When it comes to keeping your home clean, you have three options:

  • Clean it yourself
  • Let a professional clean it for you
  • Combine professional cleaning services with your cleaning efforts

Your lifestyle will of course largely influence the amount of time you can devote to cleaning as well as your personal preferences.  Take for instance that you’re a busy accountant who finds yourself working for your clients both in and out of the office. When you get home in the evenings, you often find that your phone rings off the hook, and because you strive to keep your clients happy, you’re always willing to put your housework aside so you can meet their needs.

If, however, you do find yourself with extra time to clean your home, you’ll want to make sure you are using safe, environmentally-friendly cleaners.  Here’s a quick look at a few tips for knowing how to choose the right cleaning products.

Have the Right Cleaners On Hand

Every home needs a cleaning pantry.  It doesn’t have to be large.  In fact, it can be as small as the cabinet under your kitchen sink.  This is where your cleaning products should stay, and if you have kids or pets in the home, make sure the area stays locked.  The cleaning supplies that you’ll need include:

  • Solvents
  • Disinfectants
  • Water-based solutions

Understanding Water-Based Cleaners

Even some water-based products have acidity in them, meaning they can’t be used in every situation.  Most water-based products will be labeled from 1-14 according to their pH level, aka amount of acidity.  A product with a pH level of 7 or above is usually considered an alkaline.  A pH level below 7 generally categorizes the product as acidic.

Acidic cleaners work best on:

  • Rust
  • Mineral stains
  • Removing hard water
  • Soap scum

Alkaline cleaners work best on:

  • Fats
  • Oils
  • Greases
  • Light dirt and grime
  • Waxes

What Not to Mix Ammonia With

Ammonia…you’ve probably smelled this extremely versatile cleaner before.  Just a small amount — less than 1/4 a cup — can take your breath away if you stick your nose up to it and take a whiff.  Still yet, it’s considered one of the best home cleaning products available on the market, especially when it comes to removing stains out of your laundry.  Do keep in mind, though, that ammonia CANNOT be mixed with all other chemicals.  For starters, never mix ammonia with bleach; the combination of the fumes can burn the lining of your lungs.  And NEVER mix ammonia with any type of lye; this can result in an explosion, especially if water is added to the mixture.

It’s Time to Clean

Now that you know a bit more about which cleaning products to keep in your home and which ones not to mix together, you should be much better prepared to perform DIY cleaning.  Don’t forget, though, that professional cleaning services from We Clean 4 You are available at your convenience.

*Image Courtesy of Jenny Lee Silver

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