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Everyday Cleaning Tips

• If spot is wet, blot it, don't rub. Rubbing spreads the soil.
• If spot is dry, loosen soil and vacuum away prior to moistening it.
• Always rinse cleaned area thoroughly. If not removed, cleaning products may cause the cleaned area to attract soil.
• When taking out stains, always use a white cloth.
• Always pre-test the surface to be cleaned.
• Apply cleaning solution to an inconspicuous area of the same matter If after five minutes the materials colour transfers to towel, try another product.
• When using any cleaner, dilute according to directions. A mixture that is too potent may cause damage.More is not always better.
• Carpet shampoo is good to have on hand and is available at most hardware stores.
• A mild mineral spirit solution is useful for many household cleaning applications.
• Clean spots and stains immediately you will have a much better chance of removing them.
• Remove lime buildup with lemon juice and vinegar
• Remove chewing gum by rubbing an ice cube until the gum becomes stiff, and then remove.
• Use hairspray to remove ball point ink, and be sure to rinse the area thoroughly afterwards.
• Clean urine spots quickly with dish detergent and water.
• To remove latex paint from carpet or upholstery, soak with dish detergent diluted with 20 parts water. Agitate; blot; rinse; blot.
• For wax on carpet or upholstery, set a clean absorbent cloth over the wax and hold a hot iron on it.Remove the cloth, taking the wax with it. (Be careful not to leave the iron on too long)

Fire Smoke Damage Tips

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being impregnated into upholstery and carpets.
• Discard exposed open food packages.The food is probably contaminated.
• Do not attempt to use ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.A short circuit could result.
• Wipe leaves of houseplants clean to remove smoke residue.
• Tape cheesecloth over intake and exit hot air registers to capture any loose soot in the air.Damp cheesecloth is better.
• Do not eat food that has been exposed to fire.
• Keep hands clean.Soot on hands can impregnate upholstery, walls, and woodwork causing more damage.
• Cover carpet traffic areas with towels or old linens to prevent more soiling.
• If electricity is off, clean out freezer and refrigerator, and leave doors propped open or place charcoal in unit.
• Wipe residue from porcelain bath fixtures to prevent etching.
• Change air filters on forced hot air furnaces.

• Use as many dehumidifiers as available. (temperature must be above 60°)
• If damage is during heating season leave heat on; if in summer, use air conditioner if available.
• Do not use household vacuum to remove water.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Lift draperies off carpet and hang on drapery rod via looping through a coat hanger.
• Open furniture drawers, closet doors, or luggage to enhance drying.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• Punch holes in sagging ceilings to allow water to drain.

Vandalism, Clean-up Tips

• Wash any egg residue from building exterior.
• Do not use household cleaners fabrics or carpet without consulting with your professional cleaner.
• Remove any debris, food, etc., from carpets or interior walls.Scrape or blot carpets or furniture - Do Not Rub.
• Vacuum glass particles from carpet and upholstery, but do not walk in bare feet in area of glass residue.
• Save any information as to type of liquid that was spread over surfaces.
• Make a list of all damage.
• Do not attempt to remove chemicals, i.e. ink, paint, etc.
• Do not operate damaged electrical appliances.
• Do not throw away miscellaneous damaged wood chips, etc.They might be helpful for repair.

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