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15 Dangerous Household Items and Healthier Alternatives to Swap For Them

Dangerous Household Items

You may have heard in passing that there are dangerous chemicals in household cleaners, or there is a significant lack of proof that antibacterial soap actually benefits the user more than regular soap and water.

However, you may not realize just how many items you use in your home can be a danger to you and your family.

Learning about each of the below-mentioned dangerous household items and finding more eco-friendly and family-friendly alternatives can go a long way toward keeping your family healthy.

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1. Dangerous Household Item: Non-Stick Cookware

Non Stick Cookware

Why It’s Harmful: Toxic chemicals released from the Teflon coating on non-stick pans when heated to high temperatures, may kill pet birds and cause flu-like symptoms for humans.

Alternatives: Stainless steel or cast iron are better alternatives, even though they may require more spray or oil and require more elbow grease to get them clean after use.

2. Dangerous Household Item: Plastic Food Containers

Plastic food containers

Why It’s Harmful: Using plastic food containers and microwaving leftovers in these containers, particularly meats and cheeses, can result in the diethylhexyl adipate that is present leaching out into the foods.

Alternatives: Glass or ceramic containers are your best options when considering alternatives for food storage. If you are concerned about utensils, opt for those made of stainless steel or high-heat-resistant nylon.

3. Dangerous Household Item: Air Fresheners

Air fresheners


Why It’s Harmful: Studies have recently found that phthalates are chemicals found in numerous air fresheners. These chemicals, when tested, have been found to cause hormonal disruptions – particularly in children.

These are one on a list of pollutants distributed by environmental groups lobbying against the prolific use of air fresheners and odor neutralizers, a business that sees over $1 billion in profits annually in the United States.

Alternatives: Sachets, a pot of boiling water and some aromatic herbs or a water bottle with a spray dispenser and some essential oils all make very viable alternatives for commercially made air fresheners.

4. Cleaning Items

Cleaning Items

Why It’s Harmful: Corrosive drain cleaners and oven cleaners contain strong chemicals to take care of difficult stains and dirt. The chemicals in these can cause severe burns to the eyes, as well as the throat and esophagus if ingested.

Even the fumes from these cleaners can be irritating to the skin, eyes and lungs. In terms of laundry detergents or fabric softeners, the scents added to make them smell better may actually act as irritants to the skin, nose, and throat. Read more about household cleaning item toxic here.

Alternatives: There are several environmentally friendly items on the market that avoid the corrosive chemicals and strong scents. Most of these involve vinegar or come from eco-friendly brands like Seventh Generation, Mrs. Meyer’s and Green Shield.

You can also read: 101 House Cleaning Tips and Tricks

5. Furniture Polish and Stain

Furniture Polish and Stain


Why It’s Dangerous Household Item: Furniture polish if ingested can cause throat and/or stomach pain, dizziness, breathing difficulty or even a coma. If it gets into one’s eyes, vision loss can occur.

Skin irritation is also a concern. If young children are in the house, the dangers almost outweigh the benefits of shiny furniture.

Alternatives: The simple alternative to this is a half cup of white vinegar and jojoba oil to make your furniture shine just as brightly as commercially made furniture polish.

6. Antibacterial Soaps

Antibacterial Soaps


Why It’s Harmful: Recent studies have shown that antibacterial soaps contain triclosan, a chemical that has been shown to have potentially harmful effects on individuals.

Meanwhile, there is little conclusive evidence that these types of soaps are actually more beneficial than soap and water.

Alternatives: Using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers are better options than antibacterial soaps. At least until there is an additional benefit proven to exist for using these types of soaps, avoiding triclosan is a much better bet.

7. Flame Retardants

Why It’s Dangerous Household Item: For adults, a concern related to flame retardant chemicals is lower birth weights and fertility problems. For children, studies have shown lower cognitive abilities and attention spans in school environments, due to exposure to flame retardant chemicals.

Alternatives: Currently, while certain flame retardant chemicals have been deemed carcinogens and are being phased out of use, the only option is to focus on the positives of having flame retardants in numerous pieces of furniture or other objects in your home.

Shopping for items that do not have a flame retardant warning label may be an option. However, these items will be rare.

8. Antiperspirant

Antiperspirant


Why It’s Harmful: One primary concern for women who use antiperspirant is the potential risk of breast cancer due to the aluminum compounds used in antiperspirant and deodorant to help combat the amount of sweating you do under your arms.

Other concerns for both genders include a danger of Alzheimer’s Disease and concern for individuals who do not have two fully functioning kidneys, both concerns also related to aluminum.

Alternatives: There are aluminum-free deodorants available. These do not combat sweat, but they do help with the odor issues typically causing concern when people use deodorant.

9. Plastic Shopping Bags

Plastic Shopping Bags


Why It’s Harmful: Plastic shopping bags are an environmental hazard to the planet. They do not biodegrade and remain to pollute the environment for decades into the future. Plastic bags also get into the world’s oceans and are the cause of death for thousands of marine mammals each year.

Alternatives: Choose to carry reusable bags for groceries on repeat trips. This cuts down on the pollution to the world’s oceans and environment. Opt to shop at stores that don’t offer plastic bags. Finally, choose to recycle your plastic bags instead of throwing them in the trash.

10. Microwavable Popcorn Bags

Microwavable Popcorn Bags


Why It’s Harmful: Surprisingly, beyond the fat and calories in microwave popcorn (butter!!!), there are other hidden dangers. For one, burns happen regularly to those who don’t heed the warnings on the bag.

Also, there is a chemical that coats the bag that changes during the microwaving process. This chemical, called PFOA, has been labeled a possible carcinogen by the FDA.

Alternatives: Popping kernels with oil in a pan on the stove or via a popcorn popper, bypassing the microwave altogether is the safest way to avoid most of these issues. However, you still have to be careful of the fat and the negative effects of the butter this way.

11. Paper Plates

Paper Plates


Why It’s Harmful: The obvious effect of paper plates is on the environment, filling dump sites and adding to pollution.

However, in a manner you may not be aware of, paper plates can be dangerous to your health. Using paper plates exposes you and your family to polystyrene and dioxin, which are volatile organic compounds.

Alternatives: The safest alternative to paper plates is china or ceramic plates. They can be used for years and washed for re-use immediately.

For those who just aren’t up for this option, there are re-usable paper plates on the market that are dishwasher-safe and not whitened with VOCs.

12. Weed Killer

Weed Killer


Why It’s Harmful: Brand name weed killers like Roundup contain glyphosate, which has been proven in numerous recent studies to cause different cancers, infertility issues and even Parkinson’s. This is in addition to environmental problems caused by the chemical.

Alternatives: Other than pulling the weeds, there are simple alternatives that come straight from your kitchen. For example, pour boiling water on weeds to shrivel them.

Table salt (or leftover rock salt from winter) can be used on garden paths in the springtime. Avoid using this among your garden plants, however, as it will make the land barren.

13. Laundry Detergent

Laundry Detergent


Why It’s Harmful: Bleach and Nonylphenol Ethoxylate are typically included in commercially-produced laundry detergents. Both of these can be extremely harmful toxins to people and/or animals.

The point that is more scary is that companies are not required to list these ingredients on the laundry detergent labels.

Alternatives: Options like Planet Natural Detergent or Ecover Zero Laundry Detergent are environmentally friendly and safer options for your household. If you prefer to make your own, use the following: 2 parts Washing Soda, 2 parts Borax and 1 part Bar Soap.

14. Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Toilet Bowl Cleaner


Why It’s Harmful: Toilet cleaners actually contain a type of pesticide in order to clean the toilet and eliminate germs. These types of pesticides are called antimicrobial pesticide.

These cleaners also include bleach and hydrochloric acid. If mixed with other household cleaners, poisonous gases can result. This can have fatal effects on household members.

Alternatives: Mix ¼ cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar. Let mixture sit in the toilet for a few minutes. Scrub, then rinse. Mixing 2 parts borax with one part lemon juice also cleans a toilet satisfactorily.

15. Window/glass cleaner

Window/glass cleaner


Why It’s Harmful: Brands like Windex, Glass Gleam and Sparkle Glass Cleaner contain chemicals like Ammonia, Ethanol or Isopropyl alcohol. These chemicals, if ingested, can cause severe pain in the lips, eyes, ears, tongue or throat.

It can also cause breathing difficulties, dizziness, and a coma if it is not dealt with immediately. Read more detail here.

Alternatives: Leave citrus peels in vinegar for a few days or as long as two weeks. Strain out vinegar and use to clean windows.

All of the items noted above may be present in your home. However, their mere presence does not mean you and your loved ones are guaranteed to get cancer or face the other mentioned dangers.

Being aware of these potential issues is a huge step toward combating them. Otherwise, shopping for eco-friendly items can further decrease your chances of facing these potentially healthy-impacting consequences.

Reference:

  1. http://www.ewg.org/research/healthy-home-tips/tip-6-skip-non-stick-avoid-dangers-teflon
  2. http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0706a.shtml
  3. http://www.organicauthority.com/sanctuary/natural-alternatives-to-chemical-air-fresheners.html
  4. https://www.organicconsumers.org/news/how-toxic-are-your-household-cleaning-supplies
  5. http://www.thealternativedaily.com/furniture-polish-poisoning-avoid/
  6. http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/12/16/fda-antibacterial-soap/4038907/
  7. http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/what-could-be-so/
  8. http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/underarm-care/tips/is-antiperspirant-toxic.htm
  9. http://environment.about.com/od/reducingwaste/a/no_plastic_bags.htm
  10. http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/Headline/microwave-popcorn-PFOA-diacetyl/2013/03/21/id/495819/
  11. http://www.ehow.com/about_6728768_chemicals-paper-plates.html
  12. http://www.medicaldaily.com/roundup-weed-killer-dangerous-your-health-245324
  13. http://wellnessmama.com/462/homemade-laundry-detergent/
  14. http://www.epa.gov/kidshometour/products/tbclean.htm
  15. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002750.htm

 

 

 

6 Pressure Washer Problems and How To Solve Them

The pressure washer can be a handy tool for cleaning. However, if you don’t know about the basic problems associated with pressure washers, you will find yourself running to the repair shop every other week.

Most of these pressure washer problems are really easy to solve on your own and take very little time.

Not to mention all the money you will be saving by solving these problems yourself.


Most Common Pressure Washer Problems and Solutions

Here’s a quick guide that will assist you with the common problems associated with pressure washers.

1) Engine Problems:

Pressure Washer Engine Problems

Engine problems of pressure washer are one of the most common issues. The primary cause is usually a dirty air filter. A dirty air filter prevents air from reaching the carburetor which causes the machine to underperform.

A good idea is to check the entire air filtration system from time to time including the seals. If you find too much dirt around these parts then you know what the problem is.

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2) Surge problem:

We have all faced that situation, where you turn on your washer and pressure, is good for a second and then it falls. Normally this indicates that the water supply isn’t providing enough water required by the pump.

You can solve this Pressure Washer problem by simply finding out the capacity of your pump. Then make sure that your supply provides enough water to maintain that capacity. If it’s not providing enough water do not use that supply. Using the supply will cause your pump to suck in the air causing damage to it.

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3) Too Much Pressure:

pressure washer nozzles

The most common reason for too much pressure is a nozzle that is too small. Just simply use the proper size nozzle to solve this. Another reason for this pressure washer problem may be caused by a broken pressure gauge.

If these two things are working properly you might consider checking your regulator for flaws or adjusting the unloader.

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4) Leakage Problems:

pressure washer leakage problems

We often think that water leaking from the pressure washer is a problem but sometimes it’s actually good. This is usually caused by a thermal relief valve which is installed to prevent the pump from overheating. The water in the washer gets trapped and fresh cool water cannot enter.

To release this water pull the trigger after about every minute. Do not keep your washer running if you are not going to use it for a while, simply turn it off. Overheating can cause permanent damage to your pump.

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5) Low Nozzle Pressure:

The primary reason for a low nozzle pressure might be due to a clogged nozzle tip. After checking that check the inlet screen for clogging or insufficient water supply. Another reason might just be a plugged hose.

6) Pressure Washer Unloader Problem:

Pressure Washer Unloader Problem

An unloader problem usually causes very low pressure and leaking. Consider changing the unloader immediately with one that matches or has greater gallons per minute (GPM) and PSI ratings.


These are the most common Pressure Washer problems associated with a pressure washer. With these very simple tips, you can easily repair your pressure washer yourself at home. Happy washing!

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Important Information About How to Clean Brick

how to clean brick

If you have brick around your home, you have surely asked yourself about how to clean brick efficiently. Since brick is porous, it takes a little more work than other surfaces that are smoother.

Remember that while brick is tough, using cleaning methods and techniques that are too harsh can damage your brick.

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Clean Brick Efficiently

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How to Clean Brick Efficiently?

It is important to understand how to safely and effectively clean brick so that you can maintain the brick in and around your house and help to keep it in good shape for years to come.

How to Clean Interior Brick?

Clean interior brick with pressure washer

Keeping your interior brick clean is an important part of home cleaning and maintenance. Use the following steps to get the job done:

  • Mix the detergent using one part table salt, one part dishwashing liquid and water. It should be a paste-like texture.
  • Use a wire brush and the detergent to scrub the wall.
  • Use a wet sponge to rinse the detergent away.

How to Clean Exterior Brick?

Exterior Brick Cleaning

Your exterior brick is assaulted by the elements on a regular basis, so it is important to ensure cleanliness and regular maintenance. An outdoor brick cleaner and a water hose are all that you need to keep all of your exterior brick clean.

You should only use a power washer as an absolute last resort since the water pressure is generally too strong for brick.

It is best to consult a professional if a power washer must be used to ensure that it is used properly and safely on your brick. Remember that exterior brick can be a little more fragile due to being exposed to the elements.

How to Clean Fireplace Brick?

Fireplace Brick


There are a number of cleaners that work well to clean a brick fireplace and these include:

  • Abrasives and soaps: You apply the soap to the brick, use a cloth to rub it in, let it dry and then remove it with a stiff brush.
  • Ammonia: Mix ammonia with pumice, hot water and soap, paint it on your fireplace, allow it to dry and use a wet scrub brush to wash it away.
  • Tri-sodium phosphate: Mix and dilute the cleaner per the instructions, scrub the brick with a stiff brush and rinse completely with a gentle stream of water.
  • Oven cleaner: Spray the brick of your fireplace, let it sit for five minutes and then use a coarse towel to wipe it away.

How to Clean Brick Floors?

Clean Brick Floors

When you clean brick floors, there are two things that you need to look at and this includes the bricks themselves and the grout that holds the bricks together. Create a cleaner using one tablespoon of borax and one gallon of warm water.

This is an alkaline cleaner and it is not too harsh for your brick. Never use cleaners like bleach or ammonia on bricks. It is also important that you never use strong water sprays because this can damage your brick.



When it comes to the grout component of your floors, there are commercial grout cleaners that are ideal.

These provide enough power to clean the grout, but they are not strong enough to erode the grout. Rinse the cleaner away with a gentle stream of water.

How to Clean Brick Pavers?

Brick Pavers


Brick pavers are used for things like driveways, outdoor walkways, and patios. The good thing about brick pavers is that they do not require extensive maintenance to be in good shape.

Use the following to clean and maintain your brick pavers:

  • Start by using a broom to sweet away things like leaves and other loose debris on your pavers.
  • Never use excessive water pressure because this can damage brick pavers due to being made of cement, water, aggregate mixture, and water. If you use high water pressure or harsh cleansers, this can prematurely wear away your brick.
  • Use a standard water hose to rinse away any dust, surface dirt and debris from your brick pavers.
  • Basic household detergent is enough to cleanse your brick and remove stains on your pavers.
  • Use a gentle brush meant for brick and your detergent to scrub it.
  • Once you scrub your brick, use your water hose to rinse away the detergent and make sure that you are rinsing thoroughly so that there is no leftover residue on the pavers.

When it comes to how to clean brick, make sure that you are using the right techniques and products. You should create a brick cleaning schedule so that you can ensure that it gets done on a regular schedule.

This ensures that you are able to maintain your brick and keep it clean all throughout the year. Interior brick can be cleaned about twice a year, but you should aim to clean your exterior brick once a season.

This ensures cleanliness, but it is also easier to remember when you plan to clean it once per season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Clean A Roof By Using Pressure Washer

Clean a Roof by Pressure Washer

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When exploring how to clean a roof, you will find that it ultimately depends on the type of roof you have. This is because you will need to use different methods, tools and materials for the different roof types.

Regardless of the type of roof you have, you want to give it a good cleaning about once a year after the winter.

The winter months are the harshest for a roof, especially when you live in a climate that sees snow, ice and extreme temperatures.

Yearly cleaning will help to prolong the life of your roof and reduce the need for costly repairs.

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Roof Pressure Cleaning

Image Credit: priceyourjob.co.uk

How to Clean a Roof: Roof Pressure Cleaning?

Some people prefer to use a pressure washer to clean their roof, but it is important to know that this is not appropriate for all roof types because it can cause damage. You need to know which roof types can handle this type of cleaning and the proper amount of pressure.

Before tackling roof pressure cleaning, it is best to consult a professional to ensure that you are using the right technique.

If you rent a pressure washer from a hardware store, you can talk to the associate to get the information that you need. Make sure that you inform the associate as to the type of roof you are cleaning, the overall structural condition of the roof and the approximate cleaning condition of the roof.

This allows them to give you the proper instructions and advice so that you can pressure clean your roof efficiently and without any issues.

How to Clean a Roof: Tile Roof Cleaning?

When you have a tile roof, you can tackle the job yourself without using a professional. Just make sure that you have the right tools and materials and that you are using the proper techniques.

Before you jump into the cleaning aspect, take the time to collect the following tools and materials:

  • A pressure washer with 1,200 to 1,500 psi of pressure and the proper nozzles.
  • Cleaning chemicals that contain sodium hydroxide.
  • Replacement tiles so that you can repair any minor damage as you clean to tackle two problems at once.
  • A ladder to get to your roof.
  • Plywood to allow for even weight distribution so that you do not damage tiles.
  • Sealant, primers and paint to take care of tiles after cleaning and drying them.
  • Dry and clean cloth rugs to buff the roofing tiles.

You should use the following steps to clean your tile roof thoroughly and properly:

  • Use your power washer to remove all loose debris and dirt from the surface of your roof. Start in the middle and work down.
  • Allow the tiles to dry completely and then apply the chemical cleaner using a low psi on your power washer.
  • Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes and then rinse your roof completely. Make sure that no residue is left behind. Start at the center of your roof and rinse outward.
    You should also rinse off the remainder of your home so that none of the cleaner sits on your outer walls.
  • As soon as your roof dries completely, buff it out.
  • After buffing, make any necessary tile repairs, seal your roof and do any necessary painting to complete the job and protect your roof.

How to Clean a Roof: Clean a Metal Roof?

Clean a Metal Roof

Metal roofs are relatively easy to clean because they are generally a flatter and smoother surface. Start by learning about the type of metal that makes up your roof and choose a cleaner that is specifically designed for that type of metal.

Next, use a water and tri-sodium phosphate mix to work away any mildew and mold that are growing on your roof. You should use a non-abrasive brush to tackle this part of the process.

Once you scrub your roof clean, you want to use water to completely rinse away the cleaner and any other chemicals used. It is critical that all of this is rinsed thoroughly or else there is the risk of corrosion.

Once your roof dries, you can use a paint or a sealer to re-seal your roof to protect it from the weather and other elements that it is exposed to throughout the year.

Now you have the information that you need for how to clean a roof. Make sure that you take your time so that you can get everything completed the first go around. This will save you time and money and it will get your roof as clean as possible.

When you spend time thoroughly cleaning your roof, you will extend the time in between cleanings. While you are performing roof maintenance, you should also take the time to clean your gutters and do a quick roof inspection so that you can get all of this done at once.

 

 

 

6 Dangerous Household Bugs (Infographic)

There are a number of dangerous household bugs that can infest your home and make it unpleasant for those living there. Bugs can also have a negative impact on human health.

The infographic below shows the various household bugs that [continue reading…]

5 Dangerous Bathroom Germs – You Should Know About (Infographic)

Your bathroom is where you spend time getting clean, but there are bathroom germs that can accumulate and pose a threat to your health. It is important that you know what these germs are so that you can avoid them.

When you are cleaning your bathroom, you want to know which bathroom germs to fight against. The right cleaning techniques are what you need to use to kill and eradicate these potentially dangerous germs.

Killing these germs is even more important if you have health issues, or children or an elderly person in the home.

Check out the image below to learn more about these bathroom germs, how to identify them and how to clean to remove them.

dangerous-bathroom-germs

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7 Deadly Germs of Kitchen (Infographic)

You already know that certain germs can be downright dangerous, but do you know that these germs are commonly found in your kitchen?

There are 7 deadly germs of kitchen that you want to know about so that you can clean properly and prevent yourself and your family from getting sick. These illnesses are preventable with the right precautions and understanding.

Check out the infographic below for more detailed information on 7 Deadly Germs of Kitchen.

An Infographic on 7 Deadly Germs of Kitchen and How to Keep it Clean

7 Deadly Germs of Kitchen

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Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of germs lurking in your kitchen that can pose health issues. They can be especially dangerous for people who have poor immune systems, the elderly and young children. Make sure to use the right cleaning techniques so that your kitchen is both clean and healthy.

 

 

 

Learning How To Clean A Deck – A Comprehensive Guide For Everyone

Clean Deck

When you are looking at how to clean a deck, you want to explore general deck cleaning tips and then look more closely at how to clean the specific type of deck that you have, such as composite decking, wood decking, and a pool deck.

Your deck is outdoors during all four seasons, so it takes a lot of abuse.

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Why to Learn How to Clean a Deck?

You want to be able to enjoy your deck throughout all four seasons and the best way to ensure this is to keep your deck maintained. Cleaning your deck on a regular basis is an important step in the maintenance process.

General Deck Cleaning

General Deck

When you are preparing to clean your deck, you want to collect the proper tools and materials to get the job done. Start by collecting these tools:

  • Foam roller
  • Broom
  • Putty knife
  • Flat pad roller

You also want to gather all of the following materials:

  • Deck cleaning kit
  • Deck sealer
  • Exterior stain
  • Bleach

You will also need a water hose. A power washer is also and option. If you feel that you may need a power washer, consult a professional for proper usage advice so you do not damage your deck. It is very important that you do not use a highly powerful setting.

The following steps are what you will take when you are working to clean a deck. These are general steps and you may need to adjust them to account for the specific material of your deck. These steps include:

  • Clear cracks and sweep: You want to get between the boards and remove any debris using your putty knife. Once you clean between all of the boards, use a broom to sweep everything away.
  • Scrub the deck: Create a cleaner that is half water and half bleach as a cleaner for your deck. You want to get down and scrub it using a scrub brush. This will help to remove things like mildew and algae from the wood.
    Once you thoroughly scrub your deck, use a water hose to completely rinse your deck and make sure to get in the cracks between boards so that no residue is left behind on the wood.
  • Seal your deck: Once your now clean deck dries completely, you should reseal your deck about once a year. This prolongs the life of your deck and helps the deck to resist water. Use a foam roller to quickly apply the seal that you choose.

How to Clean Composite Decking?

If you have composite decking, you may also ask, how to clean Trex decking since it too is composite, but a brand name. Composite decking is relatively resilient and does not require extensive care.

Regular cleaning and inspection are generally adequate for keeping your deck in good cleaning.

Start by using a cleaner that is approved for composite decks so that you know that the cleaner is not too harsh.

A cleaner that is too harsh has the potential to prematurely degrade your deck.

Along with the cleaner that you choose, you want to use a gentle spray of water to preserve your deck.

To clean this type of deck, sweep it, get it wet with a water hose, scrub it with an approved cleaner and then use the water hose again to thoroughly rinse it away.

How to Clean a Wood Deck?

Wood Deck

To clean a wood deck, you will use the general deck cleaning techniques that are discussed above. Before you start to clean your deck, make sure that you do a good visual inspection of the wood. You want to be on the lookout for weak, rotting or warped boards.

You should replace these boards before you carry out the deck cleaning process. This furthers the integrity of your deck and ensures that it is strong and solid all throughout the season.

Pool Deck Cleaning

Pool Deck Cleaning

When you have a pool deck, you want to clean it regularly and disinfect it when you clean it to prevent bacteria growth and slipperiness.

Since pool decks come in over two dozen different types of material, you will need to follow the cleaning instructions for the exact material that your deck is made out of for the best result.

When looking at how to clean a deck, make sure that you are cleaning your deck on a regular schedule. The best way to remember to clean your deck regularly is to clean it at the start of each of the four seasons.

Make sure that you are using the right techniques and cleaners to get the job done. If you use methods or cleaners that are too harsh, this can damage your deck and result in the need for making more frequent repairs or the need to replace your deck prematurely.

Always follow professional directions to increase the longevity of your deck.

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House Cleaning Tools that You Definitely Need

House Cleaning Tools

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When it comes to cleaning your home, there are a number of products that you need to get the job done right. In addition to cleaning supplies, there are house cleaning tools that complement them to ensure you get the results that you need. Knowing what these are and how they work will help you to choose the right ones for you.

Dusting ClothsDusting Cloths
When you use a dusting spray, you need the right cloth to polish and cleanse your furniture. You most use these products on wood surfaces, so you want something that is soft and non-abrasive.

A cotton cloth is ideal because it is soft and it is also easy to clean and care for.
DusterDuster
Dusters typically have an extendable handle so that you can reach a variety of surfaces. These are ideal for things like your blinds, high shelves and your ceiling fans.

These are always very soft so they are safe for all types of surfaces.
MopMop
You have to clean your floors on a regular basis to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. You can choose a regular mop or a microfiber mop, depending on the type of floors that you have and your overall preferences.

Microfiber mops are nice because they wring out better so that you do not have to soak your floors with water to keep them clean.
Spray BottlesSpray Bottles
You may want to mix your own cleaners and you will need some spray bottles to do this. This is also ideal for cleaning products that do not come in spray-friendly containers.

Just put the cleaner in the bottle and label it appropriately. This will make your use of cleaning products faster and easier as you make your way through your home.
BrushesBrushes
There are several brushes you can use to keep your home clean. The following brushes are ones you should consider keeping on hand:

  • Toilet brush to clean the inside of the toilet bowl

  • Floor brush to remove stains and grime from tougher surfaces

  • Handheld brush to clean things like your showers, sinks and bathtubs

  • Grout brush to clean the grout in your kitchen and bathroom

BroomBroom
Before you can mop a floor, you have to first remove all of the loose debris and this is where a good broom comes in.

You also want to make sure that you have a good dustpan to pick it all up after sweeping. If you sweep indoors and outdoors, keep a separate broom for each area to avoid tracking outside dirt in.
Cleaning ClothsCleaning Cloths
You need cloths that you can get wet to clean things like your appliances and countertops. You can choose a basic cotton cloth or a microfiber cloth to get the job done. Both can be quickly washed in your washing machine in between uses so that you never have to use a dirty cloth to clean.

You should also keep a roll of basic paper towels on hand for quick cleanups and for things like your windows where cloths are not ideal.
VacuumVacuum
There are times when you drop things that require quick cleanup or you have rugs and carpeting throughout your home. Ideally, you want an upright vacuum that works for floors and a handheld vacuum for things like small corners and to vacuum your furniture.

Make sure that the vacuum has removal bags or a canister that you can empty so that you never worry about dirt, dust and debris getting redistributed as you use your vacuum.
BucketsBuckets
You will want to get two buckets to keep your house clean. You want a bucket large enough to accommodate the type of mop that you choose for when you need to clean your floors. You also want a smaller bucket that you can easily carry around to use for smaller surfaces.

Using buckets with a handle will make them easier to move around. You may also consider a mop bucket with wheels so you can quickly move it as you clean different areas of the floor.
Steel WoolSteel Wool
Steel wool works well to get surface rust off of metal surfaces. There are also Brillo pads that provide the same effects while also adding soap. These are easy to use and can make many metal items look brand new.
SpongesSponges
You will use a couple of sponges to clean your home for various surfaces. Some people prefer to do their floors by hand and this is where a sponge comes in.

You can also use sponges on all of the kitchen and bathroom surfaces in your home. You should have a soft sponge and one with a rough surface to cover all of the surfaces in your home.
SqueegeeSqueegee
This is ideal for cleaning your outside windows without leaving any streaks behind. Once you clean and rinse your windows, use the squeegee to remove the water.

There are also floor squeegees that are ideal for remove excess water after you mop the floors in your home.
Rubber GlovesRubber Gloves
Since cleaning products and tools can be harsh on your skin, you want a good pair of rubber gloves to protect your arms and hands.

The gloves should be made of a durable rubber and should extend up to your elbow to provide optimal protection.
Dusting ClothsHouse Cleaning Tool Caddy
When you are cleaning your home, carrying your cleaning tools and products in a caddy makes the process faster and easier.

This allows you to carry everything together so that you can quickly switch between the tools and products you need for the surfaces you are working to clean. Just make sure your caddy is clean and well-stocked at all times.

Checkout: 101 House Cleaning Tips and Tricks – How to Clean Smartly

Now you know which house cleaning tools you need to keep your house clean. Just pair these up with the right cleaning products and you will find that the cleaning process is quick and simple.

Just create a regular cleaning schedule and you will never have to worry about a dirty house again.

Realted Reading:

How To Clean Furniture Effectively

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When it comes to how to clean furniture, there are a number of options that you can use to get an effective clean. Furniture cleaning should be done on a regular basis to keep your furniture in great shape.

When you clean your furniture regularly, you will find that it lasts longer and remains in far better condition long term.

You simply need to make sure that you are using the right techniques and products to get the job done. Use the tips and information presented here to ensure that your furniture cleaning job goes off without a hitch.

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Wood Furniture Cleaning Tips and Information

Wood-Furniture

Your indoor wood furniture is very easy to take care of because it really just involves removing the dust and keeping it dry constantly. There are wood polishers that you can get at any store that sells home cleaning products. Simply spray this on and wipe it away using a soft cloth so that you do not scratch the wood.

Use a wood polisher and avoid other cleaners because this not only cleans the wood, but it also protects it. You must also only use a really soft cloth so that you do not risk scratching or damaging the wood.

Upholstery-Based Furniture Cleaning Tips and Information

Upholstery Based Furniture

Upholstery is the hardest to clean, but there are a number of methods you can use to ensure that your upholstered furniture is always clean and looking good.

Consider the following steps and techniques to keep your furniture clean and in excellent condition:

  • Use a handheld vacuum to remove any crumbs and loose debris from your upholstered furniture before you start the cleaning process.
  • Use a cleanser approved for the fabric that your furniture is made out of. Make sure that you properly mix it with water as the instructions state.
    Use the right type of cloth or sponge to gently scrub the fabric, per the instructions listed on the bottle.
  • Make sure that you use the proper rinsing technique to remove the soap or cleanser. This information is on the back of the cleanser bottle.
  • If you are cleaning leather furniture, make sure to use very little water and do not use any cleansers that dry out the leather. Use a leather conditioner after to protect it.

Outdoor Furniture Cleaning Tips and Information

Outdoor Furniture

Your outdoor furniture is something that you actually need to clean more often since it is exposed to the elements.

It is very important that you clean your outdoor furniture about once a month during the warm months, once at the beginning of the warm season and once before you put it away for the cold weather months.

Most outdoor furniture can be cleaned with a mild cleanser, a basic sponge and a general water hose. Start by hosing down the furniture well to remove any loose dirt and debris from it. Come in next with your cleanser and sponge.

You should use the cleanser on one piece of furniture at a time because you do not want the cleanser to dry before you have the chance to rinse it. Scrub the furniture well with a basic sponge and rinse it as you go along.

This prevents the cleanser from drying and it allows you to see any spots that you may have missed.

After you finish cleansing all of your outdoor furniture, you should dry it off well and then you can immediately start using it. If you have any wood outdoor furniture, clean it and dry it, wait two days to ensure that it is dry completely and then stain or seal it if this is necessary.

How to clean furniture is something that you surely think about because you want to keep your furniture looking great for as long as possible.

Furniture is expensive and when you can keep your furniture for years, you will save thousands of dollars over the course of your adult life.

Just make sure that you are using the right cleaning products and techniques or else you may do your furniture more harm than good. Pay attention to things like fabric and the age of your furniture to get the job done right the first time.