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Keep Your Garbage Disposal Fresh And Working Efficiently

Keep Your Garbage Disposal Fresh And Working Efficiently

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.

How to Clean Garbage Disposal

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.

How to Clean Garbage Disposal

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.

How to Clean Garbage Disposal

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.

How to Clean Garbage Disposal

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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Managing Expectations, Pt. 2: What Maids DON’T Do?

As true professionals, maids are trained to handle a vast array of housekeeping tasks, ranging from standard day-to-day upkeep to highly specialized deep cleaning. However, knowledgeable and experienced as they may be, they are not superhuman.

Some tasks are simply beyond their realm of expertise or they may be explicitly forbidden from undertaking them, most commonly due to the risks involved. Today, we’ll explore this other side of the medal to help you better understand what you can expect from your maid service in Happy Valley, OR.

What do housekeepers not clean?

While housekeepers are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and organization of a home, there are certain areas, items, or tasks that they may not typically clean or may require special permission to clean. However, there’s one important thing to note before we dive further.

The specifics of what is included or excluded from housekeeping services can vary greatly depending on the service provider, the type of property (residential, commercial, otherwise), and any customized agreements made with the client.

Therefore, always check with your housekeeping service for their specific policies and to request any additional services you might need. With that said, here’s a (non-exhaustive) list of what housekeepers might not clean:

Personal and Private Areas

Unless you explicitly request or permit them to do so, your housekeepers will not clean the inside of personal drawers, closets, cabinetry, and similar. In addition, you can expect them never to touch your private documents or sensitive personal items. 

ideal maid service near me in Happy Valley, ORThis is why you should always move these types of belongings to a safe place before your cleaners arrive, so they don’t have to work around them, as this can bring their efficiency down (albeit not by much).

Specialized or Delicate Items:

Due to them being delicate or requiring specialized training to handle, cleaners will typically steer clear of the following items:

  • Fine art or antiques require specialized training to avoid damage.
  • Electrical appliances with complex interfaces, like computers, intricate sound systems, or high-end kitchen appliances, unless specified.
  • Musical instruments, due to their delicate nature and the potential for damage.
  • Jewelry, especially valuable or sentimental pieces.

Outdoor Spaces

Gardening or yard work are not in the cleaners’ job description. Therefore, you shouldn’t expect them to handle tasks such as mowing the lawn, pruning, or planting. On the flip side, while they might wipe down some surfaces (if instructed), deep cleaning of outdoor furniture or home features typically isn’t included in standard cleaning services.

Standard-Service Cleaning of Certain Areas

Unless it’s part of a specialized cleaning package, such as deep cleaning or window washing, housekeepers typically won’t address the following:

  • Refrigerator/freezer interior (including throwing away expired food), unless you requested deep cleaning.
  • Oven cleaning is often considered a deep cleaning task that might incur extra charges or require a specialist.
  • Window cleaning (exterior) can be dangerous and may require specialized equipment, especially for multi-story homes.

Biohazards and Heavy-Duty Cleaning

Housekeeping services, commonly hired by home or business owners in areas surrounding Scouters Mountain NP, are typically not equipped to handle the following tasks:

  • Cleanup of biohazardous materials: Blood, bodily fluids, or anything considered a health risk.
  • Mold Remediation: Requires specialized training and equipment.
  • Pest Infestations and left-behind residues: Including but not limited to cockroaches, rodent or bird droppings, and similar.

Post-Construction or -Renovation Cleanup

Regular cleaning services are not typically equipped to handle the cleanup of debris left by either professional or DIY construction, remodeling, or renovation work. However, a lot of companies today offer the so-called Post-Construction Cleaning Services, specifically designed to handle these types of work.

dependable maid service near me in Happy ValleyHow do I find an ideal maid service near me in Happy Valley, OR?

NW Maids offers you a quick, easy, and hassle-free way to find your perfect housekeeping partner. Whether you’re looking for a team to help you tidy up a messy home on a regular basis or that will get your house in top-notch condition in a single day, rest assured that the companies we match you with will match your criteria to the letter. Get in touch with us today and find your ideal cleaners in minutes!

Managing Expectations, Pt. 1: What Do Maids Do?

When you mention professional maids/cleaners, most people immediately envision individuals armed with mops, brooms, and a whole arsenal of cleaning solutions, tirelessly working to transform messy spaces into spotless, organized havens of cleanliness.

While this is by no means wrong, as that is indeed what they do most of the time, the intricacies of their daily tasks often go far beyond cleaning. Today, we’ll explore some common and lesser-known facets of maids in Happy Valley, OR and their roles, so let’s dive in.

What does a maid usually do?

While the specific duties can vary depending on the employer, setting, and type of establishment, there are several core tasks that are commonly associated with being a professional maid. Let’s see what these are.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

This is the most obvious aspect of the job but it must be mentioned, as a lot of people still don’t know what they can and can’t expect from their maids. At the very basic, they are responsible for thoroughly cleaning all the surfaces, from the top of the furnishings to the bottom of the floors.

Some companies go a step further and offer packages that include highly specialized tasks, such as window, wall, carpet, upholstery cleaning, and many others. Among those, sanitizing is one activity that bears special mention.

reliable maids near me in Happy Valley, ORSanitizing refers to using specialized products and methods to remove pathogens (i.e. viruses, allergens, bacteria, etc.) from the surfaces. This is a critical component of maids’ work and it became part of a standard package for many cleaning services following the recent coronavirus outbreak.

Organization and Management

In some settings, maid companies may offer services that go beyond cleaning. In most cases, these boil down to organizing spaces to enhance their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Typically, this involves a certain extent of decluttering, arranging furniture, or restocking supplies, but it can be much more.

However, the most important part of their managerial duties is reporting to the client. Standard upkeep and, especially, deep cleaning often reveal hidden issues that threaten to jeopardize the integrity of the space, such as the beginnings of mold infestation in hidden corners or pipe leaks.

By identifying these issues and reporting them back to you promptly, maids give you the opportunity to take timely action and remedy the problem, thereby saving you from costly repairs or even costlier replacements.

Customer Service

Given the busy lifestyles of modern individuals, as well as the hyper-competitive nature of the cleaning scene, providing customer service that goes above and beyond is key to client satisfaction and the success of a cleaning business. As such, professional maids are required to:

  • Clearly and effectively communicate with clients;
  • Understand their specific cleaning needs and preferences;
  • Provide highly personalized cleaning plans.

To further showcase their dedication to client satisfaction and ensure their peace of mind at all times, many maid services in Happy Valley, OR offer additional conveniences, such as 100% satisfaction guarantees, discounts on recurring visits, flexible cleaning schedules, and sending the same team every time.

Who should I contact if I need reliable maids near me in Happy Valley, OR?

thorough maids near me in Happy ValleyDon’t know where to start tidying a messy house? Want an entire home brought up to perfection in a single day? NW Maids are here to make it all possible! We built a reputation for excellence by helping individuals like yourself find their ideal housekeeping partners – and doing it in the easiest, most convenient way possible.

With us, all it takes is a few minutes of your time to get cleaners that are vetted, experienced, reliable, and wholeheartedly dedicated to your well-being. So, don’t hesitate – reach out to us today to get started and discover a better way to live your life – without cleaning and with ample free time!

A Trip Through Time: History of Maids

The role of maids has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in society, class structures, and the expectations of households. From ancient civilizations to modern times, maids have played an essential role in keeping homes clean, organized, and functional. Historically, their work was often unacknowledged, but as societal dynamics have shifted, so has the perception of household help. 

Today, the duties of maids in Hilltop, WA, and the way people refer to them have changed, but the core responsibility of helping maintain a neat, healthy, and productive household remains constant. In this article, we’ll take a trip through time to explore the history of maids, understand how their role has evolved, and see how their job is defined in modern times.

What did maids do?

In the past, maids played a crucial role in running households, particularly in wealthy families. Historically, their responsibilities were wide-ranging and depended on the size of the household and the wealth of their employers. During the Middle Ages and into the Victorian era, maids were often part of a larger household staff, which included butlers, cooks, gardeners, and more. In these large estates, maids were responsible for cleaning, laundry, cooking, and even tending to personal tasks for their employers, such as dressing them and ensuring their daily comfort.

What is a maid's jobIn aristocratic and wealthy households, there were often different types of maids, each assigned to specific tasks. For example, chambermaids would clean bedrooms, parlormaids were responsible for reception rooms, and scullery maids worked in the kitchens, often doing the most menial and backbreaking tasks. This hierarchy meant that maids closer to the family, such as the lady’s maid or butler, had more prestigious roles compared to those who handled the hardest labor. While the upper-class maid’s job was mainly focused on maintaining the lavish lifestyle of their employers, in more modest households, maids would often take on every aspect of cleaning and home maintenance without assistance.

What is a maid’s job?

In modern times, the job of a maid—or, more accurately, a housekeeper or cleaning professional—has adapted to fit the needs of today’s households and businesses. While some of the tasks remain similar to those performed centuries ago, such as cleaning, dusting, and laundry, the scope of the job has changed based on technological advancements and lifestyle changes. In addition to traditional cleaning tasks, modern-day maids might use advanced cleaning equipment, eco-friendly products, or specific techniques for sanitizing homes and workplaces.

In some cases, housekeepers are also tasked with organizing, doing light meal prep, and handling errands such as grocery shopping or laundry services. Professional cleaning companies now offer specialized services, such as deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning, and even post-construction cleaning. The role is no longer limited to the wealthy but is accessible to people from a wide range of economic backgrounds.

In the business world, cleaning professionals are also vital for maintaining clean, safe, and professional environments. The rise of cleaning services for offices, hotels, and commercial spaces has expanded the demand for skilled cleaners, further professionalizing the field. Today, many housekeepers and cleaning professionals are trained in various aspects of the job, such as eco-friendly practices, time management, and efficient cleaning techniques.

Where can I find dependable maids in Hilltop, WA & the surrounding communities?

maids Hilltop, WAWondering about the connection between happiness and clean home, why a messy house leads to anxiety, or why most of us try to avoid tidying our homes, NW Maids Tacoma is here to answer all your questions and let you in on the process. Our skilled, experienced, and hard-working maids utilize time-tested methods to ensure that your home stays shiny and appealing year-round. 

All you have to do is spend quality time with your loved ones exploring the W. W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory and enjoying your weekend while we get down to the nitty-gritty and reintroduce freshness into your living environment. To relax in the comfort of a professionally spruced-up home, call us today!

The Reasons Behind the Mess: Why Do You Avoid Cleaning

Cleaning is a task that everyone has to face at some point, yet it’s a chore that many people try to avoid, often leading to a sense of guilt or frustration. For some, the motivation to engage in house cleaning in Hilltop, WA doesn’t come naturally. You may look at a cluttered room, piles of laundry, or dusty shelves and feel overwhelmed, unmotivated, or unsure where to start. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why do I keep avoiding cleaning?” you’re not alone. 

There are deeper reasons why so many of us struggle with maintaining a tidy home and would rather leave housework to reputable professionals. In this blog, we’ll explore why cleaning can feel like such a daunting task and how to understand these feelings.

Is it OK to not clean your house?

Let’s address the guilt first: Is it OK to not clean your house? The short answer is yes—and no. Life gets busy, and sometimes cleaning simply isn’t at the top of your to-do list. While occasional messiness is nothing to be ashamed of, long-term neglect of your living space can lead to bigger problems, both physically and emotionally. Excessive clutter and dirt can create an environment that affects your mental well-being, productivity, and even your health.

house cleaning Hilltop, WALiving in a messy home may contribute to stress and anxiety, making it harder to relax or focus. On the other hand, obsessing over cleanliness can also be unhealthy. Striking a balance is key—allowing yourself some flexibility while recognizing when it’s time to roll up your sleeves and tackle the mess. Remember, it’s okay to give yourself grace, but maintaining a baseline level of cleanliness is essential for a healthy living environment.

Why do I have no desire to clean my house?

If you’re wondering why you have no desire to clean your house, it might help to reflect on your emotions and mindset toward cleaning. Often, the reasons are more complex than mere laziness or neglect. Life can be demanding, and cleaning often takes a backseat to more urgent tasks, like work, family responsibilities, or even self-care. Are you tired from work? Do you feel like your efforts go unnoticed? Or maybe cleaning just doesn’t feel worth the effort because the mess never seems to end. If you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, cleaning may be the last thing you want to deal with at the end of a long day.

In some cases, cleaning might not offer immediate rewards or satisfaction, making it harder to stay motivated. It’s a task that requires time and energy, and often, the mess can quickly return, leading to a sense of futility. If you’re struggling to find motivation, breaking the cleaning process into smaller, more manageable tasks can make it less overwhelming. Instead of tackling an entire room or house at once, focus on one small area at a time, and celebrate the progress you make.

It’s also possible that you simply don’t enjoy cleaning—and that’s okay! Not everyone finds satisfaction in dusting or scrubbing, but finding ways to make the process more enjoyable can help. Try listening to your favorite music or podcast while you clean, or reward yourself with something you enjoy afterward, like a treat or relaxing activity.

Where can I find meticulous house cleaning in Hilltop, WA & the area?

Hilltop, WA house cleaningIs a messy house causing you anxiety? Would you like trusted maids to lean on their ample experience and clean your home to put a smile on your face once more? NW Maids Tacoma is the leading team of vetted, insured, and methodical cleaners near you.

We combine skilled and hard-working personnel with carefully selected cleaning tools and products to deliver spotless clean each time we come.

Feel free to drop by Edna Travis Park and spend a day relaxing with your loved ones knowing that our team will leave everything shiny and fresh waiting for you when you return. Make one call to enjoy a clean and happy home, reach out to us today!

8 Simple Tips to Freshen Up Your Entire Home

Walking into a home that smells delightful is always a pleasure, but achieving this isn’t always straightforward. Common concerns like lingering cooking odors, pet smells, or mustiness from closed spaces can make your living environment feel less inviting. Whether it’s the lingering scent of last night’s dinner or the stuffiness of a rarely opened guest room, these typical household odors are a challenge many face. But fret not—with professional house cleaning available across Mercer Island, you can now embrace expert strategies that tackle these common issues head-on, ensuring your home smells fresh and inviting.

How can I make my house smell super fresh?

Who offers comprehensive house cleaning on Mercer IslandIf you’re dealing with stubborn odors that stick around despite your best efforts, here’s how to address these challenges effectively:

1. Deep clean your home

Start by thoroughly cleaning your home, as odors often linger in accumulated dust and dirt. Regularly vacuum carpets and furniture to remove surface and embedded debris, and mop floors to tackle grime that sweeping might miss. Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops and shelves, to eliminate dust particles.

Focus particularly on high-traffic areas and items that might not be cleaned as often, such as baseboards, ceiling fans, and window treatments, since these can harbor significant amounts of dust and contribute to stale smells. Don’t forget to clean under furniture and along room edges, and also address frequently touched but often overlooked items like light switches, door handles, and appliance surfaces. 

2. Focus on fabrics

Soft furnishings such as sofas, curtains, and rugs can easily trap odors and dirt. To effectively deep clean these items and eliminate odors, it’s important to regularly vacuum and occasionally steam clean them. Vacuuming removes surface dirt and debris, while steam cleaning penetrates deeper into the fibers to remove embedded odors and stains. However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that steam cleaning is suitable for your specific fabrics to avoid any damage.

3. Upgrade your air quality

If your house is starting to smell a bit musty, it might be time to shake up the air a bit. Make it a habit to open your windows daily, if weather permits, to allow fresh air to circulate and displace stale, contaminated air that can accumulate indoors. This natural air exchange helps to reduce odors, limit the build-up of indoor pollutants, and manage humidity levels, which can contribute to mold growth and worsen air quality.

Also, think about grabbing an air purifier with HEPA filters to catch those stubborn odor-causing particles. And for a touch of green, indoor plants like spider plants and peace lilies are not only decorative but great for cleaning the air naturally.

5. Maintain your appliances

Keep an eye on your appliances like the refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine. Make sure to clean them thoroughly, unclog any blocked areas, and remove leftover food or soap residue that can build up and cause odors. For an extra freshness boost in your fridge, try placing an open box of baking soda inside to help absorb any stubborn smells.

6. Deal with pet odors

While pets add a lot of joy to our lives, they can also bring some less pleasant smells. To combat this, bathe your pets frequently and clean their bedding, toys, and feeding areas regularly. When accidents occur, reach for an enzyme cleaner, which doesn’t just mask odors but destroys the bacteria causing them.

8. Clean with vinegar

Vinegar is a great natural solution for making your house smell fresh, thanks to its deodorizing and sanitizing properties. While vinegar initially has a strong odor, this quickly dissipates, taking other persistent bad smells with it. It’s particularly effective in the kitchen and bathroom, where odors tend to linger. Just be mindful not to use vinegar on delicate surfaces like granite and marble, as it can damage these materials. house cleaning on Mercer Island

Who offers comprehensive house cleaning on Mercer Island?

Looking to freshen up your home but not quite sure where to begin? Or perhaps you’re hoping to reduce allergens and could use some expert guidance on quality products? Don’t stress—NW Maids Seattle is here to help! No matter if you live near Mercer Island High School or elsewhere in the area, our network is packed with skilled, vetted professionals who consistently deliver outstanding results. Get in touch with us today and find out what we can do for you!