Can I fix carpet indentations?

February 24th, 2011

Yes.

Once you’ve re-arranged your furniture, you may see those indentations where the furniture used to be.  Some carpets will automatically spring back.

Other fibers may respond to vacuuming and light brushing to get them to “stand up straight”. 

In the worst cases, cover with a damp towel and steam with an iron for a few seconds.  “Help” the fibers return to their original position by brushing while they are warm.

Regular professional cleaning will help fibers maintain their original appearance.  Carpet protector enables you to easily clean spills and other accidents.

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Do you have adequate insurance coverage?

February 15th, 2011

Do you have a basement?  Do you have a sump pump?  Does it rain where you live?  Do you use your bathrooms? Could a disaster happen to you?

If you have a sewer backup or a sump pump that quits just when you need it, you may not have insurance coverage for the cleanup and repairs.  This type of loss may be excluded from your coverage. 

Consider adding an endorsement for $30-$50.  Read it carefully, too, as the limitations could come back to haunt you.

If you live in a federally-designated flood plane, you may have flood insurance, but this probably does not cover the stuff that’s in your basement. No upgrades or endorsements are offered by the government so don’t keep the good stuff in the basement.

Insurance policies are not fun to read. However, check you policy each time it renews.  Coverages are constantly changing.

Really, disasters happen and one could happen to you.  Be prepared.

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Will Bed Bugs Come to My House?

January 21st, 2011

“There is no guaranteed way to prevent bedbugs from hitching a ride.  If you develop itching or bites after being in a public place, all you can do is change your clothese as soon as you get home–in the bathroom, not around upholstered furniture–and then put the clothes in a hot dryer to kill the bugs.

Hotels and other overnight accommodations merit special precautions.  In a hotel, put suitcases in the bathroom or on a TV stand or other hard surface upon check-in.  Check the bed, box spring and headboard for insects and small black specks.  If you find any, ask for a room change and inspect the new room, too.

When you return home, open suitcases outside.  Wash and dry clothes on hot settings.  Then put empty luggage in the car for a few hours on a very hot or very cold day–extreme heat or cold kills bedbugs.”  So we’re safe in Michigan:  extreme cold is in the air!

Information from Jerome Goddard, PhD, associate professor of medical and veterianary entomology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, and coauthor of a study of bedbugs published in The Journal of the American Medical Association.

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“I want to live forever!” said the carpet to its owner.

January 6th, 2011

We’re often asked if we can squeeze a few more years of life out of old or worn out carpet. Unfortunately, we’re not magicians. We can spruce up dingy carpet so it’s noticeably cleaner, but your carpet needs your help?  These tips will extend the life of your carpet.

1. Stop bringing dirt inside! Tracking in dirt and grime from outside and then grinding it into the carpet as you walk through the house can take a noticeable toll on the condition of all of your flooring.  Instead of wearing your shoes in the house, check them at the door or swap them for in-house shoes or slippers.

2. Protect your traffic areas. Don’t you walk the same paths each day, from here to there and back? Repeat abrasion from the constant wear not only flattens your carpet fibers, the pressure grinds dirt in and often severs the small strands that collectively hold each tuft of carpet in place. Like clothes, “wear” is impossible to revive completely. Prevent wear by placing rugs or runners in the areas of your home that experience the highest levels of traffic. Don’t forget to purchase coasters to place under your furniture’s legs to avoid deep divots in your carpet. Furniture coasters will even out the weight that is applied to the carpet, causing less stress.

3. Re-stage your furniture. If possible, change your furniture arrangements on occasion to re-direct floor traffic to combat a strong wear pattern

4. Remove stains promptly. Anyone spill anything or track anything that leaves a mark?  We offer a terrific spotting agent for those unexpected spots. But the most important element is your cleaning technique: spray the stain, then start from the outside and work your way in. Blot, blot, blot with a white towel.  Rinse with cold water so you don’t set the stain.  If you have one of those small carpet/upholstery machines, use it.

5. Vacuum Frequently. Frequent vacuuming prevents dirt from settling in. Dirt particles work like tiny jigsaws on the base of your carpet’s fibers, thinning and weakening the fibers as the dirt is pressed against them. And don’t forget to use those attachments to reach corners and baseboards where your home’s airflow is likely to suck a lot of dust and dirt.

Paired with these carpet-saving tips, get your carpet professionally cleaned every 6-12 months to keep it in great condition.

Karen

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Do you exercise your wood furniture correctly?

October 22nd, 2010

Wood furniture can help make a room more beautiful.  In most cases in is pretty simple to keep your wood looking good.  Exercise it!

To exercise your furniture, clean it regularly.  Proper exercise can prolong your life and the life of your furniture!

 The type of finish on the wood, not the type of wood determines how to care for it, clean it and repair damage. Some common finishes are painted, lacquer, polyurethane and oiled finish.

1. Painted Finishes

Painted finish furniture requires regular dusting with a damp cloth.  Waxes and polishes are usually not needed.  Never use oil or any polish containing oil and avoid oil treated cloths.

If possible try to remove spots and scuff marks by washing or cleaning with basic household cleaners.  Very old pieces with their original finish should usually not be repainted or refinished as you may remove the indications of its authenticity and antique value.

 2. Lacquer Finishes

Lacquer is hard and glossy, but also brittle so it may be dented or chipped.  Avoid use of water unless the furniture label recommends it.  You will want to dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth.  Never use oiled or treated cloths on lacquered finishes.

 If dirt or grime has built up you can wipe the finish with a damp (not wet) cloth, followed at once by rubbing with a dry cloth.  It is a good idea to test first in an inconspicuous spot before doing any wet cleaning.

 3. Polyurethane Finishes

Polyurethanes are liquid plastic resins that dry to a durable satin or gloss finish.  They are much more resistant to moisture, spills and heat than traditional finishes. Most manufactured furniture is not polyurethane coated.

 Dust regularly with a soft dry cloth.  If dirt or grime have built up wipe with a moist (not wet) cloth.  In extreme cases you can clean with mineral spirits.  If you use mineral spirits be sure to wear gloves.  When finished either dispose of the gloves or wash them in hot, soapy water followed by air drying.  All cloths should also be air dried to allow the mineral spirits to evaporate before disposing.

 4. Oil Finishes

Cleaning oiled wood requires that you blend 1 pint of boiled linseed oil, 1 pint of gum turpentine and 6 oz. of distilled white vinegar.  Make sure you wear gloves and do not use around flames or sparks as this mixture is flammable.

 Wipe the surface with a soft cloth that has been dipped in the mixture.  Never pour the solution directly onto the wood.  Let the solution stand for a few minutes to loosen the soil, then wipe off the excess with a clean cloth.  All the excess must be removed or it will attract dust.

The little time that is needed for caring for your wood furniture is well worth it. Please let us know if you have any questions or comments!

 Steve

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Need help with allergies? IICRC tips here.

September 28th, 2010

Keeping Allergies at Bay

Seasonal allergies affect over 35 million people in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. To keep your allergies at bay, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) recommends these tips for a fresh, pollen-free indoor environment.  

  • Keep windows closed - If needed, use air conditioning, which cleans, cools and dries.
  • Keep entryways clean and create a shoe regimen – Sweep, dust or vacuum outside entryways to avoid tracking pollen and debris into your home. Wipe your feet on the doormat when entering your home or leave shoes by the door.

    Use high-quality vacuum equipment – A HEPA-type filter bag and brush agitation are more important considerations than the vacuum’s price. A good vacuum should easily remove dust and particles before they become embedded in the carpet. Replace bags when 2/3 full.

  • Have furnishings professionally cleaned annually – The IICRC recommends hiring reliable, qualified professionals for deep extraction cleaning. To locate an IICRC-Certified Firm in your area, visit www.certifiedcleaners.org or call 1-800-835-4624.

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Sparkling windows for you!

September 10th, 2010

Most people dislike window washing.  I believe one of the reasons is the final result doesn’t seem to be worth the hard work.  Streaks, smears and spots that don’t come off can be frustrating.

If you are using a commercial cleaner like Windex and paper towels abandon that plan.  Spend a few dollars on a good squeegee and a quality applicator.  I like the T-bar applicator on a pole.  Some type of razor blade scrapper will also be needed.

The best conditions for cleaning windows are a cool, cloudy day.  Washing windows in direct sunlight is a chore, even for the professional window washer.

To begin fill your bucket with lukewarm (never hot) water and add a small amount of dishwashing detergent.  Many cleaners recommend Dawn, but I have used others with good results.  Wipe away any cobwebs or loose dirt on or around the window.  Dip the applicator into the bucket and run your hand across it to get rid of excess liquid.  Wet the window and scrub.  If you have any paint specks or stubborn spots you can use your razor blade scrapper to remove them.  Never scrape a dry window as you may end up with a permanent mark or scratch.

With the window well scrubbed and wet place the squeegee blade against the top of the window and pull down smoothly, using a rag to dry the blade between each stroke.  Repeat this process until the window is complete.  Use one final stroke from left to right at the bottom of the window.  Use a dry cloth ( a microfiber cloth works great!) and run it around the edges of the window to soak up any drips.

 With a little practice you will be cleaning windows like a pro. Whether you are bird watching, kid watching or being a nosey neighbor you will appreciate the shiny, clean windows in your home.

Steve

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Need a new smoke detector?

August 2nd, 2010

 Experts say you should look for the following when choosing a smoke detector.

 1. Choose a smoke detector that uses a combination ionization/photoelectric sensor and is able to detect both flaming fires and slow smoldering fires with equal speed and accuracy.

 2. Only consider a smoke alarm that meets Underwriters Laboratory standards.

 3. Make sure the smoke alarm has a hinged or removable cover for easy cleaning.

 Where you place smoke detectors depends on the size and layout of your home.  Since the primary job of a smoke detector is to awaken sleeping persons and warn them of urgent danger, put a detector in each sleeping room and place additional detectors in the hallway or area by the bedrooms within five feet of the door to these rooms.  In a house where the bedrooms are upstairs, one additional detector should be near the top of the stairs to the bedroom area.

 Don’t put detectors within six inches of where walls and ceilings meet, or near heating and cooling ducts.  Detectors located in these areas may not receive the flow of smoke required to activate the alarm.

 Regular testing and prompt replacement of batteries is very important.  If the battery powered detector begins to emit its low power warning sound (usually short beeps) replace it immediately. It is also a good idea to dust or clean your detector when you change the battery.

 Smoke detectors don’t require much attention, but if you neglect these simple requirements your detector won’t do its job if a fire starts.

 If you are unsure of what type of smoke detector to purchase, consumersearch.com has reviewed all the major brands and has some very helpful information. The main thing is to make sure you and your families are properly protected. No home should be without smoke detectors.

 Residential fire deaths have decreased as the number of homes with smoke alarms increased.  Reports from the National Fire Protection Association show that people have nearly a 50 percent better chance of surviving a fire if their home has the recommended number of smoke alarms.

 Steve

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Why own a vacuum with a HEPA filter?

July 12th, 2010

Do you have a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air filter, or HEPA filter?

HEPA filters, according to the standard adopted by most industries, remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles that are 0.3 micrometers in diameter.

 The original HEPA filter was designed in the 1940s and was used in the Manhattan Project to prevent the spread of airborne radioactive contaminants.  Over the decades filters have evolved to satisfy the higher demand for air quality in various high technology industries, such as aerospace, hospitals, nuclear power and electric micro circuitry (computer chips).

 This is vital when performing mold remediation.  When vacuuming with a non-HEPA vacuum cleaner most mold spores will pass through the filtration, out the exhaust and back into the air, as they are too small for standard filters to trap them.

 When you vacuum with a HEPA vacuum cleaner mold spores are caught by the HEPA filter and kept inside the vacuum.

 HEPA vacuums are also used in fire damage restoration.  As with mold spores, using a non-HEPA vacuum cleaner for soot removal will place much of the soot back into the air.

 If you have problems with allergies you may want a HEPA vacuum for your home.  As well as removing allergy causing mold spores, HEPA vacuums also remove other types of allergens from the home which can cause allergic reactions such as pollen and dust mite feces.

 Ideally you should vacuum your home at least once a week with a HEPA vacuum cleaner in order to minimize the amount of mold spores and other allergens in the air.  Not only will less mold spores in your home’s air reduce allergic reactions but it will also reduce the chances of mold growing in your home.

 How many of you have HEPA cleaners in your home now?

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Want to prolong the life of your favorite chair?

June 23rd, 2010

One of the misconceptions about upholstery cleaning is that you should wait as long as possible before cleaning. If cleaning is postponed it can shorten the life of your upholstery considerably.

Soiling can accumulate quickly on upholstery through use. It’s transferred to the fabric from clothing, body perspiration and items placed on it, such as newspaper, foods and drinks. Dust also settles on upholstery, along with airborne soils containing cooking oils or cigarette smoke. Many of these soils are tacky and will hold the dust to the fabric. Combine that with the exposure of pet dander, dust mite accumulation and every day use and you can understand why consumer groups recommend cleaning at least every 12 to 24 months.

I have been cleaning upholstery professionally since 1980. I will admit in my early days I ruined a few chairs and sofas. They were expensive lessons and made me determined to learn everything I could about “safe” upholstery cleaning.

I have also tried many different methods and have come to the conclusion that water based cleaning is the superior one. Although there are exceptions, most fabrics can be wet cleaned despite what your furniture’s cleaning label suggests. Even fabrics like silk and rayon can be wet cleaned if you do it properly.

Anyone who uses dry cleaning solvents to clean soiled upholstery is wasting your money and simply does not understand how to properly clean fabrics. Dry cleaning is basically a “dusting off” of your furniture. Dry cleaning solvents will not dissolve water based soiling which is by far the majority of your soiling on upholstery.

When it comes time to have your upholstery cleaned the old adage “you get what you pay for” is true. Simply put, quality cleaning services involve time, education and ongoing training. Add to this proper equipment and the right cleaning solutions and you have the potential of a safe, professional and quality service. Can all of this be obtained from the lowest priced company?

I feel strongly that quality is never cheap. That’s why it’s important that you choose your professional cleaner carefully. I know many consumers are skeptical about cleaning companies. Make sure that they are certified by the IICRC, ask for references and make sure the company guarantees their work. If that is done you most likely will have a good cleaning experience, even if it costs a little more.

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