Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-10-13T11:23:00.002-04:00

BRIGHTER THAN BRIGHT IDEAS FOR THE LAUNDRY

You either like it or you don't. Yes it 's true, some people actually like to do laundry. Isn't that amazing? I have to admit that I don't dislike doing laundry, but I don't find it very exciting, nor do I always understand it.
When I first had to do my own laundry I simply threw everything in together and settled with lots of pink and purple clothing. Now I know to at least separate things into a few piles: whites, darks, mediums, and reds. We always have a separate red wash because my husband seems to have a thing for red socks.
Laundry is one thing that has to be done regularly. If you don't have a washer and dryer, you probably spend time at a Laundromat or hire someone to wash your clothes. But someday you'll have to do it yourself.

Check out this GREEN Laundry video :

SPRING CLEANING SERVICE NYC

2008-10-05T14:42:00.002-04:00

Super solutions for sinks and tubs.

- Rust stains can be a problem. Commercial rust removers do work. Wear rubber gloves with these though.

- Discolored porcelain can also be cleaned with this solution: Mix cream of tartar with hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Or mix lemon juice and borax. Scrub paste into stain rinse well.

- Is the tub yellowed? Rub it with a small amount of salt and turpentine, mixed to the paste. Rinse well.

- Grout between tiles can get really disgusting. Use a toothbrush or nailbrush to clean difficult areas. Dip the brush in bleach to get at difficult spot of mildew.

- A cleaner for grout: Mix 3 cups of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water to a paste. Scrub on grout and rinse off well.

Spring cleaning Service NYC

2008-09-22T12:38:00.002-04:00

More Rooms,More Dirt!

Unfortunately, every room-no matter how little it is used- has to be cleaned eventually.
Some are easier than others. Areas that no one uses and those areas where there simply isn't much to clean are easiest. My long entryway just has to be swept. And there's the hall upstairs that just needs to be vacuumed and checked for cobwebs: there is nothing in it to clean. This is one reason why minimalist decorating become so popular.
Sometimes a room becomes a problem area when it is used for too many purposes, however. Disaster strikes when the television room is used for eating, playing, and reading, and remains of everything are strewn from end to end.

Spring Cleaning Services NYC

2008-09-16T16:59:00.002-04:00

ATTICS

Attics are killers.I can't get into my attic very easily, so I never use it. In a way this is lucky because it keeps down the amount of junk we save and it's one less space to clean. Of course, if you have an attic it is probably filled with junk. Keep those treasures in neatly labeled boxes and the space will look neater. You may have to dust the place or sweep it once in a while if it gets out of control. Attics don't really have to be clean all the time. Only tackle them when you are in the mood to throw things out. Don't go upstairs when you are feeling sentimental-nothing will get done.

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-08-30T15:56:00.002-04:00

Just a tip...

If you have a shower door,scrub that too. If the door has a runner, clean it with a toothbrush and a cleaning formula like Fantastic. If this doesn't work, use a paint scrapper-move it back and forth inside the runner. This may be rather disgusting the first time you do it, but it gets easier each time. Don't rinse anything until you have finished the entire job.

Have a great weekend!

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-08-29T11:23:00.002-04:00

Hi Guys!

I am back from summer laziness, so here we go again on:
THE BIG CLEAN part 2.

Cleaning the toilet has got to be up there on everyone's list of "jobs I wish I didn't have to do." My motto is "Do it fast."
I have found that those cleaners you hang in your toilet do little more than color the water and are no substitute for scrubbing, unfortunately.
Toilets are usually made of vitreous china, which is easy to clean. Be careful when using toilet-cleaning products: read the directions and don't mix products willy-nilly, as they can produce dangerous fumes when mixed together.

Here is a very helpful video:

Thanks for your attention,
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-22T11:39:00.002-04:00

THE BIG CLEAN part:1

When you feel your bathroom needs a big clean, start with the bathtub.
First clean the shower walls around the tub. Use a tile cleaner and a tile brush. Tile cleaner needs to sit a while before it works, as it's mainly a chemical action that gets things clean. After it has sat for the proper amount of time, start scrubbing the area where you first applied it. The brush works well because it gets into the grout between the tiles. There will be lots of bubbles on the wall, making it difficult to determine when you have removed all of the grime.

to be continued...

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-21T11:32:00.002-04:00

Cleaning the kitchen floor:

First you need to vacuum the floor to get up all the crud. Then it depends on the type of floor you have.
1. If your floor is no-wax vinyl, hardwood covered with polyurethane, or tile: Fill a bucket or sink with a little ammonia and lots of water. Mop the floor with this, rinsing often. If the water gets really dirty, you may have to refill the bucket.

2. If your floor is waxed or no-wax vinyl or linoleum: Use a specially formulated cleaner such as Mop and Glo. Rinse your mop, apply a thin line of cleaner to the floor about three feet long, and spread it over the floor with the mop, picking up as much dirt as you can. Sometimes you have to get at stubborn spots on your hands and knees, using a scraper.

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-18T11:45:00.002-04:00

Kitchen Tips

* To rid the cutting board of garlic or onion smell, cut a lime or lemon in half and rub the surface with the cut side of the fruit. Or, make a paste with baking soda and water and apply plenty of it. Rinse off.
* If you break an egg on the floor, sprinkle it heavily with salt; after five minutes sweep dried egg up into the dustpan.
* Hot vinegar will remove paint spots from glass.
* To remove streaks on stainless steel, rub with baby oil.
* Wash your sponge in the dishwasher.
* Sprinkle the broiler pan, while hot, with dry laundry detergent. Cover with a dampened paper towel and let the burned food set for a while. Food will come off easily.
* Loosen grime on the can opener by brushing with an old toothbrush.

So try these tips and check out these video from Youtube.
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-03T15:05:00.002-04:00

Cleaning large appliances part:2

Stove. There are two basic types of stove tops: gas and electric. Gas stoves are easier to clean than electric. Remove the grills from the burners and spray and wipe the surface underneath. Sometimes you may have to use an abrasive cleanser and a pad to take off gunk that sticks.
Electric stoves usually have a ring of chrome or aluminum around the burners that needs work. Sometimes a toothbrush can get around these, other times you will have to take the ring off to really get under the grime. The drip pans also need to be kept clean. These are very hard to keep looking good, though. Instead, buy new ones when they become dirty-it's so much easier.
Once the top is clean, work on the front. First, remove all control knobs and clean them in soapy water-then you can clean the surface.
Open the door and get the inside of the door window clean.

Good luck
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-02T14:55:00.002-04:00

Cleaning large appliances.

Refrigerators. Wipe the top off first , if you can. May be you just have to dust it, or maybe yours is like mine, with a cabinet over it so you can ignore it.
Wipe those fingerprints off the outside. Clean around the hinges and nameplate with a toothbrush. open the door and clean off the rubber gasket.
Wipe the yucky air went while the door is open or use your duster or vacuum cleaner. Clean the spot where the gasket meets the surface on the inside of the refrigerator. All this should be done weekly.
Every once in a while, you have to give the refrigerator a big cleaning. Choose a time to clean when there's little food in the fridge and freezer. Turn it off earlier to defrost before you clean it. Once ice is loose in the freezer, it's not too hard to clean. Put loose ice and ice tray in the sink. Remove the items Inside and spray a cleaner in the freezer. Remove the shelves and clean them in a mild, soapy solution. Dry thoroughly.
Inside the refrigerator, start by cleaning the shelves. If they are very bad, take them out and clean them in the sink, if not, they can be wiped where they are. Throw out anything old or gross as you clean-it really helps.
Remove drawers and bins and clean both inside and out. clean under the bottom drawers, as that area is usually a mess. Be sure to check the drain pan if there is one and clean this out, too.

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-07-01T16:01:00.002-04:00

Cleaning different surface materials.

Acrylic. Use a mild abrasive liquid or a powdered cleanser applied directly on a wet surface. Rinse well and dry.

Ceramic tile. Clean grout with a toothbrush and a spray tile cleaner.

Plastic laminate. Use one of those two-sided sponges with fiber on one side and sponge on the other. The fiber is gentle but abrasive and will get out many stains. Use the sponge side to wipe the surface off. Baking soda works wonders on counters.

Wood. Once in a while, rub oil into the wood to protect it. Use a salad oil or a boiled linseed oil. Baking soda cleans and deodorizes wood surfaces. Mix 1/2 cup with 1 quart of warm water. Rub into a paste on the wood, rinse well with clear water, and pat dry.

Happy cleaning;
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-29T00:36:00.002-04:00

Counters and cupboards

Start cleaning the cupboards first because they are higher up than most anything else. Usually you just have to watch for the fingerprints on the handles. Counters always have to be cleaned. Work from back to front, being sure to move canisters, toasters, etc, to clean underneath them. Use a toothbrush to clean around drawer or cabinet handles. Spray and wipe as you go.
Continue around the kitchen. Look for spiderwebs as you go. Dust these with the feather duster, or a long-handled brush for high spots.
Open shelves can be dusted with a duster, too. To clean a shelf, move all the items to one side and clean the empty side, then move everything over to the side you've cleaned and repeat. If the shelf is too full, move just enough of the stuff to the counter so there is space to move what is left.

Have a great weekend
Spring Cleaning Service

2008-06-27T23:29:00.002-04:00

The kitchen

Kitchen are more than just kitchen nowadays. They are bright family rooms where everyone seems to gather after a day in the real world. More than cooking goes on here. Sometimes we put a desk, a computer, a television-maybe even a couch or an easy chair-in the kitchen, in addition to all the usual kitchen paraphernalia.
but even in the modern family-room type of kitchen, cooking still goes on, so this is going to get extra messy. eggs will break. Milk will spill. Dinners will be burned on top of the stove. The only way to control all of these disasters is to establish daily cleanup rules.
If everybody in the house works together at keeping the kitchen clean, the big jobs won't seem as awesome. And the big jobs will tell you, when they have to be done. When your sneakers stick to the floor, it's time to wash the floor. When the refrigerator starts to smell, it's time to clean it out. And when all the smoke alarms in the house go off every time you turn on the oven, it's time to clean that oven.
You get the idea.

Spring Cleaning Service

2008-06-25T12:47:00.002-04:00

Kitchens and Bathrooms: The gruesome twosome.

Most rooms that we live in are pretty much the same: they have a floor, walls, a window or two, and a closet or storage space. All of these things need vacuuming, dusting, organizing-the whole bit. But there are two rooms that require special attention: The kitchen and a bathroom. These are the rooms that somehow always need to be cleaned. Always. You can't really get away with not cleaning them unless you live alone and really don't care about what kind of place you live in. But most of us do have people in once in a while, and usually these people have to use the bathroom or want a cup of tea, so these two rooms demand a bit of extra attention.
In the next couple of days we will be talking a bit about how to clean our KITCHEN.
So get ready!

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-23T13:01:00.002-04:00

Cleaning of painted walls and wallpaper.

Walls that have been painted with latex-based paint are easy to wash after the paint has been on for a while.
Oil based paint can be cleaned, too. Use a commercial all-purpose cleaner, or try one of the solutions below.

1. Mix 1 cup of ammonia, 1/2 cup of vinegar, and 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water. This is strong stuff-use your rubber gloves. Rinse well.

2. Lighter fluid will take off crayon marks on walls. Put a little on a cloth and rub carefully.

3. Alcohol works on those funny black spots on the wall. Test an area first, though.

4. Be careful with wallpaper. Try to save the instructions that came with it. Some can be washed but many cannot.

5. Erasers are handy for removing spots.

6. Clean grease by blotting first with paper towels and sprinkling cornstarch on the stain. Rub off cornstarch when it has soaked up grease and vacuum.

7. Chunks of soft, stale bread rubbed over wallpaper can erase soiled areas. I like rye.

8. More grease? Put baby powder on a clean powder puff. Rub the puff over the spot until grease disappears.

9. Use nylon stockings bunched up into a ball to clean rough plaster walls.

Take a look at these commercial operation of wall washing:

Thanks for your attention
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-22T14:23:00.002-04:00

How about cleaning WALLS?

Yes, walls get dirty too, even though they are vertical. Amazing, isn't it? Dirt is all around us even when we don't notice it.
Of course, walls get dirty when kids put their hands on them or when they decide to color them-or worse. I've learned that if you don't deal with the dirt that builds up on the walls regularly, you'll be in real trouble when you go to deal with a spot. When trying to take off a spot, you often wind up with a lot of gook on the wall, usually in the form of a round, gray spot. Not fun.
So here is the thing: you can vacuum your walls. Isn't that wild? When it gets bad you can use an all-purpose cleaner on the washable walls.

1. Wash walls from top to bottom. This can be a pain. Sometimes I prefer to just repaint the walls.

2. Use warm iron to remove tape from a wall. Through a protective cloth, press the tape with the iron to loosen its backing.

3. Rub finger smudges right away. (This is much easier said than done. I usually leave smudges for a few years as a sentimental reminders of my kids' cute, chubby fingers.)

4. Brick walls can be cleaned with water and cleaner, and if the mortar is dirty, try some bleach. Smoke stains around a fireplace can be removed with an abrasive cleaner. Rinse well.

Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-20T12:25:00.002-04:00

Windows, part two:

Here are some SUPER SOLUTIONS for window cleaning you may find to be interesting.

1. Mix 1/3 cup of ammonia in 1 gallon warm water. Apply with a sponge or pour into a spray bottle.

2. On cold days add 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol to each quart of water used and you wont have any ice.

3. Another solution: Add 1/2 cup ammonia, 1 cup white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to a bucket of warm water.

4. Spotted sills: Pour diluted rubbing alcohol on a cloth and rub the entire sill. They'll look newly painted.

5. Grease spots: Use leftover cola drink.

6. The tracks of a sliding glass door: almost impossible.One friend wraps a cloth around an eraser and rubs away.

7. Screen windows: Rub a brush-type roller over the screen and it will pick up dust.

8. Use cream silver polish on aluminum window frames.

9. Wear rubber gloves when you use any strong window cleaner.

More tips on wall washing next week.
Have a great weekend.
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-19T12:23:00.002-04:00

WINDOWS

Some people do clean all their windows regularly, and they say that washing them twice a year is a good plan. One friend gets everyone in the family involved and they make it into a game, with kids and adults running all over trying to clean all the windows in a certain amount of time. Another good thing to do is to hire someone to do it.

Here are some tips for washing windows:

1. One key thing about washing windows that even I know: Use vertical strokes when washing outside and horizontal strokes when washing inside. This way you will know which side the streaks are on.

2. Wash windows from the top to the bottom so you won't have drips messing up what you have already done.

3. Use a long-handled squeegee on big windows. These are fun to use and don't leave many streaks.

4. If you want real shine, rub a clean blackboard eraser over a just-washed window and stand back!

5. Don't let window cleaner get on woodwork, as it can damage it. And never use steel wool on glass.

6. Try not to wash windows on the sunniest day of the week, as the glass may streak and it's better for your health to enjoy the sun.

7. What to use? Some say use newspaper. Others say use anything but newspaper. One friend says that newspaper crumbled up and dipped into a bowl filled with vinegar works wonders. She dips the paper, puts it on the window, and wipes the glass until it's almost dry with the same paper. Then she shines it with a cloth or more newspaper, dry this time.

As usual here is your Youtube video on the subject:

Have a great day
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-17T12:00:00.002-04:00

Now imagine this:

The phone rings. It's your long-lost roommate from college who just happens to be in the area. She'll be over in ten minutes, even though you told her to go the long way around town. The house is a mess.
Try this:

1. Gather that is lying where it doesn't belong in the entryway and living area and throw it into an empty basket or bag.
Hide filled basket.

2. Wipe out any ashtrays. Stack magazines and newspapers in an orderly pile. Plump up pillows on sofas.

3. Give the bathroom sink and toilet a quick rub. Straighten up the bathroom that she'll visit. Throw odds and ends in cabinets. If you have the time, put some Lysol on a rag and swish it around the sink a few times. This way the room will smell clean even if it really isn't.

4. Rinse any dishes and stack them neatly in the sink or in the dishwasher. Wipe counters.

5. Close doors to any room you don't want to display.

Good luck
Spring Cleaning Service

2008-06-16T14:35:00.002-04:00

Today's wisdom is: "Entertain once a month. That way your house will always be clean!"

Seasonal cleaning is a leftover from another generation when everyone did "spring" and "fall" cleaning faithfully. This was big-time cleaning, when you did all the heavy work that you didn't get to the rest of the year. Windows, draperies, closets, garages, and attics were all part of this semiannual blitz.
It is still a good idea, of course, if you have the time. But really, if I did a spring cleaning I'd have to take a vacation to do it, and who wants to waste vacation time on cleaning the house? Not me. So most of us fit the big stuff in and around our regular cleaning schedules.
One of the few seasonal tasks that people still do at least twice a year is to sort clothes. Lots of folks take the winter clothes to dry cleaner in the early spring for storage throughout the warmer months. This works well well but can be expensive. If you have children you'll be moving clothes around and cleaning closets and drawers when you change seasonal clothes. Be smart when you do this: If you have clothes you know your youngest child won't wear, give them to someone else with the same-sized youngster.It's silly to keep clothes that won't be worn.

Na watch this really funny movie about spring cleaning!
Enjoy

See you Guys tomorrow!
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-13T13:11:00.002-04:00

Thank God it's Friday afternoon, (what a week this was)!!!!
Today we gonna talk about MOPS

I like a sponge mop. It's important to buy a good one so you can really lean into it without having it falling apart. Make sure you get one with a replaceable sponge. Chances are that at one time or another you have either bought a sponge mop only to find that the sponge has been permanently glued to the handle, or you have bought a replacement sponge later that won't fit your mop. This is a drag. When buying a sponge mop, I check to be sure the sponge isn't permanent and buy two replacements at the same time. This saves incredible headaches and guarantees that the whole unit will last much longer. Some people swear by the wet mops with the cotton heads. These are ok, but I never have figured out how to use them, and when they get dirty they look really awful.
If you use them dry, though, they,re handy for dusting floors.

Here is a very interesting floor moping video on Youtube:

Hope that you all have a great Weekend, I will see you next week!!!
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

2008-06-11T12:50:00.002-04:00

HOW TO CLEAN A ROOM QUICKLY

First,don't try to clean when you are dressed to kill.Avoid wearing decent clothes. Get into something baggy and comfortable.You can still wear makeup,though.People always seem to drop by for a visit just when you decide to really clean.
If you only have time to do one room-say you have thirty-five minutes to kill before you run your son to his baseball game-it's simple.First,carry all your appropriate cleaning supplies with you in your handy carryall.
Once in the room, take everything out of the room that doesn't belong there.Things that need to be cleaned separately, say a bowl or a vase, should go in one place to be cleaned in the kitchen.Do not put anything back until you have entirely cleaned the room.
Pull furniture out from the walls, unless it's too big and heavy, of course.Turn back the rugs at their edges and pick up small rugs to make vacuuming easier.Work your way around the room.Work from top down.Dust away, vacuum furniture, wipe smudges off doorknobs, light switches, and walls.
Clean hard-surface floors next. Vacuum all hard floors with a brush attachment to avoid scratches.Straighten out rugs.Vacuum rugs more slowly.
Replace the furniture, dust the little stuff and replace it, and voila,there's a fairly clean room.Don't worry about polishing or washing windows or scrubbing the floors-that's for another time.

Have a great day!!!!!
Spring Cleaning Service

Check out this guy on Youtube!

2008-06-10T11:39:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!!

Buying the best cleaning equipment is wise, as it lasts longer and usually works better, too.
Enter:VACUUM CLEANERS.
This is a must. If you are getting married,put one of these at the top of your wish list.A good cannister-type vacuum can cost a lot of money,so it makes a good wedding gift.Get one with the power drive in the beater head(this may be another attachment).The power drive has its own motor so you can get two motors working on one machine to get things really clean.The hose separates so it can be used for other tasks.
Since vacuum cleaners are expensive, be sure to buy from a dealer you trust. It's fine to buy from someone who comes to the door.Electrolux and Kirby,both excellent machines, are sold this way.If you have a two-story house you may want a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner for downstairs and a lighter one for upstairs, where there isn't so much heavy dirt accumulation.
Take care of your vacuum.Read the manual carefully and follow its instructions.Don't run the vacuum cleaner over the cord, as a damaged cord can lead to shocks or fire.Avoid using extension cords and do try to use standard wall outlet.Disconnect your vacuum cleaner from the outlet before changing bags, filters, brushes, or belts.Store the vacuum in a cool,dry area.
Watch this great video on how the MIELE vacuum cleaner is the best choise!

As always, if you have any questions contact us at www.Springcleaning.us

2008-06-06T11:35:00.003-04:00

Happy Friday everyone!!!!!
As promised let,s talk about KEEPING EQUIPMENT AT HAND.

Since you never sure when the urge to clean something will attack, it's good to be ready.Pregnant woman have a big problem with this:They want to have things ready for the baby-to-be and are known to wake up in the middle of the night because they realize the windowsills may be dirty.If this should happen to you, whether you are pregnant or not, it is much better to be ready for it.These divided containers are wonderful to have at the ready,no matter what your hormonal situation may be.
What should go in it?
I have a plastic divided container and a more attractive basket-type one.The basket-type container is under the bathroom sink.(Just imagine your guests going to the bathroom and opening the door under the sink to check it out.Confess-don't you do that too?)In your carryall you may put:

*all-purpose cleanser, like Ajax or Comet
*liquid window cleaner like Windex
*a bottle of Fantastik or Formola 409 (spray is best)
*one white scrub pad/sponge combination
*one plain sponge
*a floor cleaner (like Mop and Glo)
*a bottle of ammonia
*cleaning cloths
*rubber gloves
*a toothbrush
*a paint scraper and razor-blade holder with a sharp blade

Just think what you could clean with all of that stuff.If you have just such a well-equipped cleaning basket and can lug around your vacuum and your sponge mop, you are set.I sometimes like to leave it out on the kitchen counter because it looks so efficient.That way if someone comes over to visit they can see how you were just getting ready to clean the place.

That is it for today and have a great weekend.
Spring Cleaning Service NYC

Watch this video on clutter!Good stuff.

2008-06-05T10:36:00.002-04:00

Storage

Where to keep all the cleaning supplies?
You really need a closet to store all the brooms and mops,or if you like to see everything- maybe as a reminder that the job never gets done- hang them artistically on the wall of the laundry room in a kind of modern art collage.But if you are like me, you would sooner throw the buckets and sponge mops behind a door and forget they exist when you're not using them.Those divided containers you can buy in the housewares section of the department store are great for bottles of cleaners and cloths and sponges and all.If you are organized you get one (or better yet,two )of these and put all your cleaning supplies in it.Keep one under the kitchen sink and maybe another in the upstairs bathroom.Grab it when you feel the urge to clean and you'll be able to whip around the house with everything at your fingertip.

I found this great video on Youtube!

Next time I will talk about keeping cleaning equipment at hand.
Till then greetings
Springcleaning Service NYC

2008-06-03T16:52:00.002-04:00

The trick is: Making it a habit!!!!!!

Nobady has enough time these days, what with jobs and children and activities, so who has time for extras like cleaning the house?
It seems that finding the time to clean and establishing efficient routines are all-important to the art of cleaning.If you can time everything just so, you have got it made.
Cleaning doesn't have to be one of those things that has a life of its own, however.
We can control the workload if we establish routines to keep us on top of things.Some tasks need to be done every day, some only once a week,some twice a month, and some once a year or only once every three years.If you can figure out whay needs to be done when,you're more than halfway there.

Or worst come to worst you can always call a pro cleaning service like us at Springcleaning.

Happy cleaning

2008-06-02T14:22:00.002-04:00

A few words of wisdom from Sprint Cleaning Service.

My favorite cleaning tool is a manual, hand push carpet cleaner.You don't see them around much anymore but they are quick, convenient, effective, and quiet. For small, frequent jobs or when you want to clean when the baby is sleeping, they are great!!!

As always please check out our web site at www.springcleaning.us for all your cleaning needs!

Thanks

2008-04-22T19:15:00.003-04:00

How to keep skunks out...
Believe it or not, skunks hate strong odors. You can keep them out of your outbuildings just by hanging a strong smelling soap bar or room deodorizer in the space.

One way to squirrel proof your bird feeder...
Is to string it on a long wire that runs between two trees, but make sure it's away from any low-hanging branches.

Here is one for your cat...
To keep a cat from scratching the wooden legs of your chairs, rub the wood with chili sauce, then buff.

So, give it a try and let me know the results!
Kristie at springcleaning.us

2007-03-14T16:02:00.002-04:00

Easter and Passover Cleanings!
If you are planning to do a major cleaning for your upcoming holidays, be sure to call for an appointment with your favorite cleaning service in advance, otherwise, they might not be able to fit you into their schedule.
So, prepare your things to do list and let the professionals deal with the details!

Remember:

Passover begins at sundown on April 2nd;
Good Friday is on April 6th;
Easter is on April 8th.

Thanks for visiting.
Eszter @ Springcleaning.us

2007-03-12T14:59:00.002-04:00

Are you living in out of control clutter or squalor?
Whatever it is you're living in just remember, you are not the only one, you deserve better!
If you are faced with cleaning up years of hoarded clutter, you are certainly feeling overwhelmed and asking yourself, "Where do I start?" We clean up the worst possible situations that a person could face in his or her lifetime including: out of control mess and clutter, compulsive hoarding cases, unbearable squalor, and other. Remember - You are NOT a bad person, just a bad housekeeper.

2007-03-07T18:38:00.000-05:00

When it is time for spring-cleaning and you find yourself pressed for time, or if spring housecleaning never was your thing, hiring SpringCleaning.us, a professional housecleaning service, can make spring-cleaning a breeze. We are offering a "Spring House Cleaning Package" that can be customized to ease the burden of the instinctual, yet daunting, task of spring-cleaning. Click here to see our spring house cleaning list and to schedule an appointment for your spring cleaning project. Thanks for visiting.

2006-04-03T11:34:00.001-04:00

Cleaning Your Showers

How can the shower the place where you clean yourself-get so dirty? Nowhere, save for the kitchen sink, does a home show grime more than in the shower. Soap, shampoo, and dirt fom the shower's temporary denizens combine to make an unsighdy mess.
TO keep your shower sparkling, try these:

Next time you shower, clean the shower, too. The steam from your shower will help loosen any grime and make the job easier.

For tiled shower walls and floor, use dishwasher detergent (either powder or liquid will do). Mix 1/4 cup dishwasher detergent with warm water in a small pump spray bottle and shake to dissolve the detergent. Spritz liberally on walls, let it sit two or three hours, and then scrub with a sponge. Use a sponge mop to scrub high spots and the floor.

To clean tile grout, make a paste of baking soda and bleach (add bleach to the powder until it's a thick goo). Smear the paste on with a spatula. Air-dry for an hour and then scrub with a toothbrush and water. (Never use ammonia nearby, since ammonia and bleach don't mix.)
To prevent water spots, rub the shower walls and doors with a squeegee right after you have taken your shower. If you have no squeegee, an old wiper blade will do. Or try one of the daily shower cleaners. Mist surfaces right after you shower,while the walls are still warm and wet. The cleaner will prevent deposits from forming and will wash down the drain the next time you shower.

To clean your shower doors, follow these pointers:
Wash them with white vinegar to banish soap scum.
Or take that leftover white wine that's rapidly turning to Vinegar, empty it into a trigger spray bottle, and squirt it on your shower doors. Rinse well with water and dry with a soft cloth
Wipe down the doors with fabric softener on a damp cloth.
Buff with a clean, dry cloth.
Another way to keep soap scum away: Wipe down the shower doors with lemon oil. Baby oil works too, as does furniture polish, buffed with a soft cloth.
Scrub shower door runners with white toothpaste and an old toothbrush. Brush with vinegar to rinse.
To keep runners from growing a bumper crop of mildew. Run the head of a small sponge paintbrush along the bottom runner channels when you've finished showering.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-28T17:00:00.001-05:00

Spring Cleaning for your Attic

Neglect your attic, and you could have a dust and mold factory hanging over your head. Give it a good cleaning once a year, and you will not only remove a source of these irritants from your home but you'll also have a valuable storage space that you won't dread going into now and then.
Before you start-especially if it's been several years since you even went into your attic-you should gear up to protect Yourself. A disposable respirator is inexpensive and will protect your lungs from dust, spores, dander, and other nuisances. You may need an apron to protect your clothes, goggles to protect your eyes, and rubber gloves for your hands (latex gloves or something heavy-duty, depending on the extent of the job). If your attic is already used for storage, make sure everything is organized before you attempt cleaning. This means storing small items in labeled boxes, grouping together boxes that contain like items and opening up walkways so that you can get to any box in any part of the room.
To actually clean the attic, fire up the vacuum cleaner and star sucking up dust trom the top down-ceiling, beams, walls, and floor. (Wearing the disposable respirator is a good idea )
If your attic already has things stored in it, don't just clean around the boxes-clean under them, too. Once the major grime has been vanquished, you're ready to give the area a light once-over with a damp cleaning cloth dipped in a solution of water and mild dishwashing liquid.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning Around the House, Apartment.
( An A-to -Z guide )
Part III.

Needlepoint pillows: If they need deep cleaning, wash with a gentle, low sudsing detergent. Otherwise, hit them with the front of your palm to get the dust out.
Patio umbrella: To clean the mildew from your plastic pool umbrella, throw it in the swimming pool for a couple of days. The chlorine in the water will kill the mildew. Do not use this method for cleaning canvas umbrellas.
Photographs: Clean old photos by gently rubbing with a piece of bread.
Piano keys: To clean an ivory keyboard, apply a small amount of white, non-gel toothpaste with a damp cloth. Use a clean cloth to wipe dry and buff. Use an all-purpose cleaner for a plastic keyboard.
Radiator: Drape a damp towel behind the unit. Use the blower part of your vacuum cleaner to "dust it." The towel will catch the dust.
Rubber gloves: Wash the outside of the gloves just as you would your hands. Dry thoroughly. Sprinkle the inside with baking soda to keep them odor-free.
Telephone: Clean it with cotton balls dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Television: Don't spray your television set with cleaner - it may leak into the set. Use a cloth dampened with soap and water to clean the plastic casing. Clean the screen with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.
Vases: To clean inside a small vase, fill with water and drop in denture tablets. Let stand for half an hour, then rinse with clear water. Or dampen the inside and add a commercial toilet bowl cleaner. Swish around to distribute the liquid and let stand for 15 minutes.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-21T10:42:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning Around the House, Apartment.
( An A-to -Z guide )
Part II.

Driveway: Spray engine degreaser on oil stains. Let it stand about 20 minutes, then spray with the hose.
Eyeglasses: Use a few drops of vodka or vinegar on glass lenses (not plastic) for a streak-free shine and no scratches.
Fireplace: Clean smoke-stained areas with an artgum eraser, available at craft shops. Clean smooth stone or brick fireplaces with a solution of one cup trisodium phosphate to two gallons of water. Keep brick fireplaces clean in the future by sealing them.
Garage floors: To clean oil stains from concrete, soak the area with mineral spirits for half an
hour then scrub with a stiff brush. Place towels or newspapers over the area to absorb the grease and allow to dry. After, mix a solution of detergent, bleach and water and scrub again.
Garden tools: Clean mud or dirt from them with a stiff wire brush and a damp cloth. Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent rust. If they are rusty, firmly scrub with a steel wool pad soaked in turpentine. Keep them clean and dry by storing them in a bucket of sand.
Golf balls: Clean with a solution, of one-quarter cup ammonia and one cup water.
Grill: Cover the grill area with heavy duty aluminum foil and tightly secure all edges. Heat the coals, and once they've reached their hottest point, put the aluminum foil-covered grill over the fire and "cook" it. Grease and food will burn off and be trapped by the tin foil. Keep your grill clean in the future by spraying it with cooking oil before using it.
Iron: Remove burned-on spots on your clothes by rubbing the bottom of the iron with a heated solution of salt and vinegar. Remove mineral deposits from inside the iron by filling it with equal parts vinegar and water. Let it steam for a few moments, then unplug and leave for a few hours. Empty and rinse with plain water.
Litter box: Don't use ammonia or bleach. Bleach reacts with the ammonia from your cat's urine, creating hazardous fumes. Your cat may confuse the ammonia fumes with a dirty box. Soapy water is fine.
For more cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or call Spring Cleaning Service in New York City,NYC, at 212-962-6730 today for all your spring house,apartment, cleaning needs!!!

2006-03-20T11:03:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning Around the House, Apartment.
( An A-to -Z guide )

A,B,C...

Those odds and ends in and around the house don't fit into any particular category, but they still need to be cleaned, polished, dusted and shined.
Artificial flowers: Clean silk or dried flowers by putting them in a bag filled halfway with salt and shake. The dust will stick to the salt, leaving perfect flowers. If your arrangement is delicate, blow them with the blowdryer on a low setting.
Awnings: Rain water will stain an awning. Once a month or so, spray them with a mild detergent, then hose them down. Apply a water repellent to prevent leaking.
Books: Remove the price sticker from the cover of your book by covering the book with a cloth and ironing it for a few minutes on medium heat. Use your fingers to gently roll the price tag off.
Brushes and combs: Add a few tablespoons each of baking soda and bleach to a sink full of warm water. Let the brush and comb soak for about five minutes, then rinse and let air dry.
Candles: Sponge clean with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Candlesticks: Remove wax that has dripped onto the holders by placing them in the freezer for a few hours. Then just peel the wax off. Or place them in very hot water, then buff with a cloth.
Cassette recorders: Cleaning your recorder once a week will keep it running longer. Buy a cleaning kit from an electronics store and dab gently, using a cotton swab. (Denatured alcohol will clean the rubber parts.) Finally, run the demagnetizing cassette through the recorder to get rid of magnetic buildup.
Cigarette smoke: Soak a towel in water, wring it out and swish it around the room. Or pour vinegar in a shallow bowl and leave it in the room overnight.
Closet: Here's a way to keep your closets always smelling clean and fresh: Fill a coffee can with aquarium charcoal (available at pet stores) and set in the corner or on a shelf.
Compact discs: Wip with a clean, lint-free cloth, then rinse with cool water. Wipe dry with a clean towel (again, lint-free).
Computer keyboard: Turn the keyboard upside down and gently pat the back to dislodge any dust, then wipe with a clean, dry cloth. Or buy a special soft brush attachment for your vacuum cleaner.
Cooler: Keep your cooler odor-free by sprinkling tlle bottom with baking soda before you store it.
Curling iron: Hair spray buildup is the most common problem. Let the curling iron cool down, unplug and rub with rubbing alcohol or fingernail polish remover. If any buildup remains, rub with a fine-grade sandpaper.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-17T11:17:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning your Shoes

Use a special wire brush to clean suede shoes.
Before putting them away in the closet or shoebox, let your shoes air out for a few hours.
If you were caught in the rain or snow, crumple up newspaper and stuffit into your shoes.
To clean shoes that are stained with mud or salt, make a solution of one part water and one part vinegar.
Dampen a cloth with the mixture and dab the spotted areas. Let shoes dry.
Spray your white shoes with hairspray after polishing to keep them looking clean longer.
Protect canvas shoes with spraystarch or fabric protector.
For more cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or call Spring Cleaning Service in New York City,NYC, at 212-962-6730 today for all your spring house,apartment, cleaning needs!!!

2006-03-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning for your Jewelry...

Instead of paying an expensive jeweler to clean your favorite things, make your own cleanser. Mix equal parts ammonia and water. Soak your jewelry for about five minutes then use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub. Rinse thoroughly and dry to a shine. Do not use this solution for gold electroplate or on soft stones such as pearls or opals.
Here's another cleaner for diamonds: Mix one cup of water, a teaspoon of detergent and a teaspoon of powdered bleach. Soak the stones for a minute or two, rinse and buff dry.
Or boil diamonds and their settings in gently rolling water with a teaspoon of detergent for about five minutes. Let the diamond cool before rinsing it. Don't boil diamonds that are set with glue.
Gold jewelry can be cleaned with one part ammonia to two parts warm water. Soak the item for 20 minutes, scrub with a toothbrush and rinse. Buff with a clean cloth.
It's best to use silver polish to clean your sterling, but toothpaste (the white, non-gel kind) is the next best thing. Squeeze some on a cloth and rub into the silver. Use a clean cloth to firmly buff and polish. Don't use this method all the time; it's abrasive and could scratch your silver permanently.
Pearls don't need to be cleaned often. The best way to keep them shiny is to wear them often, letting the oil from your skin give them a natural glow. But you can restore the shine with a dab of olive oil and a soft cloth.
Many metals and jewels are damaged when they are exposed to household cleansers and other everyday objects around the house, so take off your jewelry before you clean.
Gold can be easily damaged by chlorine. Take off all your jewelry when you're cleaning with this product .
* Silver tarnishes when exposed to salt, eggs, vinegar and cleansers.
* Precious and semi-precious stones can be scratched by everyday household cleaners, so remove jewelry when you clean.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-15T12:03:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning your Car.

To keep your car looking new, it's a good idea to wash it every week. First, hose off any dirt. Then sponge on a solution of water and car washing detergent. (Don't use household products
they can scratch the finish.) Rinse the car, working down from the roof. Wipe dry using terry towels.
Use only clean, soft rags. Dirty rags just spread around the dirt and any abrasion in the rag could ruin the car's finish.
Don't let your car dry naturally,wipe it with a soft, clean cloth. Most water contains chlorine which can damage the finish.
Remove rust stains with a very fine-grade of steel wool.
Or crumple up aluminum foil and firmly scrub the rusted spots only.
A baking soda and water paste cleans headlights, enamel and chrome. Rinse well.
Nail polish remover will get rid of an unwanted bumper sticker. Saturate the sticker, let soak for a few moments, then scrape away with a knife.
To remove tar, dab the affected area with ammonia. Let sit for one minute, then blot.
Get rid of cigarette odors - and prevent them from coming back - by layering the ashtray with baking soda.
If you've bought a new car and can't get rid of the price hig, sponge on vinegar. Gently rub using a soft cloth. You may need to repeat.
Cooking oil removes stubborn price tags, but it leaves another greasy mess behind.
Repair a scratch with a crayon of similar color. Work the wax into the scratch and blend with your fingertips.
Clean windshields with full strength vinegar. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
Remove the grime on your windshield wipers with a solution of one part water and one part antifreeze.
For more cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or call Spring Cleaning Service in New York City,NYC, at 212-962-6730 today for all your spring house,apartment, cleaning needs!!!

2006-03-14T16:48:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning tips for your laundry...

With so many different fabrics now available, it's hard to know what to do in the laundry room. Cold water or hot? Dry-clean or not? Should natural fibers be washed differently than synthetic? Once it's stained, is it ruined?
Here are some hints that will make doing the wash a lot less scary:
* Remove stains as soon as possible. Once a stain has gone through the wash and dry cycle it's more difficult to remove.
* Blot the stain with a clean cloth.
* Use a small amount of spot remover and dab it into the stain. Blot frequently and don't rub.
* Work from the outer edges toward the center of the stain. This should prevent rings from forming.
Treating stains & spots:
* Acid:
Acids are found in drainopeners, toilet bowl cleaners and other common household cleansers as well as in urine and vomit. It's important that you get to them in time, otherwise the acid may eat a hole in your fabric. Flush the area with cold water immediately. Next, neutralize the acid, using baking soda or ammonia. Blot out the neutralizer using fresh water.
Launder as usual.
* Antiperspirant:
Blot the spot with a paper towel dampened with a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Wash as usual in the hottest water that's safe for the fabric.
* Baby formula:
If the stains don't come out with normal washing, squeeze lemon juice on the spot and let it sit in the sun until it has dried. Then launder as usual.
* Ballpoint pen:
Commercial prewash sprays work well on ink. Place a paper towel under the spot and spray. Keep blotting and spraying until the stain is gone. Wash as usual. Nail polish remover works well on some fabrics, but test on a hidden area first.
* Beer:
Not only does it smell bad, but it can also leave a permanent spot. Make a vinegar and water solution and dab it into the stain. Rinse with warm water, then wash as usual.
* Bleach:
This is the most difficult stain to deal with, and unfortunately, one of the most common. All you really can do is flush the stain with water. That may dilute the damage so that the garment is still wearable. If not, try dying it with a commercial dye.
* Blood:
Get to bloodstains immediately. Rinse well in cold water, then try one of the following:
* Sprinkle stain with unflavored meat tenderizer.
* Blot on hydrogen peroxide with a damp cloth, allow to bubble, then wipe with a fresh cloth. Repeat if necessary.
For dried bloodstains: Soak overnight in cold water and two cups salt. Wash as usual.
* Candle wax:
Scrape off as much as possible. Place a paper towel or brown bag over and under the spot. Iron on medium setting; the wax should be absorbed by the paper.
Candy (not chocolate):
Remove as much of the sticky stuff as you can with a dull knife. Soak the garment in warm water. Make a solution of vinegar and water and dab it onto the spot. Wash as usual.
* Catsup:
Blot off as much as possible - don't rub. Soak in cold water, then use an enzyme detergent as a presoak. Wash as usual.
* Chocolate:
Sponge the stain with cold water. Then add two tablespoons of borax to two cups of warm water and continue sponging the stain with this solution. Rinse and wash as usual.
* Cigarette burns:
The nicotine and tar should come out by washing the garment in hot water and bleach or color-safe bleach. Other than reweaving, there's not much you can do if you've burnt the item.
Coffee:
Sponge the stain or soak it in cold water. Make a solution of two tablespoons borax to two cups warm water and let the fabric soak. Rinse and wash as usual.
* Cosmetics:
A bar of white soap should be all you need. Wet the stain and rub the soap into it. Use a prewash formula if stain persists, then wash as usual.
* Egg:
Scrape away as much as possible with a dull knife. Soak fabric in a solution of detergent and water. Wash as usual.
* Fruit juice:
If it's a fresh stain, put the fabric in the sink and pour boil
ing water over it. Wash as usual. For older stains, soak in cold water, then rub in detergent. Work into stain, then wash as usual.
* Glue:
Rinse with warm water and blot. Or loosen by soaking a clean cloth in white vinegar and saturating the glue spot until it loosens.
* Grass:
Mix one-third cup vinegar and two-thirds cup water. Apply to stain and blot. Or pre-soak in hydrogen peroxide and launder as usual.
*Grease:
Use a powder, such as talcum or cornstarch, to soak up anyexcess grease. When powder gets thick, scrape away and repeat. Place garment face down on paper towels and apply a dry cleaning solvent or liquid detergent. Then dampen the area with water and rub with a bar of white soap. Wash as usual.
* Honey (or syrup):
Sponge the'area with warm water until it's no longer sticky. Use a pre-treater, then wash as usual.
* Iron scorch:
Rub liquid detergent into the area. Then wash entire garment in hot water with bleach or hydrogen peroxide (for items that can't take bleach).
*Lipstick:
Scrape off as much as you can with a dull knife. Use a prewash spray and rub with a cleanwhite towel. Wash as usual.
* Margarine or butter:
Mix one teaspoon laundry detergent with warm water. Apply to spot and blot. You may need to repeat a few times. Mix one part white vinegar and two parts water. Saturate the stain and blot until dry. Wash as usual.
* Mildew:
Apply white vinegar and lemon juice to kill the mildew. Let the item sit in the sun for a few hours. Wash as usual, but separately from other items.
* Milk:
Soak in warm water and use a pre-wash enzyme solution.
* Mud:
Allow mud to dry, then scrape off with a soft brush. Rub the remaining spot with a solution of two tablespoons borax to two cups water. Rinse well and wash as usual.
* Mustard:
Use white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Wash as usual.
* Nail polish:
Sponge with polish remover or banana oil, then wash as usual. If stain remains, add a few drops of alcohol and blot. Wash again. Caution: Do not use polish remover on acetate or triacetate fabric.
* Paint (oil-based):
Blot up as much excess as possible. Turpentine or paint thinner diluted with water will do the trick if the fabric is color-safe.
* Paint (water-based):
Blot up excess. Wet the spot with water, then dab on a liquid detergent with a clean cloth. For an older stain, apply a paint remover. As the spots turn soft, gently scrape them away. Wash as usual.
* Pencil lead:
This isn't a problem for most sturdy fabrics, but it can cause problems for delicate fabrics or white cottons and linens. First, wet the area, then make a spray using water and a few drops ammonia. Sponge on the solution, then wash as recommended on the garment label.
* Perfume:
Wash a fresh perfume stain immediately in clear, warm water. Rub an old stain
with glycerine, then wash as usual.
* Pet stains (urine):
Blot up as much liquid as possible with paper towels. Change the towels often. Sponge on a little white vinegar to neutralize the stain. This helps stop any further discoloration. Mix two tablespoons liquid detergent with one cup water and apply sparingly. Blot up any excess with a clean towel.
Ring around the collar:
Brush shampoo into the collar using a stiff brush or an old toothbrush. Wash as usual. Or rub the dirty areas with chalk, which absorbs the body oil causing the dirt.
* Rust:
Soak in lemon juice and salt. Wash as usual.
* Shoe polish:
Remove with rubbing alcohol. Use one part alcohol to two parts water for color-fast fabrics. Apply straight for white fabrics.
* Soft drinks:
Rinse right away in cold water and rubbing alcohol.
* Spaghetti sauce (catsup, barbecue sauce):
Scrape off as much as I you can. Flush the area with cold water. If stain remains, dab on a vine
gar and water solution and rinse thoroughly. Apply a commercial stain treater and let sit for a few minutes. Wash as usual in warm water.
* Suntan lotion:
Treat with a commercial pre-treater. Let sit for a while, then rub in petroleum jelly. Wash the item in hot water.
* Tar:
Rub with kerosene until tar is gone, then wash with detergent and water. Wash as usual.
* Tea:
Pour boiling water over white fabrics if stain is still fresh. Rinse in
warm water. Bleach in final wash if necessary. For colored fabrics, apply a solution of two tablespoons borax to two cups water. Dampen a clean cloth and scrub the fabric. Rinse and wash as usual.
* Vomit:
First scrape up as much as you can. Flush the spot with cold water to dilute the acid. Soak the item in warm water and one teaspoon of detergent and two teaspoons of ammonia. (Don't use ammonia with delicate fabrics.) Rinse with cool water until stain disappears. Wash as usual.
* Water spots:
Use the back of a stainless steel spoon to rub the area or gently scrub with a dry toothbrush. If that doesn't work, wet the entire garment with cool water and dryas usual.
* Wine:
The old standby, club soda, really does the trick. Put the stained item in the sink and pour the club soda over it. Rinse with cold water and wash as usual. If that doesn't work, try a vinegar and water solution. Sponge it onto the spot and let sit a few moments. Then launder as usual. If wine is spilled on a tablecloth, sprinkle with salt immediately.

* Most lint on laundry is caused by a dirty lint basket. Make sure you empty it before every load.
* Eliminate lint on clothing by adding one cup of white vinegar to the final rinse cycle.
* Adding a tablespoon of Epsom salt to each gallon of rinse water helps keep colors from fading or running.
* If you've accidentally shrunk a wool item, wash it in a mixture of hair conditioner and water. Gently reshape it to its original size and let it air dry.
* Make your own spray starch. Mix one tablespoon cornstarch and one-half cup water. Then slowly add one cup of boiling water. Transfer to a spray bottle and let cool.
* Wash feather pillows inside a pillowcase. Use warm water and a low sudsing detergent on the gentle cycle. Stop the cycle halfway through and turn pillows over. Drying in the dryer (on a light heat) takes about two hours.
* To clean velvet at home, hold it over a steaming kettle to remove wrinkles. Shake item out, then brush with a soft brush. Iron from the inside out.
* You can machine wash your delicates by placing them in a pillowcase or mesh bag and using the gentle cycle.
As always, for more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at http://www.springcleaning.us/ or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-13T10:41:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning your Carpets and Floors.

Dirt weakens carpet fibers, so it's a good idea to clean them regularly - even if they don't look dirty.
Overlap your strokes when you vacuum (at least five or six times) to get out deeply embedded dirt.It's important to get to a spill before it becomes a stain. Blot up as much as you can immediately and scrape up any solid mess. Begin at the outer edges and work toward the middle. Don't rub - this will only push the spot farther into the rug fibers.
To clean a fresh stain, pour a little club soda on the spot. Let it set for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat this several times.
To remove older spots, combine two tablespoons detergent, three tablespoons vinegar and one quart warmwater. Work mixture into the stain, but don't soak. Blot with a clean cloth.
Or squeeze a tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent into the stain. Use a slightly damp sponge to work up a lather. Remember, though: Blot, don't rub. Use a clean towel to soak up the moisture. Continue this process as needed.
For a very old stain that refuses to come out with the above methods, try using a dry cleaning fluid. Don't pour it directly on the spot; instead, dampen a clean white towel and dab the stain gently. Continue dabbing and blotting until the stain is gone.
Once you've treated a stain, cover the area with a clean towel. Place a book or other heavy object over the area. Replace the towel with a fresh one as it gets damp.
Treating stains & spots:
Sprinkle a fresh mud spot with enough cornstarch to cover it completely. Let stand for 20 minutes, then vacuum. Cover grease spots with baking soda and dab it into the fibers. Let it sit for one hour, then scrub with a stiff brush. Repeat if necessary.
Cream of tartar will remove stubborn ink stains. Spread it on thickly, then add a few drops of lemon juice. Blot with a clean cloth for a few minutes. Brush off, then wash area with plain warm water.
Remove candle wax drippings by covering with a brown paper bag and then ironing over the spot. The bag should absorb the wax.
Camouflage is the best way to deal with a cigarette burn. Remove as many of the burned fibers as you can, either with tweezers or a pair of cuticle scissors. Snip some clean fibers from an out-of-the-way spot and glue them into the hole with white glue or fabric glue. Allow the area to dry thoroughly for 24 hours.
Freezing works best when it comes to getting rid of gum. Hold an ice cube against the gum until it becomes hard and brittle. Then break it apart with a butter knife and lift off. Remove any remains with detergent and cold water.
Cover soot with a thick layer of salt, then vacuum. Never try to remove soot with water because it makes the stain worse.
Get to a red wine spill as quickly as you can. Soak up the excess with a white cloth, then cover the area with talcum powder or borax. When the powder starts to form clumps, remove and add more clean powder. Repeat a few times, then let the powder sit for a couple of hours. Once again, remove the powder and then wash the spot with a mild detergent.
Remove glue with white vinegar.
Have you dropped a pen on the rug? Saturate the area with hair spray. Let dry, then wash with white vinegar and water.
Bleach spots don't have to be a disaster. You can recolor them by mixing clothing dye and water until it is the correct shade. Just remember that wet fibers look darker than they actually are. Take your time applying and let the area dry completely before adding more color.
Get rid of smelly pet stains by alternately sponging carbonated water on the area and blotting it up until the stain is gone. If your animal continues to stain the same place, try spraying vinegar on the spot. The smell should turn him off.
If your carpets continue to smell musty even after you've cleaned them, the problem is most likely in the padding. Make sure it's completely dry, then sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the entire pad. Let it dry completely, then vacuum.
Mildew doesn't have to mean it's time for a new rug. Sprinkle the affected areas with baking soda or cat litter. Let stand for two hours, then vacuum.
Vinyl & Linoleum Floors
If floors aren't too soiled, a damp mop and warm water are all you need. Just sweep or vacuum first.
If floors are very dirty, you'll need to wet mop. Use an all-purpose cleanser diluted with water. Have two buckets ready, one for the detergent and one for rinse water. ,(Even though some commercial detergents say rinsing isn't necessary, it's a good idea. The reason most no-wax floors lose their shine is because they aren't rinsed thoroughly, attracting more dirt.)
If floors are still dull even after rinsing, mop again using a solution of white vinegar and water.
Before applying wax, get rid of any old wax. Use a solution of three parts water to one part rubbing alcohol.
Treating stains & spots:
Scrub scuff marks with a nylon pad or fine-grade steel wool dipped in a detergent-water solution. Wash the floor as usual.Crayon comes off easily with a damp cloth and silver polish.
Wood Floors
The best way to keep wood floors looking beautiful is to sweep and dust them frequently. Spray the end of your dust mop with spray wax to keep them shiny.
It's a good idea to damp mop at least once a week, but never let the water soak the floor - that causes buckling and warping.
Detergents are generally too harsh for wooden floors. Instead, use one-half
cup vinegar to one gallon water. Dip mop into solution, wring out well, and work on a small area at a time. Change the solution as it gets dirty.
Remove heel marks with kerosene or a pencil eraser.
Get rid of scratches with a very fine-grade steel wool dipped in floor wax.
Brown shoe polish mixed with floor wax will fill in faded spots.
Tile Floors
Sweep often to remove excess dirt. Vacuuming may scratch the surface. Wash with a vinegar-water solution.
For more cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or call Spring Cleaning Service in New York City,NYC, at 212-962-6730 today for all your spring house,apartment, cleaning needs!!!

2006-03-10T11:16:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning the Bedroom and Living Room

They are our most public and most private rooms - the places where we entertain friends and family, watch our favorite television programs or just relax after a long, difficult day.
That's why it's so important to keep these rooms looking good. After all, who wants to snuggle up in a favorite chair with a good book only to find it covered with pet hair or dust?
Decide which room you want to start with, then stay in there until it's finished. Going from room to room just wastes time, and neither room ever gets done properly.
Remember to use your cleaning wagon. Store all the items you'll need in it, such as dust rags, furniture polish, window cleaner, etc. That way you won't have to run back and forth from room to room every time you need something.Start by clearing away all the clutter on the floor. Drag a laundry basket or box around with you and throw loose items into it.
Remember Mom's old rule: Start high and work your way down. An easy way to clean a ceiling fan is to cover your hands with a pair of old socks and dip them in warm, soapy water. Run your hands over and under each blade. (Make sure the fan is off) Use fresh, clean water as needed.

Down Comforters & Pillows

First, check the manufacturer's label. If it warns against laundering, have the items professionally dry cleaned.
Then check to see that there are no rips or tears in the fabric or that the hems are not coming apart.
Hand wash in the bathtub using lukewarm water and a gentle detergent, or use the washing machine on the gentle cycle. If you are using the machine, agitate the water and detergent first, then stop the machine and put in the item. Run the rinse cycle twice or until the water is clear.Use the dryer on low heat even though it may take a few hours.

Knickknacks & Figurines

It's a lot easier to gather all your knickknacks together at one time and wash them, rather than dust each one individually. Line the sink with a thick towel, fill with warm water and add a few drops ofliquid detergent. Let them soak as you continue cleaning the rest of the room.
Once all your knickknacks have soaked, gently scrub them with your fingers or a small, soft brush to remove any excess dust. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.

Pictures & Picture Frames

Use a soft paintbrush to clean your paintings - rags leave behind small threads that can damage the paint.
A soft toothbrush is a great way to clean ornately carved frames. Don't use water or detergent because they may damage both the artwork and the frame.
Make a tarnished frame shine by rubbing it with turpentine.
Or mix an egg white with a teaspoon of baking soda and sponge onto the frame. Gently wipe off with a clean rag.

Drapes & Blinds

Drapes and curtains can harbor bacteria - as well as dust - so clean them on a regular basis. It's best to wash them in cold water with a mild detergent, but be sure to check the manufacturer's guide.
If the drapes aren't dirty, just a little dusty, go ahead and vacuum them, using the proper attachment and a gentle suction.
You can also toss drapes into the dryer on a low setting to remove dust and wrinkles.
Blinds don't have to be a nightmare to clean. Put on a pair of cotton gloves, soak your hands in soapy water, and use your finger and thumb to clean the top and bottom of each side of the blind. Or remove blinds from the wall, and soak them in a bathtub filled with soapy water. Rub with a clean cloth, then drain tub. Run clean water to rinse, and hang blinds over the tub to dry.

Lamps

Dust your lamps inside and out, including the bulbs. If they're very dirty, you may want to wipe them with a damp cloth. Make sure the bulb is cold before removing it. Dry it completely before returning to the fixture. You'll be amazed at how much more light it'll give off.
Clean plastic shades with a soft cloth dipped in warm water, then squeezed out. Sturdy shades can be vacuumed with the proper attachment.
Use a blow-dryer to dust pleated lampshades.

Screens

Use a roller-type lint brush to pickup dust.
Prevent damaging rust from forming on metal screens by brushing each side of the screen with kerosene.

Walls

Prepare your walls for washing by dusting or vacuuming them.If needed, spot clean heavily soiled areas such as fingerprints, crayon or scuff marks.
Erase fingerprints and smudge marks with artgum, available from an art supply store.
To remove stubborn crayon drawings, rub gently with a soap-filled steel wool pad.
Remove grease by blotting the stain with cornstarch and paper towels. Rub off when it has soaked up the grease.
When washing walls, start at the bottom and work your way up. Use an all-purpose cleanser: one cup ammonia, one-half cup vinegar, and one-quarter cup baking soda mixed with a gallon of water.
To keep track of where you began, start in one corner. Don't work in an area larger than two or three feet. Change both your soapy water and rinse water often.
If you don't have a ladder, use a sponge mop for those hard-to-reach areas. This can get messy, so cover the floor with a drop cloth where you're working.

Wallpaper

It's best to spot clean wallpaper. Make a paste of cornstarch and water. Apply to the spot, let dry and brush off. Repeat if necessary.
Grease marks will disappear if you apply baby powder to the spot with a clean cloth. Rub in until stain is gone.
Read the manufacturer's directions before you wash wallpaper. There are many kinds on the market, and some shouldn't be washed./
If you don't have the directions,test wash in an inconspicuous place,
such as under the light fIxture.
Use a mild detergent and warm water (not hot). Work on a small area, using very little water. Rinse, then gently blot dry.

Furniture

Upholstered
Start treating a stain immediately. Test an inconspicuous spot first.
Pet hair comes up easily with a roller lint brush. If you don't have one, use a pair of rubber gloves. The hair will form a ball with each stroke.
Keep your upholstered furniture from fading by turning the cushions over periodically.
Wash your furniture once a year to keep it free of dirt. Vacuum first, then pound the dust out of the pillows. Wash with a mild detergent and allow to dry thoroughly.
Wooden
Dust wooden furniture quickly by covering your hand with a sock dampened with furniture polish. Thoroughly wipe the entire area.
Polish buildup is easy to remove. Mix one-half cup white vinegar and one-half cup water. Dampen a cloth and gently scrub. You can make your own all-natural furniture polish. Mix together one-half cup boiled linseed oil, one-half cup turpentine and one-half cup vinegar. Shake well and apply. Buff with a clean cloth.
Here's another great polish: one teaspoon lemon oil mixed with two cups of mineral oil.Or use three parts olive oil andone part lemon juice.
Water rings can be removed with petroleum jelly, rubbed thoroughly into the spot.
Or rub white, non-gel toothpaste into the water ring. Buff, then use a furniture polish.To get rid of hot-dish marks on wood, boil linseed oil and add half a cup of turpentine. Apply to stain until it fades. You may have to repeat more than once.
If bits of paper are stuck to your wood, dab on a few drops of cooking oil and let it sit a few minutes. Gently scrape away with a soft paper towel or your fingers.
Cover scratches with the meat of a walnut or pecan. If that doesn't work, or the wood is too light, try a crayon or shoe polish.
Leather
Clean your leather with a damp cloth and saddle soap.To prevent rips and tears, rub with petroleum jelly or olive oil.
Or mix one part vinegar and two parts linseed oil and rub into the leather.
To remove ink spots, dampen a cotton ball or a cotton cloth with rubbing alcohol or hair spray and gently dab on the spot. Remember to try an inconspicuous place first to make sure the color doesn't fade.

Glass Table Tops

Use newspaper to clean since it leaves no lint behind.Spray on lemon juice and buff to a sparkly shine.Or use a spray made of equal parts vinegar and water.
Cover up small scratches with white toothpaste

Wicker

Clean wicker and keep it from becoming brittle by washing it once a
month with warm, sudsy water. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and make sure
you dry the wicker completely to prevent buckling.Rub mildew spots with ammonia and let it dry in the sun.
Wash with a salt-water solution and wicker won't turn yellow.
For more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or if you reside in the New York City,NYC area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.
We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your spring house,apartment cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-09T11:49:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning your Bathroom!
Most people think cleaning the bathroom is the worst chore in the house. Even though it may be the most often used room in the house, it's actually the smallest room to clean. Here are a few hints to make the task a whole lot easier.
Bathtub, Shower & Sink
Stains can easily be removed from porcelain tubs and sinks by using a paste of hydrogen peroxide and cream of tartar. Apply the mixture and gently scrub with a damp cloth. If the stain remains, apply the paste again, cover it with a damp cloth and let it stand overnight.
Safely and easily unclog a hairfilled drain without harmful (and expensive) chemicals. Make a solution of equal parts vinegar, salt and baking soda. Pour the mixture down the clogged drain, let it foam for 15-20 minutes, then flush the drain with boiling water.
To keep your drains flowing freely, flush them with boiling water once a
week. First, pour in a half gallon of water; wait a few minutes, then pour in the rest. Be careful not to pour the hot water on the porcelain - it may cause it to crack.
The best time to clean the bathtub or shower is right after you've bathed. That way, the steam has a chance to loosen any dirt or soap scum, making it much easier to remove.
For a light cleaning job, mix together one-half cup of ammonia, onehalf cup of white vinegar, one-quarter cup of baking soda and one gallon of warm water.
Make a heavy-duty tile cleaner that will remove tough mildew stains by mixing two cups of baking soda and one-half cup warm water. Stir until it forms a paste, then use a toothbrush to work it into the grout. Rinse well with warm water. If mildew stains persist, add a few drops of chlorine bleach to the mixture. Be sure to wear gloves. A toothbrush dipped in chlorine bleach is also a good grout cleaner.
Light mildew stains can easily be removed by scrubbing them with half a lemon.
A ring around the bathtub will go away if you cover it with a paste of hydrogen peroxide and cream of tartar. Allow the paste to dry, then wipe it away along with the stain.
Brighten a porcelain tub or sink by rubbing it with a mixture of turpentine and salt.
Rust stains caused by cans or razors left on the sink or counter can easily be removed with a lemon juice and borax paste. Apply, let stand for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Water spots on shower doors and stainless steel fixtures are easily removed with rubbing alcohol.To keep tiles shiny and prevent water spots, pour mineral spirits on a soft, clean cloth and rub over tiles. Then buff the area with a clean cloth.
Throw your dirty plastic shower curtain in the washing machine with a couple of towels. The towels will help scrub clean the curtain.
Keep your shower curtain mildew free in the future by soaking it in saltwater before hanging.
Get rid of small mildew stains by dipping an old toothbrush in a baking soda and water paste and gently scrubbing each spot.
Get rid of old bathroom decals by soaking them with mineral spirits, then gently scrape away gluey residue. Wash as usual.
Metal shower heads can easily be unclogged. Unscrew the shower head
and boil for 15 minutes in one-half cup vinegar and one quart of water.
If you don't want to or can't remove the shower head, put a rubber band around the attachment,fill a sandwich bag halfway with vinegar and place the bag over the nozzle, securing it with the rubber band. Let stand a half hour.
To easily clean a plastic shower head, soak it)n two cups vinegar and two cups hot (not boiling) water.
A vinyl or rubber bath mat is a breeze to clean. Fill the bathtub with very hot water. Spray the mat with your regular bathroom cleaner, then
let it soak in the tub for a couple of hours. Rinse thoroughly and wipe clean.
Or better yet, toss it into the washing machine when you wash a load of towels. The towels will scrub the mat squeaky clean.
Toilets
A borax and lemon juice paste will get rid of toilet rings. First, wet the toilet by flushing, then apply the paste and let stand for two hours. Scrub as usual with a toilet brush.
If stubborn stains persist, use a fine-grade of sandpaper or steel wool. Scrub gently so you don't scratch the finish.
To keep the bowl clean, add onehalf cup chlorine bleach once a week. Let it stand for 15 minutes, then scrub and flush.
Vinegar is a great toilet bowl cleaner. Pour the vinegar in the bowl and leave it overnight. Scrub as usual in the morning. '
Or place two denture cleaning tablets in the bowl. Let stand for two hours, then scrub and rinse.
Or pour your leftover cola down the bowl, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and flush.
Vinegar is also great for getting rid of unpleasant odors. Pour half a cup in a small bowl and leave on the toilet tank.
Another way to get rid of odors in a hurry is to strike a match in the room, then drop it in the toilet.
Mirrors
Hair spray buildup can be removed by wiping the mirror with crumpled newspaper.
Use a mixture of two tablespoons vinegar to one quart water for shiny, bright mirrors.
To keep mirrors clean, dampen a soft rag with kerosene or rubbing alcohol. Wipe the mixture over the entire mirror.
Use a blow-dryer on medium heat to defog the mirror.
Keep mirrors from fogging up in the first place by rubqing them with glycerine.
Or spray a thin coat of shaving cream on a rag and wipe the mirrors until the shaving cream disappears.
For more cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or call Spring Cleaning Service in New York City,NYC, at 212-962-6730 today for all your spring house,apartment, cleaning needs!!!

2006-03-08T10:47:00.000-05:00

Spring Cleaning your Kitchen!!!

Counters
To easily remove a stubborn stain from a countertop, soak a paper towel with hydrogen peroxide, fold it in half, then lay it over the stain. Cover the towel with a heavy object, such as a saucepan, to keep it in place. If the stain is not gone in an hour, repeat the process.
Abrasive cleansers will eventually scratch and dull your countertops. Instead of using them, pour lemon juice ovor the entire countertop and let it soak for half an hour. Sprinkle baking soda on a clean cloth and gently scrub. Stains will disappear and your kitchen will smell great.
Or pour club soda on the counter, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe with a clean cloth. Dampen a towel with warm water and wipe clean.
Baking soda is also an effective and gentle tile cleaner.

Sinks
Get rid of water spots and keep metal faucets shiny with toothpaste. Apply a small amount with a cloth. Let it dry, then buff to a shine with a clean cloth.
Rubbing alcohol and club soda also get rid of water spots.
It's easy to get rid of yellow stains in the sink. Just mix four tablespoons of baking soda and eight tablespoons of bleach with four cups of hot water until it forms a paste. Rub the mixture onto the spot and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Or soak paper towels with bleach and lay them on the bottom of the sink. Let the towels sit for a half hour and then rinse.
Deodorize your garbage disposal with leftover orange and lemon peels. Vinegar will also do the trick.
Pouring baking soda down the drain weekly will keep the pipes squeaky clean.

Refrigerator
Use a rubber band to attach an old sock to the end of a yardstick. Slide it under and behind the refrigerator to get rid of the dust and dirt that can interfere with the refrigerator's proper circulation.
Use plain (hot) water or an unscented detergent to clean the inside of your refrigerator and freezer. Heavily-scented cleansers may cause your food to retain odors.
Use warm water to clean the plastic and glass portions of your refrigerator. Hot water can cause them to crack.
Never use bleach to clean the refrigerator. It can cause delicate parts to crack.
Kill mildew and prevent its return by wiping down the wall and shelves with vinegar.

Ovens & Stoves
To easily clean a not-too-messy oven, place a small bowl of ammonia on the top shelf and a bowl of boiling water on the bottom shelf of a COLD oven. Leave it there overnight, then wipe clean in the morning.
Baking soda is a safe, gentle abrasive. Pour on a sponge and wipe.
Prevent messy stains from setting on your stovetop or in your oven by immediately covering the spill with salt. Wipe when the oven is cool.
Clean the stovetop with white vinegar. Grease and grime disappear, leaving it streak-free and shiny.
Wash removable stove parts in the dishwasher. Be sure to rinse or wipe off any stuck-on food particles first.

Dishwasher
Use a damp rag and baking soda to clean the inside.
To get rid of odors, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and let stand overnight.
To get rid of the filmy residue on the inside of the dishwasher, fill a bowl with one cup bleach and place on the bottom rack. Run the wash cycle, but do not dry. Remove the bowl. Fill another with vinegar and run the entire cycle again.

Small Appliances
Clean the blender by filling it halfway with warm water, then add a few drops of dish washing detergent. Blend on high for a minute or two. Rinse well and allow to air dry.
Can openers are often the least cleaned item in the kitchen, making them a great breeding ground for germs. Use a toothbrush and hot, sudsy water to clean it after each use.
Clean a messy microwave easily. Immediately cover the spill with a layer of paper towels, then turn the microwave on high for 10 seconds. Use the towels to wipe up any remaining spill.

Pots, Pans & Plastic
Burnt pans are a breeze to clean. Coat the bottom of the pan with baking soda and add water to cover. Let stand for three hours, then gently scrape out the burnt food with a plastic spatula. To clean aluminum pans, fill them with water, add baking soda and bring the mixture to a slow boil. Simmer a few minutes, then wash as usual.
Or fill with water, add a few tablespoons of cream of tartar and boil.Clean copper pots by filling a spray bottle with two cups of vinegar and three tablespoons salt. Shake well, then spray liberally on the pot. Let stand for a while, then rub clean.
Rubbing copper with toothpaste also works well.
Non-stick pans clean up easily with plain soap and water. For a tough stain, boil a mixture of water, vinegar and baking soda until it forms a paste. Rub it into the pan and let stand for 20 minutes. Never use abrasive cleansers or steel wool.
Clean burnt cake tins by covering the bottom with a layer of lard, then place in a hot oven until the lard melts. Remove and let cool, then scrape off any remaining food with a plastic spatula. Wash in hot, soapy water.To clean dried egg from pans, use cold water. Hot water hardens the yolk.
Clean plastic containers in hot,soapy water and a few tablespoons of bleach. If they are heavily stained, let them soak overnight.
To get rid ofthe stale, musty smell in plastic containers, pour in a teaspoon of vanilla and wipe with a damp cloth. Wash as usual.
Or fill the container with crumpled-up newspaper. Cover tightly and leave overnight. By morning, the smell will be gone.

Glassware & Dishes
Always hand-wash crystal and other fine china. Line the sink with an old towel to prevent chipping and breaking.
Never put a delicate glass in hot water bottom first; it will crack. Slip it in sideways.
To easily remove stains or burnedon grease from glass cookware, fill with water, add one tablespoon ammonia and let soak overnight. Wash as usual.
To remove calcium deposits, soak glasses in distilled water and vinegar overnight.
Scratches will disappear if you gently buff with (white) toothpaste.
Add a few tablespoons of vinegar to wash water to cut grease and leave
glasses sparkling.
A paste of baking soda and water rubbed into coffee stains also does the trick.
Tea and coffee stains can easily be removed with a solution of two tablespoons bleach to one cup of warm water. Let soak for an hour or two.
Always let glasses air dry to eliminate the cloudy film that sometimes happens when you towel dry.

. . . & More
Wooden cutting boards can easily harbor germs. Disinfect with a solution of water and bleach.
Water can ruin a wooden cutting board, so don't let it soak in water. Dry thoroughly after cleaning.To prevent coffee from tasting acidic and bitter, clean the machine
by running a mixture of eight cups of water and a couple teaspoons baking soda through it.
Freshen a thermos bottle by filling it with warm water and a teaspoon of baking soda. Shake, rinse and dry.
Deodorize cabinets by combining a half cup baking soda and one quart warm water. Rub the paste into the wood. Dampen a towel with warm water and wipe thoroughly, then dry
with a clean towel. To restore the shine to wood, rub in linseed oil with a finegrade steel wool pad.
Don't throw out sponges after only a few uses. Just rinse them under
cold running water, squeeze, then place in the upper rack of the dishwasher next time you run it.
If you've dropped an egg on the floor, cover it with salt, wait five minutes, then sweep up the entire mess.
Cleaning the grater is easy if you spray it with cooking oil first. Use a toothbrush or nail brush (bought just for kitchen use) to clean up large food particles. Then wash in the dishwasher. Run a piece of bread through the meat grinder for easier clean up.
To clean a waffle iron, soak paper towels in ammonia and place on the grid. Close and leave overnight. Gently scrub with a scouring pad.
Remove lime deposits from a kettle by filling with equal parts vinegar and water. Bring to a boil, and let stand overnight. Rinse in the morning.
To keep the kitchen smelling good, dampen a few cotton balls with vanilla and spread them around the room.
For more information or cleaning tips visit our web site at www.springcleaning.us or if you reside in the New York City area call Spring Cleaning Service at 212-962-6730.
We are confident that you'll find Spring Cleaning Service to be the best resource for all your house,apartment, cleaning needs in New York City,NYC.

2006-03-07T11:02:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready!!!!
In today's busy world, cleaning the house often gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. Between work, errands, exercising, cooking, carpooling the kids to various events, not to mention trying to have some kind of social life, who has time to spend the day, or even the afternoon, with a mop in one hand and a dust rag in the other?
But there are a few tips that can make the job easier. Some may seem obvious at first glance, but how many of them are you really putting to use?
1. Get help! There's no reason why only one person should be responsible for keeping the house clean (unless you live alone!). Get the kids, your spouse, even guests, to pitch in and help. If you spread the work around, life will run much more smoothly for everyone in the household. Your family will finally appreciate all that you do!
2. Only clean where it's dirty. This may seem obvious, but it's not. How many times have you washed a wall because there were fingerprints on it? Next time, spot clean just the prints.
You'll save time, energy and money.
And you'll actually be extending the life of what you own. For example, if you scrub your carpet too often, you'll wear it out a lot faster.
3. Get rid of clutter. Knickknacks and bric-a-brac are great dust collectors. Only display your favorite items and put away the rest or rotate your display monthly. Think of the time you'll save by not having to move them,dust them or wash them every week.
4. Save time and energy. Buy a cart with wheels or a child's wagon and put your cleaning supplies in it. That way, you won't have to run back and forth between rooms to get something you forgot. Use an extension cord, approximately 30 feet, for your vacuum cleaner so you can drag it from room to room without backtracking to unplug it.
5. Have a laundry basket and/or "junk" box in each room. Pick everything up off the floor, table, bed, etc., at once. Then go through and throw away what you don't want and put away what you do.
6. Carry a garbage bag with you. Instead of going outside each time you need to shake your mop or dust rags, shake them inside the garbage bag, then toss it.
7. Get to the mess quickly. If you clean up as you go along each day, you won't have a disaster on the weekend. Hang your clothes up instead of draping them on a chair. Wash your dishes after you've eaten instead of letting them soak. Vacuum the dirt you accidentally brought into the house before it's ground into the carpet. Get into the habit of cleaning up as you go along.
8. Do more than one thing at a time. For example, wipe the kitchen counters while you're waiting for the sink to fill.
Or if you leave in the New York City, NYC area, you could call Spring Cleaning Services at 212-962-6730 to schedule your appointment for spring house,apartment, cleaning.

2006-03-06T14:56:00.000-05:00

Spring House Cleaning Tip of the Day...

With a few minutes spent each day on cleaning, you can dramatically reduce the amount of household cleaning that you will have to do down the road. For instance, clean your dishes as you use them so that you will not spend extra time scraping food debris sticking to your plates, pots and pans. Similarly, organizing your clothing rather than creating a pile on the floor will keep your room clean.

2006-03-03T18:19:00.000-05:00

Welcome to...
Spring Cleaning Service New York City
Residential cleaning services

Choosing The Right House Cleaning Service For Your Home.

Today our time is eaten up by work, commuting, study, and so on and so on. We don't have much time left over to clean our own homes anymore. So we hire house cleaning services to help clean our homes.
If you are one of the thousands of people looking for house cleaning services there are four steps that you can take to help you to choose the right house cleaning service for you.

1. Decide and write down what house cleaning you want done in your home by the house cleaning service you will eventually hire. You can write down which rooms you want cleaned, what items or furniture you want cleaned, like laundry, floors, carpets, ceilings, dishes. You can even decide on whether you want the house cleaning service you hire to make beds.

2. Next to your list write down the price you would be willing and can afford to pay for the house cleaning services you listed for step one (1).
State the price that you would be willing to pay per month. There are many house cleaning services out there, to help you find one that's right for you and matches closely with what you have listed in step one and two you can...

3. Make a list of potential house cleaning services to hire by:
* asking for recommendations from friends and/or neighbors who use house cleaning services. * using the classifieds and the telephone directory
* using the internet (to find places online where you can find a prescreened maid service or find prescreened cleaning contractors go to http://www.housecleaning-tips.com/cleaning-services.html

4. Most house cleaning services offer free consultations. Using the list you made for step three, contact the prospective house cleaning services and set up appointments. During these appointments you can find out what house cleaning services they offer, what they charge, as well as get an idea of there personality and professionalism.
If you follow the steps listed above, I’m sure that you can make an informed decision and choose the right house cleaning service for you.