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Keeping your home clean and germ-free doesn’t have to mean using harsh chemical sprays that sting your nose and irritate your skin.

There are safer, more natural ways to disinfect your living spaces effectively.

You can maintain a clean home using basic ingredients and simple cleaning techniques that protect both your health and the environment.

Why Chemical-Free Disinfection Matters

Commercial disinfectants often contain chlorine, ammonia, and synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and skin irritation.

The combination of harsh chemicals can damage sensitive materials while contaminating indoor air.

Choosing natural disinfecting methods helps protect your home’s air quality, keeps your family and pets safe, and supports a more sustainable cleaning routine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Disinfecting Surfaces Naturally

Natural disinfectants can achieve the same results as chemical disinfectants when used properly.

Common household items such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils serve as effective germ killers that also help remove grease and create pleasant scents in your home.

White Vinegar: A Multipurpose Cleaning Solution

White vinegar is one of the most useful natural cleaning products you can use. Its gentle acidity kills bacteria while breaking down mineral deposits that cause buildup on glass and tile surfaces, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

How to use:

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Apply the spray to the surface and let it sit for several minutes before wiping with a microfiber cloth. Adding a few drops of lemon essential oil helps eliminate odors and leaves a fresh scent.

Tip: Avoid using vinegar on marble or granite surfaces, as its acidity can cause etching and permanent damage.

Harness the Power of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide functions as a powerful disinfectant that safely eliminates bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It’s often used in first aid but is equally effective for cleaning household surfaces.

How to use:

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a dark spray bottle (light causes it to break down). Spray it onto the surface and allow it to sit for about 5–10 minutes before wiping. It’s great for disinfecting cutting boards, bathroom sinks, and doorknobs.

Bonus tip: For the best results, alternate between hydrogen peroxide and vinegar sprays—just be sure to keep them in separate containers.

Try a DIY Lemon and Baking Soda Scrub

The combination of lemon and baking soda makes an excellent natural cleaner that removes dirt while disinfecting surfaces. The antibacterial properties of lemon juice work with the mild abrasiveness of baking soda to tackle tough stains.

How to use:

Use half a lemon sprinkled with baking soda on the cut surface to scrub stovetops, sinks, and countertops. Rinse with warm water and wipe dry. This method leaves your kitchen sparkling and naturally deodorized.

Disinfect with Alcohol-Based Solutions

Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70%) is another great option for disinfecting surfaces without leaving behind harmful residues. Because it evaporates quickly, it’s suitable for cleaning electronics, light switches, and mirrors.

How to use:

Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and wipe the surface thoroughly. Allow the surface to dry completely, as this helps ensure all germs are removed. Avoid using alcohol on painted or varnished surfaces, as it can dull the finish.

Add Essential Oils for a Natural Boost

Essential oils add a pleasant fragrance and offer natural antibacterial and antiviral properties to your cleaning process. Tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemon oils are some of the best choices for cleaning.

How to use:

Add 10–15 drops of your favorite essential oil to a homemade vinegar or alcohol spray. This enhances cleaning power while leaving a gentle natural scent. Tea tree oil, in particular, is an effective disinfectant for bathroom surfaces and door handles.

Steam Cleaning: A Powerful Chemical-Free Method

Steam cleaning uses nothing but water to sanitize surfaces. The high temperature kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores without the need for chemical additives.

How to use:

Use a steam cleaner on sealed floors, grout, upholstery, and curtains. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test a small area first. Steam is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it removes dust mites and allergens effectively.

Sunlight: Nature’s Original Disinfectant

Natural sunlight has powerful cleaning properties. UV rays from the sun help kill bacteria and mold while deodorizing fabrics and other porous materials.

How to use:

Air out bedding, rugs, and cushions outside on a sunny day. A few hours of UV exposure can refresh and disinfect items that can’t be easily washed.

Maintain Cleanliness with Regular Habits

Disinfection works best when paired with consistent cleaning habits.

Wipe down high-touch areas daily, wash your hands frequently, and keep your home well-ventilated. Keeping surfaces dry also discourages bacterial growth.

A weekly cleaning schedule using natural disinfectants helps keep your home clean and comfortable while minimizing chemical exposure.

Safe Natural Products to Try

Several eco-friendly cleaning products with natural ingredients are available for immediate use:

• Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner – Uses thymol (a natural component of thyme oil) to kill germs effectively.

• Better Life All-Purpose Cleaner – Plant-based, biodegradable, and safe for sensitive households.

• Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Spray – Combines essential oils with gentle cleaners for a pleasant scent and effective cleaning results.

These products provide convenience while allowing you to maintain safer cleaning practices.

Keep Your Home Naturally Clean and Healthy

Disinfecting surfaces doesn’t have to mean filling your home with harsh chemical smells or risky residues.

A combination of natural ingredients—such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, essential oils, and steam—can help you create a clean, germ-free environment safely and effectively.

You can also maintain a spotless home with the help of professional cleaning services that use safe, eco-friendly products.

NW Maids provides dependable housecleaning solutions using environmentally friendly, chemical-free products.

Our expert team ensures your home stays clean, fresh, and healthy—so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing it’s in expert hands.

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A Wedding, a Wine Disaster, and an Unbelievable Rescue

In my line of work as a team lead at NW Maids, you get to see a lot. But more than anything, you learn that our job is about more than just making a place look clean. It’s about providing peace of mind, solving problems, and being the partner our clients can count on when things don’t go as planned. Last month, I was reminded of this in the most dramatic way possible.

My team and I were on-site at one of our biggest hotel clients, a gorgeous downtown property known for hosting spectacular weddings. We have a fantastic relationship with their staff, and on major event nights, we come in to support their team, ensuring a seamless and spotless experience for their high-profile guests. This particular Saturday night, the ballroom was buzzing. The wedding was a roaring success, and the party was in full swing.

I was coordinating with the hotel’s event manager near the service entrance when we heard it—a sickening crash of shattering glass followed by a collective gasp. I rushed over to see what had happened. A catering cart, overloaded with boxes of red wine for the next event, had tipped. But it wasn’t just a few broken bottles on the floor. The cart had toppled directly into several large rolling bins filled with hundreds of fresh, fluffy, perfectly white towels, staged and ready for the housekeeping staff to turn over the rooms for the next day. Basically it ruined about 50lbs of fresh towels.

The scene was devastating. Deep, red wine was soaking into stack after stack of pristine towels. The air was thick with the smell of spilled cabernet. I saw the look of sheer panic on the hotel manager’s face, and I knew it wasn’t just about the stains.

“We’re fully booked tomorrow,” she said, her voice strained. “Completely sold out. Check-in starts at 3 PM. This is… this is our entire towel reserve for the upper floors. We don’t have enough to service the rooms.”

This was no longer a cleaning issue; it was a full-blown operational crisis. The hotel was facing the nightmare of having to tell new guests that their rooms weren’t ready, all because of a shortage of a basic amenity. The cost of replacing that many towels would be astronomical, and there was no way to procure that many new ones in less than 24 hours.

While her staff was still processing the shock, I put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Let me handle this,” I told her. “I have an idea. My team will bag all of this up. Just let me make one phone call.”

I immediately called our trusted partners at Press Cleaners Commercial Laundry Service. I didn’t just explain that we had a stain problem; I explained that we had a hotel emergency. I told them the stakes: a sold-out hotel and a ticking clock. Without a moment’s hesitation, they said, “We’re on our way.”

My team and I worked diligently, carefully separating and bagging the mountain of wine-soaked linen. True to their word, Press Cleaners dispatched a truck for a late-night emergency pickup. They knew that a standard cleaning job wouldn’t do. They needed to deploy their most powerful commercial laundry and stain-removal treatments, and they needed to do it fast. They promised me they would do everything in their power to get the towels back to us within 24 hours.

The next day was tense. My team was on-site, helping with the rest of the event cleanup, but all of us kept looking at the clock. The hotel staff was nervously preparing for the afternoon check-in rush. By 2 PM, the lobby was beginning to fill with arriving guests. The hotel manager was pacing, and I was doing my best to look confident, though my stomach was in knots.

Then, at 2:45 PM, a symbol of hope arrived: the Press Cleaners van pulled up to the service dock. They opened the doors to reveal rolling bin after rolling bin of the most beautiful sight I could have imagined—perfectly clean, brilliantly white, fresh-smelling towels. Every single stain was gone. It was nothing short of a miracle as they had a big event later that day. 

Housekeeping carts were loaded in record time and sent up to the floors. Just as the front desk began handing out the first room keys to the new guests, the final rooms were being stocked with fresh towels. The crisis was completely averted.

The relief on the hotel manager’s face was immeasurable. She knew, and I knew, that this was about more than cleaning. This was about partnership. It’s about being the company that doesn’t just identify a problem, but brings a solution. It’s about having the experience to stay calm in a crisis and the trusted network to make the impossible happen. This is the standard we hold ourselves to at NW Maids. And it’s why our clients don’t just see us as a vendor, but as a vital part of their team.

 

Skylights add natural light, beauty, and ventilation to homes, but maintaining their brilliance requires more than routine window cleaning.

These unique architectural features need targeted upkeep to stay functional and crystal clear.

Without proper skylight cleaning, dust, grime, and water stains can build up, reducing light entry and increasing the risk of leaks or damage.

In this guide, we’ll share the best skylight cleaning strategies every homeowner should know, plus how to keep skylights in top shape year-round.

Why Skylight Cleaning Requires Special Attention

Unlike standard windows, skylights are mounted on the roof, usually at an angle or horizontally.

This positioning makes them more vulnerable to rain streaks, leaf buildup, bird droppings, and airborne debris.

Over time, these elements settle and form hard-to-remove stains that affect light clarity and may damage seals.

Additionally, moisture exposure and temperature changes speed up the degradation of skylight seals.

If left uncleaned, skylights can develop mineral deposits, cloudiness, or leaks.

That’s why it’s essential to use specific cleaning methods for skylights to avoid scratching or cracking the glass.

Signs Your Skylights Need Cleaning or Repair

Routine skylight inspection is key to preventing costly issues. Look out for these signs that your skylights need cleaning or maintenance:

• Cloudy glass or streaks that persist after a standard wipe-down

• Water stains or moisture near skylight areas

• Condensation between panes, indicating a broken seal

• Chips or cracks in the skylight glass

• Diminished natural light entering the space below

Addressing these early signs can help you avoid energy loss, water damage, and structural issues.

Step-by-Step Skylight Cleaning Method

Here’s a proven, step-by-step method for cleaning skylights safely and effectively:

1. Use Gentle Cleaning Solutions

Avoid harsh chemicals. Instead, mix warm water with a mild dish soap to safely remove grime without damaging the skylight’s glass or seals.

2. Choose the Right Tools

Use microfiber cloths or non-abrasive sponges to clean skylights. These materials prevent scratching while lifting dirt effectively.

3. Use Extendable Poles or Secure Ladders

For hard-to-reach skylights, use an extendable cleaning pole with a soft brush or sponge head.

If you need a ladder, ensure it’s stable and placed on level ground.

Safety should always come first.

4. Rinse Thoroughly and Dry

After scrubbing, rinse with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Then dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and streaks.

5. Use Professional Products for Tough Stains

For mineral buildup or hard water stains, use a specialty glass cleaner designed for skylights.

Be sure to follow product instructions carefully to avoid damaging the surface.

How Often Should You Clean Skylights?

The ideal skylight cleaning schedule is twice per year, once in the spring and again in the fall.

This timing helps remove pollen, dust, and debris before or after harsh weather seasons.

If your home is near trees or in an urban area, you may need to clean skylights more frequently due to increased dirt, sap, or pollution buildup.

Regular cleanings will preserve your home’s natural lighting and energy efficiency.

Preventive Strategies to Keep Skylights Clean Longer

You can reduce how often you need to clean skylights by following these preventive skylight maintenance tips:

Trim Surrounding Trees

Falling leaves and twigs can quickly dirty skylights.

Trim nearby branches regularly to minimize debris buildup.

Install Protective Skylight Screens

Add protective screens or covers to block large debris and discourage birds from nesting on or near the skylight.

Apply High-Quality Sealants

Make sure your skylight is sealed properly.

Top-grade skylight sealants prevent moisture leaks and reduce the risk of mildew or mold forming around the frame.

Choose Steeper Angled Skylights

If you’re installing new skylights, opt for models with a steeper pitch.

They naturally shed water and dirt more efficiently.

Regular Light Dusting

Between deep cleans, use a duster or leaf blower to remove loose debris and prevent buildup from becoming harder to clean later.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Skylight Cleaners

While DIY skylight cleaning is manageable, professional skylight cleaning services offer distinct advantages:

• Improved Safety: Experts use safety harnesses and proper tools to clean skylights on high or steep roofs.

• Better Results: Professionals use industrial-strength products and tools to remove stubborn grime or mineral stains.

• Full Inspection: During the cleaning process, they can identify issues like leaks, broken seals, or glass damage.

• Time-Saving: Hiring a pro saves time and eliminates the risks of climbing ladders or navigating tricky roof angles.

If you want the job done right, NW Maids offers full-service home cleaning, including skylight care, as part of its trusted residential cleaning packages.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Skylights Spotless Year-Round

The key to maintaining beautiful, functional skylights is regular cleaning, smart preventive strategies, and occasional professional help.

Whether you’re tackling it yourself or calling in experts, these cleaning strategies ensure your skylights continue to flood your home with clean, natural light.

Need help keeping your entire home clean, including your skylights?

NW Maids is here to help.

Our vetted professionals are trained to clean from top to bottom, making your home shine naturally and thoroughly.

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← Pollen Stain Removal Tips for Outdoor Surfaces That Really Work

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As spring and early summer bring blossoming flowers and longer days, they also bring an all-too-familiar nuisance: pollen.

These microscopic plant particles can quickly coat everything outdoors, leading to unsightly pollen stains on patios, decks, outdoor furniture, and more.

If you’re wondering how to remove pollen stains from outdoor surfaces effectively, this updated guide will walk you through the best cleaning methods, materials to use, and how to prevent future buildup.

What Are Pollen Stains and Why Are They So Stubborn?

Pollen stains are caused by the powdery particles that plants release to reproduce.

These particles often appear yellow, orange, or green and settle on exposed surfaces.

Once mixed with moisture, like morning dew or rain, they become sticky and stubborn and can stain a wide variety of outdoor materials, including wood, concrete, stone, plastic, and outdoor fabrics.

Over time, pollen pigments seep into porous surfaces, making stains more difficult to remove if left untreated.

Why Pollen Stains Happen on Outdoor Surfaces

During peak pollen season, lightweight grains float through the air and settle on everything outside.

The combination of moisture and pollen creates a natural adhesive, allowing it to cling tightly to surfaces.

This is why cleaning pollen buildup on outdoor furniture and decks is more than just an aesthetic concern—it helps protect materials from long-term discoloration and wear.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Pollen Stains from Outdoor Surfaces

Whether you’re cleaning a pollen-stained patio, deck, or outdoor cushions, follow these expert-approved steps to restore your exterior spaces.

Step 1: Clear Loose Pollen and Debris

Before using any cleaning products, remove loose pollen. Use a broom, leaf blower, or soft brush to gently sweep it away without grinding it into the surface.

• Pro Tip: Avoid using water first. Wet pollen becomes sticky and harder to remove.

• Be gentle with wooden surfaces to prevent scratching.

• For concrete and stone patios, a stronger sweep is acceptable.

Step 2: Select the Right Cleaning Solution for Pollen Stains

Choosing the best pollen stain remover for outdoor surfaces depends on the material you’re treating:

• Mild dish soap and warm water: Ideal for most surfaces, especially plastic and fabric.

• White vinegar solution (1:1 with water): Breaks down pollen residue and prevents mildew.

• Baking soda paste: A great natural cleaner for stubborn stains.

• Commercial outdoor cleaners: Look for products labeled for outdoor stain removal and safe for wood, stone, or fabric.

Avoid bleach on wood or painted surfaces—it can cause discoloration or damage.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaner Evenly

Use a spray bottle for liquid cleaners like soapy water or vinegar to cover affected areas evenly. For paste solutions like baking soda, use a sponge or cloth to apply directly.

• Let the cleaner sit for 10–15 minutes so it can break down pollen particles before scrubbing.

Step 4: Gently Scrub the Area

Scrub the surface using a soft-bristle brush or sponge. The type of tool depends on your surface:

• Delicate furniture: Use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching.

• Concrete patios or stone pathways: Use a stiff-bristle brush for deeper cleaning.

Always scrub in the direction of the grain (especially on wood) to protect the material.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly with Water

Rinse the area using a garden hose or bucket of clean water. This removes pollen residue and leftover cleaner.

• Pressure washers can be used on concrete, but use caution on wooden decks to avoid damage.

Thorough rinsing prevents residue from attracting dirt or grime.

Step 6: Let the Surface Dry Completely

Allow the cleaned area to dry fully before using it or applying any sealants. Sunlight speeds up drying and naturally disinfects the surface.

• Drying is crucial for preventing mildew, mold, and future stains.

How to Prevent Pollen Stains on Outdoor Furniture and Patios

While it’s essential to know how to clean pollen off outdoor surfaces, prevention is even better. Here are some tips to reduce pollen accumulation:

• Sweep or blow outdoor surfaces regularly during high pollen times.

• Cover outdoor furniture when not in use, or store it in a garage or shed.

• Apply sealants to wood and concrete to repel pollen and make cleaning easier.

• Trim nearby plants and trees to reduce pollen sources near decks and patios.

These proactive steps will minimize staining and cut down your future cleaning time.

When to Call a Professional Outdoor Cleaner

Some pollen stains on concrete patios or aged wood decks may be too stubborn for DIY methods.

In these cases, calling a professional outdoor cleaning service is your best bet.

Experts have access to industrial-strength cleaners and the right tools to handle pollen removal from porous outdoor surfaces without damaging them.

At NW Maids, we specialize in residential cleaning services, including maintenance of outdoor living areas.

Whether you’re dealing with stubborn pollen buildup or need help getting your patio ready for summer, our trained professionals can help.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to remove pollen stains from outdoor surfaces helps protect your home’s curb appeal and extends the life of your furniture and patio materials.

With the right products, regular maintenance, and a little elbow grease, you can keep your exterior spaces fresh and pollen-free all season long.

Let NW Maids Handle the Hard Work

Don’t want to spend your weekend scrubbing?

Leave it to the experts.

NW Maids offers professional house and outdoor surface cleaning to help you enjoy a pristine home, inside and out.

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Crayon marks on your walls can be quite annoying, but they are easy to remove without damaging the paint.

Whether your little artist has been more artistic than usual or it was a sudden crayon mark on the wall, this article will show you how to get rid of the marks on your walls and make them like new again.

Why It is Necessary to Get Rid of Crayon Marks

Children love to express themselves, and this often results in amazing works of art on the walls.

Crayon marks are common in homes with children, but they can be unsightly and challenging to clean.

It is ideal to get rid of these stains as early as possible before they become stubborn stains.

Various methods can be used to achieve this without damaging the walls.

Check the Type of Wall Surface

Before attempting any cleaning method, determine the type of wall finish you have.

Painted walls, wallpaper, and even textured walls need different cleaning solutions.

This way, you ensure that the method you choose does not remove the paint or damage the surface in some other way.

Get the Necessary Cleaning Products

This means that to remove crayon marks, you will need:

• A soft cloth or sponge
• Mild dish soap
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• A magic eraser
• Toothpaste (non-gel)
• WD-40
• Baby wipes
• Rubbing alcohol
• A butter knife or plastic scraper
• Paper towels

Having these items on hand allows you to attempt various approaches based on the level of the crayon stains.

Different Methods to Get Crayon Off The Wall

Method 1: Warm Water and Dish Soap

Solving a dish soap and warm water solution works effectively on new crayon marks.

Take some mild dish soap in warm water and apply the solution to the affected area with a soft cloth.

Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the surface, then dry it with a paper towel.

Method 2: Baking Soda Paste

The mild abrasive quality of baking soda can aid in crayon wax removal from walls.

To make a paste, put baking soda in a bowl and add some water.

Put it on the marks using a sponge and move it circularly.

Use a damp cloth to wipe it, then dry the surface.

Method 3: White Vinegar Solution

The acetic acid in white vinegar is ideal for removing crayon stains.

Put some vinegar on a clean cloth and use it to rub the crayon marks.

The vinegar removes the wax from the crayon, which makes it easier to wipe off.

Wash the area with water and dry thoroughly.

Method 4: Magic Eraser

A magic eraser is a perfect tool for removing crayon stains without the help of harsh chemicals.

Just wet the eraser a little and use it to clean the crayon-stained surface.

The micro-abrasive filth stuck on the eraser is ideal for removing the wax.

Avoid applying too much pressure, as this may damage the paint.

Method 5: Toothpaste Scrub

Non-gel toothpaste has some amount of abrasives in it that can help in removing crayons.

Apply toothpaste to the marks, then wipe it off with a damp cloth or sponge.

Clean the surface with a clean cloth.

Method 6: WD-40 Lubricant

WD-40 can remove wax stains without damaging the paint.

Apply some WD-40 on a piece of cloth and use it to clean the crayon marks.

When the stain is gone, use a damp cloth to remove any product residue from the surface.

Method 7: For the Tough Stains, Use Baby Wipes

Baby wipes are a stick and easy to use to remove crayon marks, especially for minor stains.

Their gentle cleansing components can remove the wax without harming the wall.

You can easily use the wipes to rub off the marks from the wipes.

Method 8: For Tough Stains, Use Rubbing Alcohol

Some stains may be stubborn, and rubbing alcohol can help to remove the wax.

Dab at the crayon with a cotton ball or soft cloth that has some alcohol on it.

When the wax is melted, wipe the area with a clean, wet cloth.

Method 9: Scraping for Thick Crayon Buildup

If the marks made by crayons are relatively dense, you can carefully remove the residue with a butter knife or plastic scraper.

Take care not to scratch the paint.

After that, it is recommended to use one of the methods described above to remove the residue.

Preventing Future Crayon Marks

Reduce crayon art on walls by using them as an art area with easels or drawing boards.

• Instead of writing on walls, you can also divert your attention towards large sheets of paper or whiteboards.
• Washable crayons and markers are also easier to clean up.
• Applying semi-gloss paint or a protective coating reduces the chances of staining.
• Another option is to use a chalkboard or dry-erase paint to create a specific area for the child to draw.
• You can also replace traditional paint with wipeable wallpaper that will still give a stylish look to the room.
• Removable wall decals or a clear acrylic coating in high-traffic areas to further protect walls.
• To this end, it is also useful to teach children to use approved spaces and to reward them for doing so.

These steps assist in maintaining your walls’ cleanliness and free from crayon marks.

When to Call a Professional

If the crayon marks are stubborn and cannot be removed despite several attempts, or if the walls are damaged during the cleaning process, professional cleaning services can be sought.

Professionals have the right tools and techniques to restore walls without causing further damage.

Conclusion

Getting crayon marks off walls does not have to be a time-consuming process.

Using the proper methods and mild cleaning solutions, you can clean your walls and bring them back to their original state in a short time.

If you are searching for a house cleaning service, you should try NW Maids.

Our professional cleaning crew will be happy to help you maintain a clean and tidy home without those stubborn stains.

 

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It is very important to maintain your garbage disposal to ensure that it is working efficiently and does not have an unpleasant odor.

This often-overlooked kitchen tool works hard to dispose of food scraps, but over time, it gets clogged with food particles, grease, and other debris.

This not only hampers the efficiency of the disposal but also results in bad odor and, at times, blockage.

In this guide, you will learn why it is crucial to clean your garbage disposal and how to do it properly.

Why Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal?

Garbage disposals, while highly useful for efficiently disposing of food waste, need regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are a few reasons why cleaning your garbage disposal is essential:

Prevent Unpleasant Odors: It is due to the fact that when the particles of food are decomposed they give out an unpleasant smell. Removing the buildup from the disposal will also help eliminate these odors.

Enhance Performance: Debris buildup can also affect the efficiency of the disposal’s motor or cause it to get jammed, causing hinders the disposal’s functionality.

Reduce Risk of Clogs: Small bits of food, grease, and other materials may get trapped in the disposal’s pipes and lead to clogging. These clogs are prevented by the regular cleaning that is done on the pipes.

Extend the Lifespan: This helps check wear and tear, and thus, the disposal can be used for a longer time without the need for replacement and, at the same time, reducing the replacement cost.

Step-by-Step Guide on Cleaning Your Garbage Disposal

Cleaning your garbage disposal is a rather simple task that doesn’t require you to spend much money on special tools and chemicals. All you need is some household appliances and some time. Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you in the process of cleaning your disposal.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To clean your garbage disposal effectively, you’ll need:

• Ice cubes
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Lemon or lime
• Dish soap
• Old toothbrush or small scrub brush
• Soft cloth

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety first!

First of all, you should unplug your garbage disposal or switch off the switch under the sink. In case of a directly wired disposal, the circuit breaker should be off to ensure you are safe.

Step 3: Clean the Rubber Flange

The rubber splash guard, or flange that is found at the mouth of the disposal, has a way of holding food particles and bacteria.

Lift the rubber flap and scrub it with an old toothbrush and a little dish soap.

Be sure to clean the undersurface of the spoon because that is where most of the dirt is collected. When you are done with the cleaning process, rinse with warm water.

Step 4: Deodorize Using Baking Soda and Vinegar

Now, you must put half a cup of baking soda down the sink disposal first and then add one cup of vinegar afterward. This will make it foam and bubble to break down dirt and get rid of any bad smells effectively. Wait for 5-10 minutes for the best result.

After waiting, switch on the hot water before running the disposal for a few seconds to clear out the baking soda and vinegar mixture.

Step 5: Use Ice and Salt to Sharpen the Blades

For a deeper clean that also sharpens the blades of your disposal, pour a handful of ice cubes and then a tablespoon of coarse salt, also known as rock salt, into the disposal.

Then, turn the cold water then switch on the disposal. The ice cube and salt will help clean the blades and sharpen them by removing any debris that could be stuck on the blades.

Step 6: Freshen with Citrus

Cut a lemon or lime into quarters and then throw the pieces into the disposal.

Switch on the disposal and let the citrus pieces grind. The oil from the fruit can be used to eliminate the odor from the disposal, leaving the house with a fresh smell.

Step 7: Wipe Down the Disposal and Sink

Once you are done with the above steps, you should use a soft cloth and a little dish soap to wipe the outside of the disposal and the sink area.

The last step is to wipe down any remaining spots, and your sink area will definitely look as good as new.

Additional Tips for Garbage Disposal Maintenance

In order to maintain your garbage disposal and make it last longer, try to follow these tips:

Use Cold Water When Running the Disposal

You should always run cold water when using the disposal because the grease or fat solidifies, making it easier for the disposal to chop the food.

On the other hand, hot water can make the grease become liquid and may cause an accumulation at the disposal.

Avoid Fibrous and Hard Foods

Celery, potato peels, and corn husks are some examples of fibrous foods that can get caught around the blades and lead to clogs.

Also, refrain from disposing of hard objects like bones, fruit pits, or coffee grounds in the disposal, as this could potentially dull or damage the blades.

Run the Disposal Regularly

If your disposal is not being used very often, then it is still essential that you run it from time to time to prevent it from rusting.

All you need to do is turn it on with cold water for a few seconds to help its functioning.

Grind Small Food Amounts at a Time

Overloading your garbage disposal also causes it to block or jam.

Instead, when disposing of food scraps into the disposal, ensure that it is in small amounts, and after the food has been ground, add more. This will also ensure that your disposal is in good shape so that it can continue working efficiently.

Clean Monthly for Optimal Performance

Garbage disposal cleaning is recommended at least once a month to ensure that it remains fresh and odor-free.

Preventing the buildup of grime ensures that your kitchen remains fresh at all times.

Why Hire a Professional?

It is pretty simple to clean your garbage disposal on your own; however, if you want to deep clean your kitchen as well as the entire house, why not hire a cleaning service?

Thus, you will be able to enjoy the clean kitchen and much more while not even sweating. No matter if you require a one-time clean or regular cleaning service we will be able to find a team of professional cleaners for you.

Conclusion

Garbage disposal is one of the most important kitchen utensils used to dispose of food remains; thus, it is essential to keep it clean to ensure its efficiency and avoid bad odor.

The following are the simple steps that have been discussed in this article, which can help maintain garbage disposal and thus avoid the costs of repairs or even replacement.

Therefore, disposal should be cleaned frequently and properly to enhance efficiency and avoid damage.

Need Help with Kitchen Cleaning?

And, if you need a reputed house cleaning service to clean your house and make it sparkling, then NW Maids is the ideal choice – your kitchen and the rest of your house will be grateful to you.

It is, therefore, crucial to clean the garbage disposal from time to time and follow the steps outlined above to ensure efficient disposal.

 

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• A Trip Through Time: History of Maids

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