Did You Know? Dust Is Hiding in These 12 Areas in Your Condo

You clean every week, or hopefully, at least you try. Even the tiniest condo owners might be missing some key areas of their home that are hidden dust magnets. Your home might seem to sparkle and always have everything in its place, but dust has a way of finding great places to hide.

 Areas where dust tends to hide in your condo

Dust is filled with allergens, so you want to make sure you are removing it effectively so you can breathe a little easier. Here we look at the 12 most common areas dust tends to hide in condos:

1. Baseboards

Even if you’ve wiped down your baseboards, the issue is not the surface, but what lies below. Often when baseboards are installed in condos, they aren’t done as well because installers have hundreds of rooms to tackle on each floor of the building. As a result, baseboards are loose.

Loose baseboards attract dust particles that remain trapped between the floor and boards, or between the wall and boards. Using your vacuum hose attachment along your boards every few months will keep this dust build-up to a minimum.

2. Carpets and area rugs

Carpeting and area rugs hold in dust, even when you vacuum regularly. In fact, vacuuming actually forces dirt down while removing only surface crumbs and debris after each swipe. Most people overlook their area rugs altogether.

A professional carpet cleaning is a good idea at least once a year, and if you have pets, twice a year is better. Area rugs can be taken outside and shaken, but you can also include them when the professional cleaners come.

3. Your mattress

Those nasty dust mites love to live in your mattress. Every night you shed dead skin cells. Even if you wash your sheets regularly, your mattress remains untouched. You can vacuum your mattress regularly to remove as much dust, dirt, dead skin, and mites as possible, but you might have the same effect of pushing down dust further into the mattress like your carpets.

A good healthy tip is to sprinkle your mattress with baking soda, open up your curtains and allow sunshine to hit the surface. After several hours, vacuum away the powder. This is great at helping lift away dust, while also acting as a natural deodorizer. In fact, if your room doesn’t get sunlight, but your living room does, it is worth lugging your mattress out and lying it in the sun to get the best results.

4. Wood floorboards

As with your baseboards, wood and laminate floors can gather dust between each floorboard. From dust to crumbs and bits of broken glass missed when you knocked over your wine, tons of debris can gather here forever.

Try to focus sweeping in line with the floorboards to get your broom down between the crevices. If you sweep against the boards, you just force more crumbs and debris into the spaces.

5. Upholstered furniture

Sofas and chairs can collect all kinds of debris. Make sure you pull out your seat cushions and vacuum up the crumbs (and collect those lost loonies and toonies) when cleaning your condo. This will help a bit, but you still have all that dust build-up in the cushions themselves.

At least once a year, have professional furniture cleaners come in and do their job to suck up dust and debris, while also removing the surface stains and oily build-up from your hair and skin.

6. Window treatments

Drapes, blinds, and especially slatted blinds are all dust collectors. You can dry clean your drapes and curtains, preferably twice a year and choose a dry cleaner who uses green cleaning practices.

Your blinds can be vacuumed with your soft brush attachment, but slatted blinds are a bit of a hassle. A nifty trick is to put a clean thick sock on your hand and tackle each slat to remove dust. Another trick to keep dust away is wiping down the slats with a dryer sheet after you remove dust, as this will reduce static that attracts dust. This should be done every few months.

7. Ceiling fans and light fixtures

You’ve always known deep down that dust is lurking overhead, but probably never do anything about it. The problem is that the dust is above your space, so it can continue to spread dust around after your weekly cleaning. Both overhead light fixtures and ceiling fan blades can be cleaned with a Swiffer on an extender, which handles this awkward job beautifully. Do a quick vacuum of the area below to capture all the fallen dust.

8. Air vents

It’s easy for dust to get caught in your air vents. Your condo probably has a return vent on a bulkhead near the ceiling somewhere as well. A quick vacuum can do the trick, but every few months you can actually remove the vent panel and vacuum inside the vent to grab any dust lurking there.

9. Lampshades

Dust and even cobwebs love lampshades. Your brush attachment on your vacuum can be used here, as can a lint roller, which is ideal if you have pets.

10. Windows

You probably aren’t doing much cleaning along your windowsills and window tracks. When you’re cleaning your shutters or window treatments, tackle these areas as well, using a vacuum brush or an all-purpose cleaner with a clean cloth.

11. Pillows and throws

The pillows and blankets you cuddle up with when binge-watching your favourite show are rarely, if ever, cleaned. Toss your blankets in the laundry if they are machine friendly or send them out to be dry cleaned once every few months at least. Pillows can also be dry cleaned.

12. Kitchen appliances

If you’ve never pulled out your fridge or stove to do a thorough cleaning, you should be doing this at least once a year. Kitchen appliances tend to collect dust and dirt along their bottoms as well as down the sides and walls.

To learn more about how to clean your kitchen cupboards, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.

How to Clean the Dirtiest Corners at Home in Time for Guests

We all know the drill — diving under the bed to unearth clothes, cosmetics, and other trinkets that have fallen into the abyss and since forgotten, putting on fresh sheets, fluffing the pillows, and cooking a fresh, sumptuous meal. All these can only mean one thing — you have guests coming over, and your home has to be as clean and invitingly cozy as possible. So how do you get rid of the dust bunnies, give the counter back its shiny polish, and restore the beauty of hardwood floors in time for their visit?

How-to-Clean-the-Dirtiest-Corners-at-Home-in-Time-for-Guests

Easy — know where to start, and that means identifying where most of the germs and dust settle, so you can clean them out. Here’s a guide to the germiest places in your condo, so you can start preparing for your guests’ lovely stay.

Kitchen: Where the Crumbs Are

Showing your guests around town means taking them out to a lovely meal so they can sample local delicacies. While that takes preparing a meal or two off your plate, you can’t keep them away from the kitchen forever. There’s always the morning coffee routine and late-night snacks or dessert, and your guests surely wouldn’t feel comfortable munching on some cookies off a slimy or greasy counter. Worse, they’ll be leaving town with a nasty bout of food poisoning

The fact is all sorts of bacteria, viruses, and even parasites like taking up residence in the kitchen where they are in close proximity to food, drink, and various ingredients. A one-time exposure may not be life-threatening but over time this can cause serious illness, especially in kids. Plus, you wouldn’t want your guests to regret their stay with you because of an allergic reaction or an episode of food poisoning, right? The key is to maintain good food-prep habits, like keeping food-prep surfaces clean and washing your hands each time you handle food.

How to Keep a Clean Kitchen

  • Wash your hands properly to avoid spreading food-borne bacteria. Take at least 20 seconds to wash with soap and water before, during, and after preparing food, even if you’re just tossing in some greens or making toast.
  • Don’t use the kitchen counter for storage, such as laying down your keys, purse, and even grocery bags that have been on the floor. Keep the counter clean by using it exactly as it’s intended — for preparing food, and make sure to clean up after.
  • Wipe down surfaces regularly using hot soapy water or trusty disinfectant wipes. These include faucets, countertops, appliance handles, refrigerator, and light switches.
  • Exercise caution when handling raw meat. Make sure to wash your hands at every step and prepare them as prescribed to prevent the spread of dangerous bacteria such as salmonella.
  • Replace sponges regularly to prevent them from housing germs and bacteria. Clean them after every use with soap and water, throw them in the dishwasher, or zap them in the microwave for 30 seconds once damp. Change kitchen towels and rags regularly and include them in your regular laundry routine.

The Bathroom

Going to the washroom is part of everyone’s daily routine. From brushing teeth to showering, getting ready for the day, and relieving yourself, the washroom has definitely seen and been through it all. The question is, are you cleaning the grime of long days off the walls?

Your guests are already away from home, and while a new environment is a welcome change for many, a lot of people need creature comforts to feel right at home. That’s why it’s important to keep a clean and bacteria-free washroom, so your guests can take relaxing baths and showers that will rejuvenate them on their trip.

Unfortunately, washrooms are a popular breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and mildew, as the warmth and dampness create perfect conditions for them to thrive. To avoid allergic reactions and illness, you’ll need to make the guest washroom as clean and spotless as possible.

Tips for Effective Washroom Cleaning

Wipe down and regularly disinfect surfaces to prevent germs and harmful bacteria from spreading. This includes the sink, faucet, knobs, and switches. Pay extra attention to the toilet flush handle, as it’s pretty much second-nature to everyone to flush the toilet before washing their hands, leaving germs and bacteria to nest there.

Prevent mould from forming by regularly cleaning tiles and washing the shower curtain with a bleach solution.

Childrens’ Bedrooms

You might not realize it but not all bedrooms were created equal, and we’re not talking about the perks of the master suite. In fact, there’s a lot more going on in your kids’ bedrooms that you may not know about. For instance, did you know that kids unconsciously spread more germs and bacteria as they play with toys and run around? While your guests won’t be staying in kids’ rooms, it’s important to prevent the spread of germs to the rest of your condo.

Washing Toys and More

If you have a changing table installed, make sure to wipe it down regularly with mild soap and water or a safe disinfectant solution, especially when your little ones are sick, or have had a changing accident. Make sure to dry the table very well to avoid promoting conditions for bacteria to thrive in.

Instill good hygiene habits in your kids, such as washing their hands before and after playing and eating, and even when they cough or blow their nose.

Clean surfaces in the playroom with disinfecting wipes or a cleanser, including storage boxes for toys, drawer handles, mats, and just about anything that kids regularly touch to avoid the spread of cold- and flu-causing viruses.

Clean toys with a real bath. Hard plastic toys are often dishwasher safe, so take advantage of that time crunch hack, while making sure to toss stuffed animals in the laundry or even stick them in the freezer overnight to remove stains and freeze out allergy-causing dust mites.

To learn more about the best ways to prepare your condo for guests, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Condo Clean and Cozy Throughout the Summer

The sun is finally out and that means trading your winter coat and boots for shorts and flip-flops, and long days spent cooped up indoors for some much-needed R&R! Summer is great whether you’re spending it in the city or kicking it back on the beach or in the cottage on weekends. But there’s one thing that you can’t deny: it’s the season of allergies, dust, and navigating around hordes of toys and gadgets, especially once the little ones are out of school, all while making exciting plans for barbecues, picnics in the park, and the annual family getaway. With all these on your to-do list, there’s no surprise that it can be extra challenging to keep your condo immaculate.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Condo Clean and Cozy Throughout the Summer

Lucky for you, it doesn’t have to be hard to tidy up and keep your condo the amazing haven that it is. Check out these quick tips we’ve put together for keeping your home clean all summer long without the hassle:

It’s All About Time Management

Time management is a real talent, and lucky for you, that means getting some cleaning done, too, without taking up the rest of your busy day. This means breaking down one giant cleaning routine into smaller tasks spread across the week, so you can easily reduce clutter, avoid fishing through your dirty laundry to find a pair of socks, and stay on top of your busy schedule.

Depending on how busy your days go, you can save the general cleaning for weekends and take up smaller chunks as the rest of the week goes. For example, you can make sure to wipe down kitchen counters and wash dishes or load them into the dishwasher as you move through your condo throughout the day. And while you’re at it, you can also wipe down bathroom counters and sinks, make the beds, and tidy up any clutter on your way out.

Still got a few minutes to spare? You can also squeeze in a bit of sweeping or vacuuming in the main living areas of your condo. The best things about these little tasks is that you can easily do them as you clear out your morning coffee, shower, and get ready for the day.

You can split the rest of the tasks, like washing linens and changing sheets, doing the laundry, cleaning the toilets and tub or shower, wiping down mirrors and glass, and dusting furniture and decor throughout the week, depending on how busy your days get.

Take it Easy

That sounds a little hard to believe when you’re coming home to a mess but with the right routine, you can make this your best summer yet — both at home and while you’re away. All you need to do is clean the smart way, so you won’t have to spend all day cooped up in your condo when you can be out on the beach or having a picnic in the park.

Dreading scrubbing the tub? Don’t feel so defeated just yet. Try a leave-on spray cleaner that absorbs the grime, so you can easily wipe it down as you go about your daily routine. Thinking of cutting down your morning routine so you won’t have to keep rushing out the door? Keep cleaning wipes handy so you can easily wipe down counters after use.

While you’re there, check out automatic toilet bowl cleaners that you can easily flush down the toilet for a quick, hassle-free clean that won’t have you breaking out the brush. All these hacks are just right around the corner, so you can keep your condo clean all summer long without missing out on days in the sun.

Bring Out Your Little Helpers

No matter how compact a condo is compared to a large house with a lawn and porch to boot, it can still be hard to get around to your cleaning routine when you’re chasing after your kids or navigating around their mess. The solution? Make them your little helpers! By giving your kids small tasks to do, it won’t just be easier to keep a clean and cozy home, but you’ll also instill a sense of responsibility in them.

For example, you can start with getting them in the habit of cleaning up their toys, books, and gadgets after use and make sure that these are stored in their proper place. When they’re older, you can also rope them into a small chore schedule shared by everyone, where they’ll be responsible for wiping the dishes and storing them or loading and unloading the dishwasher.

This also means getting them into the habit of cleaning their rooms, tidying up after using the sink, microwave, or bathroom, and picking up any clutter they pass by. And if they insist on a cute little puppy, you can make it their job to take care of it. Take this out for a test run this summer as the kids will be out of school and spend more time playing at home.

Maintain Grace and Balance

Keeping your condo clean and cozy is a process with ongoing tasks, more often than not involving the rest of the family. But it shouldn’t be all that you do, especially during these warm summer months when you can be outside getting a tan and some much needed R&R. All it takes is maintaining a balanced schedule and establishing a routine, and soon, cleaning won’t have to feel like a dreaded chore, but a natural habit as you get on with the rest of your day. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your routine, give the kids something to do, and discover what works for you best. Either way, you’ll be coming home to a place like no other.

Ask a Pro

All these tips are great for routine, everyday cleaning to keep the floors clear of clutter and the sink from piling up with dishes. But once in a while, you’ll need a thorough general cleaning to get rid of cobwebs, stains, and dust mites for good, as well as book cleaning and maintenance services for appliances and large fixtures.

If there’s anything that spring cleaning has taught us, it’s that it’s not enough. Getting rid of old junk and clutter is just one part of the job. Getting a professional cleaner to work with you in keeping your condo spotless is a must for every busy homeowner working long days. So while you tidy up on the way out, a professional cleaner can come in once in a while for a deep clean — and there’s no better time for that than this summer while you’re out and having fun.

For more tips and information on keeping your home clean this summer, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.

8 Ways to Keep Your Dog from Tracking Dirt into Your Condo

There’s a lot of love for our furry companions, but you can’t deny that owning a dog can be messy. It’s hard to keep a clean home when you constantly have to clean up after your dog when they run in and drag a whole lot of dirt from outside, leaving paw prints everywhere. And that’s already on top of all the shedding and funky smells that call for constant grooming.

8 Ways to Keep Your Dog from Tracking Dirt into Your Condo

Can’t keep your dog from tracking dirt into your condo? Here’s a complete guide to keeping your home spotless, without cutting short your pet’s outdoor playtime:

1. Get rid of carpets

Carpets give your condo that plush, comfy feeling, but the fact is, they’re not a dog’s best friend. If you can’t give up the carpet just yet, you can start small by keeping the entrance hallway carpet-free. The entryway is where we all bring the most dirt in — dogs and humans alike — especially if you’re in the habit of keeping shoes there or shaking them loose of mud and dirt on the way in.

With a carpet, it’s harder to clean off loose dirt and remove mud stains, including your dog’s paw prints. Instead of a carpeted hallway, opt for linoleum or hard floors as these are easier to clean and polish. Alternatively, you can also use the back door to take your pet in and out to avoid tracking dirt.

2. Trim their fur

Who can resist an adorable fluffy dog? That’s right — no one! But your dog’s feathered legs and paws might just be the culprit behind your cleaning nightmares; any pet owners knows all too well how quickly pet hair can accumulate in your home. Dirt and mud can easily cling onto their fur, which then makes its way inside your home before you can even finish cleaning. The solution? Make sure to trim their fur regularly to avoid them from tracking too much dirt and debris. But don’t go overboard and remove all the fur on the pads of their paws — they still need protection from the elements, especially if they’re out walking and playing in cold weather.

3. Keep a towel by the door

Add to keeping a clear hallway, you can also keep a soft, absorbent towel by the door to clean your dog’s paws when coming in. Before coming in, you can wipe their paws and legs using the towel to remove any dirt or mud. This keeps the rest of your condo clean for long and saves you the hassle of running after your pet to keep them from muddying the rest of your home after playtime or walks.

4. Use an absorbent door mat

A doormat is one of the best and easiest ways to keep the rest of your condo clean and prevent anyone, including your furry friends, from tracking in dirt and mud. Place an absorbent doormat by the main door so your dog can wipe their paws on it and reduce the amount of dirt they bring in. Depending on where you live and what breed your dog is, you can select a doormat with a texture that is anywhere from absorbent to brush-like. For instance, absorbent doormats are great for drying their paws and removing wet mud, while a brush-like mat can remove thick, hardened mud.

5. Clean your dog’s paws

Even with a doormat and a towel at the ready, there are times when you still need to wash your dog’s paws after long outdoor walks and playtime. Keep a bowl of warm water by the door to wash their paws with, and make this a habit every time you enter your home. Over time, your dog will also get used to having their paws washed, so it’s easier to keep your condo spotless and feeling fresh.

Just a quick note — make sure that the water is warm and comfortable so it won’t be hard to get them to wash their paws. Make sure to dry their paws afterwards, especially if their fur is thick or long, to prevent them from further tracking dirt around, and getting floors and furniture wet in the process.

6. Use paw wipes

Just like their humans, dogs need a good amount of fresh air and time spent running around outdoors. But cutting their outdoor playtime to prevent them from tracking in dirt or keeping them indoors altogether isn’t the answer.

Have you ever heard of paw wipes? They might just be your dog’s — and your newly polished floors’ — best friend! Much like regular baby wipes, paw wipes are cleansing and easily disposable, making them a must-have for every pet owner who likes venturing with their dogs outside, but hates the messy trail of paw prints and muck that their furry companions tend to track back home.

7. Dress up your dog in booties

Dog booties aren’t just designed to dress up your dog and make them look even cuter; they actually serve a real function that you’ll be very thankful to learn. For small dogs especially, booties are a must-have in the colder months when the ground is perpetually damp and muddy, making it much easier for them to track dirt and mud into your condo.

With booties, your furry friend won’t just be the star of the block for the extra dose of cuteness — you can also guarantee that their paws remain clean and dry. So you can go for a walk and breathe in the chilly fresh air — you won’t have to worry about your pet’s feet getting cold, wet, and dirty.

8. Wax their pads

Much like lotion for dry skin, your dog’s paws need some TLC that goes beyond their regular grooming routine. Since they’re on their feet a lot throughout the day, it’s important to care for their paws and protect the pads from walking on gravel and hard surfaces all day. Paw wax prevents your dog’s paws from cracking and drying. As a bonus, it also provides traction and improves their grip on the ground, especially on slippery surfaces. You can even use paw wax year-round, no matter the weather, so your dog’s feet are protected even when walking on the most unpredictable surfaces.

As for keeping your home clean after a long day in the park, paw wax provides a layer of protection from mud and water, too! Paw wax is repellant to mud and water, so they’ll definitely track much less dirt back to your door.

For more ways to stop your pet tracking dirt into your Toronto home, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.