaning all apartment units as tenants come and go. 

Here we look at the benefits of cleaning companies and why you should use one to help manage one, especially during the busy apartment turnover process at month’s end. 

What are the Benefits of Hiring Cleaning Companies for Rental Properties?

The more units you manage, the more difficult it becomes to keep your property presentable. There are several benefits to working with a cleaning company to help maintain your property, including:

Reduced Tenant Complaints

Clean apartments provide the living standards all tenants deserve. When you keep the units in your building well-maintained, tenants are kept happy, which helps to reduce complaints. 

You can also do a better job because you’re not dodging bullets from angry tenants who expect their units to feel safe and sanitary.

Attract Tenants

First impressions matter when prospective tenants arrive at an apartment or condo they hope to call home. Part of your job is to ensure the unit makes an excellent first impression to attract tenants. 

Tenants are also more likely to stay longer if satisfied with the building and feel confident you are meeting their needs. Professional cleaners provide superior move-in/move-out cleaning services, so tenants are always happy with their new homes. 

There are no delays on moving day because your move-out cleanings are prearranged with your professional cleaning partners. Your team has time to do a quick inspection feeling confident the cleaning will be up to snuff. 

The work involved in the move-in/move-out cleaning process is challenging to manage when you are dealing with multiple moves each month. Working with a cleaning partner specializing in the apartment turnover process helps streamline move-out cleanings, so property management and superintendent aren’t forced to manage these cleanings alone. 

Hiring a specialist is essential as they provide a deep cleaning that sanitizes the entire space from top to bottom and room to room, including the bathrooms and kitchen area. As a result, tenants feel safe and comfortable in their new home. 

Higher Tenant Retention

High tenant turnover costs property owners money. The more empty units you have, the less rent is collected and the less income the property generates. As a property manager, your job is to ensure that the property retains its value and that tenants are happy. 

Cleaners provide first-class move-in cleaning services so the unit meets tenant expectations. Your tenants will never feel they made a mistake signing their lease. 

An excellent first impression from day one helps set the tone for the relationship, improving tenant retention.

Improved Property Management

When you no longer worry about apartment turnover cleaning, you can focus on higher-value tasks. As a result, the property has improved levels of property management with increased efficiency. 

You can manage tenants effectively and reduce operational costs through your new efficiencies. You can enhance property management productivity, including:

  • Ease of use to arranging for cleanings with a cleaning company on board
  • Improved optics for corporate social responsibility
  • Simplified, affordable true billing and invoicing
  • Time and cost savings through monthly volume discounts
  • Master class trained and certified cleaners with a proven move-out cleaning technique

Your cleaning partners “own” the apartment turnover process. As a result, your team is free of cleaning tasks and related administrative tasks, such as:

  • Managing cleaning teams
  • Coordinating work orders for move-out cleaning
  • Ensuring every apartment is move-in ready by the first of each month, aka – moving day 

Safe, Hygienic Cleaning

Professional cleaners follow industry best practices to maintain a consistent, high level of cleanliness to meet the expectations of tenants and property owners. They help keep your building safe and hygienic, removing bacteria and germs that make people ill. Not only are tenants healthier, but you also reduce sick days for your property management team.

Condo cleaners specifically specialize in condo unit cleaning, including rental units, making indvidual owners’ lives easier as landlords. You don’t have to worry about cleaning the unit yourself and can rest assured that your new tenants won’t call with complaints because the unit is not up to their standards.

Demonstrate Your Competence

A building with clean, welcoming units reflects well on you, and everyone involved in the management of the buility. Whether you’re an owner or property manager, your ability to delegate and call in the pros to manage tasks effectively speaks to your understanding of your role. 

As mentioned above, you also free up more time to focus on critical tasks, making you more strategic, saving time and money. Whether you work directly for the building owner or with a property management company, the ability to deliver top-notch service helps you maintain a reputation of excellence. 

What to Look for in Rental Property Cleaning Companies

Before committing to a cleaning service, you want to ensure they offer the following:

  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: This is a must as it shows the company stands behind its work.
  • Experience: A company that has only been operating for a few years will need more expertise to manage the cleaning needs of a large rental property.
  • Customization: No two properties are alike, and customization ensures you meet the specifics of your building’s needs.
  • Timely and Flexible Service: Your cleaners should accommodate your schedule with flexible availability.
  • Training Process: Professional cleaning services have a robust training process that ensures each cleaner that enters your building is master class trained and certified.
  • Supervision: Ask how cleaning crews are supervised, and if so, how. Supervision improves quality control and reduces the risk of poor quality.  
  • Insurance: Your professional cleaning company should be fully insured with at least $5,000,000 in liability.
  • Cleaning Staff: All staff should be bonded, covered by WSIB, and undergo a thorough background check.
  • Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods: Today, tenants worry more about the environment and their health. Your cleaners should use professional-grade, biodegradable products free of harsh chemicals that are safe for the environment.
  • Excellent Communication and Responsiveness: Your cleaning company should have a contact you deal with, so you can discuss changing needs. They should also be open to feedback and willing to accommodate your needs.

Cleaning companies that meet the requirements of this checklist are sure to provide the level of cleaning you expect. In addition, hiring a professional cleaning company reflects well on the building and your ability to do your job.

Looking for a professional cleaning company?

If your current rental property cleaning method doesn’t meet the needs of your tenants, call the team at Maid4Condos. As one of Toronto’s best cleaning companies, we can help. Click here for a quick quote or contact us here.

How to Keep Your Tiny Apartment Clean

Tiny apartments are ideal for eco-friendly lifestyles. They reduce your carbon footprint while providing an affordable, cozy place to call home. However, they also have limited storage space and an open-concept layout, making it harder to keep your area clean. 

How to keep your Tiny apartment clean

Here we share our tiny apartment cleaning trade secrets to help you tidy your home.  

Declutter

Clutter is the number one issue when living in a tiny apartment. If you have too much stuff to fit in your small space, it will topple out from closets and dressers and take over your home. The only way to reduce all your “stuff” is to declutter. In other words, get rid of anything you don’t need. If you don’t use it, you don’t need it. The less stuff you own, the more space you’ll have and the cleaner your apartment will feel.

Stop Buying Stuff

This is part of your decluttering plan. Just because you freed up some room by throwing stuff out doesn’t mean you need to buy more stuff. Only buy things you need. You’ll not just save space but tons of money!

Get Organized

As you declutter, organize your remaining belongings. Invest in some baskets, shelves, and other storage solutions designed for small spaces. Storage shops have all kinds of solutions designed to help free up space, including under-bed storage, hooks, shelves, and storage that hangs over doors.  

Have a Clean-as-You-Go Strategy

There’s a lot to be said about having an apartment cleaning strategy. When you clean-as-you-go, you never have a significant mess on your hands. If you use something, immediately put it away. If you take off dirty clothes, put them in your laundry basket. If you eat something, wash the dishes. Is the toilet looking a little icky? Give the toilet bowl a spritz of cleaner and a swirl of the toilet brush. You get the picture.

Use Wipes 

Wipes are a cleaning saviour and a “must” for your clean-as-you-go strategy. They are easy to use and also only take up a little space. Keep a container of wipes on your kitchen counter and in the bathroom. Whenever you make a mess, wipe it up. You’ll keep on top of the mess, so your counters and sinks are almost always clean. 

Hang a Squeegee in Your Shower 

Your squeegee is the best tool to keep your shower and tub area looking its best. Swipe the tile or glass walls to remove the water after each shower and remove the soapy residue. Your bathroom will look cleaner for longer. You can also give your tiles a nice spritz with a soap scum remover to keep your bathroom smelling fresh.

Have “Double-Duty” Furniture

You need to make the most of your space when space is limited. Invest in double-duty furniture that allows you to keep your home organized. For example, if you have room for a coffee table, ensure it has shelves or drawers. Use a trunk with a few cushions if you need extra seating and a place to store bed linens. Not only do you have more storage, but also fewer surfaces to dust!

Keep on Top of Laundry

Doing your laundry whenever you have a load helps manage the mess, ensuring you always have clean underwear! Once the laundry is done, fold it and put it away. And as mentioned above, if your clothes are dirty, don’t drop them on the floor! Please put them in the laundry basket.

Clean in Spurts

Your clean-as-you-go strategy will go a long way in keeping things clean. However, you can also clean in quick spurts when you can. For example, tackle paperwork on your coffee table or desk if you’re watching TV. Sort through it and toss anything you don’t need. If you notice dusty buildup on furniture, give it a quick swipe of your duster or a handy microfibre cloth. These little chores add up to a cleaner apartment. 

Have a Designated Cleaning Day

Choose a cleaning day you can stick to each week. A cleaning day tackles the bigger apartment cleaning jobs, including:

  • Vacuuming/sweeping
  • Changing bed sheets and towels
  • Thoroughly cleaning the bathroom
  • Dusting
  • Cleaning counters with disinfectant
  • Mildew remover for the bathroom
  • Anything else that seems dirtier than usual

Redo Your “Entry”

Small apartment entries are mess magnets. To keep things organized, redo your entry with a few little decorative details that help keep the area neat such as hooks on the wall, a small shoe shelf, or a shelf and mirror where you can toss your keys, put down your purse or wallet and lay down your phone while you take off your shoes.

Create a Multi-Purpose Cleaning Caddy

The right cleaning products and tools will keep your home clean but can also take up space. You can create a multi-purpose cleaning caddy with the minimum items you need including:

  • A flat-head mop with a microfibre, washable mop head to both sweep and mop floors
  • Magic Eraser or similar generic product to tackle surface stains
  • Wipes
  • Multi-purpose or all-surface cleaner
  • Mildew remover
  • Washable microfibre cloths
  • Mini hand-held vacuum
  • Stick vacuum (only really needed if you have carpeting)
  • Squeegee for shower/tub area

These items are easy to store and can handle most cleaning jobs.

Use Fragranced, Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Unless you have allergies, you can find a wide selection of pleasant scents in cleaning products today. Choose a product with a fragrance you love that will help keep your home smelling fresh and clean.

Do Monthly or Bi-monthly “Deep Cleans”

Every month or two, choose a day to get into the nitty gritty of cleaning. This is the day you target things like:

  • Scrubbing grout
  • Dusting light fixtures
  • Shaking out couch cushions
  • Vacuuming under couch cushions
  • Washing windows
  • Cleaning switch plates  

Your deep cleans provide a clean foundation to help keep your tiny apartment clean and livable.

Let Us Take Care of Your Apartment Cleaning

If apartment cleaning isn’t your idea of fun, call the team at Maid4Condos. Our top-quality residential cleaning services are guaranteed to leave your space spic and span. Click here for more information or contact us here.

The Only Spring Cleaning Checklist You Need

Those longer spring days draw more attention to the dirt that builds up in your home over the winter months. That’s likely one of the reasons many of us celebrate the arrival of spring with a bucket of warm soapy water and a pair of rubber gloves! 

The only spring cleaning checklist you need

Spring Cleaning Checklist

When spring cleaning season arrives, it’s time to hunker down and tackle that long list of cleaning to-dos. To ensure you don’t “miss a spot,” we’ve used our residential cleaning services experience to create the only spring cleaning checklist you’ll ever need.

Remove Cobwebs and Ceiling Dust

Spring cleaning calls for a top-down approach. Before you do anything else, grab your broom and run it along the line where your ceiling meets the wall. Your broom is a cobweb magnet and will capture the clumps of dust so you can grab them and toss them in the garbage.  

Dust Off Light Fixtures & Ceiling Fans

With the cobwebs cleared, you can move on to the light fixtures and ceiling fans. Use a duster with an extendable handle to remove dust and cobwebs. The mess will fall everywhere, so you need to get this out of the way before you can dust the area below.

Tackle the Walls

Use your duster to wipe down your walls and remove any clinging dust and cobwebs left behind. Using a duster takes care of anything that can fall, making cleaning the rest of the home difficult. 

The walls won’t be filthy in most spots. However, you want to pay special attention to areas like wall corners, lower spots in high-traffic areas where there might be scruff marks, and on and around switchplates. An all-purpose cleaner will do the trick.

Get Down and Clean Baseboards

Baseboards are real dust collectors and, during the spring-cleaning process, are also drip collectors. Once your walls are clean, get down and give your baseboards a good wipe with an all-purpose cleaner to complete cleaning your walls. 

Professionally Clean Carpets

If you have carpets or area rugs, this is the perfect time of year to have a professional carpet cleaner come in and clean them. Most will pick up your area rugs, clean them and then deliver them once they’re done. Doing this will create an excellent clean base for your rooms and makes it easier to keep your carpets clean with regular vacuuming.

Dry Clean Window Treatments

Although many curtains today are machine washable, sending them out for a professional dry cleaning is best. You’ll get out all the dust and brighten them up. Your dry cleaner will also press them, making them nice and smooth. 

Dust and Clean Blind Slats

Dusting and cleaning blind slats is an essential spring cleaning chore that helps reduce dust in your home and keeps indoor air quality slightly healthier. It’s worth investing in a duster with static power to handle this particular job.

Vacuum Kitchen Drawers and Shelves

Vacuuming kitchen drawers and shelves is tedious, but it is the best way to remove crumbs. If you don’t have a vacuum to do this, use a cloth to brush crumbs from shelves into a dust pan. Then, pull out the drawers and shake the crumbs into the garbage or sink. 

You should also remove everything from the drawers and shelves. Removing everything allows you to clear the crumbs and then wipe everything down. Before putting everything away, reorganize your cupboards and drawers to free up space. Consider laying down shelving paper and drawer liners for a nice finishing touch.

Dry Clean Your Duvet and Pillows

Although you are washing the rest of your bed linens frequently, your duvet and pillows are not always washer and dryer safe. You can send them out to the dry cleaners to get them nice and clean. If you have tons of throw pillows throughout your home, bring them along. Most dry cleaners offer a throw pillow-cleaning service.

Shampoo Your Upholstered Furniture

Ask your carpet cleaning company if they offer upholstery cleaning services as well. You don’t have to do this, but keeping your furniture looking its best is a nice touch. 

Steam Clean Tiles and Grout

Whether it’s your kitchen or the bathroom tile, a good steam cleaning will make your tile and grout look brand new. It also removes a year’s worth of bacteria and germs! Many residential cleaning services offer deep cleaning for tile and grout, so your home is healthy and sanitized. 

Clean Under Furniture and Appliances

Let’s assume you don’t do this during your weekly cleaning. Pulling out your furniture and appliances reveals a mess you wish you hadn’t seen. However, vacuuming the mess and following up with a thorough cleaning for hard floor surfaces will help you lose the ick factor and feel much better about your home.

Wash the Windows

Don’t let all that spring sunshine go to waste. Let lovely clean windows fill your home with natural light. If you live in an apartment, you might not be able to clean the outside of your windows, but you can still make your windows look great inside. The best window cleaner is a mix of vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle. Spritz the windows and use newspaper or a microfibre cloth to wipe away the spray for a spotless, streak-free shine.

Clean Your Closets

While you’re in the mood for cleaning, open up your closets and organize them. Remove your heavier winter clothes to make room for your lighter-weight sweaters for spring. 

Remove anything you haven’t worn in a year, give it to charity, or sell it. Invest in some baskets to help organize everything and use free spaces for additional storage. While you’re at it, sweep the floor. 

Remove the Boot Tray

That crusty old boot tray in your entry can be removed and stored away until the fall. Take the tray outside, shake it well, then rinse out all the crusty mess. Vacuum the floor, and wash away any salty, dirty boot residue to remove all evidence of the messy winter. 

Contact Maid4Condos for Residential Cleaning Services

If spring cleaning isn’t your idea of fun, call the team at Maid4Condos residential cleaning services to perform a deep cleaning for your entire home. To learn more, visit our website or contact us here.

The Dos and Don’ts of Window Cleaning

We all want to live in a home that feels clean and welcoming. However, windows may get left off our lists when it comes to regular cleanings. Clean windows let the sunshine in so your home streams with natural light. 

The dos and Don’ts of window cleaning

Although you don’t have to clean your windows often, it’s a chore you should tackle twice a year in the spring and early fall. 

Cleaning windows is much easier when you know how to do it right. Here we share the best way to clean windows with our list of window cleaning do’s and don’ts.

Do Use the Right Tools

Every job done well begins with the right tools. Your window cleaning BFFs include:

  • DIY eco-friendly vinegar 
  • Bucket of warm water and dishwashing detergent for window sills and frames
  • Spray bottle for your DIY cleaner
  • Lint-free microfibre cloths 
  • Newspaper
  • Squeegee with a pole
  • New razor blades

Don’t Focus on Squeegees

Although squeegeeing seems like the best way to clean windows, they aren’t necessary. 

They can be messy and awkward when trying to clean smaller windows. So keep your squeegee for tackling floor-to-ceiling windows like the sliding glass doors on your balcony. 

Do Use Microfibre Cloths

Microfibre cloths are lint-free and won’t leave traces of lint on your windows. They are also absorbent and work well for sopping up the drops on the window sill and frame. 

Don’t Use Paper Towels

Paper towels are handy for spilling and cleaning many surfaces around your home. However, they are not as good for windows. They leave behind tiny traces of lint that are noticeable when the sun shines in.

Do Use Newspaper

Instead of paper towels, use old newspapers in your recycle bin. Newspaper is the eco-friendly way to get a streak and lint-free shine.

Don’t Use Razor Blades on Safety Glass

If your windows have specialty safety or security glass, do not use a razor blade to remove built-up messes like bird poop. 

This type of glass has specialty coatings that will scratch the surface and ruin the integrity of the window.

Do Use Razor Blades for Stubborn Buildup on Basic Window Glass

You can use razor blades on basic windows as the ideal tool to scrape off the dry, hardened residue. Just be sure you use a new, wet blade to avoid leaving scratch marks. 

Dull, dry blades can cause tiny pits and dents, making it easier for window glass to break.

Don’t Use Ammonia Based Window Cleaners

Ammonia and alcohol-based window cleaners will leave streaks. Many will also create a film on the glass that attracts dust and holds onto moisture. 

Do Use Vinegar

Good old-fashioned vinegar is the best way to clean windows for a streak-free shine. Mix your DIY window cleaner in a clean spray bottle using 2 cups water and 1/2 cup white or cider vinegar. 

It just takes a few spritzes to get sparkling windows. Vinegar disappears quickly, so you will only have a little dripping as you work.

Don’t Get Wood Window Frames and Sills Wet

If you use a squeegee and bucket of water with cleaner, ensure you sop up all drips on the window frame and sill. Otherwise, the moisture can damage the wood. That’s why using your DIY vinegar, and a spray bottle is always best.

Do Wash Windows on a Cloudy Day

Direct sunlight on window panes heats your windows, making your cleaning products dry too quickly. As a result, you’ll find you’re leaving lots of streaks as you work. 

Don’t Wash Windows When It’s Raining

Although cloudy, overcast days are good for window cleaning, rainy days are not. The dripping and raindrops make it hard to tell if you’ve removed all the dirt and streaks.

Do Spot Clean Glass

Spot cleaning your windows makes it easier to keep them sparkling clean. 

When you notice things like fingerprints or smudges on your windows, apply a small amount of window cleaner or vinegar to the glass and wipe away the dirt with a dry, clean lint free microfibre cloth.

Don’t Clean Inside First

Accessing your outside windows poses a challenge if you live in a condo or apartment building. However, if you can safely clean the outside of your windows via your balcony, always clean the outside of the windows first. 

You can then focus on the dirt inside and avoid wasting time scrubbing something you can’t reach! Also, if you don’t have a balcony, aim to clean your windows the same day or soon after your property management has window cleaners do the outside. It will make your job easier and let even more light shine in.  

Do Dust Away Dirt

Removing dust and cobwebs from your window panes and frames before you start spritzing the glass is a window-cleaning must. Otherwise, the dirt will get wet as you clean the windows and create a real mess. 

Don’t Use a Bucket and Water

You want to use your vinegar and water spritzer instead of a bucket and water for your window panes. Spritzing applies the right amount of liquid and clean moisture needed for clean windows. 

Otherwise, you’re just using dirty water on windows as you work. Spritz small amounts of your DIY cleaner, and add a little more at a time as needed to avoid drips that can get in behind the window frame and sill.

Do Know When to Squeegee

While squeegees aren’t practical for smaller windows, you need a squeegee to tackle your large windows to avoid streaking. In this case, you do need a bucket and water. 

Dip your squeegee into the warm water and start at the top of the window. Swipe down, trying to do it in a single top-to-bottom motion. This motion will reduce the number of swipes you’ll need to make and the number of streaks left behind. 

As you work, use the squeegee to remove the wet streaks. Then, use your vinegar and a microfibre cloth to remove any remaining smudges and smears.

Don’t Forget the Final Swipe

Once you’re done, you’ll need to reclean your windowsills and possibly the frames to remove any mess or spritz left behind. Do your best to avoid touching the glass, or you’ll have to do yet another swipe to remove the marks. 

Mixing warm water and a touch of dish detergent is the best way to clean those sills. Stand back to look for any streaks or smudges and remove them using a dry, clean microfibre cloth. 

Although cleaning your windows is a lot of work, you’ll love seeing all that natural light streaming into your space. 

Clean windows make a huge difference in how your home looks, letting in all that beautiful sunlight and giving you an amazing view. Stick to the dos and don’ts we’ve shared in this blog, and you’ll have windows that sparkle and shine all the time.

If you’d rather let the pros handle it, reach out to Maid4Condos and let us get your home and windows in top shape. Our experienced crew has all the know-how, tools, and skills to make your windows look incredible. 

Get in touch with us for a quote or to find out more about our incredible services. Let’s make those windows shine together! For more information, you can contact us online or call us at 647-822-0601.

Move-In Cleaning: 7 Things You Need to Clean First

The build-up to moving day is a stressful experience with so many things to do. Although you want to avoid adding things to that list, there is one thing you can’t avoid: cleaning your home before you move in. Nothing is worse than arriving at your new home only to find it feels like it hasn’t been cleaned in ages. 

7 things you need to clean first when moving in

There are an alarming number of areas that people tend to forget to clean when they move. In this article, we will help make it easy with a checklist of the seven things you need to clean first.

1. Do a white glove inspection

As soon as you get the keys, go to your home and give it a white glove inspection. Make a list of the messes you know you can’t live with for even a second and make them your priority. Those are the jobs you want to tackle first. 

We should also add here that whether you own or rent your new home, the prior tenants are obligated to leave the house in reasonable condition. If this isn’t the case, call the landlord or your real estate agent to ensure they take care of the issue before you move in.  

2. Toilet seats

We’ll make this simple: replace them.

3. Change air filters

If you are moving into a house for the first time, change the air filters for your HVAC system. Apartment life usually doesn’t include this. However, they are packed with dust, which then spreads throughout your home whenever you turn on the heat or AC. Choose a HEPA filter and make a note to change it every three months.

4. The bathroom

We don’t have to tell you that this is the germiest place in the home. This is why we mentioned changing the toilet seats earlier. You want to wear gloves and use a good quality bathroom all-purpose disinfectant cleaner to tackle the following:

  • Vacuum or dust the exhaust fan, and then give it a good wipe-down.
  • Scrub the shower/tub or, if it is sparkling clean, give it a good wipe with your disinfectant cleaner.
  • Wipe down the walls all the way to the baseboards and start at the ceiling.
  • Scrub the toilet bowl, tank, and handle, and finish with the floor and bottom of the toilet bowl where traces of drips are likely lurking.
  • Open the medicine cabinet and vanity to clean the shelves.
  • Wipe down vanity counters, sinks, and faucets.
  • Scrub all surfaces, including things like towel racks and light fixtures.
  • Clean the mirror.
  • If there is a window, clean it, and don’t forget the window sill and top of the window frame.
  • Let everything dry, and then vacuum the bathroom floor before giving it a good clean with a mop and floor-appropriate cleaner.

Bonus tip: Make sure you have all your personal hygiene items handy, so you can take a shower, brush your teeth, and towel off without going crazy trying to find everything. A box or travel bag specifically for these items can be thrown into your car, so it’s easy to find.

5. Bedrooms

Pack an easy-to-find box or suitcase clearly marked as bed linens. You want to sink into a nice clean bed at the end of your hectic moving day. Be sure to pack either clean sheets or a new set of sheets and comforter for your new bedroom(s). 

You want to also make sure the room is clean before setting up your bed, hitting all of these areas:

  • Windows and window sill (if they are dirty)
  • Cobwebs and dust from the walls
  • The light fixture or ceiling fan 
  • Door knobs for the bedroom door and closets
  • Baseboards
  • Vacuum the floors or clean them with a floor-safe cleaner and mop

6. The kitchen

Chances are you are just eating takeout for dinner, as who has the time or the inclination to cook on a moving day? Also, delivery gives you a grace period before you have to tackle cleaning the kitchen, which is a big job. 

In the morning, make a coffee run, so you have the energy to tackle this very long cleaning list:

  • Clean the inside of the fridge, taking out the drawers and shelves if they are removable.
  • Wash everything with warm soapy water, rinse them, and make sure they are dry before putting them back in the fridge.
  • Wipe down all the walls using a mild cleaning product.
  • Leave the door open to let everything air out and dry.
  • Place a box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odours.
  • Pull the fridge away from the wall and vacuum the dust.
  • Wash the floor and then push the fridge back into place.
  • Clean the stovetop and scrub away any grime.
  • Wipe down the inside of the oven.
  • Pull out the oven from the wall and vacuum and clean the floors; then, push it back into place.
  • Clean the counters and sink using a safe cleaner and disinfectant spray. 
  • Scrub the sink and tap, and sprinkle some baking soda down the drain.
  • If there’s a garbage disposer, feed in a few lemon slices to refresh it.
  • Wipe down the cabinet faces, and vacuum the shelves and drawers.
  • Check under the sink and give the area a thorough cleaning.
  • Sweep the floor and then mop it with a floor-safe cleaning product.

7. Everywhere else

Finally, take care of the following cleaning chores in the remaining living space:

  • Dust from ceiling to floor.
  • Use an all-purpose cleaner on all the walls and switch plates.
  • Disinfect frequently touched areas like doorknobs and window handles.
  • Vacuum, including halls and stairs.
  • Mop all hard surface floors with a floor-save cleaner.
  • Clean the windows if they need it.
  • Clean the closets, including light fixtures, shelves, and floors.

If you have a laundry room, be sure to clean the lint tray, vacuum up all the lint, and dust in and around the dryer. Then, wipe down the washer and dryer inside and out.

A thorough cleaning helps make you feel more at home. If this work seems like way too much trouble, you can depend on our team at Maid4Condos to provide a professional move-in cleaning. For more information, you can contact us online or call us at 647-822-0601.

12 Good Habits to Help Manage Your Family’s Mess

Having kids adds a whole other level to house cleaning. They are big mess-makers who create a never-ending cycle of cleaning that is hard to get out of. However, kids are creatures of habit, and it is possible to teach them how to help keep your home clean at an early age. 

12 good habits to help manage your family’s mess

When everyone pitches in, messes are easier to manage, and the entire household benefits from living in a happy, clean, and harmonious home. Here, Maid4Condos will share twelve good habits to manage your family’s mess and how our cleaning services in Toronto can help.

1. Accept the mess

Expecting you to “become one with the mess” is unrealistic. However, you can learn to accept the mess as part of hectic family life. If you can do this, you will reduce stress in the home, and learn to be less hard on yourself. When you just let your kids be kids, you aren’t constantly picking up after them, and maybe you can even get in there and join the fun.

2. Become a minimalist

As a parent, it’s hard not to spoil our kids and provide them with the things we didn’t have when we were growing up. However, it can make a mess of your home if you fail to understand the things that are worthwhile and the things that are simply wasteful and lack purpose. 

Focus on becoming a minimalist, identifying the types of toys that make your kids happy, serve a purpose in their development, and help free up space and clutter in your home. If you do this from day one, kids will learn the importance of needs versus wants; in turn, your home will be easier to manage.

3. Purge old toys

Holding on to toys your kids have clearly outgrown is nostalgic, but also plays a major role in messes. It takes space to keep a home organized with kids, so, as mentioned above, the less stuff you have, the easier it is to keep your home clean. 

Also, remember that toys the kids aren’t using can also go to families in need. Not only can you keep your home clutter-free, but also teach your kids the importance of sharing and charity.

4. Teach your kids where things “go”

Taking the time to create special areas for your kids’ belongings makes it easier for them to put things away. Invest in some storage bins, and label them. This way, kids a) know where to find things and b) know where they go when they are done with them.

You will reduce the amount of times you hear your kids shouting, “Mom, where’s my [insert toy of choice here]?” That way, you can relax while enjoying a more organized, tidier home. Best of all, you teach your kids about responsibility. 

To make this plan work, take the kids out on a storage bin shopping trip and let them get involved in picking them out. Then, have them help sort their toys into the bins.

5. Organize the kids’ rooms

Use the same approach for toy organization in point number four in each child’s bedroom. Storage bins come in all shapes and sizes, and can be used for storing everything from hair accessories to art supplies and clothes to books.

6. Organize the entryway

Another area likely to overflow with belongings is the entryway. Whether you have a spacious entry with a closet or a tiny hall where you practically step into the living room, keeping the entryway organized goes a long way in keeping things clean. 

Smaller halls can have hooks for each family member to hang coats and knapsacks/purses, along with a shoe bench or tray for footwear. Bins are great for smaller items, like hats and mitts. You can also hang a bag on each person’s hook for smaller items if space is limited.

7. Organize the bathroom

The older your kids get, the more products they will have in the family bathroom. Some ideas to keep things organized include:

  • Drawers: If your vanity has drawers, give each person their own drawer. If it doesn’t have drawers, measure the area under the sink and invest in some affordable drawers at your local storage store. If your vanity has limited drawers, give each person a tray in the drawer.
  • Personal care caddies: If your bathroom is unmanageably small, give each kid a personal care caddy they can bring into the bathroom when they get ready in the morning. They can keep it in their bedroom closet, on a desk, or wherever they like, just as long as it isn’t taking up space in the bathroom.
  • Shower caddy: Shower caddies that fit neatly in the top corner or hang from the shower head are great for large families or families with kids who prefer their own soaps, shampoos, conditioners, shavers, etc.

When everyone gets into the habit of using their own designated space, the bathroom becomes neater. 

8. Use laundry bags

Hang laundry bags on each kid’s bedroom door knob. They can get into the habit of tossing their laundry into the bag each night to keep their rooms tidy. You can then collect the bags on laundry day.

9. Teach them to clean their own messes

As your child develops skills, teach them age-appropriate cleaning tasks, so they understand the importance of cleaning up their messes. For example, toddlers can pick up their toys and put them back in the toy bin. Work alongside them until they are old enough to start doing it on their own. Then, have a rule that they must clean up any mess they make.

10. Clean your own messes

Messy habits are usually taught. Therefore, set a good example by cleaning up your own messes. That way, your kids will learn from you and make an effort to clean up after themselves.

11. Assign age-appropriate chores

Have kids pitch in on cleaning day, handling age-appropriate chores. Whether it is helping to sweep the floor, dusting, vacuuming, etc., it’s important that kids understand families work together to keep the home clean. The more, the merrier, and the faster the work gets done.

12. Take a mindful approach

If the idea of cleaning is stressful, take a mindful approach when doing so. Focus on completing each task as a form of meditation. Envision the reward of a tidy home, listen to soothing music, or practice deep breathing as you clean.

Your good cleaning habits are passed down to your kids, so they will enjoy the calm of a clean home when it’s time to fly the coop. 

If the idea of cleaning is still overwhelming, you can depend on Maid4Condo’s cleaning services in Toronto to do the work for you. For more information, you can contact us online or call us at 647-822-0601.