Do you want to avoid feeling overwhelmed by clutter and disorganisation in your home? Get ready to simplify and elevate your house cleaning game with KonMari method! It’s time to try the KonMari method, a Japanese approach to cleaning and tidying up that prioritises joy and decluttering.
Adopting this effective and efficient cleaning method can transform your house cleaning routine and create a more organised, peaceful living space. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of this great process and how you can implement it in your home for a sparkling clean and stress-free environment.
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What Is KonMari Method?
KonMari has become an acronym for “Cleaning” + “Organising” + “Mastering”. The main idea behind this method is to help you organise your belongings so that everything can fit into one place. This way, you will never lose anything.
KonMari method isn’t just for your home; you can use the same approach to declutter your car, office, closet, or anything else. It can help you to keep your bedroom clean and tidy as well as the rest of your house.
Check out the video below for more information on the KonMari method.
Who Created the KonMari Method?
Marie Kondo, a Japanese organising consultant and author, developed and mastered this amazing cleaning process after becoming obsessed with decluttering and tidying up. She began using her own unique approach to cleaning after her parents passed away, and discovered that everything in their home could be categorized into three categories:
• Things you love
• Things you don’t need anymore
• Things you want to keep but can’t bear to part with
Marie Kondo noticed that people who threw out items were usually unhappy with the results. So, she decided to help people keep their homes tidy and organised.
Is the KonMari Method Effective for House Cleaning
If you’ve ever been through a significant move, you know how challenging it can be to sort through all your belongings, including books, clothes, furniture, dishes, toys, and electronics.
When I first attempted to declutter, I struggled to know where to start. However, after reading Marie Kondo’s book, I discovered a different approach, which offers a reliable strategy. Kondo teaches people how to “konmarize” their possessions, meaning they should only keep items that bring them joy and discard everything else. So, is the KonMari method an effective way to clean your home? It depends on your goals.
If you’re looking for a quick and straightforward way to get rid of clutter and organise your home, then the KonMari method may be a good option.
However, if you’re seeking a more comprehensive cleaning approach, you may need to supplement the KonMari practice with additional cleaning techniques. Overall, the KonMari method has helped many people simplify their lives by reducing clutter and increasing their appreciation for what they keep. So, if you’re looking to tidy up your home and declutter your life, try the KonMari method.”
How to Do Konmari Method?
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the stuff that you own. But, with some time and effort, you can ensure you don’t store things in the wrong places.
The best thing to do when you want to declutter your home is to start small.
You need to decide where you would like to store your belongings. For example, you could use one of your closets to hold everything you no longer need. Once you decide where to put your items, you must take them off shelves and drawers. Afterwards, you will need to sort through each object. If you find something you want to keep, move it into its new location. Otherwise, you can toss the unwanted things in a box.
Here’s how you can start organizing using the KonMari Method:
Here are the basic steps to get started with the KonMari Method:
Commit to the process: Before you start, commit to the goal and promise to follow it through until the end.
Visualise your ideal lifestyle: Think about your ideal lifestyle and what kind of home environment you want to create. That will help you determine which items are essential to your life and which ones are not.
Tidy by category, not by location: Start by gathering all items of the same type, such as clothes, books, or sentimental items, and place them on the floor or bed.
Discard first, then organise: Before organising, discard all items that no longer spark joy in your life. Thank them for their service and let them go. Then, organise the remaining items to bring you joy and fit your lifestyle.
Follow the correct order: Marie Kondo recommends following a specific order when decluttering: clothes, books, papers, miscellaneous items, and sentimental items. This order helps you build decluttering skills and prepares you for more difficult categories.
Use the “spark joy” test: When deciding whether to keep an item, ask yourself whether it sparks joy in your life. If it does, keep it; if it doesn’t, thank it for its service and let it go.
Store items properly: Once you have decided which things to keep, store them in a way that sparks joy and fits your lifestyle. Marie Kondo recommends folding clothes in a specific way and storing items vertically to maximise space.
Remember that the KonMari Method is not just about decluttering your home but also about creating a life that sparks joy. So, take your time and enjoy the process!
How Long Does KonMari Method Take?
You should be aware that completing this type of project takes time, and it’s essential to have patience while you’re doing this. You can always get help from family members and friends so that they will support you in your endeavour. You need to spend a reasonable amount of time cleaning up your home.
The length of the project depends entirely upon you. It might take longer than expected if you need help deciding what to keep and what to throw away. But, if you enjoy this activity, you can finish in less time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the KonMari method is a fantastic way to declutter your home and simplify your life. Marie Kondo’s approach is based on keeping only those things that bring you joy and discarding everything else.
By following this system, you can free up space in your home, reduce your stress levels, and improve your overall quality of life. The KonMari method has been adapted to work with various areas of your life, including your body, mind, career, relationships, money, and of course, house cleaning.
So, give it a try and see for yourself how it can transform your living space into a clutter-free, peaceful haven.
Are you tired of waking up in a messy bedroom that hinders your ability to relax and enjoy a good night’s sleep?
Look no further! This article will provide a comprehensive bedroom cleaning checklist to transform your sleeping space into a sanctuary of comfort and tranquillity.
We will explore why bedroom cleaning should be a priority and offer practical tips for decluttering, surface cleaning, maintaining textiles and soft furnishings, and more.
By following our step-by-step checklist guide, you will improve your bedroom’s cleanliness and organisation and enhance your overall well-being. So, let’s start your journey towards a cleaner, healthier, and more restful sleeping environment!
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Why Bedroom Cleaning Should Be a Priority
Although cleaning can be tedious, it becomes more manageable when done regularly. Weekly cleaning sessions can keep your bedroom fresh, preventing the accumulation of dust and allergens. Pay special attention to fabrics in your bedroom, such as bedding and carpets, as they can harbour hidden contaminants.
To maintain a clean and organised bedroom, adhere to specific guidelines and utilise natural cleaning methods that don’t require harsh chemicals.
There’s no doubt about it; keeping a clean house is a massive pain in the neck, but here’s the thing: It’s so much easier when you do it once a week rather than every day.
Bedroom cleaning checklist
Following this checklist will transform your sleeping space into a tidy, relaxing haven.
Decluttering
Begin by decluttering your bedroom to create a more organised and pleasant environment. Follow these steps:
Sort your belongings. Be ruthless, or try the KonMari method when deciding what stays and what goes.
Organise your storage spaces, such as wardrobes, drawers, and shelves. Use storage boxes, dividers, or hangers to keep everything tidy and accessible.
Surface Cleaning
Next, focus on cleaning various surfaces around your bedroom.
Dust all furniture, window sills, and skirting boards using a microfibre cloth or a duster.
Wipe down and clean mirrors, glass surfaces, light switches, and power sockets with a damp cloth and a suitable cleaning solution.
Polish wood furniture and metal accents remove fingerprints and smudges, leaving them gleaming.
Textiles and Soft Furnishings
Pay attention to your bedroom’s textiles and soft furnishings, as they can harbour allergens and dust.
Launder bed linens, curtains, and washable rugs or mats, following the care instructions on the labels.
Vacuum upholstered furniture, mattresses, and cushions, using the appropriate attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Refresh your textiles by air-drying them outside or using a fabric freshener spray to eliminate odours.
Floor Cleaning
Clean floors make a significant difference in the overall cleanliness of your bedroom.
Vacuum carpets and hard floors thoroughly, reaching under furniture and along the edges of the room.
Mop hard floors and tile or vinyl flooring with a suitable cleaning solution, ensuring you wring out the mop well to avoid leaving excess water on the surface.
Spot clean carpet stains, and consider deep cleaning your carpets every six months to maintain their appearance and freshness.
To maintain a clean and tidy bedroom, be sure to download our bedroom cleaning checklist PDF. It will help you keep track of the daily and weekly cleaning tasks that need to be done.
Washing and Cleaning Pillows, Bed Linens, and Blankets
Though it may seem obvious, regularly washing pillows, bed linens, and blankets is crucial for a clean bedroom. Instead of making your bed immediately upon waking, allow the duvet to air out to let the mattress breathe and dry. This practice helps prevent mould and bacteria growth caused by excess moisture.
Change your bedding at least one time a week and avoid eating in bed to reduce the risk of harmful microorganisms. Remember that sleeping on a dirty or old mattress can lead to health issues.
Mattress Deep Cleaning And Disinfection
Cleaning a mattress can be challenging due to its size, but regular maintenance is essential. Mix 125 grams of baking soda with ten drops of eucalyptus essential oil to clean and refresh your mattress. Apply the mixture and let it sit for an hour before vacuuming.
Dust accumulates on wardrobe surfaces, particularly the top, which is often overlooked during regular dusting, so don’t forget. Wipe down furniture with a cleaning solution every few months to prevent dust circulation.
Use the baking soda mixture mentioned above for upholstered furniture, and consider professional cleaning at least once a year to remove dust and bedbugs.
Curtains And Windows
Clean curtains and windows are essential for a good night’s sleep. Dusty curtains can make breathing difficult during rest, so wash them every month or two.
Also, clean your windows after removing the curtains. If you need more time or can’t reach all areas, many cleaning services can assist with window cleaning.
Disinfecting The Bedroom Floor
To create a natural floor disinfectant, combine a few teaspoons of lemon juice and apple cider vinegar with three litres of boiling water.
This eco-friendly solution is perfect for disinfecting hard floors after thoroughly sweeping or vacuuming. For bedrooms with carpets, make sure to clean them regularly to remove dirt and allergens.
Additionally, it’s essential to enlist the services of professional carpet cleaners at least twice a year to guarantee deep cleaning and effective removal of germs, ensuring your bedroom remains a healthy and hygienic space.
Maintaining your bedroom to stay tidy
Now that your bedroom is clean and organised, it’s important to maintain it. If you wonder how to keep the bedroom clean, we have another article for that, but the secret is: make it a habit to declutter and clean your bedroom regularly.
Set a daily, weekly, or monthly schedule that works for you. Incorporate small tasks into your daily routine, such as making your bed or putting away clothes. Maintaining a clean and organised bedroom has numerous benefits, including reduced stress and improved sleep quality.
Put Plants That Promote Healthy Air In The Bedroom
The air you breathe inside your home impacts your energy and mood, but artificial air fresheners usually create more harm than benefit.
It is better to fill your bedroom with lush green plants that can bind harmful pollutants and make your air fresher and cleaner. A room filled with plants will be more enjoyable and, most importantly, healthier.
Should you Hire a Cleaning Service?
If you struggle to maintain a clean bedroom or lack time, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They can provide thorough, deep cleaning to keep your space healthy and inviting.
Additionally, a cleaning service can offer expert advice on the best cleaning practices and products to use, ensuring your bedroom remains in top condition.
Conclusion
Transforming your bedroom into a clean, organised, and restful sanctuary is crucial for your well-being. By following our comprehensive cleaning checklist and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free and tranquil environment.
However, if you find it challenging to keep your bedroom clean and you live in Cork, don’t hesitate to hire our professional cleaning service to maintain the cleanliness and comfort of your sleeping space. Remember that a well-kept bedroom contributes to better sleep quality, reduced stress, and improved health.
Carpets are prone to accumulating dirt, stains and odours, making them difficult to keep clean and fresh. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity.
This article has compiled ten simple yet effective DIY carpet cleaner solution hacks that save you time and money.
From natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda to more unconventional methods like vodka, these tips will leave your carpets looking and smelling their best.
So, why not give these tried-and-tested techniques a go and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home in no time?
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Whip Up a Natural Carpet Cleaner
For a natural and effective DIY carpet cleaner solution spray, combine vinegar and water in a large spray bottle and add salt and lavender essential oil to the mixture [1]. Shake the bottle well and spray the solution liberally over the carpets, ensuring to shake the bottle frequently between sprays. Allow the carpets to dry before vacuuming the treated areas.
Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant, while salt works to lift dirt and stains from the carpet. Additionally, lavender essential oil leaves a pleasant aroma and has antibacterial properties. This natural DIY carpet cleaner is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safe to use around children and pets.
But we also need to mention that different types of stains require different solvent mixtures. For more on that, check our article on how to remove the most common carpet stains.
Grab a Lint Roller for Hairs
A lint roller can be handy for removing hairs and pet fur from your carpet. Simply roll it over the carpet to pick up the strands, and replace the adhesive sheet as needed. This method is particularly useful for cleaning small areas or spot cleaning between vacuuming sessions.
Lint rollers are especially useful for pet owners who want to keep their homes clean and hair-free and can be easily stored in a closet or drawer for quick access.
Sprinkle Salt on Red Wine Spills
Act quickly when you spill red wine on your carpet by sprinkling a generous amount of table salt onto the stain. The salt will absorb the wine, preventing it from setting into the carpet fibres[2]. Wait for the salt to dry completely, then vacuum up the residue.
Remember that while this method can be effective for fresh stains, it may not work on older or more stubborn stains, in which case a specialist cleaning solution or professional carpet cleaning service may be necessary.
Use an Iron to Remove Stubborn Stains
If you have a stubborn stain on your carpet, such as from chocolate, it may be possible to remove it using an iron. However, it is crucial to identify the type of stain and ensure that using an iron is safe for the carpet material and the type of stain.
Place a clean, dry cloth over the stain and set your iron to the lowest heat setting. Gently press the iron on the cloth for a few seconds, moving it around to avoid overheating and prevent damage to your carpet. As the stain melts, it will adhere to the cloth, lifting it away from the carpet. Be sure to change the cloth frequently to avoid re-transferring the stain onto the carpet.
Check the video below to see this method in action.
Tackle Grease Stains with Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent DIY cleaner solution for removing grease stains from your carpet, but be cautious cause this method can also leave white marks on dark rugs and carpets.
To get started, sprinkle a quarter cup of baking soda onto the affected area. Then, add a small amount of toothpaste and a spoonful of dish soap to the baking soda. Using an old toothbrush or scrub brush, gently work the mixture into the carpet fibres.
Check the video below.
Use Vinegar Solution to Make Carpets Softer
To prepare a gentle carpet softening solution, mix around 120 ml of fabric softener, 2.5 litres of hot water, 1 cup or 240 ml of clear vinegar, and one tablespoon or 15 ml of dishwashing detergent [3]. Next, pour this mixture into a spray bottle.
Spritz your carpet with the solution, ensuring it becomes just damp. Then, use a soft brush to work the solution into the carpet fibres. Finally, allow the carpet to air dry, leaving it feeling softer and refreshed.
Remove Nail Polish With Rubbing Alcohol
Have you accidentally spilt nail polish on your carpet? Don’t panic! Apply a small portion of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently dab the stain.
The alcohol will help to break down the nail polish, making it easier to remove[4]. Be sure to test this method on an inconspicuous area of your carpet first, as rubbing alcohol may damage some carpet fibres.
Remove Chewing Gum from The Carpet
To remove chewing gum stuck to the carpet, first, fill a resealable plastic bag with ice and place it on top of the gum for several minutes.
The cold temperature will harden the gum, making it easier to remove. Once the gum has hardened, use a blunt knife or spoon edge to scrape it off the carpet fibres gently. Be cautious not to damage the carpet in the process.
Ice cube will harden chewing gum on carpets
Shaving Foam Is Also An Excellent Tool For Cleaning Carpets
Shaving foam can be an effective and budget-friendly carpet cleaner. Apply a generous amount of shaving foam to the stain and let it sit for couple minutes.
Gently work the shaving foam into the stain using a soft-bristled brush or a clean fabric, then blot with a damp textile to remove any residue. This method is particularly useful for treating general dirt and grime.
For Mould Odour Removal, Use Votka
Got mouldy carpet smells? Grab some vodka! This versatile spirit is a fantastic eco-friendly diy carpet cleaner deodorizer. Simply mix equivalent parts of water and vodka in a spray bottle, lightly mist the affected areas, and let it sit for a few minutes [5]. Gently dab with a clean, damp cloth, and you’re done!
Enjoy fresh, clean carpets without using harsh chemicals, and feel good about your environmentally friendly choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these ten simple yet effective DIY carpet cleaner solution hacks can help you maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpets in between professional cleanings.
While these methods are suitable for occasional cleaning and maintenance, it’s important to note that professional carpet cleaning is still necessary for deep cleaning and removing stubborn stains.
Professional cleaners have access to specialised equipment and cleaning solutions that can tackle even the most challenging stains and leave your carpets looking and feeling like new. Therefore, consider scheduling professional cleanings at least once a year or more often if you have pets or high foot traffic in your home.
By combining professional cleaning services with fast DIY solutions and tips for removing stains and odours from carpets and upholstery, you can enjoy a fresher and cleaner living space for an extended period.
As a tenant, there comes a time when you have to vacate your rental property and move on to your next adventure. Whether you’ve enjoyed your time in the property or not, one thing is for sure: you want to ensure you get your full deposit back. This is where the end of tenancy cleaning comes in – it’s a crucial step towards returning your deposit.
End of tenancy cleaning can be daunting, especially if you need assistance figuring out where to start or what to do. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive end of tenancy cleaning checklist and some pro tips from experts to make the process smoother and more successful. So, whether you’re a tenant looking to get your full deposit back or a landlord looking to prepare your property for new tenants, read on for everything you need about the end of tenancy cleaning.
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What is End of Tenancy Cleaning?
The term ‘end of tenancy cleaning’ or ‘end of lease cleaning’ refers to a cleaning service just before a tenant has left their property. Before leaving, the property user will have to remove all rubbish, dispose of waste and disinfect the property.
As you may know, Ireland is currently in the midst of a housing crisis, which means less real estate is available to tenants than is available for rent. Getting a letter of recommendation to find a new home is more important than ever.
Tenants often do not understand the importance of cleaning the property before moving out. Many of them usually assume that the landlord will clean the property after tenants move out. That is not the case. The landlord is responsible for the property’s condition before, during, and after the tenant has moved out.
End of tenancy cleaning is the last step in the cleaning process before moving out of your apartment, house, or office. It involves cleaning and sanitizing your property after you have moved out of it. You must make sure that you leave your home or office in perfect condition.
That task can be very stressful and challenging, so having a professional end-of-tenancy cleaning company do the job for you is the best simple solution.
Should You Clean the House Before Moving Out?
When you leased and entered someone’s property, you made an agreement with them. You decided to pay a certain amount in rent, and you agreed to keep the property clean and tidy. If you don’t do this, you commit an offense that can lead to being fined and even prosecuted. However, if you enter a dirty property, the landlord can’t expect from you to deep clean or renovate the house in order to return your deposit back.
That’s why it is crucial when you enter the newly leased property to photograph everything to prove later when you get out that you leave the property in the same or even better condition than you moved in.
What Do I Need to Clean When I Move Out of The House or Apartment?
You need to know that if you are moving out of your home or apartment, you will have to take care of some things before leaving. You will have to clean the whole house or apartment and leave it in condition as you find it.
The best way to clean is by a checklist that will include what needs to be done step by step.
What Can Happen if I Don’t Do End of Tenancy Cleaning?
The landlord or agency won’t return you the deposit if you don’t return the property in the same condition as you find it. The law states that the landlord is responsible for checking all aspects of your tenancy to ensure it is safe and in good standing before you move out. That means that he or she must check the property for any damage and make sure no pests or vermin may have infested the property.
The law says that if you fail to do this, the landlord can charge you the cost of cleaning and any damages caused by your failure to check.
And also landlord probably won’t give you a letter of recommendation for your further letting.
How Can I Avoid This?
Make sure you have a checklist of everything you need to do before moving out of a property. That means making sure that there are no marks on the walls, windows, carpets, or furniture. If you find anything that needs doing, you should report it to the landlord or agency before you leave. You should also arrange for them to come and inspect the property for you before you move out.
Room-by-Room End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
Bedrooms
It is good to start cleaning the bedrooms because, on the days of moving and cleaning, most of the time you will walk and use the rest of the house. The bedroom serves as a storage room for things when moving. This way, you can ensure that you have prepared and organized all the necessary stuff for moving.
You need to wash the windows and curtains, vacuum the floors, clean the carpets, and remove all cobwebs and dust from the ceiling and walls. The beds should be cleaned and vacuumed as well as the mattresses.
Garden and exterior cleaning
There is also some job outside if the rented property had one. It is essential to return the garden to its previous condition. That doesn’t mean removing your improvement like destroying the flowers or other greenery, but you need to clean the shed, mow the grass and remove all the rubbish and own properties.
Living room
Next on our cleaning list is a living room where you want to take out the furniture first and then vacuum it thoroughly. You should also dust the tables and clean the shelves, cabinets, and appliances. Inspect the walls, wash the windows and curtains, remove the cobwebs and finish with vacuuming and washing the floors.
It is pretty time-consuming to clean as the living room often features a few full bookshelves, many decorative items, and some hard-to-clean surfaces and objects.
Kitchen
The kitchen is next on our cleaning task checklist.
Don’t forget to empty and unfreeze the fridge and clean the washing machine, dishwasher, and appliances. Remove all food, spices, and rubbish from the cupboards and shelves. Oven is usually the first thing new tenant or inspection will open to check.
Hallways and staircases
Areas that face a lot of traffic need a good cleaning and also because of the impression when someone enters the house, office, or apartment. Remove spiderwebs, dust the picture frames and wipe all surfaces. Finish with floor vacuuming and mopping.
Windows
It is essential to clean the windows, which will make the property shine and make the first impression on the general hygiene of the property. Inspect all windows that are working correctly and fix them before calling the landlord for inspection.
Bathroom
You should check every item in the bathroom for any obstructions, such as dirt or lint, that could clog up pipes or drainage. You should also check the plug holes and drains for blockages and make sure that water can easily flow out of the house.
A common question among tenants is how long it takes to clean a property. The answer varies depending on the size and condition of the property, but generally speaking, it takes about 1 to 3 days to complete a thorough cleaning. That would apply to cases if you didn’t clean the property regularly.
Why should I hire a professional end-of-tenancy cleaner?
Professional cleaners are committed to providing the highest quality cleaning services in your home or office. Expert cleaners will provide a thorough and professional service, which will leave you with a feeling of satisfaction and peace of mind. They can clean and prepare your property from top to bottom and will do so as quickly and efficiently as possible.
