Which Cleaning Service in NYC Offers 100% Satisfaction?
By Joseph Passalacqua Cleaning Company • General Information • NYC 0 Comments

Which Cleaning Service in NYC Offers 100% Satisfaction?

If you’re searching for a cleaning service in NYC that guarantees 100% satisfaction, look for companies that back their work with a re-clean guarantee, transparent pricing, and verified customer reviews. One of the most trusted names that meets these standards is our team at Maid Sailors Cleaning Service, a top-rated Manhattan-based cleaning company known for our satisfaction guarantee and professional service.

What 100% Satisfaction Actually Means

There are plenty of cleaning companies claim to offer great service, but a real guarantee goes beyond promises. It means that if you’re not completely happy, the company will return to re-clean your space at no extra charge. The re-clean policy will also include a clear, written policy that outlines your rights as a customer, responsive support that resolves any issues promptly, and a proven track record reflected in consistent positive reviews. This kind of commitment provides peace of mind and demonstrates that the company genuinely prioritizes its customers and stands behind its work.

The Top Cleaning Service in NYC With a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Maid Sailors Cleaning Service is based in NYC and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee that includes a free re-clean if needed. Maid Sailors provides a full range of services, including standard, deep, and move-in or move-out cleanings. With easy online booking, transparent pricing, and thousands of positive reviews on Google and Yelp, Maid Sailors has become one of New York City’s most trusted cleaning companies.

How to Verify a Company’s Satisfaction Guarantee

Not all guarantees are equal. Here’s how to confirm you’re actually covered:

  1. Check their website. The guarantee should be clearly stated.
  2. Look for a re-clean policy, not just vague promises.
  3. Read recent reviews on Google.
  4. Ask customer service to explain how the guarantee works.
  5. Look for transparency, companies that guarantee satisfaction rarely hide their prices.

Why Maid Sailors Stands Out in NYC

Maid Sailors Cleaning Service has a transparent 100% satisfaction guarantee. If anything isn’t right, they’ll send a cleaning professional back to make it perfect – free of charge. This commitment has earned us thousands of 5-star reviews and a reputation as one of the most trusted cleaning companies in the city since 2014.

Key highlights:

  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Easy online scheduling
  • Vetted and trained cleaners
  • Transparent pricing – no surprise fees
  • Serving Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and more

Don’t just take our word for it – meet Xiomara, one of our cleaners, as she reads real client reviews and shares what satisfaction means to her:

FAQ: Satisfaction Guarantees for NYC Cleaning Services

Which service includes all cleaning supplies for NYC apartment cleaning?

When we schedule NYC apartment cleaning appointments, one of the most common headaches people face is running out to buy supplies right before their cleaner arrives. I learned this the hard way when my previous cleaning service showed up and I realized I was out of bathroom cleaner and only had one old sponge under my sink. The cleaner had to use dish soap on my shower, which left streaks everywhere.

Maid Sailors solves this problem completely by bringing all cleaning supplies to every appointment. Our team arrives with professional-grade products, equipment, and tools needed for the job. This means you never need to worry about stocking up on different cleaners for your kitchen, bathroom, floors, and windows. We bring everything from microfiber cloths to specialty products that work better than what most people have at home.

This approach saves you money too. Instead of spending $50-75 building up a cleaning supply closet with products you might use once, that cost is already built into our flat-rate pricing. Plus, our cleaners know exactly which products work best for different surfaces in your apartment, whether you have marble countertops, hardwood floors, or stainless steel appliances. You don’t have to become an expert on which cleaner works on which surface—we handle all of that for you.  

How do satisfaction guarantees work?

Most companies offer to re-clean the area at no cost if you report an issue within a set timeframe (usually 24–48 hours).

Are there exceptions to guarantees?

Yes. Excessive messes outside the original scope or additional services may not be covered. Always read the fine print.

Do I have to provide proof if something isn’t cleaned properly?

Most companies will ask for photos.

Is a guarantee a sign of a trustworthy company?

Yes. Companies confident in their service use guarantees to build trust and long-term customer loyalty.

Choose a Company That Stands Behind Its Work

If you’re looking for a cleaning service in NYC that offers 100% satisfaction, prioritize companies with transparent re-clean policies, fast support, and strong reviews. Maid Sailors Cleaning Service has been one of the most trusted options for New Yorkers who want a spotless home and peace of mind since 2014.

Hiring a Cleaning Lady Maid Sailors
By Joseph Passalacqua Cleaning Company • General Information 0 Comments

Your Comprehensive Guide to Hiring a Cleaning Lady

These days, more New Yorkers are turning to professional cleaning services to keep their homes neat and tidy. Have you been thinking about hiring a cleaning lady? If so, then you may be wondering where to begin. With so many cleaning services scattered throughout your neighborhood, you want to figure out which is best for your specific cleaning needs, budget, and schedule.

Benefits of Hiring a Cleaning Lady

If you’re still not 100% sold on the idea of spending your hard-earned money on a cleaning lady, now is a good time to revisit some of the key benefits.

Free Up Valuable Time

Often times, people are hesitant to hire a cleaning service because of the cost. However, it’s also important to consider the value of your time! How many hours do you spend cleaning your living space each week? If you could free up that time, what would you do with it? When you really start to consider the true value of your free time, it becomes easier to justify the costs associated with hiring a cleaning lady.

Entertain With Confidence

If you’ve ever hesitated to invite a friend or loved one to your home because you were embarrassed by its cleanliness (or lack thereof), then it’s probably time to hire a cleaning service. This is especially true around the holiday season and other times of year where you may be planning to host parties or gatherings. By having your place professionally cleaned before guests arrive, you can entertain with confidence.

Cut Down on Sick Time

A cleaner home is a healthier home. With regular dusting and sanitation of surfaces, you can get rid of unwanted germs and bacteria throughout your living space. As a result, you may find that you get sick less often or that you can even breathe easier without dust and allergens floating around your indoor air.

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Cleaning Lady

Now that you better understand why so many people use professional cleaning services these days, it’s time to begin your search for your ideal cleaning lady. As you begin narrowing down cleaners in your area, consider setting up an interview (whether in-person or over-the-phone) to ask some important questions that will help you reach your decision.

What Services Do You Offer?

Not all cleaning professionals offer the exact same services, so if you have something specific in mind, make sure that this is offered. For example, if you live in an apartment building but want the outsides of your windows cleaned, this is a service you may have a hard time finding a maid for. Instead, you may be better off hiring an additional worker to clean your windows separately. Or, if you are looking for someone who can do an office cleaning, you may want to find a maid service who can handle that.

Some of the more common cleaning services offered by maids include general house cleaning, deep-cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleanings. Some not so common offerings, such as nude maids are offered by a select few companies.

What Days/Hours Are You Available?

Your schedule is probably busy enough as it is. The last thing you need is to have to re-arrange your schedule to work around that of your house cleaners. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to find out what your cleaning lady’s availability is like. Many maids work Monday-Friday, though some may also work weekends.

If scheduling is a concern, you may also be able to find a cleaning lady who will come to your home while you’re at work or handling other obligations. However, not all cleaning ladies are comfortable with working while you’re not there—so this can vary,

Will You Bring All Your Own Supplies?

Cleaning supplies can be costly, so finding a cleaning professional who brings her own products and other supplies can save you a lot of hassle and money. Most cleaning ladies will probably offer to use their own supplies at no additional charge. Some may even offer green-cleaning services, though you may end up paying extra.

If you want your cleaner to use a specific product in your home, make sure she will accommodate that request as well. In most cases, all you have to do is leave out the cleaner you wish to use and most maids will oblige.

In addition to cleaning products (such as window cleaner and disinfectant spray), you’ll also want to make sure that your maid will provide her own vacuums, mops, and other equipment if you don’t have your own. In some cases, you may need to give a heads-up to your cleaning lady ahead of time so she can bring the necessary equipment to your job.

What is Your Pricing Structure?

Price is a common concern when it comes to hiring a cleaning lady. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should automatically choose the cleaner who can offer you the cheapest rates. In general, you get what you pay for—so your goal should be to find the best value for a quality cleaning job.

Some cleaning ladies will charge by-the-hour, whereas others may charge a flat fee for your job. In addition to finding out how much your cleaning job will cost ahead of time, you’ll also want to inquire as to whether a deposit is required and what forms of payment are accepted. Don’t hesitate to ask about tipping policies as well. In general, if you’re hiring an independent contractor as your cleaning lady, you aren’t expected to tip. If you’re booking through a cleaning company, however, you may want to find out whether a gratuity is included with your price.

Do You Carry Liability Insurance?

Choosing a cleaning lady who carries liability insurance is an absolute must. While unlikely, there are many things that could potentially go wrong during a cleaning job. Your cleaning lady could accidentally damage something in your home, or she could be injured in a fall down the stairs. Either way, a liability insurance policy provides both you and your cleaning professional with extra protection so that you’re not held financially or legally liable in these kinds of scenarios.

Any reputable cleaning professional should be able to provide you with proof of liability insurance, so don’t hire until you’re sure.

Will You Submit to a Background Check?

Whether you’ll be present while your house cleaner is working or not, having a cleaning lady who has been extensively background checked is also a must. Any reputable cleaning company will require that all their cleaners pass a background check before being hired. If you’re hiring through a cleaning company, make sure that this is the case. If you’re hiring an independent cleaner, don’t be afraid to ask her to submit to a background check. There is nothing wrong with wanting to know that you can trust the person you are inviting into your home.

Do You Have a List of References?

Some cleaners may have a list of references to provide for people whose homes they have cleaned in the past. This can be a great way to reach out to past (or current) clients get a better feel for the type of work they received from your prospective cleaner. Even if your cleaner doesn’t advertise a list of references, it never hurts to ask.

If you’re hiring through a larger cleaning company, you may also be able to find some reviews online. Third-party reviews are a great way to find out more about what others have had to say about your cleaner’s quality of work, demeanor, and more.

Looking for the Best Cleaning Service?

If you’re still having trouble finding the best cleaning lady for your needs in your neighborhood, have you checked out Maid Sailors? We take pride in offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee with every cleaning service booked. We’re also competitively priced and offer a wide range of cleaning services to meet your needs, including recurring cleaning services at a discounted rate.

All of our cleaners are bonded, insured, and fully vetted for your peace of mind. Contact us today at (212) 299-5170 to schedule your first cleaning appointment or book online. We look forward to helping you end your search for the best cleaning lady!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know about hiring a cleaning lady for cleaning New York City apartments?

When it comes to cleaning New York City apartments, there are several important things to consider that most people overlook. First, make sure the cleaning lady is actually an employee of a company, not just a contractor. This matters because employees get proper training and the company has better control over quality. Maid Sailors Cleaning Service works with trained employees, which means you get consistent results every time we clean your home.

Another key factor is communication during the actual cleaning. Many services leave you in the dark once the cleaner arrives, but our concierge-style approach lets you text or call for updates while we’re working. You can even add extra tasks mid-cleaning if you spot something that needs attention.

Also, verify that your cleaning service brings all their supplies. You shouldn’t have to keep products stocked or worry about what cleaners to buy. We bring everything needed for each job, including professional-grade products that work better than store-bought options.

One of our clients shared, “The team arrived exactly on time and worked efficiently throughout.” This reliability matters in NYC where everyone’s schedule is packed.

Don’t forget to ask about deep cleaning NYC options if you haven’t had professional cleaning in over three months. Regular maintenance cleaning won’t tackle built-up grime the way a thorough deep clean will.

Finally, confirm the company is bonded and insured. This protects you if anything gets damaged. Look for flat-rate pricing too, so you know exactly what you’ll pay before anyone shows up. Many NYC residents also appreciate bathroom cleaning NYC services as an add-on, since bathrooms need special attention in humid city apartments.

Maid Sailors professional cleaning technician dusting wall art to maintain a clean environment
By Guest Contributor Cleaning Company • General Information 18 Comments

3 Key Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

A home, like anything worth owning, requires regular maintenance, cleaning, and repairs to remain safe and inhabitable for the people (and pets) that live inside it. Over time, however, a home becomes like a marriage: you begin to ignore some of the finer details of good maintenance. While your home won’t leave you, if you fail to provide ongoing care, your actual family may begin packing bags.

Chances are, your New Year’s resolutions are more focused on activities that have nothing to do with a spotless bathroom (Soulcycle?). That’s fine – Let Maid Sailors help you establish an easy (but regular) cleaning routine, to ensure a healthy home. With a few dollars a month (think: Netflix membership), you’ll prevent events like mold buildups or excessive dust (and thereby, avoid asthma). A professional cleaning service saves you time, money and headaches – all while preserving the health and value of your home. Not sure how to pick a maid service?

Here are three key benefits of using a professional:

1. Eliminates Health Hazards

What kind of person are you? If you, or individuals in your home, are elderly or suffer from chronic health issues, professional cleaning is for you. With professional cleaning, you can assure products are eco-friendly and cleaners are trained. Further, any medical professionals who come and provide home healthcare to patients who are elderly or having health conditions are also better protected (thus, saving you a day in court).

2. Improves the Look and Feel of Your Home

Professional cleaners handle the details you don’t have time to address. We’ve all been there. Imagine, you go to the back sliding glass door to look out at the patio and you see fingerprints all over it. You get an immediate urge to clean them, but then your phone vibrates. Professional cleaning personnel handles all of the finer details of cleaning your home. Then you don’t have to feel uncomfortable or bothered. They remember to clean the hair out of drains and dust and remove cobwebs in hard-to-reach places. They can even perform specialized tasks such as steam cleaning furniture to remove toxins from the environment and keep your rooms looking very well maintained.

3. Maintains Your Home’s Property Value

After you move into a home, there is also the potential for its overall value to decline over time. This is especially true if you don’t keep up with the cleaning, maintenance, and repair tasks. Freshly painted ceilings, walls, floors, cabinets, doorways and trims, carpets, and bathroom surfaces are examples of areas that will get dingy looking over time without regular professional cleaning.

Concluding Remarks

It’s important to take extra steps to keep your home looking as well-maintained and comfortable as it was the day that you moved in. With professional cleaning services, you can spend less time cleaning and more time going about the other things you like to do at home. When you get home, you don’t have to worry about cleaning the glass door in your walk-in shower or climbing a ladder to wipe off mold buildup on the vents to air conditioning ducts.

You can just relax or engage in your favorite hobby with the knowledge that your home is clean and safe. You can catch a nap in your cozy bedroom instead of mopping the floors. Professional cleaning services are available for a fair price, and all you have to do is specify the level of detail that you expect. Arrange for services once a week or more depending on your family’s needs. Now get back to the gym!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I communicate with NYC cleaners while they’re working in my home?

One of the most frustrating things about hiring cleaning services is feeling disconnected while they’re in your home. Maybe you’re at work and suddenly remember you wanted them to pay extra attention to the guest bathroom before your in-laws visit. Or perhaps you’re running late and need to let them know where you left the house key. With traditional cleaning companies, you’re often stuck waiting until the job is done to address these concerns.

When you hire NYC cleaners from Maid Sailors, we solve this problem with real-time communication during your cleaning. You can reach us through text, email, or phone call – whatever works best for you in the moment. For example, if you’re in a meeting and notice your cleaner has arrived but you forgot to mention the wine spill on the dining room carpet, simply send us a quick text. We’ll make sure the team addresses it right away.

This concierge-style approach means you can also add or remove services while we’re actively cleaning. Let’s say we’re halfway through your apartment and you decide you’d like us to tackle the inside of your oven too – just let us know and we’ll adjust the service. We even handle same-day cleaning requests through text, which is perfect for those moments when unexpected guests announce they’re coming to visit. This level of flexibility and communication is possible because our cleaners are trained employees, not contractors, so we maintain direct contact with every team member working in your home.  

Dachshund puppy sitting inside a cardboard box in an empty room, symbolizing moving day.
By Joseph Passalacqua General Information • New York City • NYC • Tips and Tricks 6 Comments

The Ultimate Guide To Moving To NYC

Moving to New York City can be equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. Exciting because NYC is the beating heart of the U.S., and nerve-wracking because there’s so much to do to get ready for the big move. In order to make your move to The Big Apple just a little easier, we have put together a moving checklist, a breakdown that allows you to take care of one moving-related task at a time. You may also, consider staying in an Airbnb before you move into your new place to get it up and ready.

Two To Three Months Before The Move

__ Edit your belongings. As much as you may dread the task, there is something about sorting through your belongings that is deeply satisfying. Go through each room of your home and decide what you can’t live without, what you want to denote, and what needs to be tossed. Keep in mind that living space in NYC is at a premium and you’re unlikely to have the space to keep everything. Besides, wouldn’t you rather move only with the belongings you truly need or enjoy?

__ Call a Realtor or leasing agent. If you haven’t already established a place to live, now is the time to get a Realtor or leasing agent on the job. They’ll need to know what you’re looking for, where you’d like to live, and how much you plan on spending. It is vital to work with an agent who will dedicate himself to finding you what you’re looking for in plenty of time for you to visit and sign a lease.

__ Compile a moving binder. Keeping everything in one place may just save your sanity. It’s the perfect place to keep your moving estimates, home listings, an inventory of everything you plan to move, utility turn-off and turn-on schedule, and receipts you’ll need for next year’s taxes.

__ Research moving companies. Whether you plan to hire a moving company or rent a truck and move yourself, now is the time to gather quotes. Do not rely on a phone or online quote if you’re hiring a moving company. Request an on-site visit and a written estimate (with a “not to exceed” price). Make sure the company you’re working with has a U.S. Department of Transportation number. It’s also a good idea to check with your state’s Better Business Bureau to get a sense of the company’s reputation.

__ Research auto transport companies. If you plan on having your personal vehicles transported, now is the time to get estimates and schedule a pick-up. Ask how long the trip will take and get an iron-clad delivery date.

Six To Eight Weeks Before The Move

__ Choose a mover (or truck rental company). Now is the time to confirm your reservation and make sure you have everything you need – including the moving date and costs – in writing.

__ Visit NYC. Hopefully, your agent has a few homes for you to view. Ideally, you will find something you love and sign a sales contract or lease.

__ Take measurements. Once you’ve signed a sales contract or lease, measure the dimensions of your new home. Remember to measure the doorways in order to ensure your furniture will fit through. Because so many buildings in NYC are walk-ups and not doorman buildings, you’ll also need to measure how much room you will have navigate furniture up the stairs.

__ Eat up. Create a menu plan that allows you to use the perishable foods in your freezer.

__ Find a cleaning company. Ask anyone who has ever made a big move what their least favorite task was and they are likely to tell you that it was cleaning their old home before move-out and cleaning their new home before move-in. Hire a cleaning company to come in behind you as you’re moving out. The last thing you’re going to want to do is clean a home you’re no longer going to live in when you’re already tired from the move. At the same time, schedule a cleaning company to clean your new home before you move in. As much as you might hope that your new place will be spic-and-span on move-in day, that is often not the case. Besides, living in a new space is so much more pleasurable when every surface is clean.

__ Order moving supplies. Unless a moving company will be packing for you, you’ll need to gather bubble wrap, tape, boxes, and permanent markets. Don’t forget specialty boxes for items such as televisions, dishes, and your wardrobe.

Four Weeks Before The Move

__ Send change-of-address cards. It may seem a bit early to send your new address out to friends and family, but you’re likely to be too busy over the next month to find the time. While you’re at it, pick up a change-of-address package at the post office and have your mail forwarded. If you’d rather, you can change your address online through the US Postal Service website.

__ Begin packing. Place at least one box in each room of your home. As you pass an item you rarely use, wrap it in bubble wrap and slip it into the box. You may be surprised by how few items you actually use on a daily basis.

__ Make a list. Items like an expensive television, computer, or musical instrument may require extra insurance. Make a note of those items as you come across them.

__ Label everything clearly. The more clearly you label a box and its contents, the easier it’s going to be to find what you need in your new home.

__ Arrange for a transfer of records. If you have children, have their school records transferred to their new school district. Request that medical records be transferred for each member of your family. Finally, ask your veterinarian to provide you with a copy of your pet’s health records. Be sure to keep those veterinarian records with you as you travel with your pet(s).

Two Weeks Before The Move

__ Get tuned up. If you plan on driving to NYC, ask your mechanic which services are needed. At the very least, have your car(s) tuned up.

__ Contact moving companies. Call your mover, truck rental company and/or auto transportation company to confirm arrangements.

One Week Before The Move

__ Put together a safe box. Empty the contents of your safe deposit box and place them in the safe box. Add important items such as jewelry, passports, social security cards, and other vital information. You’ll personally transport the safe box on moving day.

__ Pack last minute items. Now is the time to pack the toaster, coffee maker, and other items used on a daily basis.

__ Have prescriptions refilled. Make sure you have enough of the medications you’ll need until you have a chance to meet your new doctor in NYC.

Days Leading Up To The Move

__ Pack your suitcases. You will need enough clothes to get you through until boxes are emptied. Now is a good time to get suitcases packed for every member of the family. While they may not have a suitcase, make sure each of your pets has the supplies they need packed and ready to go.

__ Clean the refrigerator and (if needed) defrost the freezer. Whether you’re taking it with you or not, make sure it’s empty and clean. If you’d like, this is one of the jobs a professional cleaning crew can take care of for you. Most of them specialize in move out cleanings that you do not have to worry about.

__ Get payments in order. Think of all the people you’re going to need to pay over the course of your move. In addition to the moving or truck rental company, you may have to pay for a hotel stay, and meals along the road. Go by the bank for any money orders, cashier’s checks, or cash you will need.

__ Enlist a babysitter. If you have young children or pets, make sure someone is looking out for them when the movers are there. Small children and pets are both tripping hazards for the movers and frankly, none of it is much fun for kids or pets.

__ Get generous. There are items — such as alcohol and plants — that a moving company cannot legally transport. Your current neighbors would probably love to be the recipients of both.

Day Of The Move

__ Verify moving company. If you have hired a moving company, make sure the USDOT number painted on the side of the truck matches the number on the written estimate. Verify that your not-to-exceed estimate is going to be honored.

__ Count boxes. Moving-related losses do happen. It’s not uncommon for moving companies to misplace a box or two. Carefully examine the packing slip before signing off on it. Do the same (with even more care) when your belongings are delivered. Once you’ve signed, you’re telling the company that they have delivered everything as promised. If you later realize that something was lost in transit you have no evidence to support your claim.

Like any journey, making the move to NYC begins one step at a time. The only task you need to focus on is the one right before you. Follow along with this checklist and you are sure to get everything done precisely when it should be.

Field of American flags in a Boston park with city skyline in the background on a sunny day.
By Joseph Passalacqua Boston • Cleaning Company • Cleaning Tips • General Information 0 Comments

The Ultimate Guide To Moving Day In Boston

Each year, the city of Boston finds itself swept up in a maelstrom of madness, confusion, and frustration. The pandemonium brought in its wake leads to fits of despair from those caught up in its clutches. Is it a parade? One of those big street festivals that take up space everywhere? No, nothing so peaceful. My friends, we’re referring to the local horror show known as Moving Day in Boston, when everyone is frantically hiring Boston cleaning service to get their security deposits back.

How did such a thing come to be? Why does the city continue suffering through the effects of Moving Day every single year? Is there no one who can free the city from the grips of this insanity? If you’re one of the chosen, well, many destined to be impacted by the storm, you can mitigate some of the effects by following this handy guide to Moving Day in Boston.


What Is Moving Day In Boston?

Moving Day in Boston refers to a period, starting around September 1st when the leases on many apartments and other rentals expire. You also have an influx of students coming in after Labor Day and looking to move into a new place to live for the next semester or two around that same period. So you have thousands of people trying to navigate the narrow winding streets of Boston in huge moving trucks.

Can Something Be Done About Boston Moving Day?

Why not just shift the dates, maybe stagger them in a more year-round fashion? They managed to accomplish similar to this in Montreal, Canada. They had their version of Moving Day on May 1st for many years which caused many of the same headaches currently experienced in Boston. Shifting the date to July 1st, which falls on a national holiday in Canada, made things much more manageable.

There are a few reasons why no one’s tried something like this in Boston. The massive number of new and returning students is one of the biggest reasons why it’s not practical to shift the dates to a different period. The current dates align best for families to take time off to bring their kids and set them up for college life.

Apartment owners benefit by having spaces available during the influx of students. So there’s no incentive for them to shift lease dates to something that’s potentially less lucrative. It seems that the current version of Moving Day is here to stay, along with the myriad of problems it brings.

Why Local Residents Dread Boston Moving Day

Did we mention a large number of moving trucks driving around? Getting around Boston traffic on an average day can be challenging. Throwing in lots of large, bulky vehicles driven by unsure drivers looking in vain for parking slots makes getting around nearly impossible. Moving Day also brings people dumping their trash and unwanted furniture along the city streets making the dog-friendly city unattractive. Going to your local bakery can feel like being forced to navigate an unauthorized obstacle course.

How You Can Make It Better

We won’t pretend this guide will solve all your Moving Day-related issues. Accept that your life will be terrible to a certain extent for that period. What we can do is offer advice on making it less awful and possibly getting through it without turning on the friends who did end up showing up to help you throughout the day. Those who aren’t moving will also find ways to get through this period with less frustration.

Preparing For Boston Moving Day – Movers

Accomplishing specific tasks ahead of time can make Moving Day easier to manage. The worst thing you can do is wait until the last minute to prepare. Doing that guarantees being hit with the full force of the worst Moving Day has to offer. Spare yourself a little pain and try doing these things at least a few weeks before your move-in date.

Make Sure You Have Enough Cash

Make sure you have money available to pay any fees or moving costs. You’ll need to pay for the rental of your truck, or else risk losing out on your reservation. If you’re hiring a moving company, they’ll expect to be paid as well. Don’t forget to tip your movers as it is tough work and exhausting. Try budgeting out more than you think you’ll need to spend for that day. Doing so helps you avoid getting caught short at a critical moment during the move.

Hire a Truck (And Movers) Ahead of Time

The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get a truck to assist in your move. Getting a head start allows you to compare quotes from different companies and pick the best one, not just the best of what’s left. If you are booking early, check to see if the company’s contract guarantees your truck will be available on Moving Day.

Don’t count on showing up at a truck rental company the day of without a booking and getting the size van you need. Whatever’s left — IF there’s anything left — will likely not be large enough to handle all your things. That means extra trips you’ll have to make attempting to navigate Boston traffic on moving day. Your things could also end up being pretty banged up from being crammed into too small of a space.

If you do end up with no truck, your next best option is looking for a one-way rental from a different area. You can move your things, and then drop the truck off at the nearest rental location for that company.

Organize Your Things

One of the best things you can do is have your items packed, organized and ready before moving day. That means putting everything into properly labeled boxes with the right packing material inside. Remember, even the best movers can occasionally stumble as they’re taking your things up a flight of stairs.

If you’re going to rely on friends to help you move, it’s a good idea to put enough padding inside boxes to protect anything delicate. Make sure you put a label on indicating “Fragile” to prevent it from being handled roughly. Having your things ready to go allows your movers (or friends) to load items inside of moving trucks at a faster pace.

Apply For A Street Occupancy Permit

Finding a parking spot for a regular-sized car in Boston is difficult on a normal day. Imagine trying to find one on Moving Day for your truck along with everyone else. One way to avoid the madness is paying for a reserved parking spot near where you’re moving.

It’s going to cost you at least $100.00, but you’ll have a spot waiting for you and avoid accumulating parking tickets. Think of the gas you’ll save not having to drive around the block multiple times as you wait for a spot to open.

You can apply for a permit no sooner than one month before your moving date. Some areas of Boston require you to apply in person, so check to see what the requirements are for the part of town where you’ll be living.

Make Plans To Get Rid of Your Old Stuff

If you’re moving to a different apartment that you’re sprucing up with nicer things, you need to plan out what’s going to happen to your old items. You can schedule a pickup of items like an old couch through the city of Boston’s public works. That’s better than leaving your old things out on the curb, much to the disgust of current residents.

Pay For A Cleaning Company

The last thing you’re going to want to once you arrive at your new apartment is clean from top to bottom. Sure, you can HOPE that the apartment owner made an effort to tidy up, but it’s not going to be the deep clean you want for the place you’ll be residing in for the next year. Do you think you’ll feel like cleaning up a mop after dealing with the chaos of Moving Day?

Spare yourself and spring for a Boston cleaning company like Maid Sailors to come in and clean for you. It only takes 60 seconds to make a booking online. They bring cleaning supplies, are bonded and insured, and only hire certified professional cleaners. You can get some much-needed rest at the end of the day and leave the dirt and grime to the professionals.

The chaos of your move might not leave you in the frame of mind to clean the space you’re leaving behind. Hiring a cleaning service for that task leaves one less thing on your plate.

Preparing For Boston Moving Day – Non-Movers

The impact of Moving Day isn’t limited to the movers. Non-movers staying put still have to deal with the fallout. Here are a few ways you can make things a little more manageable during this period.

Get Your Car Out Of There

You’re going to have a lot of drivers navigating the streets of Boston or Cambridge in a large vehicle they may not fully know how to operate. Why leave your car there as the potential collateral damage of their “learning curve?” Find a place you can safely leave your vehicle until the madness ends.

Know What Areas To Avoid

Many popular Boston neighborhoods become an absolute nightmare to move around in during Moving Day. Renthop, an apartment hunting site, collects data centered around the most densely populated Boston areas during this period. You can use them to figure out how to navigate around the city and avoid the worst of the chaos.

Settling In

One good thing about Moving Day in Boston is that it eventually comes to an end. You’re moved in, and hopefully fully immersed in your Boston apartment and used to the normal flow of traffic when getting around the city. We hope our guide made managing the day a little easier.

If you decided to spring for a Boston cleaning company earlier, you might miss the feeling of having to do absolutely nothing to get such a clean apartment. Why not continue enjoying one of the few things about Boston Moving Day by scheduling regular cleanings? You can call Maid Sailors at (212) 299-5170 or visit their site online to find packages that fit your apartment and budget. Enjoy your space and the peace of knowing that Moving Day is officially over. Until next year.

Vintage glass bottles labeled “Pure Glycerine, U.S.P.” on a countertop
By Guest Contributor General Information • Tips and Tricks 0 Comments

6 Common Household Chemicals that Don’t Play well Together

Often times people think that just because two products work that they will work even better if you combine them. I’m here to tell you today that that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are certain household products and chemicals that when mixed together create nothing but toxic chemical reactions. And even if it doesn’t produce a chemical reaction, you never know what type of effect it will have on the surface you plan to use it on. For your safety, and the safety of those around you, make sure you always read the product label and never mix the following products:

Acetaminophen & Alcohol

Two words, liver failure. Drinking alcohol activates enzymes. These enzymes can transform acetaminophen into chemicals that can cause liver failure. But just so we’re clear, you shouldn’t be mixing alcohol with anything. 

Ammonia & Bleach

When mixed together bleach and ammonia can create an extremely toxic gas called chloramine. Similar to mixing bleach and vinegar which we discuss below, this mixture can cause an array of health complications. You may experience shortness of breath and chest pains if exposed to the combination of ammonia and bleach.

Pro Tip : Never mix bleach with anything besides cold water.

Batteries 

There’s a reason batteries are sold in packs. Different brands of batteries contain different chemical compounds. If one of the batteries inside your device were to die and you switched it out for another one (different brand), the original battery could continue dispatching electricity into the device cause the batteries to leak. Boy was that a mouthful. If you have two different batteries inside a device that are leaking into it, you’re exposing that electronic device to potential damage.

Bleach & Vinegar 

Bleach and vinegar are probably the two strongest chemicals in your house. That may be the case when you use them separately. But mixing these two products can produce a toxic chlorine gas known to cause respiratory issues, burning, and watery eyes.

Ibuprofen & Alcohol 

Taking ibuprofen while consuming alcohol can cause stomach ulcers and tears in the stomach lining. Alcohol only
increases the risks. The only time you should be taking ibuprofen is on a full stomach with a glass of water.

Rubbing Alcohol & Bleach

Anyone who watches 20/20 probably knows what this mixture produces a little to well. Rubbing alcohol and bleached combined together creates chloroform. Although it takes a lot of each chemical to produce a deadly chloroform, the combination can still be toxic to the body causing respiratory problems and severe inflammation.
Stacked cardboard moving boxes on wooden floor for home relocation.
By Joseph Passalacqua General Information • Tips and Tricks 6 Comments

A Complete Guide To Tipping Your Movers

It’s no secret that moving can be costly. This is especially true if you’re moving a long distance or if you have a lot of belongings to transport from point A to point B. For many people who are planning a move, however, hiring a team of professional movers can be some of the best money spent. When you hire movers, you can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with having experienced professionals handling your furniture, boxes, and other heavy items. Meanwhile, you don’t need to lift a finger on moving day!

Of course, hiring movers and home cleaning services can also be expensive. With many moving companies charging by the hour, it’s not uncommon to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on professional moving services. This, combined with all the other costs that come along with moving, may have you wondering whether you need to tip your movers—and if so, how large of a tip you should leave them.

Should You Tip Your Movers?

In general, you should plan to tip your movers. However, there are some (less common) circumstances where this may not be the case. When you receive an estimate from your moving company, check to see if a gratuity has already been included with your quote. Some moving companies will default to include a 20% tip. If this is the case, then you will not be expected to offer any additional gratuity to your moving team on the day of your move.

Some moving companies may include a tip with your quote but may not be as obvious about it. Specifically, look for a “service charge” on your estimate. If you see one, contact the moving company directly to find out what this charge covers. In many cases, it will cover gratuity and you will not be expected to tip anything additional.

Finally, if you’re hiring a small moving company to handle your relocation, you may not need to tip if the people coming out to handle your move are also the owners of the company. In these cases, it is generally expected that the owner would quote you a price that would include a gratuity.

Unless any of these uncommon circumstances apply to your move, however, you should expect to tip your movers. Even though most moving companies pay their workers an hourly wage, these professionals still rely pretty heavily on tips. And when you think about all the back-breaking work they’re saving you from doing, it’s only fair to throw a few extra dollars their way for a job well done.

Of course, if you receive especially poor service on your moving day or if your movers are careless enough to damage any of your items during the move, you may want to reconsider whether you wish to leave a gratuity. So long as you take the time to research moving companies and choose a reputable one with good reviews, however, this shouldn’t be an issue.

How Much Should You Tip Your Movers?

Now that it’s established that you’ll almost always want to tip your movers, the next question is, “how much should you tip them?” This can be difficult to decide and will really depend on the specific circumstances of your move. In general, however, you should expect to tip at least 10% of your total bill. This means if you’re spending $500 on your moving service, you should expect to leave about a $50 tip.

Of course, the complexity of your move and the quality of the service received should also be taken into consideration when deciding how much to tip your movers. If you had a relatively simple move across town from a small apartment into another relatively small apartment, then you probably don’t need to tip much more than the industry standard unless you received some really outstanding service.

On the other hand, if your moving team expertly handled a long-distance move or successfully moved you out of your four-bedroom house into another large home, you may want to throw some extra gratuity their way. The same applies if they handled any especially large, awkward, or difficult items without damaging them.

And since many moving companies charge by the hour, be sure to consider how efficiently your movers were when determining how much to tip them. If they seemed to be working hard non-stop for the entire time you hired them, they probably saved you a bit of money with their efficiency and may thus deserve a little extra gratuity.

When Should You Tip Your Movers?

While some moving companies include a gratuity with your quote, it is generally best to wait until after your move is complete to distribute any tips. After all, you should be tipping based on the quality of the service received. If your movers already know they’re going to receive a decent tip before they even get to work, one of two things could happen. They could be happy with the tip they’re anticipating and provide excellent service as a token of gratitude, or they could slack a little in their service with the knowledge that they’re going to be tipped the same amount no matter what.

With this in mind, it’s generally best to wait until after the move to tip your moving crew. If you’ve hired a moving company that has included a tip with your quote, don’t hesitate to ask them to remove the gratuity; let them know that you’ll tip your moving team at the end of the day based on the quality of service provided. Any reputable moving company should be happy to accommodate this request.

How Should Tips Be Distributed?

Another potentially confusing aspect of tipping professional movers is how to distribute the tips themselves. If you have a team of several movers, for example, you may be unsure as to whether you should tip them individually or provide a large tip to the supervisor to distribute at the end of the day.

The answer to this question can vary, but always be sure to use your best judgment. The best way to ensure that everybody on the moving team receives the tip amount you intended is to personally tip each individual mover. This can also be recommended if you noticed that one mover seemed to be going above and beyond; in this case, you might want to tip him or her directly and slip a few extra dollars to him or her.

Another idea to keep in mind is to tip your movers a little at the start of the day and offer an additional tip when the move is complete. This can provide them with some incentive to work hard and provide you with the best service possible.

Other Tipping Considerations

Each move is unique, so there is really no universal answer to the question of how much you should tip your moving team. As you reflect on the service you received from your moving team, there are some considerations to keep in mind that may help you decide on an appropriate tip amount. Check our Postmates tipping and maid service tipping guides to get a better idea about tipping considerations.

For starters, did the workers arrive to your agreed-upon located on time? Were they professional and friendly? You’ll also want to take note of how much care they exercise when handling and loading up your items. For example, if they took the time to lay down flooring protectors or wrapped your furniture to protect it from scratches, this might be considered going above and beyond and thus may warrant an additional tip.

If you’re paying by-the-hour for your move, did your moving team seem respectful of your time? For example, did they have you sign off on their lunch break to ensure that you weren’t charged for time when they weren’t working? Did they seem to be working diligently or did they seem to be taking their time?

Other Moving-Day Etiquette

In addition to providing a fair tip to your moving team, there are some other etiquette tips to keep in mind as your moving day approaches.

Start by making sure that you’re prepared for your move so you’re not wasting your moving team’s time (and your hard-earned money). This means you shouldn’t still be packing boxes when your moving team arrives. You should also make sure your movers have a clear and safe pathway to and from the door where they’ll be loading your belongings.

If your team has worked especially hard, you can also show them your appreciation by offering some light refreshments and/or snacks. This shouldn’t be done in lieu of a tip, but in addition to any gratuity. Even a few bottles of water will be very much appreciated by your movers on a hot day.

Make Your Next Move a Breeze

In addition to hiring professional movers, you can also streamline your upcoming New York City move by turning to Maid Sailors for your move-in/move-out cleaning services. Contact us today to request a quote or book your service online in as little as 60 seconds!

Vacuum cleaner head on patterned rug beside shoes during home carpet cleaning.
By Joseph Passalacqua General Information 10 Comments

The History Of The Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuums are a household cleaning appliance that we tend to take for granted. More than likely, you have at least one vacuum cleaner in your home for removing dirt/debris from your rugs and carpeting. You might even have a smaller and portable hand vacuum or a wet/dry vacuum (such as a ShopVac) for added convenience.

Have you ever taken the time to think about how much easier owning a vacuum has made your life? Consider how you would ever be able to get all that everyday dirt and debris out of your home’s carpeting and rugs without one. Believe it or not, there was a time when vacuum cleaners didn’t exist! By having a better understanding of the history and evolution of the vacuum cleaner, perhaps you’ll have a new-found appreciation for these amazing little machines.

The Vacuum’s Humble Beginnings

Prior to the invention of vacuums, the only way to remove debris from rugs was to take them outdoors and shake them out—a task that could be time-consuming and arduous. In an effort to solve this everyday problem, an inventor by the name of Daniel Hess first introduced a machine that utilized bellows to stir up and collect debris from rugs and carpeting in 1860. In 1968, another inventor named Ives McGaffey created a device known as a Whirlwind, which had a similar design but operated using a belt system.

While both of these devices were rather effective in removing debris, they were quite cumbersome to operate. In fact, the Whirlwind model required two people to use, which wasn’t practical for many consumers. Over time, more inventors worked to make vacuum cleaners easier to operate, with the first gas-powered vacuum being made available in 1898.

Towards a Modern Vacuum Cleaner

Finally, in 1901, Herbert Booth released the first motorized vacuum cleaner. Many would agree that this marked the birth of the modern vacuum cleaner as we know it today. This vacuum was still quite heavy and awkward to operate, but it was a marked improvement over previous models. 1905 saw the introduction of the first truly portable vacuum cleaner, which used a unique water filtration system.

It wasn’t until 1908 when William Henry Hoover purchased a patent for a vacuum design that would not only kick up dirt and remove it from a rug, but effectively pull it into a canister as well. This was the beginning of the Hoover vacuum brand that is still popular today.

Throughout the 20th century and well into the 21st century, we continue to see improvements to the vacuum’s design. With the availability of lighter materials (such as plastic), vacuum cleaners gradually became lighter and easier to operate. Suction and filtration technology have also improved greatly over the years—and today, we even have battery-operated vacuums and self-propelled vacuums that will do the work for you!

How Do Today’s Vacuums Work?

Since the first vacuum cleaner was introduced in the 1800s, these machines have operated in a similar manner. Specifically, a vacuum cleaner works using bristles to kick and pull up dust and other debris from the fibers of a rug or carpet. From there, the debris is pulled into a bag or canister.

The use of filters has also made vacuum cleaners much more efficient over the years. Prior to the introduction of filtration systems in vacuum cleaners, smaller debris particles would fail to be contained and would thus be released back into the air. Today’s vacuums combat this problem by using filters to trap these fine particles and prevent them from being re-circulated. Both High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) and Ultra Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters are used in vacuums to accomplish this task.

Most of the vacuums sold in today’s market also use canisters rather than disposable bags to collect dust and debris. These canisters are more effective at containing particles and save you the hassle of replacing and disposing of bags. Instead, you can simply empty out the canister when it becomes full. Keeping vacuum canisters from getting too full is important because a clogged or over-full canister can block airflow and prevent a vacuum from properly suctioning.

What to Look for in a Vacuum Cleaner

Now that you have a better understanding of the history of the vacuum cleaner and how these wonderful little machines work, is it time to upgrade yours? If you’re in the market for a new vacuum cleaner, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind as you shop. Begin by considering the motor power of the machine itself; for maximum suction, you’ll want to select a vacuum that has at least a 7-12 amp motor.

You’ll also want to consider the specific features of the vacuum itself; are you looking for something basic, such as a standalone vacuum that plugs into the wall? If you need to do a lot of vacuuming of furniture and other harder-to-reach areas, you may want to shop for a vacuum with a removable, battery-powered detachment. Many vacuums also come with hose extensions so you can reach areas such as stairs, drapery, and more.

Be sure to consider the filter that comes with your vacuum cleaner as well, as you’ll need to replace these from time to time for the best cleaning capability. Specifically, take some time to research replacement filter pricing so you don’t end up with sticker shock when it comes time to buy more filters. Some vacuum cleaners come with filters that can be washed and cleaned in order to be used more than once, which can save you money.

When shopping for a vacuum, it’s also a good idea to read reviews and find out what kind of warranty (if any) the vacuum cleaner comes with for your added peace of mind.

Have a Cleaning Company Take Care of Your Vacuuming

Even with the best vacuum cleaner on the market, vacuuming your home can be time-consuming. If you’d rather find other uses for your time, you may want to consider hiring a professional house cleaner to take care of your vacuuming and other basic cleaning tasks around your home.

At Maid Sailors, we offer a wide range of professional cleaning services in New York City and the surrounding areas, and we pride ourselves in our transparent pricing. All of our cleaners are certified professionals, and we include all the cleaning products needed to make your house shine. Ready to book your appointment? You can do so online in as little as 60 seconds, or give us a call to find out more about what we have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do professional cleaning teams handle homes with vintage or antique vacuum cleaners?

When you book a cleaning service in NYC, our professional teams always bring commercial-grade equipment regardless of what you have at home. While vintage vacuum cleaners are fascinating pieces of history, they simply don’t meet modern cleaning standards for efficiency or hygiene. Our trained cleaning crews carry HEPA vacuums with hospital-grade filtration that capture 99.97% of dust, allergens, and particles—something older models can’t accomplish.

Maid Sailors provides all cleaning supplies and equipment as part of our concierge-style service, so you never have to worry about whether your home vacuum is adequate. Our employees receive hands-on training with professional equipment that includes powerful suction technology, specialized attachments for deep cleaning NYC homes, and tools designed for everything from hardwood floors to delicate upholstery. This approach ensures consistent results every single time we service your space.

One satisfied client shared, “They brought all their supplies and left no mess behind. True professionals!” This reflects our commitment to coming fully prepared with the right tools for the job. Unlike older vacuum models that may spread dust or lack proper filtration, our modern equipment tackles pet dander, pollen, and microscopic particles that affect indoor air quality—especially important in NYC apartments where ventilation can be limited.

We also offer custom cleaning services in NYC where you can specify particular areas that need extra attention or request special handling for antique furniture and delicate surfaces. Our flat-rate pricing means you know exactly what you’ll pay upfront, with no surprises or hidden costs for bringing professional-grade equipment. Whether you own a collectible Hoover from the 1950s or have no vacuum at all, we’ve got you completely covered with the latest cleaning technology.

Better Life natural cleaning products including all-purpose cleaner, floor cleaner, dish soap, and laundry detergent lineup.
By Guest Contributor Cleaning Company • General Information 7 Comments

4 Important Components of a Cleaning Product Label

When’s the last time you actually read a cleaning product label? Did you know it was important to read the label on chemicals that you use? Today we’re going to take a look at 4 of the most important sections on the label.

Caution

Most, if not all labels on cleaning products have a caution section. This section could be under the warning or it could be a section all to itself. Either way, you want to know what the possible cautions are in regards to the chemicals that you’re using.

Why is this section is important?
If you have any health conditions or complications it’s important to know the possible effects a cleaning chemical can have. Some chemicals should only be used in a well-ventilated area because they can cause respiratory issues or allergies. If you aren’t sure whether a certain product has potential caution check this section of the label.

Directions/Instructions

Every good label has directions. But while most cleaning products are self-explanatory the directions on the label often provide you with a more detailed description of how to use that product. Many directions or instructions will tell you what kind of surfaces you can or can’t when using the product, how long the process should take, and anything else you should know about the product you’re using.

Why is this section is important?
Although all of these sections are important components of the product label, the directions are the second most important. Directions provide you with a method that helps you get the most effective result for the product you’re using.  

Ingredients

The ingredient section of the label can get a little tricky. Most of the ingredients found on a label will be listed using their actual name versus the common name we’ve provided the ingredient with. And this can be confusing for consumers.

Why is this section is important?
Though we use cleaning chemicals avidly in our daily lives, chemicals can be dangerous.  And mixing chemicals can be even more dangerous. Every label, as required by law, has ingredients on it. If for some reason you cannot find the ingredient list on the label you can search for the product on the MDSD (Material Safety Data Sheet) website.

Aside from the dangers of mixing chemicals, they can cause an array of health complications if you use a chemical without knowing what’s inside. You may be allergic to or have an allergic reaction to a certain ingredient. Or the ingredient could cause severe damage to the skin. That’s why it’s always important for you to know what’s inside the products you’re using.

Storage

Storage is one of the least common sections you’ll find on a cleaning product label. But the section does exist. This section of the label tells you how and where to store your product as well as why it’s recommended that you store it that way.

Why is this section is important?
Almost all of the cleaning products on the market say keep out of reach from children . And while that’s an important component to storage it’s not the only important aspect of this section. If the product you’re using is a dry chemical and the label says it should be stored in a dry area chances are that’s due to a chemical reaction that will happen if the chemical is stored improperly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Tell if My Cleaning Service Uses Safe Products Like the Best Companies Do?

When searching for the best home cleaning services NYC, one major concern is knowing whether they’re using safe, effective products in your home. Here’s what our cleaning crews have learned from years of experience: always ask your cleaning service to show you product labels before they start working. At Maid Sailors, we bring all our own professional-grade supplies to every job, and we’re happy to walk clients through exactly what we use and why.

Our trained employees (not contractors) understand the four key components that should appear on every quality cleaning product label: ingredient lists, hazard warnings, usage instructions, and manufacturer contact information. This knowledge helps us choose the safest, most effective products for each cleaning task. We specifically look for products with clear safety data and avoid anything with vague “proprietary blend” listings that hide ingredients.

What makes our approach different is our concierge-style service with real-time communication. You can text, email, or call us during your cleaning to ask about any product we’re using. If you have allergies, pets, or children, we’ll adjust our product selection on the spot. Many clients don’t realize they can request this level of transparency, but we believe it’s essential.

One of our customers recently shared, “The eco-friendly cleaning products are safe for my kids and pets. Thank you!” This feedback reflects our commitment to both effectiveness and safety.

For specialized jobs, our teams bring task-specific products. Our bathroom cleaning NYC service uses EPA-registered disinfectants that eliminate germs without harsh fumes, while our deep cleaning service includes professional degreasers with full ingredient transparency. We include all cleaning supplies at no extra cost, so you never have to worry about buying or storing products yourself.

Maid Sailors professional gloved hands cleaning the exterior of a stainless steel oven with a white cloth
By Guest Contributor Cleaning Tips • General Information 1 Comment

Discover The Top Five Dirtiest Places In Your Kitchen Right Now

Although the kitchen may be the heart of your home it’s also the dirtiest. There may not be any obvious mess. We aren’t calling you a hoarder. But just think about it. Think about what you do in your kitchen. You cook. Now think about what you use to cook. Your hands. And now I want you to think about the last time you washed your hands before touching anything in your kitchen.

In the kitchen, we touch counters and shelves. Uncooked and unwashed and raw food. Our children’s hands and toys. We touch our refrigerator handles and cabinet knobs. And all of that touching easily spreads germs from one surface to the next in the place we make food that will ultimately go in our mouths. It’s vital you keep your countertops clean, especially if you have porous counters, like marble, quartz, or even granite countertops.

Are you grossed out yet? You should be. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. Once you discover the top five dirtiest places in your kitchen, you’ll discover how to clean them. A happy wife means a happy life, right?

Every Handle, Knob, and Button

So if our hands are the dirtiest place on our body, then you should know one of the dirtiest places in your kitchen is the next place your hand goes. It’s going to transfer the same bacteria and germs. When you’re in the kitchen where’s the first place your hand goes when doing any task? It goes to the knob on the drawer or the handle on the refrigerator. Or maybe it goes on the faucet of the think or the buttons on the microwave.

 

Failing to wash your hands before and after tasks especially in the kitchen can work to spread bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, mold, and yeast. So it’s not only important to wash your hands often, it’s important to disinfect all those buttons, knobs, handles, and touchpads. Just take a microfiber cloth and some environmental-friendly disinfectant and wipe them down once a day.

The Sink

Your kitchen sink should be disinfected after each load of dishes or meal preparation or at least once per day. Don’t forget the handles, the faucet, and the counter areas when disinfecting the sink. Your hands touched those places too. And they can catch all of the splatters of contaminated food.

And according to the National Sanitation Foundation International (NSF), 45% of all home sinks tested had E. coli or some type of coliform bacteria. I don’t know about you but that makes me want to get a new sink! Not really it just makes me want to clean it as often as possible.

Sponges & Dishrags

Many people use things like sponges, sink scrubbing brushes, and fabric dish towels in an effort to reduce the use of paper waste from paper towels. But according to a study that was done by the National Sanitation Foundation International (NSF), at least 75 percent of these products harbor coliform bacteria. Which is also known as Salmonella or E.coli. I know that’s the last thing you wanted to read today but you needed to hear it.

If you use these products you don’t have to stop using them. You just need to clean them regularly. These type of cleaning supplies should be washed in hot water after each cleaning session. You should also place wet sponges and dishcloths in the microwave on high for one minute to kill bacteria after each use. And lastly, any sink and vegetable scrubbing brushes can be placed in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning after each use.

Refrigerator

Since we already talked about what could be lurking on the handle of your refrigerator let’s talk about what could be lurking inside. In order to prevent/get rid of the coliform bacteria, yeast, and/or mold that can grow there start by throwing out old food and removing the refrigerator drawers and or shelves.

Old leftovers can grow mold and yeast quickly. Raw meat that is stored in the refrigerator can leak. Fluids can then accumulate in the drawers and along the edges of shelves. The same goes for other packaged products like milk or tubs of butter have been handled in and out of the refrigerator. This is why it’s super important to disinfect your fridge when you clean it.

After you have thrown out all of the old food and removed your shelving you can take your multi-surface cleaner or disinfectant wipes and begin wiping the inside of your refrigerator completely.

If possible do this monthly and wash the surfaces with a mild detergent and hot or warm water. Now some of the compartments and shelving from your fridge may fit in the dishwasher while others may not. If they don’t that’s ok you can just wash them off in the sink with hot water and dish soap. Then let them dry and pop them back in.

Spices

The last thing you probably thought was dirty in your kitchen were your spices. But more specifically your salt and pepper shaker. Did you use them while preparing food? Did you wash your hands before touching them? Or did you just grab and season? Most of us grab and season.

Just take a disinfectant to them when you do your after-dinner cleanup. While you’re at it grab the rest of the seasons too. Anything you used to cook with that’s in a plastic container can be easily disinfected and free from harboring bacteria.