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Top Germ Hotspots in Your Home You May Forget to Clean

There are a few examples of common areas in homes where germs will often congregate, including a few that are sometimes overlooked by homeowners when cleaning. What are some top germ hotspots to clean, and how can you ensure these are not overlooked to maintain a healthy, clean home?

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer the very best house cleaning services around Ogden, Layton, Farmington, and nearby parts of northern Utah. These include weekly and bi-weekly maintenance cleaning appointments, during which we cover all the nooks and crannies in your home to get rid of germs and other possible contaminants. Here are some reasons why avoiding germs in the home is important, plus examples of commonly overlooked germ hotspots to clean and how to ensure they do not get passed by.

Why Germ Prevention is Important Throughout the Home

Before we get into some germ hotspots to clean throughout your home, it is important to understand why germ prevention is crucial for your health and well-being. Here are some reasons to consider:

  1. Reduces the risk of illness: Germs can easily spread from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. By regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick.
  2. Protects vulnerable individuals: In households with elderly or immunocompromised individuals, preventing germs is especially important as they are more susceptible to illnesses.
  3. Maintains a clean and comfortable living environment: A clean home not only looks and smells better, but it also promotes a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Commonly Overlooked Areas for Cleaning

While most people focus on commonly used surfaces such as countertops and doorknobs, there are many areas in a home that can harbor germs and bacteria if not regularly cleaned. Here are some commonly overlooked areas, plus some basic tips on cleaning and disinfecting them:

Light Switches

For some reason, light switches tend to be overlooked when it comes to cleaning. However, they are one of the most touched surfaces in a home and can harbor germs and bacteria. To clean them, use a disinfectant wipe or spray and gently scrub the surface.

Remote Controls

Another commonly overlooked item, remote controls can harbor germs from multiple sources, such as hands, food, and pets. To clean them, remove the batteries and wipe down the surface with a disinfectant wipe or cloth.

Toothbrush Holders

We often put our toothbrushes back in their holders without giving them much thought. However, moisture from wet toothbrushes can build up over time and create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. To clean toothbrush holders, soak them in hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly before allowing them to air dry.

Bathroom Surfaces

Because they are used daily, bathroom surfaces can quickly become covered in bacteria. To effectively clean these surfaces, use a disinfectant cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping away with a clean cloth or sponge. Pay special attention to commonly touched areas like doorknobs, light switches, and faucet handles.

Towels

Towels may seem harmless enough, but they can also harbor bacteria if not properly cleaned. It is recommended to wash towels after every 3-4 uses to prevent the spread of germs and odors. Use hot water and a detergent specifically made for towels to ensure they are properly sanitized.

Mattresses

Our mattresses provide a comfortable place for us to sleep, but they can also collect dust mites, dirt, and other debris over time. It is important to clean and maintain your mattress regularly to ensure a healthy sleep environment. Vacuum the surface of your mattress at least once a month and use a disinfectant spray to kill any bacteria or allergens. Also, be sure to rotate your mattress every 3-6 months for even wear.

Value of Professional Maintenance Cleaning

When discussing germ hotspots in your home, including those you may overlook on your own, it’s essential to consider the value of professional maintenance cleaning services. Professional house cleaners have all the expertise you need to keep germs and bacteria at bay throughout the house.

This includes some of the often-overlooked areas we’ve discussed here, plus many more. For example, did you know that your refrigerator’s water dispenser and ice maker can be breeding grounds for germs if not properly cleaned? Or that your kitchen sponge is actually one of the dirtiest items in your home, even after just one use? Professional cleaners have the tools and techniques to thoroughly clean and disinfect these areas, helping to keep your whole family healthier.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer the best maintenance cleaning services available around Ogden, Layton, Farmington, and nearby parts of Utah. Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule your appointment today!

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How Dust and Dander Affect Your Indoor Air Quality

There are a few substances or contaminants that can have an impact on your indoor air quality, and various forms of dust and dander are good examples. What is the dander and dust effect on indoor air quality, and what can be done to avoid any related issues here?

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re here to offer a variety of home cleaning services for clients around Ogden, Layton, Farmington and nearby areas of northern Utah, including maintenance cleaning, deep cleaning and more. Indoor air quality is one of several areas we assist our clients with, helping them maintain healthy air at all times. Here are some of the sources of dust and dander in the home, plus basics on the dander and dust effect on indoor air quality and some strategies for avoiding any problems here.

Sources of Dust and Dander in Homes

There can be a number of different sources for dust and dander around the home, including:

  • Carpets and Rugs: These surfaces can trap dust and dander, making it difficult to completely remove them without professional cleaning.
  • Upholstered Furniture: Just like carpets and rugs, upholstered furniture can also collect dust and dander over time. Regular vacuuming and professional cleaning can help keep these surfaces clean.
  • Bedding: Dust mites, a common source of household allergens, thrive in bedding such as pillows, mattresses, and sheets. Regular washing of bedding can help reduce their presence.
  • Pets: Our furry friends are one of the main sources of dander in the home. Their shedding fur and skin cells can contribute to poor indoor air quality if not properly addressed. Regular grooming and cleaning of pet areas can help reduce the amount of dander in the home.

Impact of Dust and Dander on Respiratory Health and Air Quality

Some may think that dust and dander aren’t particularly harmful, but they can actually have a significant impact on both respiratory health and indoor air quality. Here are some ways in which dust and dander can affect our well-being:

  • Allergies: Dust and dander are common allergens that can trigger reactions in those who are sensitive to them. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. For people with allergies, reducing the amount of dust and dander in their homes is crucial for managing their symptoms.
  • Asthma: Dust mites are a common asthma trigger, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthmatics should take extra precautions in reducing their exposure to dust and keeping their living spaces as clean and dust-free as possible.
  • Respiratory Infections: Dust can also harbor viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can cause respiratory infections. These infections can range from mild colds to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia. Keeping a clean living environment is important for preventing the spread of these germs and protecting our health.
  • Skin Irritation: Dust particles can also irritate our skin, causing redness, itching, or rashes. This is especially true for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. Regularly cleaning surfaces where dust tends to accumulate (such as shelves and countertops) can help avoid these.

Strategies to Avoid Dust and Dander Buildup

Here are a few general strategies that help avoid the buildup of dust and dander in your home:

Regular Vacuuming

One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep dust and dander at bay is by regularly vacuuming your home. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which can trap tiny particles like pet dander and allergens.

Dusting Surfaces

In addition to vacuuming, it’s important to routinely dust surfaces in your home such as shelves, tables, and countertops. Microfiber cloths are great for trapping dust particles instead of spreading them around like traditional cloths.

Air Purification

Investing in an air purifier can also help reduce the amount of airborne dust and dander in your home. Look for models with HEPA filters and consider placing one in high-traffic areas or rooms where pets spend most of their time.

Regular Grooming for Pets

Speaking of pets, regular grooming can also help reduce dander and hair in your home. Brushing your pet regularly not only helps keep their coat healthy, but it also removes loose fur and dander that would otherwise end up on your furniture and floors.

Washing Bedding and Linens

Another source of dust and allergens in the home is bedding and linens. Make sure to wash these items weekly in hot water to remove any built-up dust or allergens that may be lurking.

Professional Assistance

If you still find yourself dealing with dust and dander despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional assistance. There are many cleaning companies that specialize in allergy-friendly cleaning, using specialized equipment and techniques to effectively remove allergens from your home.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re happy to assist with any indoor air quality needs, including removal of dust and dander. Contact us today for any house cleaning service need around Ogden, Layton, Farmington or any nearby area!

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Cleaning Mistakes Homeowners Make and How to Avoid Them

Mistakes can happen in any part of our lives, and how we learn from them and avoid them in the future is what matters most. This theme applies to any kind of regular house cleaning homeowners perform on their homes – while a few common mistakes can take place here, a bit of basic adjustment will help you avoid these problems in the future and optimize your regular house cleaning tasks.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re here to help. We offer the best house cleaning services available around Ogden, Layton and Farmington areas, from maintenance cleaning to deep cleaning solutions and more. We also assist homeowners with tips and expertise on their own cleaning tasks, including small mistakes they may be making without realizing it. Here are some common cleaning mistakes we see, plus practical solutions to each of them that will set your regular house cleaning routine on the optimal path.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

Perhaps the single most common mistake we see from homeowners as they go about cleaning their homes is using the wrong cleaning products. This often manifests in one of two ways:

  • Using harsh or abrasive chemicals on sensitive surfaces, such as granite countertops or hardwood floors
  • Using all-purpose cleaners for every surface and task, rather than specific products designed for certain areas (bathroom cleaners for bathrooms, kitchen cleaners for kitchens, etc.)

The solution here is simple: Take a bit of time to research the right cleaning products for each area of your home. Not only will this better protect your surfaces and keep them looking great longer, it will save you money by avoiding damage that could require costly repairs down the line.

Skipping Certain Tasks

Another common issue we see: Homeowners who simply skip certain cleaning tasks altogether because they don’t know how to properly clean or maintain them. This often includes things like tile grout, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances.

But skipping these tasks can also lead to bigger problems down the road. For example, neglecting to clean and properly seal tile grout can result in discoloration and even mold growth. Similarly, not properly caring for hardwood floors can lead to scratches, dents, and warping over time. And neglecting your stainless steel appliances can result in unsightly smudges and stains.

The solution: Create a simple list that serves as a reminder of all the tasks that need to be completed on a regular basis, such as weekly or monthly. This list can include tasks like wiping down kitchen countertops and appliances, vacuuming and mopping floors, dusting furniture and shelves, cleaning windows and mirrors, and deep cleaning bathrooms. By staying on top of these basic tasks, you can prevent bigger problems from arising in the future.

Neglecting Hidden or Unseen Areas

The phrase “out of sight, out of mind” is especially true when it comes to cleaning. Often, we focus on the areas that are visible and neglect hidden or unseen spaces in our homes. These include behind appliances, under furniture, inside cabinets and closets, and even air vents. Neglecting these areas can lead to dust buildup, mold growth, and other issues that can affect your health and the overall cleanliness of your home.

To combat this, make sure to add these hidden or unseen areas to your cleaning routine. This could mean moving furniture and appliances regularly to vacuum underneath them or wiping down the inside of cabinets every few months. By paying attention to these often overlooked spaces, you can ensure a more thorough clean for your home.

Pressing or Scrubbing Too Hard

While there are some elements of house cleaning that require some elbow grease, it’s important to be mindful of how much force you’re using. Overly enthusiastic scrubbing or pressing down too hard on surfaces can lead to damage and wear over time.

To prevent this, try using gentler cleaning tools and techniques, such as microfiber cloths or natural cleaners. Also, consider rotating between different methods depending on the sensitivity of the surface being cleaned. For example, use a soft cloth and light pressure when wiping down delicate countertops but switch to a more aggressive approach for tougher stains on sturdier surfaces.

Using Too Much Product

Another common mistake in house cleaning is using too much product. While it may seem like adding extra cleaner will result in a more thorough clean, it can actually be counterproductive. Using excessive amounts of cleaning products not only wastes money but can also leave a sticky residue on surfaces and contribute to build-up over time.

To avoid this, always follow the recommended usage instructions on cleaning products and start with a small amount before adding more if needed. Additionally, consider using concentrated formulas that require less product per use.

By following these basic tips and avoiding common cleaning mistakes during the process, you can ensure your periodic house cleaning tasks go smoothly and efficiently. For more here, or to learn about any of our house cleaning services around Ogden, Layton and Farmington, contact us at Healthy Homes Housekeeping today!

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Signs It’s Time to Hire a Professional Cleaning Service

For many homes, the process of regular cleaning is completed via a mixture of homeowner maintenance and professional cleaning services. How can you tell when it’s time to eschew the DIY efforts and bring in professional cleaning services for your space?

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer the best professional cleaning services around Ogden, Farmington, Layton and nearby parts of northern Utah. From basic maintenance cleaning services to deep cleaning, move-in/move-out services and more, we have all your cleaning needs covered. Here are some signs it’s time to hire a professional cleaning service like ours, plus some of the ways we address these issues effectively and some of the benefits of outsourcing your cleaning needs.

Common Indicators of Professional Cleaning Service Need

Here are some of the most common signs that you might be in need of some assistance from professional house cleaners:

Constant Clutter and Mess

For some people, it can be difficult to keep up with household chores and maintain a tidy living space. If you find yourself constantly surrounded by clutter and mess, it might be time to consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Our team of experienced cleaners can help you get your home back in order and create a more organized and inviting living environment.

Lack of Time

Between work, family responsibilities, and other commitments, finding the time to thoroughly clean your home can be challenging. By hiring a professional cleaning service, you can free up some much-needed time and focus on other important tasks without having to worry about keeping your home clean.

Allergies

In other cases, people may have allergies or respiratory issues that make it difficult for them to clean their homes effectively. This is where a professional cleaning service can be especially beneficial. Our team uses high-quality products and equipment to remove dust, pet dander, and other allergens from your home, creating a healthier and more comfortable living space.

Special Occasions

Hosting a special event at your home? Don’t stress about cleaning before and after the party. A professional cleaning service can handle all of the pre- and post-party cleaning so you can focus on entertaining your guests.

Moving In or Out

Another common reason for hiring a professional cleaning service is when you are moving in or out of a home. Moving can be hectic and overwhelming, so why not let the experts handle the cleaning? They will ensure that your old home is left in pristine condition for the next owners, and your new home is move-in ready.

How Professional Cleaning Services Help Address These Needs

There are several ways in which professional cleaning services can help address these needs. First and foremost, they have the expertise and experience to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny of a home. They use specialized equipment and cleaning products that are more effective than traditional household cleaners.

Professional cleaning services also offer customizable packages, allowing you to choose the specific services you need for your home. This ensures that you get exactly what you want without overspending on unnecessary services.

Benefits of Outsourcing Cleaning Needs

Homeowners tend to find a number of specific benefits when they outsource their cleaning needs to professionals. Some of the most commonly reported benefits include:

  • Saves time and energy: Cleaning a home is a time-consuming and physically demanding task. By outsourcing it to professionals, homeowners can save precious time and energy that can be used for other important tasks or simply relaxing.
  • Thorough and efficient cleaning: Professional cleaners have the necessary knowledge, skills, and equipment to provide a thorough and efficient clean. They are trained to pay attention to detail and ensure that every surface in your home is properly cleaned.
  • Tailored services: As mentioned earlier, professional cleaning services offer customizable packages. This means you can choose the specific services you need based on your budget and cleaning preferences. Some examples of services that can be included are deep cleaning, carpet and upholstery cleaning, window washing, and organization.

As you can see, there are several key reasons it often pays to hire a professional cleaning service for your needs. From saving time and effort to ensuring a thorough and deep clean, enlisting the help of professionals can greatly benefit your home and overall well-being.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer the best professional cleaning services to clients around Ogden, Farmington, Layton and nearby areas. Contact us today to schedule services!

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What is Included in a Deep House Cleaning?

Recently in this space, we discussed some of the common elements that will typically be included in a basic house cleaning from a maid service or related entity. What about for those who require a more significant deep cleaning, whether for moving needs or any related purpose?

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we offer a huge range of house cleaning service options that includes both basic cleaning and deep cleaning, move out/in cleaning services and more. While precise elements will vary from home to home here, let’s go over some of the most common features that will be included in a deep cleaning service.

All Elements of Basic Cleaning

For starters, it should be noted that in virtually all cases, a deep cleaning service will include every single basic cleaning element that we went over in the previous piece. These basics are important for maintaining a clean and healthy home, so they’re always included even when focusing on more advanced services like deep cleaning.

Advanced Dirt and Grime Removal

Within a deep clean, however, there will often be more advanced dirt and grime removal components. These may include things like heavy duty scrubbing of tough-to-clean surfaces, steam cleaning for carpets or upholstery, and similar tasks that require extra effort to truly remove all dirt and germs.

For instance, if you’re moving into a new home and want to make sure every inch is spotless before arranging furniture, our move-in cleaning services will include more extensive cleanings in potentially overlooked areas like closets or cabinets. This ensures that the entire home is sanitized and ready for your family.

Cleaning Inside Many Appliances

While basic cleaning services typically won’t include themes like cleaning inside ovens or refrigerators, this is often included in deep cleaning services. These areas may accumulate grime and bacteria over time, and it’s important to thoroughly clean them out for both your health and appliance longevity purposes.

For example, when performing a move-out cleaning, our team will thoroughly clean the inside of all appliances that are being left behind for the next occupants. This ensures that they start off with a clean slate and won’t have to deal with any lingering dirt or odors from previous tenants.

Window Washing

Another common element of deep cleaning services is thorough window washing. While basic cleaning may include wiping down window sills and removing surface-level dirt, deep cleaning will often involve more thorough techniques like using specialized cleaning solutions and tools to remove built-up grime from both the inside and outside of windows.

Additional Services

In addition to these common elements, some deep cleaning services may also include additional tasks such as baseboard cleaning, dusting high surfaces like ceiling fans or light fixtures, and even organizing cluttered areas.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we understand that each home and individual has different needs when it comes to cleaning. That’s why we offer customizable deep cleaning services tailored to fit your specific requirements. Whether you’re moving in or out of a home, preparing for a special event, or simply want a more thorough clean for your living space, contact us today to learn more!

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What is Included in a Basic House Cleaning?

Knowing what to expect from basic home services is naturally important to many homeowners and residents alike, and any kind of house cleaning you’re paying for is a great example. The most common form of house cleaning is periodic basic cleaning, also known as maintenance cleaning or weekly cleaning – which specific elements are typically included in basic house cleaning, and what should you expect during these appointments?

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to provide clients around Ogden with all their maid service and house cleaning needs, from basic maintenance and spring cleaning to deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning and more. Across this two-part blog series, we’ll go over the basic tenets of both maintenance cleaning and deep cleaning processes for any house – while these specific elements will vary somewhat from house to house, here are some of the most typical areas that will be covered for basic cleaning. 

Standard Room-by-Room Cleaning

With a basic cleaning appointment, the cleaners you’ve hired will generally follow a standard room-by-room process to cover all major areas of the home. This starts with rooms like living and bedrooms that are used frequently, then moves on to lesser-used spaces like guest bedrooms or offices. Rooms are typically cleaned one by one before moving onto the next area of the home.

During each room cleaning, the cleaners will focus on dusting and wiping down all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, picture frames and more. They’ll also vacuum or sweep and mop the floors, taking care to remove any debris or build-up in corners or under furniture. In bathrooms, they’ll clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, shower/tub and countertops.

Other Standard Tasks

In addition to basic room cleaning, there are several other standard tasks that will be taken care of during a maintenance cleaning appointment. These include:

  • Emptying and taking out trash and recycling
  • Changing bed linens (if requested)
  • Dusting ceiling fans, vents and light fixtures
  • Wiping down mirrors and glass surfaces
  • Cleaning kitchen countertops, appliances and sinks 

Customization Options

While basic cleaning services typically cover all of the above, you may have specific areas or tasks that you’d like your cleaners to focus on. This is why we offer customization options for our maintenance cleaning services – simply let us know what areas or tasks are most important to you and we’ll make sure they’re included in your appointment.

What’s Typically Not Included

It’s also important to note what is typically not included in a basic house cleaning appointment. This includes tasks like deep carpet cleaning or window washing, which require specialized equipment and techniques. If you need these services, be sure to communicate this with your cleaners ahead of time so they can provide an accurate quote.

As you can see, basic house cleaning covers a wide range of tasks and areas in the home, ensuring that your living space stays clean and healthy. Stay tuned for our next blog post where we’ll go over the deep cleaning process in more detail. And if you’re in need of professional house cleaning services, don’t hesitate to contact Healthy Homes Housekeeping – we’re here to make your life easier!

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Home Grease Cleaning: Additional Methods

In part one of this two-part series, we went over some of the basics on why grease can be stubborn and hard to clean in some kitchens, plus a few initial basic tips for helping prevent and clean grease deposits. With the right basic attention, this annoying substance will never be a big problem around your kitchen or any other part of your home.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer a wide range of house cleaning services for clients around Ogden and nearby areas of Utah, including maintenance cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out services and more. We regularly assist clients with grease cleaning needs, ensuring their homes stay free of this substance. Here are some additional solutions that often work well for grease deposits, whether you’re cleaning on your own or leaving the job to our professionals. 

Baking Soda and Water

Particularly for pans and dishes with tough grease or baked-on food, baking soda can be a great solution. Consider laying the dish in question into your sink and sprinkling it liberally with baking soda, then follow up by pouring boiling water over the top (be careful not to scald yourself). Let everything soak for several minutes before scrubbing away.

Generally, you should find that grease scrubs away much more easily after this soaking. If you’re working with a large pan or dish that doesn’t fit in the sink, consider filling it part of the way with hot water and baking soda, then leaving it overnight before scrubbing.

Sprinkling Flour

In other cases, you may have a greasy pan or dish that will not be scoured easily, even by the baking soda and water plus soaking combination. In these situations, consider sprinkling flour over the surface of the pan – this will often absorb much of the grease on its own.

After one hour with flour in place, use a paper towel to wipe away as much of it as possible. Then use a sponge or cloth with hot, soapy water to scrub away whatever grease remains. This same basic process can be used on dishes, countertops and other areas where you suspect there may be hidden grease layers.

Salt and Rubbing Alcohol

For any incidents where grease enters fabrics like cloth aprons or towels, use a 1:4 ratio mixture of salt and rubbing alcohol. Let this sit on the fabric for several minutes before washing as normal – in many cases, you’ll see the grease come out with ease.

Vinegar

Finally, consider adding vinegar to various cleaning mixtures you might use on your kitchen counters or other surfaces where grease accumulates. Vinegar is an excellent natural cleaning agent, with specific acid properties that break down and remove grease easily. This can be used by itself on countertops or mixed into other solutions for items like floors or walls.

For more on how to deal with kitchen grease, or to learn about any of our house cleaning services in Ogden or surrounding areas of Utah, speak to the staff at Healthy Homes Housekeeping today. We’re standing by to assist you with your grease cleaning steps and many other services.

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Home Grease Cleaning: Basics and Wipe-Downs

There are a few examples of stubborn substances that sometimes crop up during any kind of house cleaning, and one of the most common and well-known here is grease. Found primarily in the kitchen, but also sometimes in other areas of the home, grease can be annoying to deal with on some occasions – but is also easy enough to prevent and remedy if it’s becoming an issue.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer a wide range of house cleaning services for clients around Ogden, including basic cleaning, deep cleaning, move in/move out cleaning services and more. In this two-part blog series, here are some basics on what makes grease so stubborn to clean in some cases, plus some basic ways to prevent or remove grease in the home – whether on your own or with the help of our maid service professionals wherever necessary.

Why Grease Can Be Stubborn

For those who have never actually thought about why grease can be so hard to clean, it’s important to understand the basic chemistry behind this substance. Grease is a type of oil – fats that are solid at room temperature (in the case of cooking oils) or heated up (in the case of grease used in cooking).

These substances have long molecules that make them resistant to breaking down and dissolving in water, which is why they stick around after cooking and can be so hard to clean off surfaces like stovetops, countertops or dishes.

Luckily, with the right basic approaches, you can both prevent and remove grease easily. Our next few sections will go over how.

Regular Stovetop and Other Wipe Downs

In any area where grease is common, including the kitchen, regular and thorough wipe downs are important. This refers to wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge, then following this with a dry cloth to ensure all moisture is removed.

For stovetops specifically, be sure to get into all corners and crevices where grease might be hiding. Be sure to regularly change out or clean the cloth or sponge you’re using to avoid spreading grease around.

Use of Dish Soap or Citrus Oil

When cleaning particular items, such as dishes or cookware that has grease on it, dish soap is an excellent option. If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn case of grease, consider adding some citrus oil to your dish soap for extra strength.

These solutions can even be used for regular stovetop wipe downs as well – just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards.

In part two of our series, we’ll look at some other prevention and removal methods for grease in the home, plus what to do when it’s reached a level that requires professional cleaning help from our team. Stay tuned!

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re dedicated to providing not just excellent cleaning services, but also education and tips for maintaining a clean home. To learn more about any of our services or speak to one of our pros, contact us today.

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Tipping House Cleaners: Amounts, Non-Monetary

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some basics on tipping house cleaners for their services. From the basics on whether this is appropriate (it typically is) to some common methods for tipping house cleaners, there are a few important things to know here if you want to show that extra little bit of appreciation for great service. 

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re happy to provide quality maintenance cleaning, deep cleaning and other house cleaning services to clients around Ogden. Today’s part two of our series will look at some general recommendations for how much to tip housekeepers if you’ve decided to go this route, plus some non-monetary ways of showing your appreciation in addition to financial tips. 

How Much to Tip?

There’s really no right or wrong answer when it comes to how much to tip a house cleaner. As with many service-based industries, it’s common for tips in this space to be based on percentage of the total cost of the service provided. However, there are also some general guidelines that can help you decide on an appropriate amount:

  • For maintenance cleaning services, such as regular weekly or bi-weekly visits, a tip of 10-15% of the total cost is typical.
  • For deep cleaning services, which are typically more expensive due to the extra time and effort involved, tips in the range of 15-20% of the total cost are common.
  • If you’re using a coupon or discount for your cleaning service, it’s generally considered polite to tip based on the regular price of the service rather than the discounted price.
  • In some cases, you may want to consider a slightly higher tip if your house cleaner has gone above and beyond in terms of quality or special requests.

Non-Monetary Tips

While financial tips are always appreciated, there are also other ways to show your house cleaner that you value their services:

  • Leave a positive review or testimonial on the company’s website or social media pages.
  • Offer to provide a reference for them to potential clients.
  • Write a thank you note expressing your gratitude and leave it with your tip.

For particularly exemplary service, you might consider using both these routes. You can leave a slightly larger tip than normal and also write a positive review or testimonial. This will show your house cleaner how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we take pride in providing top-notch cleaning services to our clients, and we’re always grateful for any tips or positive feedback that we receive. We hope this two-part blog series has provided you with some helpful information on tipping house cleaners and how to show your appreciation for their services. Contact us today for all your house cleaning needs in the Ogden area!

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Health Benefits of Clean Homes: Allergies, Diet, Savings

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the considerable health benefits that may be available simply from maintaining a clean home on a regular basis. While some people only associate a clean home with aesthetics and comfort, the reality is that a consistently clean house offers several health-related plusses to all occupants.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re proud to offer a huge range of house cleaning services to clients around Ogden, including maintenance cleaning, move out/in cleaning and much more. Today’s part two of our series will go over some additional health benefits that come with our services, including a few that may surprise you.

Seasonal Allergies

One major area where a consistently clean home can benefit your health is in limiting seasonal allergies. Dust and other allergens build up quickly in areas that aren’t cleaned regularly, leading to increased allergy symptoms, sneezing, watery eyes and many others.

By keeping your home clean on a regular basis, you reduce the presence of these allergens and limit their impact on anyone living there – especially children, who tend to be more susceptible to allergies. Some people’s allergies aren’t even confined only to seasonal irritants, but also include pet dander or other similar elements. A clean home can help with these issues as well.

Healthier Diet Choices

Did you know that research reveals that things like stress, clutter and chaos in the home can lead to poor food choices? This is because these elements tend to introduce anxiety, and many of us default to unhealthy eating habits when we’re anxious.

By keeping your home clean and organized, you reduce this anxiety and make it easier to stick with healthier food options. Many of our clients have told us how much more likely they are to cook a healthy meal at home when their kitchen is clean and clutter-free.

Saving Money

Another big area we’ve seen in our clients: Regularly cleaning the home can actually save you money on healthcare costs. Poor home hygiene can lead to increased chances of problems like respiratory infections, which require expensive doctor’s visits or medication.

But with a clean home and reduced transmission of germs or bacteria, you reduce these risks considerably – and could save major money over time. Consider the realm of air quality, for instance – this is far better in a regularly cleaned home, leading to reduced risk of asthma and other respiratory ailments.

As you can see, there are several major health benefits to maintaining a clean home. For more information on how our house cleaning services can help you take advantage of these benefits, or to learn about any of our other housekeeping solutions, speak to the staff at Healthy Homes Housekeeping today. We look forward to helping you live in a healthier and happier environment!

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