curtain cleaning

How Often Should You Clean Your Curtains?

Let’s be honest, cleaning curtains is not the most exciting task on our to-do list. It often gets pushed to the bottom, overlooked and forgotten. However, just like any other part of our homes, curtains also require regular cleaning to maintain their beauty and functionality. So, how often should you clean your curtains? Let’s dive into this topic and find out!

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of curtain cleaning frequency, let’s talk about why it is important to clean your curtains in the first place. Curtains are not only decorative but also functional. They help block out light, provide privacy, and even insulate your home. Over time, curtains can accumulate dust, dirt, allergens, pet hair, and even odors. These unwanted particles not only affect the appearance of your curtains but can also impact the air quality in your home. Regular cleaning will not only keep your curtains looking fresh but also ensure a healthier living environment.

Now that we understand the importance of curtain cleaning, let’s discuss how often you should clean them. The frequency of curtain cleaning depends on various factors such as the location of your home, the level of pollution in your area, and the type of curtains you have. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to clean your curtains at least once every six months.

For curtains in high traffic areas or homes with smokers or pets, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. These factors can contribute to a quicker buildup of dirt and odors on your curtains. In such cases, cleaning your curtains every three to four months is advisable. Additionally, if you or any family members suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions, more frequent cleaning can help reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.

Now that we have established the recommended curtain cleaning frequency, let’s discuss the different methods you can use to clean your curtains. The cleaning method you choose will depend on the fabric of your curtains. Here are some common curtain fabrics and the corresponding cleaning techniques:

1. Cotton or Linen Curtains: Cotton and linen curtains are relatively easy to clean. You can either machine wash them on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent or hand wash them in a bathtub or large sink. Make sure to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. After washing, hang the curtains to dry or use a low heat setting on your dryer.

2. Synthetic Fabrics: Curtains made from synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, or acrylic can also be machine washed. However, it is important to check the care label for any specific instructions. Some synthetic fabrics may require a delicate or cold water cycle. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they can damage the fabric. Once washed, hang the curtains to dry or use a low heat setting on your dryer.

3. Silk or Velvet Curtains: Silk and velvet curtains require more delicate care. It is recommended to dry clean these types of curtains to avoid any damage. Take them to a professional dry cleaner who specializes in handling delicate fabrics. Dry cleaning will help maintain the color and texture of your curtains.

4. Sheer or Lace Curtains: Sheer or lace curtains are best hand washed. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and a gentle detergent. Gently agitate the curtains in the water and then rinse thoroughly. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric as it can cause damage. Hang the curtains to air dry or use a low heat setting on your dryer.

In addition to regular cleaning, it is also important to perform spot cleaning whenever necessary. If you notice any stains or spills on your curtains, address them immediately. Blot the stain with a clean cloth or sponge, using a mild detergent or stain remover if needed. Avoid rubbing the stain as it can spread and set in further.

Apart from regular cleaning, there are a few other steps you can take to keep your curtains looking fresh for longer. Here are some tips to help maintain the cleanliness of your curtains:

1. Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt and dust from your curtains. This will prevent the buildup of particles and extend the time between deep cleanings.

2. Dusting: Dust your curtains regularly using a microfiber cloth or a feather duster. This will help remove surface dust and keep your curtains looking clean and fresh.

3. Sunlight Exposure: Avoid placing your curtains in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Sunlight can cause the colors to fade and weaken the fabric. If possible, use curtains with a UV protection lining to minimize sun damage.

4. Pet Hair Removal: If you have pets, you know how their hair can find its way onto every surface, including your curtains. Use a lint roller or a damp cloth to remove pet hair from your curtains between cleanings.

5. Odor Control: To keep your curtains smelling fresh, you can use fabric sprays or air fresheners specifically designed for curtains. Be cautious not to use strong scents that can be overwhelming or cause allergies.

By following these tips and cleaning your curtains regularly, you can ensure that they remain beautiful, functional, and free from unwanted dirt and allergens. Remember, curtain cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of effort, you can maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your curtains effortlessly.

In conclusion, it is recommended to clean your curtains at least once every six months. However, factors such as high traffic areas, pets, smokers, allergies, and the type of fabric may require more frequent cleaning. The cleaning method will depend on the fabric of your curtains, with machine washing, hand washing, or dry cleaning being the most common techniques. Additionally, regular vacuuming, dusting, and spot cleaning can help maintain the cleanliness of your curtains between deep cleanings. So, don’t neglect your curtains any longer; give them the attention they deserve and enjoy a fresh and clean living space!

5 Highly Effective Ways to Get Rid of Dust Mites

5 Highly Effective Ways to Get Rid of Dust Mites

Dust mites, their body parts, and their feces are the most common household allergens.  They are the source of sneezing, wheezing, coughing, itchy and watery eyes, runny noses, stuffy noses, eczema, and asthma.

If you are reading this, chances are you or someone you love was recently diagnosed with an allergy to dust mites.  People that are recently diagnosed may experience a wide variety of feelings.

Some are in denial, (How can a bed bugs make you sick? But I keep a clean house!) some are overwhelmed (This just seems like too much effort or I will never keep it up!), but the vast majority are mad at the dust mites and are ready to declare war.

The first rule of warfare is to know your enemy.

So here is the basic information about dust mites:

  • Dust mites, their body parts, and their feces are the most common household allergens.
  • These allergens are the source of sneezing, coughing, itchy and watery eyes, stuffy noses, eczema, and asthma.
  • Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on shed human skin cells.
  • Dust mites do not bite you.
  • You cannot see dust mites, and you cannot feel them.
  • Dust mites prefer areas where it is dark, moist, and there is plenty to eat.
  • Fiber surfaces are their favorites.
  • The bedroom is the most widely infested room in the house.
  • Your mattress, pillow, and blanket are the perfect environment to meet all their needs.
  • Our sleeping environment is full of fibers that trap shed dust mite carapaces and feces, making it a literally a hotbed of allergy activity (pun intended).

Clearly, dust mites are not welcome in the home. Here are 5+ highly effective ways to get rid of dust mites and their allergens as well as a few that we don’t really recommend, but they will work.

#1 Get Rid of Their Home or Make it Uncomfortable

Dust mites look for places that are dark, warm, and filled with their favorite food, shed human skin cells.  Therefore, they love fiber surfaces.  Fibers give dust mites a hiding place and fibers collect food and trap moisture.

Fiber surfaces are not easily cleaned.  So, over time, more and more dust mite allergens collect in fibers.

Removing dust mites from fabric surfaces requires a multi-prong approach.

Carpeting: While you don’t have loads of dust mites actively living and breeding in your carpets, carpets hold the dead body parts that are a normal part of household dust as well as dust mite feces. Try as you may, you can’t clean the carpet.

Imagine you took your favorite cotton button-down shirt and tossed it on the floor and walked on it for 6 to 9 months. Then to clean it, you splashed a little water and soap on it and then vacuumed it up.  Would that shirt be what you called, ahem, “clean”?  Nope. But, that’s essentially “carpet cleaning” in a nutshell.

You can spend money on carpet cleaning and carpets will look and smell cleaner, but you can’t really clean carpet deep down where the allergens are.  The professional recommended method to exterminate and remove dust mites is steam carpet cleaning and also effective in removing allergens.

Remember, a dead dust mite is just as bad for you as a live one. That is why allergists agree that the best surface for flooring is a hard surface.

That means giving a heave-ho to rugs and carpets.  Small throw rugs that can be washed weekly are acceptable.  Get rid of all other fiber-based floor coverings.  Replace them with tile, hardwood, laminate, engineered wood, vinyl, or concrete floors.

Hard surfaces can be effectively vacuumed and mopped regularly. With hard surface floors, you will actually remove the dust mites, their feces, and their body parts.

Furniture: Just like carpets and rugs, furniture covered in fabric makes a great hiding place that can’t be cleaned thoroughly. Replace your upholstered furniture with hardwood, leather, or synthetic leathers.  These hard surfaces don’t collect allergens and they are easily wiped clean also.

Not able to ditch your couch, curtains, and mattress?  You can also try curtain cleaning and mattress cleaning and sofa cleaning. These are number 1 on the list of Top 5 Allergy Control Products.

So, denaturing agents don’t get rid of allergens, but they prevent or limit the allergic reaction.  If you rent a home and can’t remove upholstered furniture or carpets, they can bring some relief and are 100% more effective than doing nothing.

Window coverings: Remove draperies and replace them with hard surface blinds.  If curtains and valances remain, they must be washed or vacuumed and treated with the anti-allergen spray.

Dust catchers: Remove dust catchers and wipe down all hard surfaces at least every 7 days. When cleaning and dusting, everyone always has an aid they use to clean around the home

Just spray some (more is not better) on an old tee shirt and get to cleaning.  It picks up mites and mold particles before they get a chance to become airborne. A great product to have when trying to get rid of dust and mites.

While you are at it, get rid of the excess clutter and dust catchers in the bedroom. Do you really need 12 pillows on the bed?

The 10 Commandments For Carpet Cleaning

 

  1. Frequent vacuuming is important. Wear and tear of carpet is often caused by dirt. Too oily soils traps soil, with frequent vacuuming will help reduce soil build up.
  2. Act on stains quickly, 99% of all stains can be taken out by one cleaning agent or another if they are cleaned in the first few days. Stains that stays longer becomes permanent damage to the carpet fiber.

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  1. Always test the carpet before scrubbing, extracting or spotting. This is because different carpets has different materials and dye types. Certain carpets are very sensitive to acid based cleaners and will shed their color quickly. While certain carpets dyes are delicate to strong alkalis.
  2. Using the appropriate spotters starting with the mildest. Do not use strong spotting agents unless absolutely necessary and often neutralize high alkaline or high acid cleaners after use.
  3. Don’t brush spots or dig it. The correct procedure is to scrape the spot towards the middle and then tamp the spot into the white towel or cloth using a brush or additional tamping devices. A meat tenderizer makes a great tamping tool.
  4. Do not use household detergents or shampoo. Detergent will result in residual left in the carpet that even thorough vacuuming may not remove.
  5. Do not over use water to wet carpet during cleaning. Over-wetting can cause mold growth, carpet shrinkage, adhesion problems and musty smell.
  6. Residuals must be extracted using steam extraction cleaning system. Steam extraction cleaning helps to effectively pull soil, pollutants, dirts, germs, dust mites that are trapped deep inside carpet loop.
  7. Never “coating” a dirty or spotty carpet. After scrubbing or extracting a dirty carpet, if you are not satisfied with the results, do not apply a layer of carpeting protector as this will lead to “gluing in the dirt” making it harder to remove it the next time. Either re-scrub or extract the floor covering or leave the carpet until the next cleaning cycle before you coat.
  8. Do steam extraction cleaning frequently. It significantly improves carpet condition for long term maintenance and improve your home and office hygiene.
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