Toilet Cleaning: Why Systems Matter More Than You Think

Toilet Cleaning, Why Systems Matter More Than You Think

Toilet cleaning is one of the most important and most misunderstood parts of professional cleaning. It’s also one of the areas where poor practices can quietly create hygiene issues in homes and workplaces without anyone realising.

When we interview cleaners especially those who have previously worked in the cleaning industry, one of the first questions we ask is how they clean a toilet. Surprisingly often, the answer involves using a single cloth across the entire area. The bowl, seat, lid, flush button and surrounding surfaces are all wiped in one go.

While this may look efficient on the surface, without a clear system and process in place, this approach can lead to cross-contamination rather than proper hygiene.

This is why toilet cleaning is something every client should feel confident asking their cleaner about.

The Problem with “One-Cloth” Cleaning

A toilet is not one surface it is a collection of zones, each with different hygiene risks. When the same cloth is used throughout the entire toilet area, contaminants from higher risk areas can be transferred to touch points such as the seat, lid or flush button.

The end result is a toilet that appears clean but may not be hygienically safe. This is one of the most common issues we see when cleaning is done without structure or proper training.

Why Toilet Cleaning Must Follow a System

Professional cleaning is not about speed or shortcuts. It’s about consistency and method.

A proper system ensures that

• The same standard is achieved every time, regardless of who is cleaning

• Hygiene is prioritised over appearance

Without systems cleaning quality depends entirely on the individual cleaner on the day and that’s not something clients should have to gamble on.

What a Proper Toilet Cleaning Process Looks Like

A professional toilet clean follows a deliberate order and clear separation of tasks.

If you choose to use cloths make sure they are colour-coded or designated specifically for toilet use and are never used elsewhere in the bathroom. Toilets are cleaned from top to bottom and from the outside in, ensuring that touch points are addressed before the bowl itself. Fresh cloths are used as needed and removed immediately once they’ve served their purpose.

Equally important is how cloths are handled after cleaning. Rinsing and reusing is not an acceptable hygiene practice. Proper systems require cloths to be separated, laundered correctly and never reused across different areas of a home or site.

Why We Use Toilet Paper for the Bowl

As part of our toilet cleaning system, we use toilet paper for cleaning of the toilet rather than reusable cloths. This is a deliberate hygiene choice.

Toilet paper is single use and disposed of immediately, which removes any risk of transferring contaminants to other areas of the toilet or bathroom. It also eliminates the chance of a cloth being accidentally reused elsewhere.

Cloths are reserved strictly for other bathroom surfaces only and are clearly designated and managed within our cleaning system. This separation of tools is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent cross contamination and maintain proper hygiene standards.

Why Systems Protect Clients

When a cleaning company has strong systems in place, clients benefit from

• Consistent results

• Higher hygiene standards even when you can’t see them

• Trained staff who follow the same process every time

• Clear quality control and accountability

Without systems, standards vary, shortcuts happen and hygiene can be compromised often without anyone noticing.

A Question Every Client Should Ask

One of the most important questions you can ask your cleaner is

“Can you explain how you clean toilets and how you prevent cross contamination?”

A professional cleaner should be able to clearly explain their process. If the answer is vague or rushed it may be worth reconsidering who you trust with your cleaning.

Cleaning Is About Health, Not Just Appearance

Toilets are one of the most critical areas in any cleaning routine. They require structure, training and a clear system to ensure they are cleaned properly not just made to look clean.

Anyone can wipe a toilet.
Our cleaners follow a system that protects hygiene, health and peace of mind.

Choosing a cleaning company with proven processes means choosing consistency and cleaning done right.

Cleaning a Hoarder’s Kitchen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning a hoarder’s kitchen can be a daunting task, but with a structured approach, it can be manageable and transformative. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process, starting with Wave One: Removing Rubbish and Unwanted Items.

Wave One: Removing Rubbish and Unwanted Items

1. Gather Your Supplies:

   • Heavy-duty garbage bags or bins

   • Gloves (preferably disposable)

   • Masks (for dust and allergens)

   • Recycling bins

   • Cleaning supplies (all purpose cleaner, paper towels, etc.)

2. Set the Mood:

   • Play some uplifting music to make the process more enjoyable.

   • Ensure the area is well lit to help you see everything clearly.

3. Create a Plan:

   • Designate zones in the kitchen: counters, cabinets, pantry, and floor. This helps you stay organised and focused.

4. Start with Large Items:

   • Begin by removing any large rubbish items, such as old appliances, broken furniture, or unused equipment. This can instantly create more space.

5. Clear Countertops:

   • Remove all items from the countertops. As you do this, set aside any items that are obviously trash (food waste, empty containers, etc.).

   • Place any items that can be recycled into the recycling bin.

6. Assess the Pantry:

   • Check all food items in the pantry and refrigerator. Discard any expired or mouldy food.

   • Group items that are still good (canned goods, dry pasta, etc.) for easy access later.

7. Cabinet Inspection:

   • Open each cabinet and remove items one by one. Discard anything that is broken or no longer needed.

   • Sort through cookware, utensils, and dishes, deciding what to keep and what to throw away.

8. Floor Cleaning:

   • Once you’ve cleared surfaces, focus on the floor. Remove any rubbish or clutter that has accumulated.

   • If the floor is sticky or dirty, give it a quick sweep or vacuum.

9. Dispose Responsibly:

   • Take all rubbish to an outdoor bin. Consider recycling items where possible.

   • If there are items that could be donated (in good condition), set them aside for a later donation run.

10. Breathe and Reflect:

    • Step back and admire your progress. Clearing out the rubbish is a significant first step!

Next Steps

After completing Wave One, you can move on to the next phases of cleaning, which may include deep cleaning surfaces, organising what’s left, and sanitising the kitchen.

Wave Two: Deep Cleaning Surfaces and Appliances

Now that you've successfully removed rubbish and unwanted items from the kitchen, it's time for Wave Two: deep cleaning the surfaces and appliances. This step will help create a safe and hygienic environment, making your kitchen more functional and pleasant.

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process

1. Gather Your Supplies:

   • All-purpose cleaner or disinfectant

   • Baking soda and vinegar (for natural cleaning solutions)

   • Microfiber cloths or sponges

   • Scrub brushes (soft and hard bristle)

   • Mop and bucket (or steam cleaner)

   • Old toothbrush (for hard-to-reach areas)

2. Prepare Your Space:

   • Remove any remaining items from countertops, tables, and other surfaces.

   • Ensure the area is well-ventilated by opening windows or turning on a fan.

3. Start with the Countertops:

   • Spray your all-purpose cleaner on the countertops and let it sit for a few minutes to break down any grime.

   • Wipe down the surfaces with a microfiber cloth or sponge, paying attention to corners and edges.

   • For tough stains, sprinkle baking soda on the area and scrub gently with a damp sponge.

4. Clean the Sink:

   • Remove any dishes and debris from the sink.

   • Use a disinfectant to scrub the sink thoroughly, including the faucet and handles.

   • Rinse well and dry with a clean cloth.

5. Appliance Cleaning:

   • Refrigerator: Remove all items and clean the shelves with an all-purpose cleaner. Don’t forget to wipe down the door seals. Replace only good food items.

   • Oven: If there’s built up grease, consider using a commercial oven cleaner. Apply it, let it sit, and then scrub.

   • Microwave: Fill a microwave safe bowl with water and a slice of lemon. Microwave for a few minutes until the steam loosens grime, then wipe down the interior.

   • Toaster and Small Appliances: Unplug small appliances and wipe them down with a damp cloth. Empty crumbs from the toaster.

6. Cabinets and Drawers:

   • Wipe down the exterior of cabinets and drawers with a damp cloth and all purpose cleaner.

   • If you’ve removed items from inside, take this opportunity to clean the insides of the cabinets and drawers, removing dust and crumbs.

7. Floor Cleaning:

   • Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any remaining debris.

   • Mop the floor with a suitable cleaner, focusing on corners and high-traffic areas.

   • For stubborn stains, consider using a scrub brush or a steam cleaner.

8. Finishing Touches:

   • Replace items on countertops and in cabinets in an organised manner. Consider grouping similar items together.

   • Add any finishing touches, like a decorative item or a plant, to make the space inviting.

9. Final Inspection:

   • Do a thorough walkthrough of the kitchen to ensure every area is clean and tidy.

   • If you notice any spots that need extra attention, take a moment to address them.

Conclusion

Completing Wave Two of the cleaning process not only enhances the appearance of the kitchen but also contributes to a healthier environment. A clean kitchen can inspire healthier cooking habits and make meal prep more enjoyable.

Stay tuned for Wave Three, where we’ll focus on organising and creating a functional kitchen space!

How to Clean Oven Glass with a Dishwasher Tablet: Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed:

• Dishwasher tablet

• Warm water

• A bowl or small container

• Gloves (optional but recommended)

• A sponge or cloth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Work Area:

   • Ensure your oven is turned off and completely cool before starting.

   • Open the oven door

2. Wet the Dishwasher Tablet:

   • Fill a bowl or small container with warm water.

   • Dip the dishwasher tablet into the warm water for a few seconds to slightly soften it.

3. Scrub the Oven Glass:

   • Hold the wet dishwasher tablet and gently rub it over the oven glass in circular motions. Apply moderate pressure to remove the grime and grease.

   • Ensure the tablet remains slightly wet to create a paste that helps break down the dirt.

4. Continue Scrubbing:

   • Work your way across the entire glass surface, re-wetting the tablet as needed.

   • For stubborn spots, spend extra time scrubbing to ensure thorough cleaning.

5. Wipe Away Residue:

   • Once you’ve scrubbed the entire glass, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe away the loosened grime and residue from the tablet.

   • Rinse the sponge or cloth regularly to avoid spreading the dirt back onto the glass.

6. Dry the Glass:

   • Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the glass, ensuring all moisture and remaining residues are removed.

   • Check for any spots you may have missed and repeat the process if necessary.

7. Final Inspection:

   • Inspect the glass to ensure it’s clean and streak-free. If needed, give it a final wipe with a dry cloth for extra shine.

Your oven glass should now be sparkling clean, thanks to the power of a simple dishwasher tablet!

The Hidden Treasures Beneath Your Couch: Why and How to Clean Under Your Cushions

Have you ever reached under your couch cushions and discovered a mysterious world of crumbs, loose change, and forgotten items? If the answer is yes, you're not alone. Many of us tend to neglect the space under our couch cushions until it's time to clean up for guests or retrieve that lost TV remote. However, there are compelling reasons to make this cleaning task a regular part of your routine. In this blog, we'll explore why you should clean under your couch cushions and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively.

Why Should You Clean Under Your Couch Cushions?

1. Hygiene and Health: Over time, the space beneath your couch cushions can accumulate dust, allergens, and even food particles. These can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, especially if you have family members with sensitivities. Regular cleaning helps maintain a healthier indoor environment.

2. Prolonging Cushion Life: Crumbs and debris can cause friction between the cushions and the couch frame, leading to wear and tear. Cleaning under your cushions can help extend the life of your furniture.

3. Odor Control: Food crumbs and spills that go unnoticed can develop into unpleasant odors. Cleaning under the cushions helps eliminate these hidden sources of odors, leaving your living space smelling fresh.

4. Retrieve Lost Items: How many times have you lost your remote, your phone, or even valuable coins under the cushions? Regular cleaning will help you recover these items without the hassle of searching.

Now that we've established why it's essential to clean under your couch cushions, let's move on to the practical part—how to do it effectively.

How to Clean Under Your Couch Cushions:

Materials You'll Need:

• Vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment

• A soft brush or upholstery brush

• A microfiber cloth

• A small bucket of warm, soapy water

• Mild upholstery cleaner (optional)

Step 1: Preparation Before you start, remove any loose items, such as coins, pens, or crumbs, from the surface of your couch and the area around it. This will make the cleaning process more efficient.

Step 2: Vacuuming Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, carefully vacuum the surface of the cushions and the crevices between them. Pay special attention to the seams and corners where debris tends to accumulate.

Step 3: Brushing For a deeper clean, use a soft brush or an upholstery brush to loosen dirt and dust from the fabric. Gently brush the surface of the cushions and underneath them. This will help dislodge any stubborn particles.

Step 4: Wipe Down Dampen a microfiber cloth in warm, soapy water (a mild detergent works well), and wring it out until it's slightly damp. Wipe down the entire couch, including the area under the cushions. This will help remove any remaining dirt and refresh the fabric.

Step 5: Optional Upholstery Cleaner If your couch cushions have stains or odors, consider using a mild upholstery cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the fabric.

Step 6: Drying Allow the cleaned area to air dry completely before replacing the cushions. This will prevent mold or mildew growth and ensure that your couch is ready for use.

By following these simple steps regularly, you can maintain a cleaner, healthier living environment and prolong the life of your couch. Plus, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the items you may find under those cushions – a little extra change for your next cup of coffee, perhaps?

Remember, a clean home is a comfortable and inviting one. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your cleaning supplies, and get ready to discover the hidden treasures beneath your couch cushions!

Dusting Books / Book Shelve

This is a recent cleaning task we completed.

To perform a quick and effective bookshelf cleaning, you will require a microfiber cloth, a clean duster, and a vacuum cleaner. Start by dusting the tops and sides of the books, and then proceed to clean the shelves themselves. If you have extra time available, consider removing the books and using the vacuum cleaner's upholstery attachment to thoroughly dust them. It's worth noting that for large, heavy books, it's best to place them flat rather than standing them upright.

During this particular cleaning session, we followed a specific process. Before wiping down each book individually, we first vacuumed the entire area to ensure a thorough cleaning outcome.

Welcome to our new section on our website "Cleaning Tips".

Our team at Hire a Housewife includes drain cleaning as a regular part of our service. This not only eliminates odors but also promotes faster drainage and reduces the likelihood of clogs.**

If you prefer to do it yourself, here are the tools you'll need:

• Toothbrush (keep it in your cleaning kit to avoid any mix-ups with the kids!)

• Vinegar

• Baking soda

• Hot water

• All-purpose cleaner

Here's a simple DIY method to get rid of and prevent smells in a shower drain:

1. Remove the drain cover and clean it thoroughly using hot water and an all-purpose cleaner. A toothbrush can be especially effective for reaching those hard-to-access areas. Consider using flat-headed bamboo sticks for added precision.

2. Add baking soda and vinegar. Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of distilled white vinegar.

3. Flush the drain by pouring hot water down it.