Maid4Condos – New Provincial Lockdown Measures

**ATTENTION REQUIRED

Dear Valued Clients,

We regret to inform you that under the newly released Provincewide Shutdown Measures announced by the Ford Administration on Dec 21, we must halt residential cleanings between Dec 26 – Jan 24. We take our responsibility as a small family business and corporate citizen seriously. We will follow these rules and measures to help curb the spread of Covid-19 and help get us all back on track. Click here for Ontario.ca official measures

Our Disinfection and Sanitizing Services www.GermBlasters.ca remain operational to help service our commercial clients, offices and health care alike.

We will be closely monitoring updates and guidance and adapt accordingly as things develop. We will communicate any news and updates to our clients.

Should you need support and cannot get through to us via phone, please email Bookings@Maid4Condos.com

We appreciate your understanding and sticking with us as a small family business through this challenging time. Only together, in a unified front can we #stopthespread and get back on track.

Our team will be supported during this lockdown with various engagement programs to help keep in good spirits, up-to-date with their training and at ready to return to work stronger than ever before!

You can also help support us by buying a gift card for yourself, friends and family at https://www.maid4condos.com/buy-gift-card/

Learn more by visiting our FAQ’s page click here.

How to Clean Your Toaster Properly

Cleaning your toaster may not even be a task that crosses your mind. When you think about it, a toaster is something most people use every day, but often gets neglected during clean-ups. If you’re habitually toasting things like bread, waffles, or other items, then your toaster will be filled with crumbs and grease. However, cleaning a toaster is a simple process that only takes 10 minutes. All you need is the basics to clean it: a sponge and an all-purpose cleaner. Here are some other essential ways to clean your toaster.

Toaster cleaning tips

Unplugging your toaster when it’s not in use is good practice for reducing fire hazards. When cleaning it, be sure that the toaster has cooled down to avoid potential injuries. Cleaning a toaster can be a messy job since there are so many crumbs. This means working over the sink, a trash can, or a covered table is ideal.

Handling the Crumb Tray

The crumb tray is an essential component when cleaning your toaster, as it is one of the major reasons why this is one of the dirtiest kitchen appliances. Most toasters have this tray, and it makes the cleaning process easy. First, pull it out and shake off the crumbs. If your toaster doesn’t have a tray, just turn the toaster upside down and shake gently. Even if you do have a crumb tray, sometimes shaking the crumbs out from the top as an added step can be an excellent way to clear out bits from your toaster.

To ensure you get each crumb out, use a pastry brush to reach tough-to-reach areas in your toaster, and insert it into the top slot and sweep it away. A pastry brush is ideal because the bristles will break up any clumps of food and get crumbs out, without causing damage or scratching your toaster.

It’s also essential to inspect the cord of your toaster and see if it is in good condition. If you spot any exposed wires, then it’s time to throw out your toaster and find a new one. Newer toasters have excellent safety features and are preferable to used ones, which may be in poor working condition.

If you do have a crumb tray and it is difficult to remove the crumbs, wash it with warm water and soap until it is perfectly clean. Dry the tray thoroughly before you reinsert it into your toaster. Make sure it’s completely dry before you plug it back in.

Now that you’ve done a deep cleaning of the crumbs in your toaster, the next time you clean will be a much simpler process.

Keep the Outside Looking Good

At Maid4Condos, we are passionate about getting your items sparkling clean.
We even do the little touches around your home, like cleaning the outside of your toaster. A small touch-up like that can go a long way to make your home look as good as new. Since home cleanings are our specialty, we want you to be happy with the end result as soon as we’ve finished.

If you’re looking to freshen up your toaster regularly, we recommend wiping the outside with a soft damp cloth and using a gentle soap to get an extra sparkle. You can also use an all-purpose cleaner. Clean off every part of the outside, including the knobs, lever, and crevices. These are especially important because grease and crumbs can gather in those areas. Take the extra time and wipe it with a sponge or cloth and dry it well.

If you own a toaster made of stainless steel, take a clean cloth with some vinegar to spiff it up or use an appliance stainless steel cleaner.

Cleaning the Inside

After you’ve done all the previous steps, it is essential to clean out the interior of the toaster. Proceed with caution and avoid cleaning the heating elements. Spray and wipe the other parts of the toaster with an all-purpose cleaner.

Using the Right Supplies

Now that you know what methods to use to clean the toaster, you’ll need the right supplies. Many people use white vinegar, dish soap, clean microfibre cloths, scouring pads, and even clean paintbrushes and toothbrushes! Paintbrushes are generally used to get to the difficult-to-reach spots and can be useful for a wide variety of tasks. Toothbrushes are an alternative to a sponge to clean a crumb tray in soapy water, but both work well. It can also be useful in cleaning those hard-to-reach areas.

Cleaning a toaster is an often overlooked step when people are cleaning their house. However, now you know how essential it is to clean this household item on a daily basis. Now that you have the tools to polish up your toaster, you can get rid of those pesky crumbs that lead to grease and germs.

At Maid4Condos, we pay attention and take care of every detail during your cleaning so that you don’t have to worry. We are a top choice by people in the GTA because we offer ultimate cleaning packages catered to your schedule. Whether you want a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cleaning, we’ve got you covered. We also have a one-time deep cleaning or moving in/out packages with added extras.

If you’re interested in our services, get in touch with us today by filling out the contact form on our website, emailing info@maid4condos.com, or calling us at 647-822-0601.

We look forward to taking the hassle out of cleaning for you and getting your place looking as good as new, no matter what the occasion. Whether it’s polishing up your toaster or cleaning every spot imaginable from our detailed cleaning list, we take pride in what we do, and we know that you’ll be satisfied with our work.

Best Ways to Clean a Greasy Stove

Stoves–they can be sparkling clean when you start a recipe, but look like a grease-splattered nightmare by the time you’re done. Even if that recipe only involves boiling water for tea. What gives?

Best Ways to Clean a Greasy Stove

Grease is uncontainable, uncontrollable and unattractive. It gets all over the stove whenever you’re cooking and baking, leaving a slick and sludgy mess. You can get away with not cleaning it off after cooking one, two or even three times, but after that the build-up starts to become apparent. It’s time to tackle that icky stove grease with a vengeance!

You’ll need:

  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Vegetable oil
  • An empty spray bottle
  • A dishcloth
  • A sponge

There are a few different methods you can take for cleaning your stovetop, but they all involve natural, household products that work just as well as off the shelf solutions.

1) Vinegar

Vinegar works for a wide variety of cleaning situations, so it’s always a good idea to have some on hand! White vinegar is the cheapest and most acidic of all the vinegar types out there. It has the highest pH, which means it’s got the most oomph for cleaning.

Pour a cup or two of vinegar into your spray bottle and secure the lid. Don’t dilute the vinegar with water if you have very thick grease buildup.
Spray your stove down with vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the vinegar to break down the grease so you can wipe it away easier.

Use the scrubbing side of your sponge, a dishcloth, or disposable paper towels to wipe off the grease. Try not to scrub directly onto the surface of your stove too hard, or else you could scratch it.

If there is grease remaining after you give your stove a good wipe down, repeat the process a couple more times. Grease is exceptional at sticking to surfaces, so there will often be a slick film left on your stove even after a through wipe. Spraying your stove down repeatedly with vinegar will get rid of the film quickly.

2) Cleaning with baking soda

Baking soda is great for baking, deodorizing your fridge and also for cutting through grease!

Simply take a good pinch of baking soda and sprinkle it on a damp sponge. Make sure it goes onto the green, abrasive side meant for scrubbing rather than the soft yellow part. Then, go to town scrubbing away at the grease on your stove.

Baking soda is caustic, so don’t scrub it into your stove too hard. It could leave scratches if applied with excessive force.

While you’re cleaning your stove with baking soda, why not spend some time on your pots and pans too? Baking soda is a terrific multi-purpose cleaner that works on all manner of kitchen items.

When you’re done dislodging all the grease from your stove, use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe all the by-product away. You’ll be left with a beautifully clean stovetop. One benefit of cleaning off grease using baking soda rather than vinegar is that vinegar leaves a very strong, distinctive smell, whereas baking soda does not.

3) Vegetable Oil

But wait a minute…you must be thinking how would applying oil help me deal with grease? If that’s what you’re wondering, rest assured: vegetable oil is a wonderful trick for especially severe messes.

Vegetable oil is a good method to turn to for really stuck-on grease. Put some oil on a paper towel, and show no mercy to those grease stains as you grind it in there. Vegetable oil is remarkably effective at removing stubborn grease marks.

4) Call In The Pros

Let’s face it, grease seems to have a mind of its own sometimes. No matter what we do, how we beg and plead, it doesn’t want to budge. Don’t stress out until your hair turns grey. Maid4Condos is here to help.

If you’ve ever been in a house or condo that’s recently been professionally cleaned, you know what the difference looks like. It’s cleaner than clean. It’s glowing.

Sometimes the mess is just too much. If your stovetop has been taken over by grease, don’t call the police. Call Maid4Condos (and don’t call the police on us for that horrible pun, please).

Maid4Condos will not only clean your stove, we’ll clean your entire place from top to bottom. All residences should have a thorough deep clean a few times a year. If you’re a busy professional who just can’t carve out the time, a professional cleaning service can be a huge lifesaver.

You can tackle that greasy stovetop! Try one of the above natural cleaning methods, and if all else fails call one of our pros. Your stove will be shiny and reflective, and ready for that next adventure of deep-frying donuts.

Maid4Condos is a residential condo-cleaning service located in the Greater Toronto Area that offers master-class trained, secured and bonded cleaning experts. Call us at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.

When You Know It’s Time to Clean Your Laptop | Condo Cleaning Toronto

When You Know It’s Time to Clean Your Laptop | Condo Cleaning Toronto

 

Ignorance is bliss, especially when you know it’s time to clean your laptop. These convenient computing machines have become so much apart of our lives; you’re probably touching yours right now! But how often do you clean it? Think about all the times you washed your hands, and then went straight back to your laptop. Yea, the hand washing doesn’t do much if you’re constantly re-touching filth. Unfortunately, the same story applies when it comes to your cell phone.

 

When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Being On Laptop
When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Being On Laptop

 

However, if you’re reading this article, it means that you’re ready to take the plunge! So we’ll dive right in. For now, we’re going to focus on 3 main areas that you should clean: your case, screen and keyboard. Before we begin, it’s important that you check your laptop manufacturer’s manual to see if there’s any special considerations you should know of before you get your baby nice and clean.

 

Supplies You’ll Need To Clean Your Laptop

 

When it comes to cleaning your laptop, you never want to use alcohol. This is especially true when it comes to your monitor and keyboard. So, to make your cleaning job fast and easy make sure you have all the right supplies with you before you begin. These supplies include, a regular sponge, dishwashing detergent (without bleach or other strong chemicals), a pencil with an eraser on the end, distilled or purified water, microfiber cloth and cotton swabs.

 

When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Cotton Swab
When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Cotton Swab

 

The reason you want to have distilled or purified water is because tap water has the tendency to leave permanent mineral deposits, and no one wants a stain. And what about the controversial cotton swab? When it comes to laptop cleaning, cotton swabs lose their controversy. You can use the standard kind from Shopper’s Drug Mart. However, for the best results and easy maneuvering, we recommend you opt for medical swabs. This is simply because they are better made, and wrapped a tighter than the common brands. And don’t worry, they’re not hard to find. Just like regular Q-tips, the medical kind can be bought at any pharmacy!

 

The Laptop Case

 

You might have been wondering why dishwashing detergent was on the supply list. Well, it’s there when you decide that it’s time to clean your case. But you’re not putting detergent directly on the case. No, you must create a cleaning solution by mixing 1 cup of distilled water and a dollop of dishwashing detergent. Then, soak the sponge in the liquid and ring it out until it’s damp. Next, wipe down the case with the solution you just concocted. Lastly, air-dry the case while you move on to the harder stuff!

 

When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Case
When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Case

 

Getting Your Screen Clean

 

When it comes to cleaning the actual laptop, you have to shut it down and unplug. You don’t want electricity anywhere near the cleaning process! As you can imagine, monitors are very sensitive to liquid. Which leaves three ways for you to clean your screen…

 

(Note: Once you’ve cleaned your screen, let it dry before you close it. This will help avoid letting any moisture seep into your keyboard!)

 

Just a cloth

 

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off dust and any finger print marks. Your screen    may not be disinfected, but it’ll definitely look cleaner!

A damp sponge

 

This will take a little precision. Wet your sponge with only water- never with alcohol or soap. One you’ve wrung the sponge out so that it’s only a little damp, rub your screen gently. Wipe it down with love.

 

Get an LCD monitor cleaning kit

 

If you’re feeling scared about cleaning your monitor without an official monitor cleaning product, an LCD cleaning kit may be for you! However, know that the kit will contain things you could easily source from home. Like a lint-free cloth, and package of damp toilettes. The value of the LCD cleaning kit lies in the toilettes. Because, instead of being damp with water they will be moistened with an official LCD monitor cleaning solution.

 

Your Laptop Keyboard 

 

When it comes to cleaning key caps, make sure your laptop is turned off. Then, grab the pencil with an eraser at the end that we mentioned in the supplies section, and use it to rub off any build up on the keys. Then, use the swabs to get into the nooks and crannies, where eraser shavings and crumbs may have fallen!

 

When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Keyboard
When You Know It’s Time To Clean Your Laptop Keyboard

 

Hungry for more?

 

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 today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

 

Get Social With Us:

 

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

 

See Maid4Condos Reviews:

 

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Written by Savannah Binder, Maid4Condos

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores – Deep Cleaning Service

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores – Deep Cleaning Service

 

Housework is an inevitable part of life, which is why you need to know the secret to dividing household chores. Housework has the tendency to feel endless, whether or not you have a day job. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, even though millions of women are now working full time, 48% are still stuck with most of the house work. That leaves only 1/5th of men who contribute to a fair division of household chores. You might remember hearing about this disparity in our 10 weird facts about cleaning article.

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Woman
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Woman

 

However, all couples are different. And whether you’re in a partnership or have a roommate, the brunt of the burden usually falls on one person. Yet research has shown that a fair division of household chores pays off in the long run because it creates a more harmonious atmosphere. So how do you go begin to instill a fair division of household chores, in a way that makes everyone comfortable? Well, you’re about to find out!

 

How To Divide Chores Effectively

 

Play Your Strong Suit

 

The economics of life is all about how you allocate your precious resources, and the only way to do it effectively is to be smart about it. This doesn’t mean you have to split everything 50/50. In reality, it means dividing cleaning chores according to what you do well– at least what you do well relative to your roommate or partner. Knowing what you’re good at and sticking to it will cut out the process of negotiation entirely, leaving you with more energy for flawless execution.

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Cards
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Cards

 

This means that it’s time to stop asking your partner or roommate to do something on principle. Chances are, you’ll end up re-doing it later because you’re “better at it”. Admitting what you are both good at will ultimately free up your time and cause you to expend less negative energy. So, if your partner doesn’t mind doing laundry and you don’t mind unloading the dishwasher– you’re set!

 

Compromise, Compromise, Compromise!

 

This one is going to be hard. However, as you know- nagging doesn’t get you anywhere. Though it may be a Band-Aid solution in the short term, your partner or roommate will carry out their tasks begrudgingly, which doesn’t make it a great long-term solution. At the end of the day, if someone is not inclined towards a certain chore, the only thing to do is accept. This goes back to playing your strong suit. Would you want to do a chore that you hate, and were bad at? No, no you wouldn’t. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that concessions and compromises are a part of life. So learn which battles you want to fight, and pick accordingly!

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Stop
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Stop

 

Communication is Key

 

Everyone’s mind works differently, which is why communication can be so difficult. You’ll say one thing, and your partner or roommate will interpret it as something else. So when it comes to cleaning, you need to be very clear on what you expect if you want a fair division of household chores. What do you define as clutter? What do you expect the kitchen sink to look like? When you lay out your expectations and get on the same page, you’ll find that it’s easier to avoid conflict down the line.

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Communication
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Communication

 

Split the Bad Stuff

 

What about those pesky cleaning tasks that no one wants to do? Unfortunately, the gross, the hard and the tedious jobs still need to get done. If you both hate doing something, it’s not fair that the burden falls on you. The solution? Take turns or do it together! It sounds so simple, but it is truly the best way to achieve a fair division of household chores.  As we learned in childhood, turn taking is the ultimate path to fairness!

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Fist Bump
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Fist Bump

 

Don’t Forget the Kids!

 

Allowing kids to get in on household chores has so many positive benefits, it’s shocking that more parents don’t make it happen. Not only will delegating chores to your kids make your cleaning job easier, it’s good for their psychological health in the long run. In fact, kids who do their own dishes, laundry and general clean up will have an easier time transitioning into adulthood. So don’t feel bad- you’re doing them a favour. Check out our other article for tips on how to start implementing clean-up routines in your children’s lives!

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Kid
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Kid

 

Admit When You Need Help

 

Though you are definitely a super-human that can handle any task- sometimes, you just don’t have the time or energy. Plus, if you find yourself in a situation where your partner or roommate simply will not budge on the cleaning- you have a problem. The solution? It may be time to hire a cleaning service. Because, if you have the financial means, why should you break your back everyday of week to keep your place in shape?  If you can handle the day to day chores but struggle when it comes to the deep-cleaning, consider a monthly cleaning service. Alternatively, you always opt to enlist help during those pivotal events when cleanliness is essential.

 

The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Relaxing
The Secret to Dividing Household Chores Relaxing

 

 

Hungry for more?

 

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 today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

 

Get Social With Us:

 

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

 

See Maid4Condos Reviews:

 

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HomeStars Review Our Work

 

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Written by Savannah Binder, Maid4Condos

Do You Plan to Stay Fit This Winter? | Toronto Cleaning Service

Do You Plan to Stay Fit This Winter? | Toronto Cleaning Service

 

As the days get colder, the question remains: do you plan to stay fit this winter? When it comes to exercise and clean living, many people lose motivation when the temp drops (#hibernation). Especially if you don’t have a gym membership. But will it really take $100/month to stay in shape? Do you have to invest in ski equipment and mountain passes? No, no you don’t! We’re here to tell you that with an ounce of creativity and the most basic equipment, you’ll be able to stay fit this winter! Because, staying motivated really only requires one thing: the right mindset.

 

Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Mindset
Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Mindset

 

Winter Fit Motivation

 

If you live in Toronto, you might already be experiencing the winter blues. That just means that the time has come to start thinking about how you’re going to keep up the motivation to exercise. However, running on black ice isn’t fun for anyone. So if you love to run outdoors, how are you supposed to stay motivated?

 

Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Motivation
Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Motivation

 

Well, motivation rests on two basic things. The first is having a target or goal you’re aiming for. Second is understanding the positive influence the completion of these goals will have on your life. Once you’ve connected the goal with the result- you’ll be golden till summer! Plus, the act of exercising can actually help to rid of the winter blues. In fact, it’s well known that physical activity can help to ease symptoms of depression. That’s right, you don’t have to wait for summer to experience mental and physical happiness, you can be instill health in yourself all winter long!

 

Adjust Your Old Fitness Plan

 

If you’re happy with your workout routine and don’t want to change it- you have a few options for clean, healthy living this winter. For example, if the sidewalks aren’t icy- you can run your little heart out! Though it will be cold, the air outdoors is cleaner than the air in your home. Plus, once you get into a rhythm, your body heat will rise naturally. However, to ensure your safety be sure to check out these winter running tips!

 

Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Fitness Gear
Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Fitness Gear

 

Additionally, there’s no better time to switch up your routine than the change of season! For instance, if you’re used to exercising after work or in the evening, you may want to try adjusting your schedule and work out in the morning. Why? Because, after a long day of work and after sitting in an Uber or on the TTC, you may feel too tired to work out. To avoid this, “getterdone” in the morning! Not only will you feel more energized throughout the day, you’ll thank yourself when spring rolls around!

 

Create a New Fitness Plan

 

But of course, the winter doesn’t just bring cold, snow and holiday promotions. It brings new ways of getting fit! In fact, taking up a new winter activity can be fun and motivating because of the time restraint. For example, you have to go skating before the ice melts! If you want to take up skating but don’t have skates, you can buy some new or used from Play it Again Sports– or even try out rentals at the rink! Don’t worry, they’re clean. Plus, there’s plenty of free skating rinks around Toronto. Not only is skating a social, aerobic workout- cutting into the smooth, clean ice is quite exhilarating!

 

Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Free Skating
Do You Plan To Stay Fit This Winter? Free Skating

 

But you don’t have to learn how to skate or layer up for the cold if you don’t want to. That’s right, you could get a little creative and turn the stairs at work or in your condo into a fat burning machine. Yep, running or walking down the stairs could become your own DIY elliptical! Though mind-boggling simple, the stairs method is surprisingly effective to help you stay fit this winter. However, if that doesn’t float your boat, you could take this chilly opportunity to sign up for that yoga, spin or kickboxing class you’ve always wanted to take! The options are really endless, so let yourself get creative or check out options at your gym or community center! Instead of hibernating, why not stay fit this winter? It sure beats being depressed.

 

 

Hungry for more?

 

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 today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

 

Get Social With Us:

 

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

 

See Maid4Condos Reviews:

 

Google Review Icon

 

FaceBook Reviews Logo

 

HomeStars Review Our Work

 

YELP LOGO

 

Written by Savannah Binder, Maid4Condos

Clean T.O: Got Kitty Litter Problems?

Clean T.O: Got Kitty Litter Problems?

 

If you’ve ever had a cat, you know that kitty litter can be a problem. In fact, litter box problems are one of the main reasons people give up their cats! Unfortunately, the reality of living in a small space is that a mess can feel bigger than it really is. However, there are a few things you can do to make sure your kitty & home stay clean! For instance, choosing the right litter box is essential. Nevermind choosing the right litter and the right location! Don’t worry, we’ll sort you out and give you the low-down on kitty litter and help you experience the benefits of being clean.

 

Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Yawn
Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture Of Yawn

 

Litter can really get to be an issue when you’re living in a small space. For instance, if you don’t have the right size litter box, the right kind of litter or a litter mat, you could be in for a rude awakening when you get home. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to make your small space work for the both of you, and nip that litter problem in the bud! In fact, having a small space isn’t necessary a bad thing, as it actually forces you to clean more- keeping you can your cat healthier!

 

The Litter Box

 

The most important to realize is that each cat needs its own litter box. Ideally, each cat should have two litter boxes but if you’re in a small space, you can get away with just one. However, if you can find the space, and alternative litter box is great to have in case your feline friend finds a problem with the first one- because, cats.

 

Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Cat On Chair
Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Cat On Chair

 

Next, you should know that the size of your litter box will greatly affect your future litter troubles. For instance, if your litter box is too large, there’s a chance your cat may accidentally do its business outside the box. Indeed a nightmare for home cleaning. With that said, high-sided litter boxes are great at reducing the scatter of litter! Check out popular products like the NVR Miss, or opt for a DIY litter-box option! For a quick litter-box hack, simply convert a deep, high-sided storage box into a bathroom and pour litter directly into the box! However, it’s important to note that high-sided litter boxes won’t be great for older cats that have lost their jump and flexibility. Already have a litter box? Check out this article to find out what your litter box says about you!

 

The Litter

 

When it comes to litter in a small space, odor and tracking are some of cat-owner’s biggest concerns. However, with the right measures and practices in place there are ways to tackle both of these problems! At the end of the day, you just want to keep your small space clean, your cat satisfied and your neighbors happy. Gosh, there’s just so many benefits to being clean…

 

Tracking

 

When it comes to choosing a cat litter, you have to realize that some have higher tracking potential than others. However, it’s quite possible that your cat may love the messiest one! So, before you settle, try a few different brands to find a litter that will suit both you and your cat. Check out this guide of the best non-tracking litters of 2017! Trust, you’ll thank yourself next time you’re doing some home cleaning.

 

Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Black Cat
Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Black Cat

 

As you grow old with your cat, it’s good practice to sweep up any tracked litter as soon as you spot it. For fear that, the longer the litter sits out, the more chance the mess has of spreading. And trust us, nothing is more horrible for your cat, your health or your nostrils than a dirty litter box and trackings. If you still need encouragement to clean, keep a broom or small vacuum near the litter box. However, if you are looking for something to really stop the tracking, you should consider a litter mat, specifically designed to catch the litter stuck in the paws of your cat. In fact, there’s a whole range of litter mats made from all kinds of material. Alternatively, you could go DIY and create a litter mat from an old throw rug or piece of carpet!

 

Odor

 

It’s not secret that litter boxes stink, it is a bathroom after all. However, when you’re living in a small space and sharing the building with others- you have to think about litter odor. Not only is a foul odor in a small space bad for your mental health, it won’t be appreciated by your neighbors! Remember, the hallway of your building is basically an extension of your apartment or condo when it comes to smell. With that said, whether you have found a litter or are just experimenting, it’s a good idea to mix a little baking soda in to defend against the inevitable odor.

 

Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Cat Nose
Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Cat Nose

 

However, the most essential practice in defending against the odor and potential health hazards of litter is simple: scoop the litter box once in the morning and once at night. If you find that you don’t have the time to stay home and scoop, there are plenty of self-scooping litter boxes that work automatically! So what do you have to do? Just  empty the box at night. That’s it. Because at the end of the day, your top priority should be that your cat isn’t living in filth.

 

Home Cleaning

 

Ultimately, the biggest way to keep your small space odor free is to clean it on a regular basis. Yes, a sweet relationship with your feline will involve vacuuming, mopping, washing and dusting. When it comes to home cleaning, hardwood, laminate and tile floors will make your life easy. However, if you are dealing with carpet, you need to take a few extra steps for the benefits of being clean. For example, sprinkling some baking soda on your carpets a few hours before you vacuum will help to absorb any odors that have been trapped in the fibers! By doing this, you will ultimately make your cleaning job easier and more successful.

 

Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture Of Cat On Chair
Clean T.O Got Kitty Litter Problems Picture of Cat On a Chair

 

Once you have finished your home cleaning regimen, open the windows! It sounds too easy, but by simply opening your windows for just ten minutes, even in winter, the air quality in your small space will be much improved! At the end of the day, you’ll always enjoy the benefits of being clean. If you find that you don’t have the time to give you home the regular cleaning it needs, consider a home cleaning service. Check out our cleaning packages to see how we can make your small space thrive!

 

 

Hungry for more?

 

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 today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

 

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

 

 

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

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.

 

Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied picture of ice rink
Clean T.O Why Your Condo Should NEVER be Unoccupied picture of ice rink

 

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
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
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!

 

 

Hungry for more?

 

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 today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

 

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

 

 

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How to eliminate odours in the fridge – Cleaning services in downtown Toronto ON

How to eliminate odours in the fridge with coffee:

Are you a coffee lover? Our team of professional cleaners say you can use coffee to make your fridge smell good,

How? Is simple, just place grounds used or new in a bowl on a shelf and thats all you need,

You need to replace them every two months,

For more ideas and help to clean your home CALL US TODAY! 647-822-0601