Serving the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, including Fairhope, Point Clear, Montrose, Daphne and Spanish Fort.

How to Develop a Cleaning Routine

mryan
August 25, 2019
             
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With the kids back in school, you’re probably having to settle into a new routine yourself. Though your schedule is busier these days as a result, you still have to manage grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning and hopefully some downtime in there too. 

In order to do it all, set yourself up for success by developing a routine! Routines will help you create structure, save time, build good habits, break bad ones and get the most important tasks done. 

Before you begin, consider your work schedule and your standard of clean. Then prioritize the rooms that matter most, assess your available time and choose your cleaning approach. Decide whether you’d prefer to clean a little every day or clean full rooms on particular days. 

Remember, any new routine is going to take some adjusting to, so be flexible as you adapt. Also, enlist the help of your children and other family members so no one person has to carry the load.

Whichever approach you take, breaking your house cleaning down to small tasks you can reasonably accomplish will help you feel successful. And if you fall behind a day or two, make sure it’s still doable to catch up. 

Here’s a sample schedule of daily, weekly, monthly and even seasonal tasks. Many resources, such as templates, checklists and much more, are available online, so consult the internet as you develop and personalize your cleaning schedule.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Daily tasks should tackle messes and dirt that build up every day. These simple steps will help tidy your home without spending a lot of time on them. The reward is that you can rest easy after a long day.

Make Your Bed
Collect Dirty Clothes
Do Laundry When There’s Enough for a Load
Put Away Clean Clothes
Wipe Down Countertops, Especially After Preparing Meals
Load Your Dishwasher (or Hand Wash to Save Energy)
Wipe Out Sinks in Bathrooms and the Kitchen
Spend Time Picking Up Items and Putting Them Away
Vacuum High-Traffic Areas If Needed

Weekly Cleaning Routine

Schedule your bigger tasks by day during the week. That is if you want some down time on the weekends. If you save all the housework up for the weekend, you could easily feel overwhelmed. Be sure not to add too much more to days that are already set aside for things like grocery shopping or kids’ activities. 

Wipe Down Cupboards and Walls
Clean the Stovetop
Clean Out the Refrigerator
Take Out the Trash and Recycling
Clean Bathrooms
Vacuum Thoroughly
Wash the Bedding
Disinfect Handles, Doorknobs, Etc.
Toss Out Junk Mail, Old Papers, Etc.

Monthly Cleaning Routine

Tackle the bigger chores less often, but make a plan to do them regularly. You’ll feel like you have a handle on your cleaning, and you’ll feel less overwhelmed as these tasks seem to get bigger and bigger as more time passes.

Wash Windows
Declutter Your Home
Vacuum or Clean Furniture

Seasonal Cleaning Routine

Even bigger chores can be scheduled for every season, which will help you stay on top of tasks done once in a while. Incorporate these into your cleaning schedule so your house stays clean and organized, particularly among areas that tend to get neglected.

Winter 

Clean Behind Large Appliances and Furniture
Steam Clean Carpets

Spring

Clean Exterior Windows
Wash Large Bedding (Comforters, Blankets, etc.)

Summer

Organize Garage and Basement
Clean Walls and Make Necessary Touch-Ups

Fall

Deep Clean Large Appliances
Organize Personal Files

If you find that it’s difficult to maintain this schedule or if you need the trusted professionals to give you a break or a helping hand, let us know! We serve the communities on the Eastern Shore and South Baldwin County, and we can help you stay on track or free up some time to relax at home. Contact us for a quote today!

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6 Cleaning Tips for a Stress-Free Summer

mryan
July 21, 2019
                 
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Your home has different cleaning needs throughout the year, but summer can be especially hectic. Think everything from kids out of school and on the go to spending a lot of time outside entertaining or gardening.

So it’s easy to see how your floors may take the brunt of summer fun, not to mention your outdoor furniture, your grill and even your laundry room. But it’s possible to manage this season’s hotspots before they become a big mess.

You can keep all the “extra” scrubbing and housework that comes with this season under control with these six cleaning tips for a stress-free summer!

Cleaning Tips for Floors

With summer comes spending more time outside and bringing more dirt, water (from the pool) and more inside, which means your floors may show more evidence of summer activities than you’d like. Plan to clean the floors more often, once or twice a week. This can include spot cleaning where needed and vacuuming high-traffic areas.

You can also manage the effects of foot traffic by placing doormats at every entrance of your home, as well as requesting everyone remove their shoes at the door.

Cleaning Tips for Laundry

Expect your washer and dryer to work as hard as your floors over the summer. Since your laundry room will see a lot of activity, make sure it is stocked with detergent, dryer sheets, stain removers, etc. Save some energy by running your laundry in the evenings or early morning to prevent circuit overload.

If you live in a very humid area, make some time to clean your washing machine too so it doesn’t encourage mold or mildew. It’s recommended to run an empty load with detergent and hot water. When done, leave the door open so the inside dries completely.

Cleaning Tips for Garbage

High heat and humidity can make you more aware of smells in your kitchen. It helps to empty kitchen trash cans and recycling bins more often than you usually would, and plan to wash them regularly. A good time to take care of this task is on trash day, right after you’ve removed everything from them.

To keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh, save lemon rinds and run them through. Pour white vinegar down your drains to neutralize any unpleasant scents there.

Cleaning Tips for the Bathroom

Your bathroom will need extra attention this season to keep it fresh and, in areas of high heat and humidity, help slow the spread of mildew. Cleaning toilets more often, running exhaust fans, particularly during and after showering, and wiping down showers after use goes a long way to help. Don’t leave damp bath mats and towels inside to dry; hang them outside in the sun.

The contents of your linen closet may need a boost, so wash towels in hot water with a ½ cup of baking soda added to the rinse cycle. Finish by drying them on the highest recommended setting.

Cleaning Tips for Patio Furniture

If summer means more time outside, you’ll want to spend it on clean outdoor furniture. Just a little maintenance can go a long way. Simply spray your furniture down with water and scrub with a solution of water and a gentle dish soap, like Dawn. Use a soft brush or eraser sponge to remove stubborn stains. Rinse again and let it dry.

You can also wipe it down in between cleanings to minimize pollen accumulation. To clean cushions and pillows, follow the instructions on their labels.

Cleaning Tips for Your Grill

Summer entertaining may mean putting your grill to even more work. Take these steps to keep it clean for the sake of food safety. While it’s still warm after cooking, scrub the grates with a wire brush. Or you can turn it on until the grates get hot. Use a lemon dipped in salt to scrub the grates; this will cut grease and act as an all-natural scrubbing agent.

For bigger messes, spray grates with oven cleaner or use a block of pumice to remove any lingering remnants. Be sure to wash the grates before placing them back on the grill. Also avoid metal brushes, as pieces can break off and get in your food.

If summer cleaning’s got you stressed, relax! The professionals at Sweet Home Cleaning Service can help. We serve the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, including Fairhope, Point Clear, Montrose, Daphne and Spanish Fort, as well as Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Contact us today for a quote, and enjoy your summer!

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Sweet Home Cleaning Difference Is In The Details

mryan
April 22, 2018
     
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Have you ever thought about hiring a home cleaning service, but stopped short because you were afraid they wouldn’t be as detailed as you would—or could—be if you only had the time?

It’s a common concern, especially when you are trusting someone else to meet or even exceed the standards or expectations you have. And that goes for just about everything—cleaning included!

At Sweet Home Cleaning Service, our attention to detail is what sets us apart from other cleaning services. We take great pride in cleaning what may take a little extra effort because we know how important a tidy home is to your and your family. It’s also important to us too because our reputation is built on every job that’s well done.

Sometimes what’s included in regular or deep cleaning services might not be clearly defined, so we wanted to emphasize those little details that are a really big deal to us.

This includes wiping behind the TV and computer, lifting items and dusting underneath and cleaning behind doors. Often neglected, these areas are where dust can easily accumulate and cause problems that may not be so obvious.

In addition to the items you’d expect, like floors, sinks, counters, mirrors and furniture, polished and dusted, our clients who get regular general cleanings can also expect us to address the following:

  • Ceiling fans (once a month)
  • Blinds, window sills and lock ledges (once a month)
  • Moldings and woodwork
  • Baseboards (once a month)
  • Lamps and lampshades (dusted)
  • Top of refrigerator
  • Outside appliances
  • Stove and drop pans

Deep cleanings include all of the above, plus:

  • Ceiling fan blades (washed by hand)
  • Light fixtures (washed in place)
  • Blinds (washed by hand)
  • Curtain tops (vacuumed)
  • Doors and door frames (washed)
  • Picture frames paneling & trim (washed)
  • Cabinets (washed from top to bottom)
  • Light switch plates (washed)
  • Lower air return vents (washed)
  • Window sills (washed)
  • Baseboards (washed)
  • Move furniture to vacuumed and mopped behind and under it

It’s easy to see how for us the effort is in the details! For a limited time, you can experience what our definition of clean is like for less. We’re offering $35 off deep cleaning services, and first-time clients for regularly scheduled cleanings can save $15.

We’d love the opportunity to give your home the attention that you should expect and deserve. Please contact us today for a quote or to schedule your appointment with us!

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Importance of Deep Cleaning Your Home

4 Important Reasons to Deep Clean Your Home

mryan
March 30, 2018
   
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There’s something about spring bursting into bloom that gives us the motivation to start anew, especially when it comes to our homes.

It’s so popular that “spring cleaning” is the common phrase used to refer to the deep clean many people do this time of year.

But more significant than its popularity, this ritual holds several benefits that make deep cleaning your home especially important. Here are four reasons why you should give your home some extra attention this spring.

Boost your concentration. A tidy, uncluttered home can have the same impact on your mental state. If the home is messy, the mind may have to operate at maximum potential, working to  locate misplaced items or taking focus off simple chores. But when everything is well-organized, it frees up time and mental energy to be more efficient and to think more clearly.

Create a welcoming environment. A clean home can have influence on your social life. If you avoid inviting friends or family over because your home is in a disorderly state, then you’re missing out on quality time and inviting stress into your life that isn’t necessary. Once you get your home clean, you’ll want to share this pleasant environment with others!

Improve your health. A spotless home is also good for your health. Eliminate pet dander, stains, trash and clutter with a deep cleaning to help enhance your protection against germs and disease. Clutter plus small children can be a dangerous combination, especially if small items are easily available and they can put them in their mouths, posing a choking hazard.

Relax! Between work, kids, social obligations and responsibilities around the home, it can be difficult to find the time to slow down and rest. Maintaining a clean and healthy home can be especially challenging given everything else in your life. But you can trust a thorough deep cleaning of your home to the professionals so you can relax and spend time with the ones you love.

For a limited time, Sweet Home Cleaning Service is offering a $35 off a deep cleaning service! Call 251-586-4081 or submit your request for a quote here to get started!

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Ways to Get Your Home Clean and Organized This Year

mryan
January 19, 2018
   
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A new year often brings new goals, and you may have resolved to get your clutter under control, get rid of excess or stay on top of keeping your home clean. But if you aren’t careful, those resolutions can quickly become overwhelming—and you could very likely be in the same place with the same goals this time next year.

Don’t be discouraged. Just undertaking the effort to get clean and organized can be the hardest part. But we can help you develop a plan to get started, stay on track and successfully accomplish your goals this year. Keep these tips in mind on your way to a clean and clutter-free new year.

Downsize. One of the best ways to eliminate excess and get your home clean starts by getting rid of the things you don’t need. Donate, give away to friends or family, or sell what you haven’t worn and what you haven’t used in the last year or more. Toss items that are old or expired.

Organize. Tidy up what’s left. Find storage solutions, such as shelves to organize books, decorative items, and baskets to hold blankets and magazines. Look for furniture that doubles as storage, like ottomans or coffee tables that can neatly tuck away what can quickly become clutter.

Schedule. Once you’ve downsized and decluttered, time to maintain the hard work you’ve done. Make a schedule that covers all of your cleaning tasks throughout the week. Set aside a day for laundry, a day to clean bathrooms, etc., to help you manage your time and your energy while keeping your home in order.

Organize cleaning supplies. Group your cleaners and supplies together in a space in each room or even collected together in a bin you can carry from room to room. Have a second set of cleaners or a backup on hand so you’re well-stocked and can stick to your schedule without having to make extra trips to the store.

How are you doing on your cleaning and organization goals? If you need help, we’re available! We serve the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, including Fairhope, Point Clear, Montrose, Daphne and Spanish Fort, as well as Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Contact us today for a quote!

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How to Prepare Home for Overnight Guests Sweet Home Cleaning Service

How to Prepare Your Home for Overnight Guests

mryan
December 13, 2017
 
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Going home for the holidays might involve hosting overnight guests, and if you’re anticipating the arrival of family and friends, you’ll definitely want to be prepared so they feel at home in your home.

Of course, before they arrive, some general clean-up is in order. That may mean anything from simply tidying up common areas—such as the living room and kitchen—to undertaking a deep clean of the home, to being motivated to complete minor repairs and projects.

But aside from those preparations, you can do a lot of small things to make your overnight guests feel like you’re extending them a big welcome. Keep these special touches in mind that your guests will appreciate as you’re getting ready to host them!

Refresh guest bedrooms and bathrooms. Give both rooms an appropriate cleaning, wiping away dust, vacuuming or sweeping, and scrubbing the toilet, shower and sink. Launder the sheets and provide fresh towels—enough for all guests.

Make sure everything works and needs are provided. Check the light bulbs, the fans, TV remotes, alarm clocks, etc., anything your guests may use to make sure they aren’t left in the dark or are forced to ask for necessities like toilet paper.

Add thoughtful details to guest areas. Extra pillows and blankets in the bedroom and travel-size toiletries in the bathroom ensure your guests get access to the basics. Beyond that, books and magazines, snacks, your WiFi password and fresh flowers add a special touch.

Stock your fridge and pantry. Ask your guests what snacks or drinks they prefer, then have them on hand. Show them how to operate the coffee maker, point out where you keep the cream and sugar, etc. Even get their input on meals you might prepare in your home.

Provide activity suggestions. If your guests want to get out and explore the town on their own, help them out! Give them recommended activities, restaurant suggestions and more based on their needs, keeping in mind their interests, diet restrictions or whether they’re taking their kids along.

Cover the big details before they arrive. Notify guests of their sleeping arrangements and the privacy they can expect. Let them know about meal times, prior commitments or appointments you may have during their stay, etc.

Just relax and enjoy! Hopefully you’re well-prepared for your guests’ arrival and you can simply slow down and appreciate some time with them. Remind yourself that there will be hiccups, despite your best efforts to prepare. The most important thing is making memories that will last long after your visitors leave.

Whether you need a basic clean or a deep clean before your guests arrive, we can help! Check out what these services include and even book your cleaning with us online! Visit our website, www.sweethomecleaningservice.com today!

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Effective Day-Of-Party Cleaning Tips

mryan
November 30, 2017
   
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No matter how long you plan or how much you prepare for a party, clutter seems to creep in and dust seems to settle. And that becomes all the more noticeable on the day of the celebration.

Last-minute cleaning is a necessity, even for the tidiest among us, so don’t beat yourself up about it. Just get moving and get effective with these day-of-the-party cleaning tips!

Make an entrance! Give your home’s front door and porch a clean sweep to get rid of leaves, cobwebs and other debris. Wipe down glass on doors to instantly make your home more welcoming.

Collect clutter. Focusing only on rooms where guests will be spending, gather up the clutter in storage bins and tuck it out of sight. Some items, such as magazines, can be stacked neatly to give rooms a more organized look.

Freshen up floors. Sprinkle carpets and rugs with baking soda, let set for 15 minutes and vacuum to absorb odors. Mop floors using a dry or wet sweeper to spruce them up, particularly focusing on high-traffic areas.

Brighten bathrooms. Pay special attention to bathrooms your guests will be using. Toilets, floors, mirrors and counters should be nice and clean. Provide fresh soaps and hand towels for a welcoming touch.

Prioritize the kitchen for the party. Closer to when guests begin to arrive, put away the party prep, clean countertops and wipe down surfaces, and take out the trash. Place nonessentials in the back of the refrigerator so food and beverages are easily accessible on shelves.

Last-minute spot-cleaning. Scoop up pet hair with a wet rubber glove. From the top down, remove dust. Use lint rollers to remove dust on lamp shades, stereo speakers, etc., or a sock will work for awkward surfaces. A vinegar-and-water solution can help address stubborn stains on most surfaces (except natural stone).

Quick touch-ups. On your final walk-through, straighten and fluff pillows, fold throws and blankets, make space in your coat closets for guests’ items, and light scented candles or diffuse seasonal essential oils for a festive feel.

Need to prepare before the day of your party? We can help! Call us today at 251-586-4081 or visit us at www.SweetHomeCleaningService.com to request a quote or book our services!

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Latest Cleaning Tips

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