Change Your Bad Cleaning Habits for the New Year

It’s the beginning of a new year and a new decade. With that, you likely made some resolutions for improving yourself or your lifestyle in the year ahead. Often resolutions involve better eating, fitness, and health, or a better job. Have you ever considered resolving to become better at cleaning? Probably not, but you know, changing you bad cleaning habits can save you a lot – especially when those habits contribute to the deterioration of your home and its value.

Little Puddles Can Mean Big Problems

The drain in the bathroom is slow, the toilet runs non-stop, and the kitchen faucet drips. Each can cause cleaning issues as well as big problems for your home if you don’t take care of the issue. Clogged drains, running toilets, and dripping sinks can result in burst pipes, overflows, or leaks which can cause mold and water damage to your home’s flooring, cabinets, and more. Keeping the drains free of debris and clogs, and making minor repairs when you hear dripping or running water can make all the difference in maintaining the value of your home.

Clutter No More

Everyone has clutter. Some have only a little, while others have a lot. For those with more than their fair share of clutter, it’s time to get organized and declutter your home. Why? Clutter, accumulated, attracts roaches, rodents, moths, spiders, and allows fungus to flourish. Now that you are sufficiently motivated, decluttering begins by regularly emptying trash, getting rid of piles of paper, and sweeping living areas regularly.

Pay Attention to HVAC Filters and Vents

The air filters for your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) cost very little when compared to the cost of replacing the entire system. So, let’s get in the habit of checking and replacing air filters regularly as well as vacuuming and dusting the vents to remove accumulated dust and debris and keep your system working at its best. You’ll not only protect your HVAC, you’ll also ensure better air quality for your family and keep your entire home cleaner.

Keep Your Home Clean Inside and Out

Many people regularly clean inside their homes, doing at least vacuuming, dusting, and mopping, while neglecting outdoor areas. The outside of your home requires attention, just like the inside. Keeping gutters clean, as well as patios, decks, and walkways free of debris, also helps keep the inside clean. Think about it, if you don’t keep areas outside clean, dirt and debris from those areas will quickly make their way into your home by way of your family members shoes and outwear, as well as your pets. Plus, clogged gutters often lead to bigger problems, like moisture damage and pest problems. The same is true for unkempt walkways, decks, and patios which deteriorate when not cleaned regularly.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Cleaning is good as long as you are using the proper products for whatever you are cleaning. The wrong products can damage finishes and create unwanted buildup. An acidic cleaner will etch marble, floor wax can dull laminate or polyurethane sealed floors, and that’s not all. To avoid damaging your countertops, floors, and more, always read label directions and choose cleaners appropriate for the surface you are cleaning to keep everything in your home clean and in good condition.

Clean the Forgotten Areas

Every home has areas which are overlooked during weekly cleaning. After all, no one loves cleaning chores, and most people go at it to see how quickly they can get their home looking presentable. But cleaning the forgotten places, like your washer and dryer, the microwave, the kitchen hood, the refrigerator coils and filters, and more will not only help keep your home clean, but also ensure every gadget and appliance is working at its best.

If You Need Help…

Getting rid of your poor cleaning habits won’t happen overnight, so if you need help while you hone your new habits, call on the Signature Maids to help you get your home cleaned thoroughly and successfully.

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