Showing posts with label Cleaning. Show all posts

How To Choose The Right Cleaning Supplies

Before you start shopping for cleaning supplies, it's crucial to assess your cleaning needs. The type of space you are cleaning, the surfaces you are dealing with, and the level of dirt and grime are all factors that should influence your choice of cleaning products.

Identify The Cleaning Area 

cleaning

Begin by identifying the areas you need to clean. Different spaces may require different cleaning supplies. For example, a kitchen may need specialised degreasers, while a bathroom might need disinfectants and mould removers.

Consider Surface Types 

Take note of the surfaces you will be cleaning. Are they delicate or robust? For hard surfaces like tiles and glass, you'll need specific products, while soft surfaces like carpets may require different cleaning solutions.

Assess Cleaning Challenges 


Is your cleaning job routine maintenance, or are you tackling tough stains and grime? Understanding the cleaning challenges you face will help you choose the right products.

Types Of Cleaning Supplies 

Now that you have a clear understanding of your cleaning needs, let's explore the different types of cleaning supplies available in the market.

Basic Cleaning Supplies 


Basic cleaning supplies are versatile and suitable for general cleaning tasks. They typically include items such as all-purpose cleaners, microfiber cloths, and scrub brushes. These are essential for everyday cleaning in homes and offices.

Specialised Cleaning Supplies 

Specialised cleaning supplies are designed for specific tasks. Examples include stainless steel cleaners, glass cleaners, and carpet shampoos. If you have unique surfaces to clean, investing in specialized products can yield better results.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies 

For those concerned about the environment, eco-friendly cleaning supplies are an excellent choice. They are formulated with natural ingredients and are biodegradable, making them safe for both users and the planet. There are many good eco-friendly products out there worth checking out, like this glass cleaner by The Green Co. 

Disinfectants And Sanitisers

Especially important in healthcare settings, disinfectants and sanitisers help eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. They come in various forms, including wipes, sprays, and concentrates.

Consider Safety And Health 

toilet


The safety of those who will be using the cleaning supplies, as well as the health of the environment, should be a top priority.

Read Labels Carefully 

Before purchasing any cleaning product, read the labels carefully. Look for information on potential hazards, usage instructions, and any safety precautions.

Allergies and Sensitivities 

Be mindful of allergies and sensitivities. Some cleaning products contain strong chemicals that may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Opt for hypoallergenic options when necessary.

Budget And Cost 

While it's important to prioritize effectiveness and safety, budget considerations also play a role in choosing the right cleaning supplies.

Compare Prices 

Shop around and compare prices for cleaning supplies. Don't forget to consider the concentration of the product. A slightly more expensive concentrated cleaner may last longer than a cheaper dilutable one.

Buying In Bul

If you are responsible for maintaining a large commercial space, buying cleaning supplies in bulk can lead to significant cost savings over time. Just ensure you have adequate storage space.

Seek Recommendations 

When in doubt, seek recommendations from professionals or trusted sources. They can provide valuable insights into which cleaning supplies work best for specific situations.

Conclusion 

Choosing the right cleaning supplies is essential for achieving cleanliness, hygiene, and safety in any environment. By understanding your cleaning needs, considering safety and health factors, and budgeting wisely, you can make informed choices that lead to effective cleaning outcomes. Whether you're a janitorial professional, a homeowner, or anyone in between, the right cleaning supplies are your allies in maintaining a clean and healthy space.

In conclusion, janitorial supplies and cleaning products are not one-size-fits-all. Take the time to assess your needs, choose the right products, and follow safety guidelines for a successful cleaning experience. Cleanliness is not just a choice; it's a commitment to a healthier, more comfortable living and working environment.

Making Cleaning Easier: The Best Solutions for Kitchen Cleaning

Keeping the kitchen clean is an essential task for every homeowner. A clean and organised kitchen not only enhances the overall appearance of the house but also promotes a healthy environment. However, maintaining a spotless kitchen can sometimes be challenging, especially with the constant accumulation of grease, dirt, and food particles. In this article, I will explore some cost-effective solutions for kitchen cleaning that can make the process easier and more efficient. Additionally, I will discuss the importance of professional services such as duct cleaning.

Invest In High-Quality Cleaning Tools And Products

cleaning sink

A well-stocked arsenal of cleaning tools is the first step towards making kitchen cleaning easier. Investing in high-quality tools such as microfiber cloths, sponges, and mops can significantly improve your cleaning experience. These tools are designed to tackle tough stains and grime without causing damage to surfaces.

Furthermore, choosing the right cleaning products is essential for effective cleaning. Environmentally friendly and multipurpose cleaners are excellent choices, as they are cost-effective and can be used on various surfaces. Look for products that are specifically designed for kitchen cleaning to ensure maximum efficiency.

Create a Cleaning Routine

Developing a regular cleaning routine is vital for maintaining a clean kitchen. Divide your cleaning tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks to prevent overwhelming yourself with an extensive cleaning session. Daily tasks may include wiping down countertops, cleaning dishes, and sweeping the floor. Weekly tasks could involve cleaning appliances, scrubbing the sink, checking for out-of-date food and organising cabinets. Monthly tasks might include deep cleaning the oven, defrosting the freezer, and sanitising the rubbish bin.

By following a well-structured cleaning routine, you can prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, making the overall cleaning process easier and more manageable.

Utilise Natural Cleaning Methods

cleaning products

Many cost-effective cleaning solutions can be found right in your pantry. Natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can work wonders when it comes to removing stains, eliminating odours, and disinfecting surfaces. For example, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean countertops, while baking soda can be used to remove stubborn stains from pots and pans. Just check that you do not use acids and scrubs on delicate surfaces that will damage.

Pay Attention To Hidden Areas

When it comes to kitchen cleaning, it's important not to overlook hidden areas that often accumulate dirt and grease. One such area is the kitchen ducts and ventilation system. Neglecting the cleaning of these systems can lead to reduced indoor air quality, increased energy consumption, and even potential health hazards.

To ensure a healthy and clean kitchen environment, it is advisable to hire professional services for duct cleaning in Manchester. These experts have the necessary tools and expertise to thoroughly clean the ducts, removing built-up dust, allergens, and contaminants. Regular duct cleaning not only improves the air quality but also enhances the overall efficiency of your kitchen ventilation system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining a clean and tidy kitchen doesn't have to be a daunting task. By implementing the best solutions for kitchen cleaning, such as using the right cleaning tools, establishing a consistent cleaning routine, and paying attention to hidden areas, you can make the process much easier and more efficient.

*Collaborative post

5 Fantastic Home Cleaning Ideas That Will Change Housework Forever

Household chores and cleaning the home are time-consuming jobs that can be difficult to fit around your day-to-day tasks and the demands of your job. Fortunately, these fantastic home cleaning ideas are here to help. 

robot vacuum cleaner



Save yourself time and elbow grease with these top home cleaning solutions.

UV Light Cleaners

This is a high-tech cleaning solution that is ready to revolutionise housework forever. Many cleaning professionals are amazed at their effectiveness and feel that they are going to change housework just like the vacuum cleaner did more than a hundred years ago.

This mobile UVC Light Cleaner from VIOA can cleanse both the air and surfaces of harmful bacteria, viruses, and germs. You can clean surfaces and the area around them with the touch of a button. This is perfect for homes with small children and will be great in larger settings too like schools and kitchens.

Robotic Vacuum Cleaners

These have been around for a while now but the humble robotic vacuum cleaner is due an upgrade. Now, thanks to better battery life and improved vacuuming tech, automated vacuums are becoming more practical and efficient.

They can now be remotely programmed from anywhere using apps, and can even interact with other smart devices in the home. Collision avoidance has gotten better too; robot vacuums rarely get stuck behind table legs and under sofas anymore.

Robotic Mops Have Arrived

Setting a robot vacuum cleaner loose in the house is a convenient way to sweep up debris on floors and carpets, but what about tough stains on kitchen and bathroom tiles? Do not worry, robot mops are now hitting the market and coming to a floorspace near you.

The best part about these robot mops is they can reach the tricky places that you struggle to clean. They are small enough to get under cabinets and the oven and deep clean the floors there, leaving you with a better and more comprehensive finish than you could have managed yourself.

Water Softeners Will Save You A Lot Of Work

If your home suffers from limescale build-up around taps, shower heads and screens, watermarks on surfaces and glassware, you're undoubtedly in a hard water area. You've probably spent countless hours scrubbing, scraping and descaling to remove the unsightly crust from your home and it can feel like a losing battle.

The scale and marks left behind are caused by the minerals in hard water as it evaporates, commonly known as limescale. Many people don't realise the cause or that there's a simple solution. To free you of this burden, all you need is a water softener to remove these minerals. A limescale-free home will save you time cleaning and money on costly descaling products.

Robot Window Cleaners

Finding and keeping a regular window cleaner has become a big problem lately. It is a dying art form, with too few young people willing to pick up a ladder and a squeegee. Luckily, just like for vacuuming and mopping, robots are here to help.

Robotic window cleaners use suction power to stick to your windows and clean them thoroughly, inside and out. They do need some help switching between window panes, but that is a small price to pay for outsourcing this job.

These devices are here to help, at last. Switch from an old mop and bucket or dusty vacuum cleaner to one of these innovative ideas and you will save yourself time and have a cleaner home than ever before.

Completing a Spring Clean? A Guide To Places That Are Often Missed In Our Homes

With Spring well upon us, even if the recent cold weather says otherwise, I am confident that there will be some people reading this who are contemplating their upcoming Spring clean.

While I am confident that those reading this are just as house proud as I am and regularly ensure their homes are cleaned, there are often areas of our houses that remain untouched for vast periods. This is entirely normal! Let’s be honest here, who has the time to juggle regular deep cleans of their houses, along with everything else that life throws at us?

Enough of my rambling, and onto the main event! Detailed below is a list of some of the areas in our houses that often get missed when completing a deep clean, which should undoubtedly be included in your upcoming Spring clean.

Houses big and small, I am confident there is something here that relates to you.

Baseboards



We have all been guilty of skirting over these in our homes from time to time. The baseboard, also known as a skirting board, are in most of the rooms in our homes and are certainly a magnet for dust and other specks of dirt. Ensure that you give these little nooks and crannies some attention when going about your deep clean, will make sure that you do not need to do it again for some time. Easy to clean, this particular job should not take too much time to complete.

Underneath Your Furniture

It does seem somewhat obvious, but it is another place in our homes that often get missed when completing a deep clean. The saying ‘out of sight, out of mind’ pops into our heads when imagining this! Setting aside a day or two to clean your home does not go without shifting and heaving – safely, of course – items of furniture that have not been moved in some time. There is sure to be a collection of crumbs underneath your kitchen appliances, so what better time to get them swept away than during your in-depth Spring clean?!

This is not just restricted to the larger appliances in the home either. When was the last time the toaster and microwave were pulled out and given a clean underneath? Making a mental note to remember these will ensure that those once untouched areas will be sparkling clean again in no time.

Curtains And Blinds



Something that we are guilty of forgetting, it doesn’t seem like something that needs cleaning all that often but is sure to be attracting specks of dust and dirt like anything. Particularly if you have vertical blinds in your home for practical or aesthetic reasons – they are said to collect less dust than their counterparts but of course, they still need cleaning, so how best do you go about tackling the task to hand?

Make My Blinds have compiled a helpful guide on their site on how to clean vertical blinds effectively and easily. If you are someone who has vertical blinds in their home and wants to know how best to clean them without the risk of damaging them in any way, then head to their website to find out more.

Bins And Waste Disposal

It goes without saying, but no one really likes to go near the rubbish bin when it is full or smelling foul. That's pretty normal, right? With this in mind, it is easy to imagine that the rubbish bin itself often gets overlooked when the rest of the home is given a clean. It is worth adding to the growing to-do list for your upcoming Spring clean.

This does not just mean giving it a wipe down on the outside, although that is important. By providing the inside of the bin a deep clean and even pouring some cleaning products that are packed full of good scents into the bin itself, you can rest assured that your nostrils will be pleased the next time the bin is opened.

While these are but a minimal list of some of the home's commonly missed areas when completing a deep clean, we hope that it has left you inspired and that you have a better idea of what areas in your house you need to focus on in the coming weeks.

Whether you decide to tackle the jobs in a single weekend or over the space of a few days, you can go forth into the summer months feeling house proud, knowing that it is clean and tidy for when we can once again have visitors.

*Collaborative post

The Way Forward for UK Schools As We Face The Coronavirus Pandemic

Life has completely changed for a lot of people this year, and this is mainly because of the coronavirus outbreak that started late last year. As a result of the rapid spread of the virus, many people have lost loved ones. The UK and many other nations have been negatively affected by COVID-19. Several sectors have been on the receiving end and even the economy has been affected. The education sector has had its fair share of impact as a result of the pandemic. The government was forced to close all learning institutions some time ago. The decision to close down schools was put in place to safeguard the lives of the youngsters. No parent wishes to put his or her child in danger, and this explains why many have concerns about the reopening of schools.

Recently, the UK government has decided to reopen schools, and the plans are on the way. Schools are essential and reopening them was only a matter of time. The government has put in place several guidelines to ensure that pupils are safe as schools reopen. Here is how the reopening of schools is going to work.

Additional Space


Social distancing has been crucial in the fight against the pandemic that we are currently facing. Through social distancing, the spread of the virus has been minimized. For school-going children not to be affected by the virus, a form of distancing needs to be maintained. Though it is considered challenging for your pupils to maintain social distancing while at school, they will not mingle like before.

Extra space will be needed because the number of pupils in a class will have to be reduced. Reducing the number of pupils per class means that other buildings like libraries will have to be used. It will be wise for learning institutions to utilize temporary structures. Schools that are having a tough time getting the much-needed space should consider getting structures from Smart-Space. It is based in the UK and has been at the forefront in helping many institutions that require space because of the virus including schools and hospitals. You should visit the website to learn more about their building solutions and why the education sector should utilize them.

Cleaning


Research has shown that the virus is most likely to spread through contaminated surfaces. Schools have been instructed to ensure that there is regular cleaning of these settings. Every teacher and pupil will also be required to clean their hands frequently and maintain good hygiene.


Many people have come forward and raised genuine concerns about what will happen if one is found with the virus at school. It is crucial to note that the UK government has stated that testing will be conducted at schools to establish those that might be infected. If a student or teacher is found with the virus, he or she must self-isolate at home. Those that show symptoms of the virus will have to stay home and self-isolate for 14 days.

Conclusion

As schools reopen, minimizing the contact between pupils will be essential to limit the further spread of the virus. It is essential to follow the government and doctors’ guidelines during this period.

*Collaborative post

Attention Londoners - How To Do Chores Like A Professional Home Cleaning Company

Ever wondered how professionals do it? They come round to your house and blitz it, leaving it looking superb. This is an advertorial.

London Living is a Life in The Fast Lane


If you live in London, chances are you are a busy professional who is not a passionate cleaner by heart. Odds are you are very time poor and it is highly likely that you have used (or are regularly using) the services of a professional domestic cleaning agency. It's a fact that most London based companies bill by the hour instead of by the session. You might be amazed at how your cleaner manages to get through the chores so quickly, while the same tasks seem to take you just about all day.

So How Do They Do It? 


Stay Focussed 

One of the reasons why a pro cleaner gets the job done quickly is because he or she doesn’t get distracted. This means no phone calls, no checking the email or social media, no conversations with other people – and no picking up magazines or switching on the TV.

Have the Tools to Hand

Cleaners don’t keep all their tools and products in the cupboards and then spend time heading back and forward getting new sprays, dusters, etc. Cleaning equipment that you use all the time should be taken with you – brushes, sprays, rags and the like. Carry them everywhere you go in a professional cleaning apron with big pockets, a trolley or a suitable box or basket.

Streamline Your Cleaning Products


Professionals don’t use one sort of cleaner for the bathroom, another for the toilet, another for the kitchen and another for your dining room. Instead, multipurpose cleaning products are the way to go. You can choose commercial products (sprays, detergents, disinfectants, etc.) or home-made green cleaning products as you wish.

Allow Dwell Time

Some cleaning sprays and disinfectants need time to work. Spray them on and leave them to do the work while you tackle another task. Then come back and wipe where you sprayed. The chemicals in the product will have done most of the hard work for you.

Be Systematic 


Don’t work in a random pattern but have a system. This way, you ensure that you cover all the area to be cleaned. If you’re tackling one room on several levels, work from top to bottom (this means that you don’t end up doing the floor twice).

Use Both Hands

Use both hands as much as you can. You have two hands for a reason. This means that you can spray a cleaning product with one hand and wipe with the other. Or you can use a duster in each hand. This does mean that you’ll have to put down your basket of tools from time to time.

Wear Rubber Gloves

A lot of cleaning chemicals are pretty harsh, which means that prolonged contact with them will hurt your skin. So, protect your mitts with a good set of rubber gloves, like those from unigloves.

Dress the Part

Although you don’t need to wear a maid’s uniform, you do need to wear clothes that (a) allow you to move freely (no long sleeves getting in the way or tight skirts preventing you from moving) and (b) you don’t mind getting dirty or damaged. Old track pants or and T-shirts that have seen better days are ideal.

Stop and Look

When you think you have finished a surface or a room, stand back and get the big picture. Have you missed any spots? If you are tired of cleaning and are looking for cleaning services in the US try Happy Home Cleaning Services

If you still think the above is hard work and you'd rather binge-watch Black Mirror on Netflix, then the next step is quite clear. Hop on Google and search for your domestic cleaner. Don't forget to check references from previous employers or speak to reputable recommended companies covering your local area. Good luck!

*Collaborative post

Important End Of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist - Commonly Overlooked Spots

You’ve packed up everything into the boxes and the moving truck and are ready to go, your mum is taking care of the dog and the kids while you do the cleaning up, and you’ve got yourself organised with lots of rags, rubber gloves and cleaning sprays. We’ll assume that you haven’t made the common mistake of packing up your cleaning tools like the vacuum cleaner and the mop and sending it ahead to your new home like I did once! This is an advertorial.


However, in your enthusiasm or, more likely, your desire to have the whole flipping lot over and done with, you may easily overlook some of those spots that are out of sight and out of mind. Every house has places that get forgotten during the end-of-tenancy cleaning. Usually, time pressures have a lot to do with this, but you sure end up kicking yourself when the landlord points out the forgotten spots and you lose some or all of your deposit money.

You could, of course, call in a team of professional house cleaning specialists
 to help with the cleaning. 
 After all, trained professionals usually have a checklist and because every house or unit is new to them, they see and notice things and places that you don’t. What’s more, if you can produce that receipt from a moving out cleaning company, such as Modern Maids which provides a maid service Fort Worthlandlords tend to be a bit happier and more satisfied – and you get your deposit money back. 

What Do Inventory Clerks Definitely Check? 


However, if you’re still keen to do the job yourself, you need to think about these commonly overlooked spots so you can do your end of tenancy cleaning properly.

The Garden Shed

If your house has a garden and it’s got a shed (I have hardly ever seen a garden that doesn’t have some form of a shed somewhere) then the shed often gets overlooked. You might make sure that you take the kids’ bikes and the lawnmower out of it, but there are all the other bits and pieces in the dark corners – and whatever you’ve got stashed behind the shed as well. Although cleaning out the garden shed isn’t something landlords fuss about too much, some can. In the case where you’re selling your home, the new owners will appreciate the garden shed being clean and free from your old junk.

The Cupboard Under the Stairs

Thank you, Ms Rowling. We now refer to this sort of cupboard as the Harry Potter cupboard, or at least we do in my house. This seems to be the hiding place of all those things that don’t belong outdoors but need to be kept somewhere. This is often the ideal spot for storing cleaning equipment. When you’re doing your end of tenancy cleaning, you will certainly take the vacuum, the mop and the buckets out from the cupboard under the stairs but once they’re out, don't forget to clean it thoroughly.

The Lightbulbs 


Lightbulbs are something that we use to look at other things; we don’t usually spend time looking at them unless they’re some sort of feature. Even so, light fittings are often overlooked during the end of tenancy cleaning – in fact, this one thing that picky landlords can often get bugged by. This is mostly because light fittings and lightbulbs are collectors of fly spots, dust, cobwebs and dead moths. The amount of dirt they can collect is quite astonishing.

Toilets

Yes, of course, you’ve remembered to scrub out the toilet bowl and give the seat and the top of the tank a good wipe down with disinfectant. However, when you’re moving out, you need to really deep clean the toilets. This means getting into all the weird little nooks and crannies. It may mean unscrewing the seat and lid so that you can get rid of all the old dried-on pee that will inevitably have collected under there if it has ever been used by a man (in other words, all toilets anywhere except the ones in a convent that aren’t used by visiting priests and nephews). 

You’ll need an old toothbrush to do the job really well – this is something that professionals just about always do! Don’t forget the outside of the toilet and around the back on the floor.

Washing Machines

If you own your own washing machine, well and good. It’s up to you whether you clean it or not. However, if a washing machine was one of the appliances provided by the landlord, then it’s going to have to be cleaned as well. It may seem counter-intuitive (the fancy way of saying “totally bonkers”) that something that’s designed to get things clean can actually get dirty. However, just go and have a look at your washing machine. Look around the sides of the interior, in the detergent dispenser and under the lid – and look down the back! The good news is that most of the gunk is pretty easy to wipe off. You can also try running a cycle with the machine empty on a hot cycle and a generous dollop of white vinegar instead of detergent to make it super clean.

Blinds


Yes, we know that cleaning blinds can be a right pain in the 'you know where', especially cleaning Venetian blinds. However, they are still absolute dust magnets, and flies and spiders love all those little hiding places in a nice sunny location.

For roll-up fabric blinds, unroll them completely and have somebody hold it out for you while you use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. In the case of Venetian blinds, you may need to get one of those special tools that slide between the slats to get the dust off – or improvise with an old sock slipped over your hand. 

If the blinds are in really bad condition, it might be worth your while replacing them – you’ll probably be able to find something that fits more cheaply than your landlord can, so you’ll end up better off buying a new blind than if you forfeit your deposit money. Just make sure that it fits and is the right colour.

Walls

You would think that a smooth vertical surface wouldn’t get dirty, but the odd coffee spill, artistic scribble from a toddler, fly spots and scuff marks can mean you definitely need to wipe over your walls.  You can bet that your landlord will see all that as well, especially in a well-lit room  At least glossy and semi-gloss paint is fairly easy to wipe down with a damp cloth and a bit of detergent or your favourite cleaning product.  Don’t forget baseboards, dado rails, skirting boards and architraves. An inventory clerk will definitely have a peak there.

*AD

OzKleen - Eco-friendly Household Cleaners That Work

In my attempt to be more eco-friendly I have been looking for more natural ways to clean my home, other than relying on chemicals like bleach and home products that can damage the environment, so I was delighted when OzKleen got in touch with me. This post is an advertorial with OzKleen but all opinions are my own. 



OzKleen is a company producing eco-friendly cleaning products that they say work. Developed 20 years ago in Australia and from humble beginnings with one shop they now have an international business. 

I was keen to try these out as I'm always looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly, and put their claims to the test.  As an avid cleaner, I must admit, my home wasn't ingrained with dirt so I was intrigued to see if the cleaning products made much of a difference. 

How are OzKleen eco-friendly?

All OzKleen products are free from chlorine, ammonia and phosphates and manufactured in facilities powered exclusively by solar energy and developed using only natural ingredients such as deionised rainwater. This makes the OzKleen brand a safe and effective cleaning option for consumers worldwide.

Bath Power



The OzKleen Bath Power bathroom cleaner is so simple to use. Spray on. Leave for 30 to 60 seconds. Rinse off. Wipe. Done. Now I didn't think it would be so easy, as almost all the cleaners I've used in the past take more effort and you really have to go over the area a few times with the spray, but not with OzKleen. The smell of lemons really adds a freshness too. I must say I was impressed.







As you can see the taps are so shiny and clean they reflect the environment around! I tried not to get my reflection in the photo.

Kitchen Power



The OzKleen Kitchen Power was again incredibly simple and easy to use. Spray and leave on for 30-60 seconds. Rinse off. Simple. I was impressed with the power of a product that is so eco-friendly. The lemon essence cuts through the grime and stains as well as limescale.






It removed the tea marks on the stainless steel too as well as the watermarks. No need for scrubbing. In the past, I would have used bleach to remove the tea stains, so I am extremely pleased I have found an alternative to bleach on tea stains finally.

Carpet Power



The OzKleen Carpet Power again was simple to use. Spray on, leave for up to five minutes, then rinse by using a damp cloth and a small amount of water, dabbing gently on the stains. I used it on some small marks on our hall carpet runner. These were tea stains that had been there for some time. 




The marks seemed to literally disappear in a few seconds of spraying. Again I really was impressed. I also think it's important to point out that the OzKleen Carpet Power had a light fragrance of lavender and would not overpower any room fragrance you use.

The OzKleen eco-friendly household cleaners are suitable to clean a range of household items. I was very pleased that these products lived up to the claims of the stickers which states, "Shock! This product actually works!", because they do. If you want a range of environmentally friendly cleaning products that actually work in no time, you can do no wrong with OzKleen. 

OzKleen’s product range includes Carpet Power, Grease Power, Mint Kleen, Bath Power, Kitchen Power, Multi-Surface Mint, and De-scaler Power. Products start from just £3.80 and are available online or in selected UK retailers including Costco, Wilko, Robert Dyas and Waitrose. 

Let me know, if you would you use the OzKleen products? What areas of the household do you need help with cleaning? If you are interested in being more eco-friendly check out this post on 7 ways to curate a more eco-friendly kitchen.

*AD

10 Eco-Friendly Cleaning Hacks

I think we are all becoming more environmentally conscious, I know I am as I get older. So if you want to get away from the beach and embrace a cleaning regime that is better for the environment then check out these eco-friendly cleaning hacks brought to you in conjunction with Pattersons, a company that offers household and commercial eco-cleaning products.




1. In a microwave put a cupful of cold water and half a lemon. Microwave for two minutes until the water heats up. Leave in the microwave for five minutes, remove the cup and then wipe the inside with a damp cloth. The steam will loosen any grime and the lemon will make it smell nice and make it easy cleaning.

2. Lemon can also work wonders on your cutting board too. To remove stains cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the surface. Leave to stand for 20 minutes and then rinse. The result is a stain free board that smells fresh and should eradicate any garlic or onion smells.

3. To remove coffee stains in china cups, make up a mixture of half salt and half vinegar. Use this with a soft cloth to scrub the inside of the cups to remove all the stains in no time.

4. To clean your oven, firstly wipe over when cool with a cloth to get rid of any loose particles, then sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda all over the burnt on grime. Next, get some white vinegar and sprinkle all over the baking soda. The vinegar will react with a baking soda like magic, and fizz up to clean off the burnt on food. Wipe off with a clean cloth.

5. To freshen up a carpet, sprinkle liberally with bicarbonate of soda and leave overnight. The next morning vacuum up and your carpet should smell fresher and look much cleaner.

6. To clean blinds, make a mixture of half vinegar and half water. Wrap a clean sock around your hand and dip in the mixture, then wipe over the blinds to clean.

7. To clean a showerhead, fill a plastic bag with white vinegar. Then immerse the shower head in the bag so it is covered. Leave overnight, then rinse. Any hard water marks and mould should be removed.

8. Clean drains by pouring vinegar down them, leaving for 30 minutes then rinse with water.

9. To remove crayon marks from white walls, make a mixture of bicarbonate of soda paste with equals parts of baking soda and water then apply to the walls with a soft cloth gently. The marks should come off easily, just be careful if your walls are not painted white as this is gently abrasive.

10. To clean your metal taps, work in a small amount of toothpaste, then get a soft cloth and buff dry. The taps should sparkle.

So these are my top 10 natural cleaning tips. With a handful of natural substances like lemons, bicarbonate of soda, vinegar and toothpaste you can have a cleaner and healthier home.

Check out this infographic below for more eco-friendly cleaning hacks.



*Collaborative post

Review & Competition - How Clean? I'm Astonished! Ends 23/08

Years ago I remember buying some Astonish and being amazed how good the paste was at cleaning. A small pot lasted ages, and I coveted it, using it to clean the bath, sink, kitchen and even the paintwork. 



Fast forward today and I can certainly say nothing has changed, except the variety of the products. Did you know Astonish  has a range that includes cream cleaners, dishwasher tablets, handwash, carpet and upholstery spray, and 4 in 1 washing detergent amongst others?

Well I was excited to try out the Cream Cleaner with Bleach on my bathroom as I remember how good my paste was all those years ago. So donning the rubber gloves as advised as it contains bleach I squirted the product over the bath. What I liked about this product is that it worked really quickly! I left it for only 10 seconds and just wiped it away and it was brilliant. The finish on my bath and sink was the shiniest I had seen in ages. 




So onto the 4 in 1 detergent. This is a new product and not on their website yet. It has an added conditioner to the washing liquid to soften and freshen clothes. I found the product worked as a detergent but I did not notice a discernible fresh smell so probably best used with a conditioner if you normally use one.

Next I tried the Multi-surface Cleaner with Orange. I really liked this product, it smells divine and the contribution of the orange oil appears to cut through the grease. Useful when you only want to buy one type of cleaner.




When I buy dishwasher tablets I always look for a lemon fragrance and multi-action so I was particularly impressed with the 5 in 1 Dishwasher Tablets in lemon fresh. The 5 in 1 action refers to Outstanding Cleaning, Rinse Aid, Salt Action Power, Protects Cutlery and Protects Glassware. Everything you could need in a dishwasher tablet. Do they work? That's a resounding Yes! Glasses were particularly sparkling.

Then onto the Mould and Mildew Remover. My bath needs new grouting, so I always have a problem with mould growing in the uneven grouting so I was looking forward to trying this product with interest. This is simple to use, spray on, leave for three minutes then wash off. I was pleasantly surprised how effective it was!

Did you know that Astonish products are proud of their ethical stance and from day one in the 60's have always been "cruelty free"?



You can buy Astonish products at a variety of stores including Poundland, B and M, Poundstretchers, Waitrose and Ocado amongst others and you can also buy online.

 But if you like the look of these products why don't you enter my Giveaway.  Astonish have given me a hamper of assorted products* for my readers to win. All you have to do is enter via the Rafflecopter application. Don't forget to bookmark this page for an extra entry with a daily tweet via the Rafflecopter app.

*products may vary from those shown.

Happy Cleaning and Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*I was given these products to review but the opinions are entirely my own