How To Clean Dirty Windows
By Maid Sailors Cleaning Tips • Home How-To • • 0 Comments

The Best Way to Clean Your Dirty Windows Without Leaving Streaks

Cleaning your home windows doesn’t need to be an annoying chore. And if you leave them dirty for too long, it can have some pretty detrimental effects on your health, especially if you have windows in your bedroom or kitchen! Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to clean your dirty windows without leaving streaks behind.

Why These Methods Work

Windows are one of the hardest surfaces to clean, but a few simple tricks can help you get the job done. One option is to use newspaper or a lint-free cloth with water and vinegar. The vinegar will cut through the grease and dirt on your windows, while the newspaper or cloth will be able to scrub them clean without leaving streaks behind. Another way is by using a squeegee in combination with soapy water.

Water and Vinegar

Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray on windows, then use newspaper or paper towels to wipe off. Use a microfiber cloth for the final cleanup. If there are still streaks after using this method, mix one part dish soap with two parts water in a spray bottle and go over the window one more time. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water afterward.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the most effective ways to clean your windows without leaving streaks (and a whole bunch of other things!). Simply mix baking soda with a few drops of water in a bowl, and then rub the mixture onto your windows using a sponge or cloth. Rinse by wiping off excess moisture with paper towels, and your windows will be sparkling clean!

Vinegar and Squeegee

If you have dirty windows, the first thing you’ll want to do is remove any debris from the window. From there, you’ll need a bucket of water and a few tablespoons of vinegar. Pour the vinegar in the bucket and mix it with your hand or a sponge until it’s fully dissolved. Next, use your squeegee (or newspaper) to clean off the window with an even motion from top to bottom and left to right.

Soap and Water

One way you can clean your dirty windows without leaving streaks is by using a mixture of soap and water. Mix together a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Then, use the solution on your window before wiping it down with paper towel or newspaper. For particularly dirty windows, scrub the window with a sponge dipped in the solution before rinsing it off with more water.

how to clean mold in washer machine
By Maid Sailors Cleaning Tips • Home Improvement • 0 Comments

7 Tips to Prevent Mold in Your Front Load Washer

Does the idea of mold growing in your front load washer make you cringe? If so, you’re not alone. Front load washers are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning maintenance, which can cause issues like mold to develop over time. The good news is that you can prevent this mold from developing by following these seven tips to prevent mold in your front load washer.

Air Circulation

The most important thing you can do to prevent mold from growing in your washer is making sure it is getting enough air circulation. This means opening the door after every use and ensuring there are no physical obstructions blocking the venting.
Also, be mindful of how much laundry detergent you are using, as detergent will build up on the rubber seal and cause mold growth if not washed away.

Water Temperature

An important factor of preventing mold from growing in the washer is water temperature. If you are experiencing a problem with mold, try lowering your wash cycle’s water temperature. This can be done by pressing and holding the power button for 3 seconds to enter the Settings menu. From there, select Options, then Wash Cycles and finally Water Temperature. The ideal water temperature for cleaning clothes is about 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

Adding Bleach

One way to prevent mold from growing in your front load washer is by adding bleach. I would recommend adding a cup of bleach every time you do a load of laundry and rinse it out with water before you put the next load of laundry into the machine.

Don’t Use Fabric Softener

The best way to prevent mold from growing in your washer is by not using fabric softener. Fabric softener coats your clothing with a coating of detergent and oil, which will cause the soap scum to grow and cling onto the fabric. It also makes it harder for the water to get deep inside the fibers of the clothes. Instead, opt for cold-water wash cycles and use half as much detergent as usual.

Avoid Piling Your Clothes

1. Sort your laundry into colors and only wash one color at a time.
2. Check the pockets of your clothes for anything wet or sticky before putting them in the machine.
3. Add an extra rinse cycle if you notice any residue on your clothes after washing or drying them.
4. Use less detergent and make sure it is a detergent made for HE washers.

Vacuuming, Again and Again

Many people don’t think about vacuuming their washing machine, but it’s an important part of preventing mold. If the lint filter is dirty, then water and soap can easily run down into the washer drum and create a perfect environment for mold to grow. The more often you vacuum your washing machine, the less likely it will be that mold will develop.

Use Detergent Suited to Front-Loading Machines

Front load washers are a great option for eco-conscious consumers looking for a way to minimize their carbon footprint. However, they require special detergent that is suited to the machine’s design. You can find front load washer detergent at most big box stores and local cleaners. Be sure not to use liquid detergent, as it will clog the machine and cause mold buildup.

Book A Cleaning Service in NYC

Cleaning companies in NYC tend to offer laundry services when you book them for a cleaning. Interested in getting your home cleaned (and reducing effort to keep your washer clean)? Book a cleaning with Maid Sailors Cleaning Service!

By Guest Contributor General Information • • • 4 Comments

Shopping for a New Vacuum Cleaner? Here’s our 5 Picks!

Shopping for a new vacuum cleaner can feel like a huge chore. I mean, where do you even start? They don’t make vacuums like they used to. There are so many options now and half of them are made so cheap. So in order for you to find a good vacuum for your home, you may need to spend a little more than you would have hoped to. Because it’s true what they say, you get what you pay for.

So we went ahead and did some research for you.

Today we’re breaking down the five best vacuum cleaners to have in your home. Are you trying to eliminate the pet hair? Is constantly buying bags getting to be too much for you? Or maybe you are sick of the cord always tangling up? Whatever your situation may be, below are five vacuums that can help you with any job. 

1. Hoover UH20040 Sprint QuickVac Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner

For anyone who’s in the market for a vacuum and has less than $60 to spend, this 13 lb. bagless vacuum from Hoover is a great option. This vacuum is one of Hoover’s top-selling models with multi-cyclonic technology that separates dirt particles for lower maintenance. It features three levels of height adjustment to match your surface needs, it’s lightweight and affordable.

2. Oreck Commercial XL Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner, XL2100RHS

For households with allergies, though they can sometimes be a pain, bagged vacuums like this Oreck Commercial XL will provide you with the best results. Weighing in at only 8 lbs. this model features a 12-inch wide cleaning brush for an enhanced clean. The only downside of this vacuum is that you have to buy replacements bags.

3. Hoover Vacuum Cleaner WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet Bagless Corded Upright Vacuum

This Hoover model is for anyone looking to help eliminate the pet hair in their home. The bagless Hoover includes a washable filter, HEPA filtration, 3 suction channels to lift and remove pet hair, and a unique Pet Turbo tool to remove upholstery stains. It has everything a pet owner needs to adequately tackle the pet hair in their home.

4. Bissell Symphony Pet Steam Mop and Steam Vacuum Cleaner 

A true multi-functional vacuum this model is perfect for any home. Although it was designed specifically for homes with pets, I’ve found that the features of this vacuum speak for itself. The Bissell Symphony makes it easy for anyone to easily switch between vacuuming and mopping working on nearly every surface. 

5. Black + Decker CHV1410L 16V Cordless Lithium Hand Vacuum

For anyone looking for a handheld vacuum, this lithium hand vacuum from Black + Decker has been rated the best in its category.  It’s small, lightweight, and powerful all at the same time. It features a long neck with optional interchangeable attachments that allow you to get to those impossible places you can never get to.