Clean T.O: Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy

Posted on October 9, 2017October 16, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy

Most people drink coffee to get their day started, but what if we told you that all you needed was a little aromatherapy to boost your productivity? In fact, aromatherapy will not only boost your productivity, but it will also help regulate your mood! That’s right, being happy is about to get easier! By simply letting the right scents waft through your home or office, you can improve your outlook on life and sharpen your mind. Perhaps it’s about time you ditch your coffee for aromatherapy!

being happy is about to get easier

Clean T.O Time Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Smelling — Clean T.O Time Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy picture of smelling

As a matter of fact, there are many different kinds of scents and ways to diffuse them! However, you want to make sure you choose the scents that will boost your overall productivity and health throughout the day. Hungry for more? First, we’ll explain why scent has such a powerful effect on our minds. Then, we’ll tell you everything about essential oils, and list which ones you should be picking up to boost your productivity and get your home smelling fresh naturally!

What’s That Smell?

Believe it or not, smell is the strongest of our five senses! Furthermore, there has been a lot of research that has looked at the how the sense of smell affects our brain activity. For instance, the smell receptors in your nose communicate with the parts of your brain that stores emotion and memory. To demonstrate, think of a smell that instantly brings a rush of emotion and transports you into the past. Can you think of one?

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Cookies

Furthermore, researchers found that aromatherapy has actual health benefits. Apparently, when you breathe in the right aroma, it can help do things like stimulate your immune system and digestion. In fact, essential oils are great natural remedies long list of ailments, from fever to heartache! Ultimately, when you use aromatherapy to uplift your spirits and give yourself an extra boost, the results will felt throughout your life. Plus, you’ll be able to keep a fresh smelling house, naturally!

Essentially Oil

Aromatherapy is based around essential oils made of medicinal flowers, plants, roots and stress from around the world. After all, essential oils have many anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. For the long-run, these properties will naturally cleanse the air in your home, as well as stimulate your mind and body. Additionally, researchers have found that the molecules in essential oils directly stimulate our mental, physical and emotional well-being. In other words, getting a whiff of an essential oil can actually boost your cognitive functioning and productivity!

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Essential Oils

How to Apply Essential Oils

There are many different ways to use essential oils. For instance, to increase energy throughout the day, just take a cotton ball and dab a few drops of essential oil on. Then, just keep it in a container or bag and sniff throughout the day for an energy boost! However, if you’re looking for a clean, productive scent to waft throughout a large space like your home or office, consider getting an oil diffuser. Alternatively, there are plenty of DIY options! For a quick fix, just grab a spray bottle or bowl and start boiling some water. Add 1-6 drops of essential oil to the water in your bottle or bowl to create a productive aroma or mist!

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Diffusing

Additionally, there are some essential oils that are most beneficial when applied directly to your skin. For instance, check out this list of essential oils that will make your skin gorgeous! However, whatever you end up doing, be sure to research your oil and follow all instruction and guidance to avoid any harm (and achieve maximum reward).

4 Essential Oils to Achieve Maximum Productivity

So, you’ve learned why aromatherapy is a more natural way to energize your body than your coffee addiction. Now, it’s time to find the right essential oils for you! In fact, we’ve compiled list of amazing oils that will leave you feeling productive, and keep your office or home smelling fresh naturally!

1. Lavender

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Lavender

By and large, Lavender oils are most recommended for relieving emotional stress. This soothing scent will release any nervous tension, dissipating your migraines and helping you through any depression. Not only is Lavender healing, the calming scent lulling and will help you experience deep and restful sleeps, ultimately making you more productive. Tip: before bed, boil a pot of water and add a few drops of lavender; inhale the steam for the best sleep ever.

2. Rosemary

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Rosemary — Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture Of Rosemary

After you’ve enjoyed a restful sleep with the help of lavender, try breathing in some Rosemary oil in the morning to wake up! In addition to giving you a blast of energy, Rosemary oil also has stimulating properties that will induce your body to better fight physical exhaustion, headaches and mental fatigue. Ditch the coffee and the headaches, it’s time to start feeling alive again! Plus, it’ll give you a fresh smelling house naturally.

3. Cinnamon

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Cinnamon

Like Rosemary, Cinnamon will also help wake you up. However, in addition to waking you up cinnamon actually possess properties that will help you concentrate and focus! When you think about it, cinnamon can play a double role. In this case, the scent can make you more productive and contribute to decorating your home for fall!

4. Peppermint

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of PepperMint

Did you know that Peppermint oil is great for brainstorming? In fact, just one whiff can spark your mind and help you concentrate and think clearly! In fact, researchers found that those who drank peppermint infused water for 10 days straight experienced less stress than they did before. Interestingly, Peppermint was also found to increase your pain threshold. However, if you hate the taste, try putting just a few drops on your wrist at the beginning of the day, or when you go to the gym to ultimate tolerance.

Clean T.O Ditch Your Coffee for Aromatherapy Picture of Coffee Beans

We all know that coffee is a quick fix to solving energy problems. However, we also know that given the harmful long-term side effects, it’s not a permanent energy solution. Rather, let your mind benefit from that delicious coffee smell, with coffee essential oil! So, what are you waiting for? Give these scents and essential oils a try. When diffused the right way, not only will you get a fresh smelling house naturally, but the oils will also clarify your mind, soothe your anxiety and boost your productivity. Remember, these calming mood enhancing scents are better for you in the long-term than any kind of coffee bean!

Hungry for more?

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Clean T.O: 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall

Posted on October 4, 2017October 1, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall

It’s time to stop procrastinating and start using these 4 essentials of decorating your condo for fall! Actually, changing up your condo décor is a great way to transition into the new year. Ultimately, your home has to fit you- and you deserve a little colour in your life! Luckily, autumn colours are very versatile. So, whether you like rich & robust or subtle and subdued, you’ll have a lot of fun decorating your condo this fall!

Fall Art Work

Though many condos look different, they all benefit from strategically placed art. In fact, adding fall artwork can instantly change the vibe in your home! So, consider putting a bold piece of art on a predominant wall, or someplace dramatic like a front foyer. However, you may be wondering- what counts as fall artwork? Basically, anything with nature themes or that uses rich reds, browns and oranges!

Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall Leaf Art

In case you’re not looking to add to your art collection, there are some great DIY alternatives! When it comes to leaves, fall is the gift that keeps on giving. Have you heard of Leaf Art? It’s simple, just venture outside and scoop up some worthy leaves. Then, check out these awesome leaf-craft ideas to get the fun going! But it doesn’t all have to be about leaves, check out this article for more creative fall craft ideas!

Make Your Couches Seasonal

By and large, couches have become a staple of modern life. Consequently, this has resulted in their rising cost. Unfortunately, this has hindered the ability of people to create a seasonal vibe in their small space. For instance, a bright blue couch in the middle of your fall-themed room does not scream condo décor win.

Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall Couch

But don’t worry, there’s a solution that will give your couch some pizazz! Its simple, and only two words: slip covers. In fact, a colourful slip cover can be a cost-effective way to change the feel of your space without having to replace or reupholster! Furthermore, slip covers can be used to change up the vibe all year round. Plus, not only are they a great for condo décor- slip covers are also a miracle for cleaning your couches! Check out this article for some guidance on how to choose the best slip cover this fall. Then, head over to Bemz.com to virtually test out slips on your couch to see which style will best suit your theme!

Fall Centerpieces

Whether you have a dining room table, kitchen table or both- it’s time to start thinking about fall centerpieces. Not only are centerpieces’ fun to arrange, they add that little extra something that will make your space pop! However, you must always remember to keep the colours consistent with your art, couch and other condo décor. Check out this article for some fabulous centre piece ideas!

Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall CentrePiece — Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall Centrepiece

As a rule of thumb, linens for formal table setting should only have hints of autumn themes. Alternatively, if you’re a more low-maintenance and practical individual you might consider going for an edible centerpiece! For example, you could create a beautiful fall-coloured apple centerpiece in under ten minutes! Plus, you’re allowed to eat the apples, because #edible. So, feel free to add or detract from them whenever you’re hungry or ready for a change!

Autumn Smells

Of course, when we think of fall decorating we often think visually, but there’s so much more to condo décor! For instance, releasing aromas like cinnamon, apple cider and pumpkin pie into the air will make your home burst with autumn! In fact, there are many different ways you can facilitate scents! For example, candles and incense work wonderfully. Plus, we found this great list of autumn candles. Not to mention, you can buy most of them at Indigo!

Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall Incense

However, if you’re willing to put in a little extra effort, try boiling spices like nutmeg, cinnamon sticks and cloves in a pot. The aromas will waft throughout your condo, and really get your senses going! Additionally, have you thought about refreshing your fridge? If you want to take your scent mission even farther, try placing a bowl of new or used coffee grounds on a shelf in your fridge! After a few hours, your fridge will no longer smell neutral, but fresh. Plus, you could even add fall ingredients like cinnamon in the grounds to really coat yourself in Autumn!

Clean T.O 4 Essentials of Decorating Your Condo for Fall Coffee

Does it feel too soon to begin fall decorating? If you’ve lost the spark you once had with your condo, consider a professional clean that will allow you the fresh start you need. Browse through our cleaning services to see which best suits your situation!

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Clean T.O: Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied

Posted on October 2, 2017October 1, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied

So, you want to know why you should never leave your condo unoccupied? There are plenty of reasons, the biggest being maintenance and security. However, the health and safety of your condo is not all you have to worry about. In short, the City of Toronto is considering taxing homes that are left vacant for too long. When you think about it, it’s not such a bad thing given the supply and demand struggles of the Toronto housing market.

In the event that you’re not an overseas condo connoisseur, there are a few precautions you should take when you leave your condo unoccupied. This is true whether you are renting your condo for the first time, are in-between tenants or are just going away on a trip!

Going on a Trip?

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Ship

Whether you’re going away for two weeks or three months, there are details about your condo you need to sort out. Firstly, do you have household insurance? If you do, be sure to check your insurance details carefully. This is because, some companies have rules about how long a home can be unoccupied before insurance kicks in. Now, we’ll let you in on the four essential things you should be doing with your condo the next time you go on a trip.

In Case of Emergency, Please Call…

Before your trip, appoint a trusted neighbour, friend or family member to be the ‘caretaker’ of your condo while you’re away. Sadly, no, your dog cannot be your caretaker- they lack the thumbs. However with that said, the caretaker’s duties are not difficult. In fact, the biggest role of the caretaker is to be your emergency contact.

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture Of Dog — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Dog

For instance, if you have an alarm system in your condo, make sure your caretaker knows all of it’s information and how to navigate it. Furthermore, if you have a monitored alarm system, make sure the alarm company has the contact details of your caretaker! In addition, make sure your caretaker has the numbers of all people they would need to call in case of emergency. For instance, the condo manager, a neighbour, etc. Ultimately, if a dilemma unfolds while you’re away it should be handled as smooth as possible.

You’ve Got Mail!

Is mail a big part of your life? If you know you’re going to be away for a few weeks or months, notify your building manager or arrange to have your caretaker collect your mail and avoid a pile-up. However, if you need to read your mail regularly, you could purchase pre-paid envelopes and stamps, and ask your caretaker to send it your way! Alternatively, for a small price Canada Post will hold your mail until you return.

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Mail — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of mail

Furthermore, a build up of mail is a red flag of an unoccupied condo. Apparently, residential-building thieves watch out for signs that a condo isn’t being lived in. With this is mind, it becomes even more important to ask your caretaker to check up on your place at least once a week. To explain further, check out this article for tips on how to ensure the security of your condo while you’re away.

Avoid Fire, it’s Easy

Right before you leave on your trip, walk-through your place and unplug all unnecessary cords and appliances. Furthermore, you should turn off any gadgets or power bars. Lastly, don’t forget about lamps, phone chargers, and televisions!

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied picture of plug — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of plug

In reality, not only will unplugging your electronics save on electricity, but you might save yourself from causing a fire due to overheating! Above all, living in a condo means being respectful of others in your building. In other words, your condo neighbours would not appreciate a fire! Therefore, play it safe and unplug.

Everything MUST GO

Okay, ‘Everything MUST GO’ is a little dramatic. However, you should start thinking about the food in your fridge. As a result of fridges being closed by default, people often forget to clear out food until it’s too late. In order to avoid that, throw out or give away any food that is due to expire before you get home. When it comes to your pantry, tightly seal anything that could attract rodents or bugs. While you’re at it, check out our other article to find out if you’re actually keeping your kitchen clean!

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Fridge — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied picture of fridge

Great, you’ve cleaned out the fridge! But what about the rest of your place? Conversely, a little home cleaning before you go may feel unnecessary. On the contrary, nothing feels better than coming home to a clean space! However, if you don’t have the time to give your condo a good clean, consider hiring a professional cleaning service! When you hire a home cleaning service, you’ll have that ‘clean home feeling’, times a thousand! For more information, browse through our Basic, Basic Plus and Deep Cleaning packages to see if anything catches your eye.

So, You’re In-Between Tenants?

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Hallway — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of hallway

If you’re not going on a trip, the only reason you should have an unoccupied condo if you’re planning to rent or sell. Luckily, that’s what vacant condos are best at! Now, we’re going to give you all the info you need to maintain your condo’s health during the selling or rental process. Later, you can check out our other article about how to sell your condo for tips on listing, staging and showing! Plus, you can check out our cleaning services for a sure-fire way to get your condo buyer-ready.

1. Exercise Your Utilities

Planning on a few months of unoccupied condo maintenance? Unfortunately, when water isn’t being circulated regularly, sewer gases will accumulate in your drains. So, to keep your condo in mint condition, turn each tap on for a few moments every time you visit. Furthermore, if you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen, run it at the same time as the kitchen sink.

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Drain

In reality, the consequences of not practising these home-care essentials aren’t severe. However, remember those accumulated sewer gases? Yea, that stagnant water sitting in the pipes will transform into a hideous odour the next time anyone turns on the tap. Ultimately, you want to avoid this, because nothing turns buyers off more than a bad smell!

2. Maintain Toilets

Similar to running your taps, you should make a habit of flushing all the toilets! In addition to your taps, sewer gasses can accumulate in the toilet’s pipes. In addition, mold can accumulate in the toilet bowl when the lid remains closed for extended periods of time. However, like the water situation, the consequences aren’t deadly- just unattractive to potential buyers.

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture Of Toilet — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of Toilet

Although you should always leave the seat down, remember to keep the toilet lid up! Additionally, a splash of morsel of vinegar, bleach or chlorine in your toilet bowl to prevent bacteria from growing. In fact, this is a great solution if you only plan on occasional home-cleaning in your unoccupied condo.

3. Check, Check, Check!

There are two main things you want to check during your visit: the lights and smoke detectors. When you walk through the unoccupied condo, flip all the light switches in order to ensure you don’t have burnt out bulbs. After all, nothing creeps potential buyers out more than a dark room!

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied Picture of light — Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied picture of light

Do you hear that chirping? In the event that you hear a beeping when visiting your unoccupied condo, it’s probably because the smoke detector needs new batteries. Moreover, a broken fire alarm is a breach of safety, so it’s a good thing you went to check on your place! If this is happening to you, try this step-by-step guide that will help you replace a beeping smoke detector. At the end of the day, better you catch these problems first than lose a buyer because of them!

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Clean T.O: Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning

Posted on September 25, 2017September 24, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning

Okay, prepare to learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about green cleaning! Basically, the goal of “green cleaning” is to use home-cleaning methods that are most compatible with human health and the environment. Simple, right? Furthermore, the commercial household cleaners are not necessarily bad- on occasion. However, they may contain toxic chemicals that after repeated use, can lead to long-term human and environmental consequences. So, are you ready to hear more about green cleaning?

Interestingly, many different kinds of home cleaning products fall under the “green” umbrella, including DIY solutions you can make from home! However, if you’re not into DIY projects, we can help you navigate the world of reputable green household cleaning products. Lastly, we’ll sum up the big controversy around green cleaning so you can make an informed decision! But first, let’s talk about why the green cleaning campaign has gained so much momentum…

Why Go Green?

When we’re going about our daily lives, we don’t often think about the long-term effects of our household cleaning products. Cleaning is a chore, and when it’s over you don’t want to think about it. But let’s just take a moment to consider t the accumulative effect of all the products we use. For instance, there’s evidence that the phosphates in dish detergents end up polluting rivers, and harming fish and aquatic life! And that’s just one example.

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of toronto scape

Plus, home cleaning doesn’t stop at dish detergents- we also use toilet cleaners, glass cleaners, wood polish; the list goes on. The scary part is, being exposed to multiple toxic cleaning products so consistently has documented long-term health effects on our skin, eyes, lungs and more. So why do we insist on putting ourselves in harm’s way?

It’s Canadian Law, Eh.

Well for one thing, we may not know better. Canadian law doesn’t require manufacturers to disclose a full list of hazardous ingredients in home cleaning products, or the potential chronic health and environmental hazards. In fact, Canada’s laws regarding household products are considered lax compared to other countries!

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of canadian flag

It’s crazy that we could be washing our sheets and cleaning our dishes and counters with products that could be highly toxic. Currently, the sad truth is that if you live in Canada, you’ll be able to stay informed in the workplace (by the mandatory GHS and WHMIS hazard symbols & labels) but you don’t have the luxury of safety when it comes to products at home.

However, there’s still good news! The truth is, you don’t need toxins to clean! Say bye-bye to all the chemicals! Because ultimately, they may make cleaning easier but they don’t necessarily make it any better. So, are you ready for a change? Get those gears in motions, it’s time to get your home shining without exposing yourself and your family to all those toxic commercial cleaners!

Navigating Green Cleaning Products

As you may have guessed, even green cleaning has a dark underbelly. For instance, many companies have “green washed” their home cleaning products, hopping on the bandwagon by putting buzzwords like “eco-friendly” on their labels. At the end of the day, misleading the public and doing nothing for the environment. However, there are a variety of green cleaning products that fall in the middle of the green-commercial spectrum. For example, the “green” products may not be free of harmful chemicals- but they have been produced in recycled packaging or contain ingredients produced on sustainable farms.

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of products

So, a product can be considered green for a number of different reasons. However, if health is your motivation, you must choose your green products wisely. This means you want to stick to products with natural ingredients and avoid those containing phosphates, chlorine, artificial fragrances and artificial colours. Ultimately, to see if your product is actually “green” make sure it has a third-party certification stamp, like the Green Seal. Check out a few of these green cleaning products we’ve compiled to get an idea of what’s out there. But don’t buy too quickly- we have a stellar list of DIY solutions further on that won’t cost you a dime!

For the Bathroom

Seventh Generation’s Toilet Bowl Cleaner

For the Kitchen

Live for Tomorrow’s ‘Dish the Dirt’ unscented, Dishwashing Powder.
Ecover’s amazing Dishwashing Tablets!

Do it Yourself!

There are many different kinds of DIY green cleaners but we have compiled 5 tried and true green home cleaning recipes for you. If the ingredient lists seem too short, that’s just the beauty of green cleaning! You’ll see, that when you simplify your cleaning cabinet, you realize that you didn’t need to be using chemicals for all those years. However, it should be noted that green cleaners have yet to match bleach and chlorine in terms of strength. In reality, this means a spending a little extra time to achieve that shine you love- a small cost to pay for your health.

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of bottles

DIY Green Cleaning Solutions

Try these 5 simple & effective DIY green cleaning solutions for a healthier clean! However, this list is by no means exhaustive. Be sure to check out other great sources like the David Suzuki Foundation and Apartment Therapy for more green cleaning recipes and instructions!

Stainless Steel Cleaner: 1 tsp. of olive oil, 1 tbsp. of vinegar, liquid castile soap, borax and essential oil of your choice!

Glass Cleaners: Apply ½ white vinegar and ½ water to a wadded newspaper for a streak-free way to clean glass in your home!

Furniture Polish: Mix 2 cups of warm water, 2 tbsp. of olive oil and 2 tbsp. of white vinegar/lemon juice and polish with a rag!

Green Bathroom Scum Cleaner: Mix white vinegar and baking soda to a paste & clean!

Natural Mold Killer: Use Tea-tree oil and a tooth brush to remove mold from your home!

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of mixture

As you can see, green cleaning involves a lot of vinegar. And for good reason! Vinegar is magical– even the most inexpensive white vinegar is very effective at killing salmonella and e coli. Plus, it can be used for a variety of situations, like washing vegetables to cleaning the floor! Additionally, by simply leaving DIY solutions like vinegar on your surfaces for at least one minute, not only will all the germs be killed, but you’ll be left with a nice shine! However, vinegar doesn’t smell great. To combat this, just mix in some essential oils like rosemary, basil or thyme to your solution! In fact, basil oils are also known to kill e coli, listeria and salmonella!

The Controversy

So, what’s the problem? Well, there has been debate over the effectiveness and strength of the disinfecting agents in green cleaners versus commercial household cleaners. Additionally, green cleaning products are under backlash because of their higher cost. Ultimately, consumers feel like they’re paying more for a less efficient product. This may be somewhat true, however maybe not entirely.

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of piggy bank

Though green cleaners may initially be more expensive, you actually need to use less solution per clean, saving you a trip to the store! Plus, unlike specialized commercial home cleaners, most green products are multi-faceted and can tackle a number of different components. Think of all the money you’ll save on specialized home cleaners!

Feel Informed Yet?

Ultimately, those hazardous home cleaning chemicals can make your cleaning job cheaper and easier, but not necessarily any cleaner. In fact, there’s plenty of sources to back that up. However, if you’re committed to playing your part to help the environment by paying a little extra and working a little harder to achieve your shine, then green cleaning is for you!

Clean T.O Everything You Need to Know About Green Cleaning picture of cute animal

At the end of the day, commercial disinfectants are a sure-fire ways to clean, but is fire really necessary? Surely not every counter in Toronto needs toxic industrial-grade cleaner. Instead, practice prevention. By cleaning with simple DIY recipes regularly, you won’t need to use those toxic commercial cleaners periodically! Plus, you’ll be doing the environment and all of it’s creatures a big favour.

Hungry for more?

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Clean T.O: 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean

Posted on September 22, 2017September 20, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean

If you’re not in the habit of cleaning your kitchen regularly yet, don’t worry. Not everyone is a cleaning person, and that’s ok. However, you’re about to learn all the slimy secrets of your kitchen! Okay, they’re not secrets- but you probably haven’t thought about them. We all know about cleaning our electronics and hiring regular home cleaning services, but have you been giving your kitchen the attention it needs? Despite the copious amounts of dishwashing and anti-bacterial soaps in the vicinity, your kitchen isn’t nearly as clean as you think.

In fact, your kitchen is actually one of the largest breeding grounds for germs in your entire home! Studies have reported that foodborne illness can occur just as often in the home as it can at restaurants! Why? Germs love dark, wet, warm places. Can you imagine at least two places like that in your kitchen? It’s important to note that not all of these microorganisms are harmful. At the end of the day, even if you’re not a ‘cleaning person’, creating a good cleaning regimen for your kitchen will put your mind at ease every time you’re washing up.

1. The Kitchen Sink

Unfortunately, the sink is one of the germiest places in your kitchen. It makes sense when you think about it! A never-ending appliance, your sink is where all dishes, cups, cutlery (and their particles) pass through, day in and day out. Ultimately, food waste, bacteria and mold alike end up lingering in your sink and attaching themselves to your sponges and cloths.

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of washing cutlery

Because the sink area is inclined to dish soap, we assume the spare suds are sufficient to cleaning the sink and sponge itself. This is a myth, and one that might cost you your health! To clean your sink, scrub the sides and bottom with a disinfectant cleaner once or twice a week. In addition, you can pour 1 tablespoon of bleach mixed with one quart of water down the drain. Sink strainers are recommended to go through a dishwasher once a week. Check out this article a more green cleaning technique.

2. The Sponge

Apparently, sponges are the most germ-ridden item in your home, with over 321 million microorganisms per gram! In fact, 75% of sponges and rags tested in a study contained at least one form of bacteria, ranging for salmonella to E. coli. In fact, some also tested for yeast, mold, and the bacteria that causes staph infection.

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of sponge

However, it’s a sponge’s job to become wet, and subsequently remain damp. Unfortunately, this creates the ideal environment for bacteria growth, making it easily one of the germiest items in your home. Moving forward, rinse your sponge with hot water after each use and leave it in a ventilated soap dish to air out. Reader’s Digest recommends that at the end of each day, or every two days, let your sponge sit in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. This trick will zap the bacteria right out! Remember, don’t leave cloths in moist areas and instead hang them on hooks or stove handles, and launder when necessary.

3. The Counter Tops

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of counter top

Though countertops aren’t the worst offenders in the kitchen, they still have the potential for bacteria to breed. Are you surprised? Meat, produce and a whole whack of other foods is probably being prepared there everyday! Furthermore, if you own a cat, your counters are even more susceptible to germs! Sorry, but wiping the counter top with a paper towel isn’t going to cut it. Instead, use a disinfectant to clean regularly. We suggest cleaning with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaking. If you don’t have time for all that, at the very least remember to wipe down your work area with hot, soapy water!

4. The Vegetable Drawer

That’s right, your veggie drawer is a danger zone! It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that places storing fresh produce have the potential for yuck. Not cleaning creates the perfect scenario for foodborne illness and bacteria, including salmonella, listeria, yeast and mold spores. Does this count as green cleaning?

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of fridge

So, whether you’ve been cleaning out your drawer or not, you should start thinking about doing every week or two. The NSF told ABC that the best way to clean a veggie drawer is to simply remove all contents and wash the interior with warm, soapy water. For quick dry and deodorization, sprinkle some baking soda on and let it soak in. Check out this article for more tips on how to clean your veggie drawer!

5. The Stove Knobs

Little did you know, your stove knobs could be dirtier than your toilet seat! You may not realize it, but your stove knobs get touched enough times for a significant amount of bacteria to build up! Perhaps you clean your stovetop, but do you clean the knobs?

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of stove

Lucking, it’s knobs are really easy if you are able to easily remove and re-attach the knobs. Once detached, all you have to do is clean the knobs in hot, soapy water once a week! However, make sure you allow them to dry out before reinstallation. For more guidance, check out this Youtube video for an example of how to clean your knobs.

6. The Can-Opener

You may not know it, but you should really start cleaning your can opener. It’s gross, but invisible food particles love to stick there, creating a hotbeds of activity perfect for yeast, mold, E. coli and salmonella to grow.

Clean T.O 6 Habits to Keep Your Kitchen Clean picture of can opener

When it comes to the clean, you have two options. For an active approach, douse a toothbrush in vinegar, and scrub away! For a more passive approach, the Huffington Post suggests soaking the entire can-opener in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours. At the end of the day, either way works!

Have you heard enough? However overwhelming, it’s important that your kitchen gets cleaned, at least once a week. However, you don’t always have time to sit there and clean your can openers, so check out this amazing article on how to clean your kitchen in 15 minutes! If you’re looking for a more intense clean, check out Maid4Condos cleaning services to see if anything catches your eye!

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Clean T.O: The 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential

Posted on September 21, 2017September 20, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: The 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential

There’s a laundry list of reasons of why you should hire a cleaning service, but we’re going to narrow it down to an essential four. The fact is, cleaning is a necessary part of life that isn’t going away. It’s tedious, it’s time-consuming and best of all- it’s not something you have to do. If you have some money to spare, we recommend enlisting a professional cleaning service. We’re not talking about a daily house-keeper. We’re just talking about a cleaning service coming in to sort out you out once or twice a month.

Clean T.O 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential picture of kitchen

Not only will a cleaning service unburden you from the tedious tasks, but they’ll do a better job! Even if you have high standards, cleaning is not your day job. Unlike you, professionals don’t look at a job and say, “good enough!” Your home could stand that, couldn’t it? Though it would be nice to hire a cleaning service all the time, that’s not practical. So, we’ve narrowed it down to four reasons why hiring a cleaning service is essential!

SOLD!

Getting that ‘sold’ sign on your home and getting top value is no easy task. However, there’s always a chance for success if you do it properly. Selling your condo involves staging, and showing it. In reality, this means potential buyers will be touring your condo and making snap judgements. In other words, first impressions are everything. Consequently, the better your home looks, the more it will impress your buyers. Check out our article about selling your condo to learn more about the various steps you must take to get the most value from your sale!

Clean T.O 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential picture of clean condo

Whichever way you slice it, potential buyers are looking at your condo with fresh eyes, and they’re going to pick up on things you no longer notice. But good news, you know who else pick up on those things? Professional cleaners! No matter how much time you spend cleaning, there’s always going to be something you missed that a professional cleaner would catch. Luckily, Maid4Condos offers a high quality Move-Out Clean that will help you get the most value out of your home!

New Home, Fresh Start

There’s a good reason why cleaning services like Maid4Condos also offer Move-In Cleans. It’s because, when you have just moved into a home you’re walking into unfamiliar territory- yet looking for a fresh start. You don’t know what that brown stain is on the floor, and you don’t know why the sink smells like that! However they got there, they need to go! Instead of frustrating yourself spending hours scrubbing, bring in a cleaning service.

Clean T.O 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential picture of cat on couch

Not only will a cleaning service do a better job than you, their expertise will give you peace of mind that you and your family or furry loved ones aren’t living in other people’s germs! Ready to feel the clean? Check out our site to learn more about the top-quality Move-In Clean!

The Office

There are many psychological benefits to working in clean spaces, however a clean office is also great way to keep the sickness away! The reality is, with so many people in a small space the chance for breeding germs becomes drastically higher. This is especially true when your work colleagues don’t practice proper hygiene or effective cleaning habits. We’re not exaggerating, check out this article for more reasons why you should keep your workspace clean.

Clean T.O 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential picture of office

In fact, many companies have found that hiring cleaning services is the answer to many of their problems. At the end of the day, companies find that contractual cleaning services were more cost-effective than hiring sporadically when needed. Luckily, Maid4Condos offers services specifically for companies with contractual needs! Get in touch for a quote and we’ll set a time to give your workplace the refreshment it needs.

Maintaining Value

Believe it or not, keeping your condo clean will maintain its overall value in the long run. Features such as, tiles, countertops, furniture, floors, walls and baseboards all require regular cleaning to maintain their essence and shine over time, and keep your value up when you’re ready to move on.

Clean T.O 4 Times Cleaning Services are Essential picture of tile

The truth is, dirt and oil start to build when you don’t clean your home regularly. This means, when you leave your home unmaintained, you could wind up spending a fortune on sanding or refinishing. In other words, basic upkeep to prevent wear & tear is much more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.

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Clean T.O: 5 Public Restrooms Tips You Need to Know

Posted on September 15, 2017September 14, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 5 Public Restrooms Tips You Need to Know

The Shock-clean Truth About Public Toilets

We hate to break the news, but you’ve been using public restrooms all wrong. For instance, you know that trick where you use toilet paper to shield yourself against the ominous toilet seat? Yea, that doesn’t work. In fact, it does the exact opposite! Confused? Don’t worry, we’ll let you in on all the dirty details. Just thank us next time you’re in a public restroom!

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Out House

Is Anything Clean?

Fortunately, there are some aspects of public restrooms that are relatively clean! They’re just not what you think. Like, did you know that the toilet seat is actually the cleanest place in a public restroom? When you think about it, it makes sense. People and maintenance workers alike are wiping and disinfecting those seats all day long! However, even if the seat didn’t get wiped all day, it would still be the least hazardous bathroom component.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Red Restroom

Professionals go so far to say that unless you go so far as licking the toilet seat – there’s very low potential for transmitting an infection. They say, it’s because the bacteria that does get onto the seat actually dies off quickly. In fact, your body produces the same bacteria found on seats – meaning it can’t hurt you in small doses.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of kitchen

Shockingly, some researchers go as far to say that the top of the toilet seat is cleaner than a kitchen sink! They say this could be due to the actual materials used to make the seats- their smooth, curved nature isn’t the most hospitable environment for bacteria.

By now, we’ve learned that toilet seats themselves are clean…so what happens when we cover them with toilet paper? In a shocking twist of fate, that innocent act of insurance you take could actually be putting your health in greater jeopardy.

1. The Horrors of Toilet Paper

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Frog Toilet Paper

So what is dirty? Though this news will shock you to your core- we have to tell you. Toilet paper is said to be one of the dirtiest in public restrooms. Yes, we use it to blow our nose and wipe our faces – yet toilet paper is actually the dirtiest thing in the restroom. Why? Because it’s the perfect environment for bacteria to collect in! Yep, the germs get right up into the paper and we put it right to our face and bodies. You might want to think twice before blowing your nose!

2. The Horrors of the Floor

Did you know that the second dirtiest place in a restroom is the floor? Even though it’s not so shocking, it remains just as true. The floors of public restrooms are cesspools of germs.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Tile

So what does that mean for you? Firstly, never leave anything there. Next time you make a trip, make sure your bag, purse or briefcase doesn’t touch the floor. Because, each time it makes contact the bacteria from the floor transfers onto it. Consequently, that bacteria will remain there until it lands someplace else, spreading there too. Before you know it, you’ve become a carrier and a spreader! So, to avoid all the gross simply hang your belongings on a hook or keep them on your lap- it will be worth it!

3. The Dreaded Flush

As we have learned, everything in a public restroom from the floor to toilet paper is covered in bacteria. The culprit? The flush. In fact, every time the toilet flushes, a process called aerosolization occurs. You’ve probably experienced it- when droplets of toilet water disseminate at least six feet through the air. These droplets come from the toilet bowl and could contain anything from E. coli to salmonella. And so, each time a toilet gets flushed germs get spread, latching onto walls, door handles, toilet seat and- the actual toilet paper. This is unsurprising, as a typical toilet bowl has over three million germs per square inch.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Toilet Lid

There are a few ways to combat the dreaded flush, but not all are applicable in every restroom. For instance, the ideal is to just put down the toilet lid. But alas, lids have been mostly phased out of public restrooms. Just our luck. However, there is still a way around it. For instance, only flush the toilet when you are ready to leave your stall. That way, you’re not trapped with the airborne bacteria.

4. Getting Out Safely

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Sinks

So, you finished going the bathroom, now it’s time to leave. There should be no more germ concerns right? Wrong! Beware of door knobs and faucet handles – they are pretty serious danger zones. This is because they’re the first things you touch after using the bathroom. Ironically, by turning the tap off after washing your hands you just re-contaminate yourself all over again! So laugh no more when you see people using paper towel to turn the faucet or open the door, you need to start doing the same.

5. The Horrors of The Hand Dryer

Once you’ve turned the tap on with a paper towel, washed your hands and then turned the tap off with your paper towel. Of course, this is assuming there is paper towel handy. If there isn’t, you might be tempted to use the electronic hand dryer…Please don’t!

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Dispenser

Similar to the flush, electronic hand dryers blow bacteria particles into the air, and circulate them through the room, contaminating everything. So, if you have the choice always stick to the paper towel. However, if you’re seriously grossed out, consider carrying hand sanitizer or baby wipes. You could even go a step farther and bring your own toilet paper, but that would be crazy…wouldn’t it?

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Clean T.O: 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos

Posted on September 11, 2017September 11, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos

Dogs & Condos

Are you a proud or hopeful condo and dog owner? Well, you aren’t alone! The numbers from a survey in Toronto found that there’s about seven dogs per floor in most residential buildings! If you’re part of the trend, or just thinking of joining- there’s some things you ought to consider.

Clean T.O 4 Essential-CleaningTips for DogOwners in Condos Picture Owner and Dog

Clean T.O Essential Cleaning Tips Dog Owners Condos Picture Bulldog Pillow

First, is your dog meant for a small space? Some dogs are more comfortable in small spaces than others, so it’s definitely worth doing a little research to find the perfect condo companion. While checking out breeds, you should also keep shedding in mind. Different dog breeds shed differently. A little research could save you from cleaning a lot of stray hairs! However, if you’re already shacked up in a condo with your dog- we need to get down to the dirty dog details.

1. Oh, poo! Time to Clean

By now, you’re probably the master of the stoop and scoop. However, you might not realize how toxic your dog’s bowel movements actually are. There’s a reason the fine is so high for not picking up after your dog in Toronto! Actually, the Canadian Public Health Association reported that there are harmful toxins, viruses, bacteria and parasites found in dog waste that can lead to disease when not properly cleaned. Well, there’s some motivation!

Clean TO Cleaning Tips Dog Condos Picture animal pet

Consequently, the longer you leave your dog’s mess untouched, the higher the chances that the waste will spread- all around your condo. Not only that, your floors could become stained. Or worse, your dog might think they’ve found their new toilet. So, when it’s time to clean up an indoor mess, you should use products that are actually meant to clean dog waste! It’s not a rip off, these products are actually created to breakdown organic waste and neutralize smell. Learn about some of the different pet stain removers! A heads up, if you plan on using a cleaner with ammonia, don’t. The smell is just like dog urine, and so won’t help your situation.

Homemade Stain Solution

It seems silly to buy special stain remover when you probably have a wealth of cleaners stashed in your cupboard! Thankfully, we found a simple homemade solution for cleaning your dog’s doo-doo! Ingredients: 1 quart of hot tap water, 1 tsp of dish soap, 1 tsp white vinegar. Steps: Shake or mix ingredients, blot the area with a towel until it’s gone.

2. The Paws

Your dog’s paws are very cute, but they also have the tendency to get very dirty! Whether it’s snow, rain, dirt or slush- those paws will pick it all up like a sponge! The best way to keep your pup’s paws clean is by investing in some dog boots- PAWZ makes a great product that’s waterproof. Check out the product review ! Alternatively, you could create your own dog boots. All you need are scissors and balloons! Watch a video to learn all about DIY booties.

Clean TO Essential Cleaning Tips DogOwners in Condos Picture of Paws

Whether you’re into the booties or not, it’s essential that you keep a towel and bowl of water- or pet wipes- near your front door. Wiping down your dog’s paws and fur only takes a few seconds and could save you from cleaning up a trail of dirty paw prints! Don’t worry, your dog won’t mind the wipe down. In fact, dogs actually seem to enjoy it! If you’re good at training, your dog will eventually know wait for you to clean its paws before going back into your home. If you’re a really good trainer, you could even teach your dog to wipe their own paws!

3. The Shedding

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Brush

If you do have a dog that sheds, you’ve got a few options! Brushing your dog daily- or a few times a week- will concentrate any stray hairs, and subsequent shedding. Plus, some dogs love being brushed! In fact, brushing can also help help alleviate flaky skin, as it distributes the dog’s natural oils throughout their coat. An article from Vet Street shows you all the benefits of brushing!

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Rug

Additionally, area rugs can also help concentrate hairs during shedding seasons. You’ll have less places to clean, plus- rugs make it easier to vacuum efficiently. If you’re working with hardwood, the Swiffer is ultimately the best tool to use. The cloths on a Swiffer attract and trap dust, dirt and hair much more efficiently than a typical vacuum!

Ok, so the condo is clean- now what about you? Lint rollers are great for getting those pesky hairs off when you need to get somewhere in a dash! However, did you know how many other uses there are for lint rollers? Check out an article describing 21 things you can do with a lint roller, besides rolling lint!

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Lint Roller

4. That Smell

It’s no secret that dogs smell, but we can’t hold that against them! Instead, we have to find ways to combat it. Unsurprisingly, the key to getting rid of smells is vinegar! Just pour some vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz in the air! Don’t worry, the vinegar smell will go away along with your dog’s odor.

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Water Dog

Looking to clean area rugs and carpets? Baking soda is a miracle worker! Just sprinkle a little magic powder on your carpet and let it sit for a few hours. Next, just vacuum, and voila! Your home will smell a lot better in no time. If you really want to go all out, put a sheet of fabric softener inside an envelope and slip it under your dog’s favorite couch cushion. Actually, you can take advantage of dryer sheets in many other ways!
Ultimately, the goal is to keep your condo fresh and your dog happy. And now that you’re armed with the tools, you’re definitely up for the challenge!

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Clean T.O: Cleaning Your Cell Phone

Posted on September 6, 2017September 5, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Cleaning Your Cell Phone

We are living in the age of cellphones, but not necessarily the age of clean. Wherever we are, our cell phones are there to capture the moment. However, the luxury of having a phone actually comes at a cost to our skin health. Did you know that our phones have 18 times more bacteria on them than toilet handles?! Gross!

The bacteria in question is called staphylococcus, streptococcus, and corynebacterium. In fact, our body actually produces this stuff naturally. That means these bacteria are okay in moderation. However, whenever your phone makes contact with your skin, trillions of these bacteria are added to the mix- an overwhelming the normal amount and dramatically raising the potential for acne. To find out the other ways that your phone may be harming your skin, check out this article.

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Washing Hands

We know that having clean hands is the key to staying healthy, but what does that mean for our cellular sidekick? Ideally, to stay clean and healthy, you should regularly be washing the skin on your hands and your face. But you can’t live your life washing your hands and face every 5 minutes! Instead, learn to clean your phone a few times a week! Don’t know how? We’ll help you!

Clean Vs. Germ Free

Before we begin, let’s acknowledge the difference between a clean phone and a germ free phone. Using solutions like water and white vinegar will definitely take the oils and smudges off your device. However, the germs might still get to your skin. If you really want to get those germs gone, you should also wipe your device down with a solution that contains alcohol. As a result, you have three options: an alcohol pad, antibacterial wipe or a homemade isopropyl solution.

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Cleaning Solutions

However, don’t be too generous with the alcohol as too much alcohol or ammonia has the potential to strip your phone of important oil-resistant technology embedded in your screen. Ready to get started? Your phone and your skin are about to thank you!

First Steps to Clean

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Black Screen

First and foremost, your phone is electronic. So before you begin, make sure it is not plugged in to a power source. Additionally, you should seal off any openings on your phone with tape to avoid any accidental seepage. Next, turn your monitor off. It’s easier to see which spots are dirty that way.

What You Need to Clean

Microfiber cloths are the go-to when cleaning any electronic device. Yes, this is the same type of cloth used to clean eyeglasses and lenses. These cloths are so popular because they are terrific at removing oils, fingerprints and smudges! Plus, they’re super soft on your skin.

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Microfiber Cloth — Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Microfibre Cloth

However, if you don’t own microfiber, 100% cotton cloths will also work! On the other hand, if you’re trying to be green and thrifty, you could even cut up a 100% cotton shirt or even use coffee filters to clean! Remember to never use paper towel, toilet paper or tissues because they could potentially scratch your phone screen.

Homemade Cleaning Solutions

To really get your screen clean, you have two options. Both white vinegar and isopropyl alcohol will work well with water. However, you should note that when cleaning a device, it is best to use distilled water versus tap water. This is because the minerals and deposits from tap water can leave white spots and deposits on your phone.

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Measuring Cups

If you’re using white vinegar or isopropyl, mix half a cup of either with half a cup of distilled water. So ½ cup white vinegar (or isopropyl) + ½ of distilled water. Watch this informative video about how to make your own homemade isopropyl solution!

First Steps to Clean

Now that you have all the knowledge and materials, it’s time to begin! Start by dabbing the corner of your cloth in your homemade solution. Be sure to never spray the solution directly on the phone- always use the cloth as a medium.

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Water and Cloth

At this point, you can start wiping your screen in small, circular motions with the cloth until you have covered the surface. Repeat this until you’re satisfied. Keep in mind, LCD screens are delicate, so be mindful not to press too hard while you’re cleaning. You don’t want to burn out your pixels! However, touch screens are actually more durable because they were built to be pressed and touched. Be that as it may, you still shouldn’t be too aggressive. If you think you have a dead pixel, check out this article for suggestions on how to fix it!

Still Not Clean Enough?

Smudges and bacteria are one thing, but what about crumbs, sand and dust? Ultimately, our phones are exposed to it all, so you need to get in there! The good news is, there’s a simple solution- cotton swabs! The swabs will help you reach those places you taped up- like the charging port, speakers and headphone jack. Additionally, the swab is perfect for cleaning out the dusty corners, or skin of your phone case! There’s no method: just take the swab and brush it over the dirty nooks!

Clean T.O Cleaning Your Cell Phone Cotton Swab

However, some people don’t like this method preferring to use putty instead. When you gently push putty in the crevices of you phone, the material will press against the dirt and pull it out! Investing in the product Cyber Clean may save you from picking out cotton hairs from your device. Alternatively, you can try using dollar-store putties.

By now, your phone should be gleaming with cleanliness! However, the challenge will be to keep it that way. Make sure that whatever solution you used for the cleaning is accessible. This will increase the odds that you’ll keep cleaning your phone and giving it the attention it deserves! Plus, you’re skin will never look better.

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This post was brought to you by Maid4Condos, a top-rated residential cleaning service dedicated to the people of Toronto. Maid4Condos has been a committed partner to the Toronto cleaning and construction scene for years, and continues to provide exceptional cleaning services to clients. Get a FREE quote & book your cleaning here or visit our website to learn more about what we’re all about! Hungry for more? Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

Clean T.O: Preparing Your Condo for Fall!

Posted on August 30, 2017August 29, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Preparing Your Condo for Fall!

Preparing your condo for Fall involves strategic cleaning and preparation- and that’s never going to change. Condo living is great for lots of reasons, but there’s one that many people underestimate. Living in a small space forces you to think about what you bring into your home.

Condo owners don’t have the luxury to let clutter pile up, and that’s a good thing! It means you have to be strategic with everything you own. However, this can become even more of a challenge when you live in a place like T.O that experiences all four seasons. Living minimally is great, but where do you store all of your seasonal gear? And more pressingly, how do you make the transition to fall? Learn about the fall transitions and preparations you should be making in your condo, from balcony and storage cleaning to aesthetics!

Fall Transition

Closet Cleaning 4 Fall

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Empty Hangers Picture

Different season, different wardrobe! Why hold onto things that you’ll only need again in a year? It’s time to pack away all your shorts, pool-wear, and strictly-summer pieces. Don’t be a Closet-Stuffer. It can get physically frustrating and psychologically exhausting. Instead, make room in your closet for items that you will actually use and keep your condo feeling light, clean and uncluttered this fall season!

Seasonal Storage

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Storage Boxes Picture

When it comes to storage, you have a few options. Storage lockers are great, but if you don’t have one try packing your things neatly away in a labeled bag or box. The trick is finding a space in your condo to store it. Examine your room, perhaps there’s a spot under the bed or on a shelf. However, don’t forget about the rest of your condo! If your cohabiters don’t mind you storing a bag or a box or two in the linen cupboard, laundry closet, or anywhere else that might have space- go for it! Hint: before you pack it all up for fall, make sure there’s no wet clothes so you don’t have any moldy surprises waiting for you in June.

Balcony

If your condo has a balcony, we hope it’s served you well this summer! But now it’s time to say goodbye. Well, that’s not true. Barbecuing tastes good all year round, and maybe you enjoy a brisk hang outside during the cooler months. However, some of these tips should be followed even if you plan to enjoy T.O from your condo’s balcony in the fall and coming seasons!

Patio Furniture

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Balcony Hangout Picture

The fall is known for it’s blustery winds and rain. So if you plan on keeping your patio urniture out, make sure it’s tied down. You don’t want furniture blowing off your balcony, or worse- hitting a pedestrian! (Hint: stretchy bike-ties are a great, cost-efficient solution). Alternatively, it might be time to open up the storage locker. If you are still desperate for some space, ask a kind relative or friend if you can store a few things until next summer.

BBQ

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Barbecue Picture

As the fall approaches and you opt to use your stove, make sure the gas line is off to your barbecue- you don’t want to have a gas leak. Before tucking it in for the fall or winter, make sure that it has been cleaned and covered. That way it will be in great shape the next time you decide to use it. However, no one is stopping you from firing up that BBQ in September!

Plants

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Plant On Balcony Picture

Got plants? If their size permits, you can try moving your plants inside. This will only work if you can find a spot in your condo gets enough sunlight. If there is no way to save them from seasonal change, you should compost them. However, whatever you do- bring all pots inside. The freezing fall temperatures and rain could shatter them, leaving you with a mess you won’t want to clean.

Fall Preparation

Baskets and Hooks

Start making room for Fall accessories! ‘Tis the season of hats, scarves, coats and bags. Make use of space that already exists in your condo with strategic placement of baskets and hooks.

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Baskets Picture

Baskets are also a super convenient way to store things. Place them in empty spaces on a shelf or under a table. Placement and aesthetic is everything in a condo. Hide your items in plain sight with these trendy baskets from IKEA! Hooks are also a great way to store all those things that keep you cozy. For extra hanging storage for hats, scarves and bags, try inserting a double ceiling hook underneath a shelf for instant convenience.

Doormats and Shoe Racks

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo For Fall Shoe Tray Picture

Fall is a blustery, rainy, slushy month- that sounds a lot of cleaning. Having doormats in any home during the fall is a good idea, but this is especially true in a condo. When you’re living in a small space, a little slush on the floor is much more inconvenient! Doormats are great ways to encourage people to take off their shoes, and leave them in a spot that will absorb the moisture.

If you have space for a shoe rack or mat in your condo, do it! Shoes can be left on a doormat, but that doesn’t always help with excessive moisture. To encourage people to take off their shoes in the cleanest way possible- go for a doormat and shoe rack or mat. Giving special attention to shoes will keep your front entrance organized and uncluttered. Check out these trays and mats for some ideas!

Coziness

If you’re living in a condo, you’re probably not all that worried about electricity bills. However, those prone to dry skin, chapped lips and stuffy noses will agree that artificial air has its downfalls. Wouldn’t it be nice to harness natural solar energy and make your condo cozy naturally instead of pumping it with processed air?

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Tissue Picture

Because most heat in condos bleed out through the windows, insulating curtains are the way to go. Curtains with white backings are fine in the summer, because they reflect the sun away, keeping your condo cool. However, in the fall and winter, you want to get thermal insulating curtains. The curtains are made with an extra layer of foam lining, vapour barrier and heat reflective coating to harness heat and keep your condo cozy. They can be found at hardware stores, home retailers, or here on Amazon.

Aesthetic

Save the best for last! If you’re looking for ways to keep your home light and cheery this Fall, consider mirrors and candles and brighten up your condo this the fall and winter!

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo For Fall Mirror Living Room Picture

Mirrors

Mirrors are great because they trick the room into being brighter. Strategically placing a larger mirror- or a cluster or mirrors- will definitely brighten up your space and make it feel larger! Hint: in terms of wall placement, mirrors for this purpose go well behind furniture, as it will look decorative and redirect the light. Check out this article for more tips about mirrors in small spaces!

Candles

Clean T.O Preparing Your Condo for Fall Fall Candle Picture

Once you’ve done all the nitty-gritty fall preparations, it’s time to relax and enjoy your home. Create a fall ambience in your condo by lighting candles that will make you think of crunching leaves and pumpkin seeds. Bath & Body works has done it again this fall! Giving us candles like ‘Leaves’, ‘Pumpkin Pecan Waffle’, ‘Marshmallow Fireside’, ‘Sweater Weather’ and ‘Autumn’. It’s starting to feel like fall already! Find out more here!