When we say “natural cleaning products,” admit it or not, the first things we could think of are “organic,” “chemical-free, “hazard-free” and any other positive words relating to health. Who wouldn’t want to use cleaning products that are not only doing its purpose but ensuring that it is safe for our health, right? But, on the other hand, this also follow-ups questions relating to effectiveness.

Are They Safe to Use?

Sure thing, it is safe to use. But later on, we become skeptical if it really works. Others might have been already wondering the moment they see the word “natural” on the label. This is because, we’re well aware that there are chemicals, ingredients or substances included on the commercial cleaning products that are included in the formula to kill germs, bacteria, and viruses. And that’s what we depend on most of the time. However, in the longer run, these chemicals can affect our well-being.

This is the reason why many are switching to natural cleaning products whether they truly believe or still have doubts but for the sake of health they choose it over the regular ones.

But to answer you frankly, the natural cleaning products out there also has its pros and cons just like relating to its effectiveness.

How to Know if it is Effective?

There are ways to know if these natural products are well-matched to your needs. All you need to do is be mindful and acknowledge the idea that it is up to you to ensure its effectiveness.

1. Use the Products Properly

When natural cleaning products are used properly, it is given that it can be as effective as chemical cleaners. If you’re wondering how then you should start by knowing the brand label and its content. Read it carefully and check its ingredients. To make sure that you are using the right ones, you have to check if it is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. All the natural cleaning products that claim that they can kill bacteria have an approval and have EPA registration.

2. You’ll Know That It Cleans When It Foams

Dr. Brian Hedlund said that a microbiologist at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, executed on his research that foam removes dirt, grime and some germs from surfaces. And a good example is dishwashing soap where foam works well with water to surround the grease and successfully remove it.

3. Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting are Different Things

Sanitizing can take up less time while disinfecting takes time for it to take effect depending on the product you’ll use.

Cleaning is mostly ensuring that visible dirt is removed from surfaces using soap and water. Sanitizing reduces the bacteria on surfaces whereas disinfecting destroys and kills germs and bacteria. Disinfecting hard is a good way to lower the risk of spreading germs, bacteria and viruses.

If you’re wondering if there are natural disinfectant products, actually, there are. One of the most effective natural disinfectants is alcohol. It immediately eliminates germs. Although, always be mindful that it depends on the type of germs (even bacteria and viruses) you want to eliminate.

How About Homemade Cleaning Solutions?

In reality, you can make your own cleaning solutions in your home using the cleaning products that you have. But to set expectations, it always depends on how you made the cleaning solution and to where you are using it for. There are homemade cleaning solutions that can be effective to eliminate germs, bacteria, and viruses, but can cause harm to your health without properly following guidelines to make and use it.

Natural cleaning products are effective. It can be as effective as the chemical-based cleaning products you usually use. But you have to use it properly to be effective. As mentioned earlier above, always be mindful of the product label, content, and instructions on how to use it. Make sure that if you want to use natural cleaning products, purchase the one that is approved by the concerned parties. If you want to make a homemade cleaning solution, follow the right instructions when mixing.

Need Help on House Cleaning?

My Marvelous Maids has always been dedicated to providing house cleaning services to homeowners in Aurora, IL, and its surrounding areas. We made booking a cleaning appointment with us easier. We have highly trained and professional cleaners who can take care of the cleanliness of your house. Contact us today so we can assist you!

Nowadays, there are tons of brands out in the market claiming to be “organic,” “natural,” “non-toxic” and “eco-friendly” house cleaning products. But in reality, there are real and there are also claims to be. The latter is simply just using the words for advertisement purposes and to entice us, consumers, on buying. In reality, we should be keen on checking if what they claim is true.

Read the Label(s)

We should not just get carried away with the words of the products printed in front of the bottles and packs. We make ourselves vigilant in ensuring that we’ll be buying and using the right ones to clean our homes. There’s actually a fine line for us to determine which products are not only true to what they claim to be but also compatible for us to use when cleaning. Make sure to always read also the details about the products—check its content, if it has the approval of the concerned department or companies that these products are safe to use and its shelf life.

In this blog, we will share with you the best (possible) house cleaning products you can buy now and help you achieve your goal of making your house sparkling clean. And to set the record straight, we won’t be mentioning specific brands. This is not an advertised blog. We just want to share our tips that can guide you to a safe and happy house cleaning. Also, duly take note also of doing your part of knowing if the natural cleaning products are the ones compatible with your needs since things may vary depending on which you will use and which specifically you will clean. So, let’s start!

Easy to Find Natural Cleaning Products

Cleaning Vinegar

Cleaning vinegar is actually different from white vinegar. Sure, they’re both vinegar… but a cleaning vinegar is specifically for cleaning purposes. If you’re wondering if both are effective for cleaning, the answer is yes. However, cleaning vinegar differs from white vinegar when it comes to acidity levels. And this is the reason why it is more effective to use for cleaning as it is 20% stronger.

Despite having stronger acidity content, you can use it on cleaning almost everywhere. On the other hand, while it serves its purpose of killing some germs, it is not recommended as a disinfectant by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the reason that it is ineffective on getting rid of some harmful bacteria like salmonella.

An All-Purpose Cleaner

All-purpose cleaner is normally true and stands on its name as you can use it for many purposes. It is essential, whereas you can use it on cleaning your floor, tiles, kitchen sink, visible surface areas, washing your car, and even on your dishes. Yes, you read it right! You can use it on cleaning your dishes but be aware that an all-purpose cleaner is concentrated so you better rinse the dishes well with water! But, for others, using it on dishes is an unorthodox method since we’re not used to it. Let’s just say that in case of emergency, you can use it.

A natural all-purpose cleaner should be made of organic ingredients and does not irritate skin although it is advisable that when cleaning, we use cleaning gloves. It is hygienic to use one.

Shower Cleaner

A shower cleaner is best to use while waiting for deep cleaning. Spray it after you shower. It prevents mold, soap scums, and stains from hard water to gunk up. Your shower (area) is where you are supposed to clean yourself, right? So, it is best to make the place clean too!

Fiber Scrub Sponge

A scrub sponge helps removes unwanted residues that soap can’t remove alone. However, a regular sponge is filled with germs and bacteria according to the study. So, as per advice, it is much better to partner it with the right liquid dishwashing soap that kills bacteria.

But on a much positive side, there is a fiber scrub sponge you can use instead of a regular one. What makes it special is that it’s made from fiber (plants and recycled paper) material which means it’s compostable. It’s a certified natural product compared to a regular scrub sponge. But most importantly, always wash it thoroughly before and after using it!

Microfiber Cloth

You may be wondering why a microfiber cloth is included on the list. Well, the thing is, a microfiber cloth does wonder more than our eyes meet. We use and see it taking off the water residues when we wipe our dishes, utensils, and even surfaces. But most of us don’t know that a microfiber cloth also helps remove 99% of bacteria with just water and no chemicals needed. And this is one of the main reasons why it’s considered a natural cleaning product.

Natural Dish Soap

Yes, you read it right! There are natural dish soaps available in the market. What makes it better compared to regular dish soap is that it’s made of natural ingredients, it’s non-toxic, and it is skin-friendly.

Another good thing about it is that it’s stomach-friendly. You may be raising your brows now as you read it. But it’s true! Dish soaps get into our stomachs more than you can imagine. The usual dish soaps that we use actually have chemicals or ingredients that cling (residue) into our dishes which are hard to rinse off well. Is that a big deal? Well, actually, yes, as it can upset your stomach.

Conclusion

In reality, there are many natural cleaning products you can find nowadays. What’s mentioned above are just some of it. And we feel that these are the ones necessary for you to have these days. Always remember that germs, bacteria, and viruses don’t play nice as they’re always lurking around and ready to attack us, our well-being.

Using natural cleaning products can help improve the cleanliness of our house. It can also make our immune system stronger knowing that we avoid the usage of products containing harmful ingredients.

Cleanliness should be our priority but also our health. So, instead of choosing between the two which should be on the top list, always think that both are truly important. They are connected and can affect each other when we set aside one of the two.

If you need help cleaning your house, My Marvelous Maids is within your reach. Homeowners living in Aurora, IL, and its surrounding areas can book a clean with us. Our goal is to deliver the best cleaning services possible for your home.

Cleaning is part of our human nature… although this statement may vary and be debatable. It’s still a fact because we do it at times we don’t think we’re doing it. A simple dusting, wiping, and/or washing of plates after a meal is called cleaning.

On the other hand, cleaning as in “cleaning” rooms of your house is often times a bigger task for us. And we refer to it as the literal meaning of it. But if you’re one of those who are invested in real cleanliness (although we actually all are), we see to it that the supplies, equipment, and products that we use when cleaning are safe and non-hazardous to our health.

The truth is, especially in times like these, we’re giving more attention to using natural cleaning products.

Why Use Natural/Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products?

Natural Cleaning Products are Safe to Use

Okay, for the record, we’re not saying that all regular cleaning products are bad. We’re just pointing out that from the name itself, natural products are products you can find in your local store. There’s also a chance that you might already have it at home, you’re just not aware of it yet.

Natural products contain their own preservatives (chemicals) compared to the regular ones having chemicals to prolong their shelf life before its expiration. Lastly, the natural chemicals it has are less harmful to the stuff you’re cleaning but having the same clean-effectiveness.

Natural Cleaning Products are Eco-Friendly

Who would not want to use eco-friendly products, right? By using it, you’re having the luxury of enjoying the cleanliness you seek for. But at the same time, you’re helping to save the environment one way or another. For example, you’re using biodegradable cleaning materials (that of course are reusable), which in the long run is easier to dispose of when the time comes.

Natural Cleaning Products are Good for Your Well-Being

It is related to the two benefits mentioned above. We don’t want to use cleaning products that can clean but can deteriorate our health, right? Our health is our top priority which is why we are cleaning. And it’s not beneficial to use cleaning products containing chemicals that can weaken our immune system. Eco-Friendly cleaning products contain fewer allergens.

Natural Cleaning Products are both Cost-Efficient and Cost-Effective

Companies that are promoting eco-friendly cleaning products and materials are generally offering “refill” and “replace” options.

The refill option means (for example) that instead of having you (the consumer) buy a bottle(s) every time the cleaning product runs out, you have the option to refill that same bottle instead. They offer the same products in refill packaging and in different sizes.

The replace option applies to cleaning materials where a part of it can be replaced instead of buying another of the same material. For example, you bought a wet mop but over time the mop head is worn out. So instead of buying a new wet mop, you have the option to buy the specific part as a replacement instead.

Natural Cleaning Products are Often Times Cruelty-Free

What we mean by this is, these products are not only safe for your health but also safe for your pets and other animals.

How to Know that the Cleaning Products are Safe?

If you’re wondering how to check if the cleaning products and materials you purchase are safe to use, you have to check the labels. There’s no harm in quickly checking out the labels of what you’re purchasing. It is actually beneficial for you because you’re getting aware of the content of the products. 

The products usually have a logo(s) on the label of the concerned government departments handling security and safety if the product can be released in the market. And if you experience any health issues when using the product, there are hotlines you can reach to send your complaint or concern regarding the product.

My Marvelous Maids Use Safe Cleaning Products and Materials

We value your well-being which is why aside from having highly trained cleaners who clean your homes, we see to it that the materials we use are safe. Our aim is not just to clean but to ensure that after cleaning there won’t be any issues as we value our clients.

If you are living in Aurora, IL, and its surrounding areas, you can book a cleaning appointment with us and we will take care of your home.

Cleanliness should be observed when moving in or moving out. It’s inevitable because it makes the transition of settling or leaving run smoothly.

Imagine moving into a new house and clutter, dust, and dirt welcome you instead, isn’t it stressful? The same when you moved out but got a complaint from the new tenant because of the mess you left. You don’t want that, do you?

There’s already a lot of challenges when moving, and having another task—which is cleaning—can sometimes be overwhelming. And for this reason, hiring professional cleaners would be a good option.

It is Cost-Efficient and Practical

Hiring someone to clean your house can be a cost-efficient (regardless of whether it’s a move-in or move-out cleaning) solution. It is also cost-effective. Here are some benefits from it:

• The house will be deep cleaned

Move-in and move-out house cleaning is not just a regular house cleaning. Moving in/out cleaning service is tailored depending on the inclusion.

If you’re moving in, you can unpack your belongings comfortably because the place is clean already.

It’s almost the same thing when you’re moving out. You’ll have the peace of mind that you’re leaving your old place on a clean slate. You won’t be bothered by a phone call of complaint since you left everything intact.

• You’re assured that the house cleaners are using the right equipment and solutions to clean the place

When you’re cleaning your house, there’s a higher chance that you’ll not only buy the cleaning solutions but also the cleaning equipment (if it’s required or if you don’t have one yet). But when you hire house cleaning professionals, they have the right equipment to do the job of cleaning your house.

• Preventing fines

If you’re a renter moving out, generally, there’s a section in your contract discussing the fines that may apply when you move out. It’s indicating that there’s a fine or you won’t get back your full security deposit if you leave the place dirty.

If you’re a landlord, it’s normal to expect that once your renter moves out the place he/she once occupied is not as good as new as before. There are times, the burden of getting the place ready for the next renter falls into your hands. But you can use this as a chance to avail a move-out house cleaning service to also improve what needs to be improved making it as good as before or possibly much better.

• Saves you time and effort as the transition of moving-in/out is faster

In reality, moving is a challenging task—lots of packing, re-packing, and unpacking. And as mentioned earlier, cleaning is another thing. In short, it needs strategic planning which is why it is best to consider hiring professionals who can clean the house you’re moving out from or moving into. It saves you time as you can focus more on attending to more pressing matters.

Also, for renters, it’s a bonus that when you hire cleaners, you’ll get your security deposit back from your landlord because the cleaners will make the apartment spotlessly clean. On the other hand, for homeowners, you’ll get a higher chance of selling your house fast knowing that all is well and there are no issues with the house.

Need Assistance?

My Marvelous Maids is a cleaning service company dedicated to clean houses and ensuring homeowners that once clean is done, the place would be once again comfortable to live in. If you’re in Aurora, IL, and its surrounding areas, you can book a clean with us. Talk to our specialists to learn more about the house cleaning services we offer.

According to a study, Americans spend approximately six hours each week cleaning homes but still not sure if it’s enough. If you’re wondering why, well, for starters, our lives are hectic and can be stressful. And the last thing we’d want to do after a long day from work is to clean our homes. We’d rather rest instead.

Which is more important?

Actually, it’s not wrong if you prioritize resting first for health reasons. However, as we’re setting aside our house chores, dust and dirt start to accumulate. So, before we know it, there’s already a lot to take care of on the weekend or during your day off from work.

How to aid this situation?

Resting after a long day of work is important. That’s not a question. But cleanliness is also important! If we deprive ourselves of any of these two, our health is the one who would suffer the consequences. After all, our health is the most important on top of the list, isn’t it?

So, in this case, the best option for us to attend to this situation is to take care of cleaning our house on our behalf. But before we start scratching our heads and computing the expenses on our minds, we should consider the bigger picture. Having your house cleaned regularly has a variety of benefits. You can read our previous blog post about The Benefits of Home Cleaning for starters.

I want to clean the house but I am busy/want to rest

True to its words, life is an adventure. It is! And we all are busy doing our own thing whether personal or business that should be taken care of. It’s not wrong as having a busy life (although can be stressful at times) means you have a purpose to go on. On the other hand, house chores should not and cannot be neglected.

If you’re someone who really cannot have the time to squeeze in doing house chores like cleaning it, it’s not a problem.

The benefits of hiring a professional house cleaner

Nowadays, there are options you can consider to still do your work while someone cleans the house for you. We’ve previously discussed the 5 Benefits of Outsourcing Cleaning Services. The idea of the previous blog we have mainly talks about or focused on business establishment, but its benefits are actually still applicable for you when you hire a professional house cleaner for your home.

Cost and Time Efficient

Professional house cleaning is cheaper than you might think. With the pandemic situation, we are in now, hiring a professional to clean your house ensures you that it is more than just cleaning on what you are paying for. Cleaning is accompanied with disinfection to ensure that your place is safe and free from viruses, germs, and bacteria.

Also, believe it or not, even if you add a monthly house cleaning on top of a weekly or bi-weekly house cleaning is still cheaper than hiring a full-time employee for the same job.

Availability

You’re given the opportunity to focus more on your other things to do as the cleaners you hire are available according to the appointment you set for them to go to your house to clean. Also, as they are professionally trained, they focus on deep and sustainable cleanings which make the weekly or bi-weekly cleaning schedules be done faster and smoothly.

It can fit your budget

The cleaners can customize the house cleaning job for you according to what’s needed. You can discuss with them your concerns if you’re on a tight budget so you will meet halfway and come to a decision or agreement without sacrificing the quality of cleaning service they offer.

Safe and Eco-friendly

A clean environment thoroughly helps reduce someone’s stress level. It’s a fact. We cannot argue that your surroundings contribute to your current mood which is why having a clean space is important. 

While the professional cleaners clean your house, you can sit back and relax. You have less worry about the outcome of their work as they are professionally trained to clean consistently, thoroughly, and effectively.

Enhances Your Image

Your home is a mirror to how you live your life. And having a clean home means that you’re in a state where you have fewer worries to think of.

When you hire cleaners to clean your house, you have the consistency of enjoying clean and comfortable surroundings without lifting a finger.

Should I go for a weekly or monthly cleaning service?

It can be a trick question. And the truth is both are equally and effectively important. If possible you should choose both. But we understand that there are factors you might want to consider.

The best way to approach this is to determine which you need first the most. Another option is for you to have your own checklist on the parts of your home that need immediate cleaning attention.

In the meantime, you can read our other blog posts which would help you decide on how to keep your house clean.

• How Often Should My House Cleaner Come?
• 5 Signs That You Need To Hire A Professional House Cleaner
• Do You Need a Basic Cleaning or Deep Cleaning for Your House?
• Best Practices To Make House Cleaning Easier

Once you have made up your mind and are ready to book a cleaning service, you can always contact us. My Marvelous Maids have a highly skilled professional team who can take care of cleaning your home effectively. We are serving in Aurora, IL, and its surrounding areas.