You open your washing machine expecting the fresh scent of clean laundry, and instead you’re hit with an aroma that can only be described as “eau de forgotten pond.” It’s the kind of smell that makes you question whether a family of frogs has taken up residence in your drum, or whether your machine has developed sentience and decided to moonlight as a compost bin. If your washing machine smells like it’s auditioning for a role in a David Attenborough documentary about wetland ecosystems, you’re not alone – and more importantly, you’re not doomed. After fifteen years cleaning homes across Bermondsey and South East London, I’ve encountered more swamp-scented washing machines than I care to count, and I’m here to tell you there’s hope. Let’s get your machine back to smelling like, well, nothing at all – which is exactly what we’re aiming for.

Why Does Your Washing Machine Smell Like It’s Auditioning for a David Attenborough Documentary?

Before we wage war on the swamp, let’s understand what we’re dealing with. That delightful aroma emanating from your machine isn’t just a quirk – it’s a thriving ecosystem of bacteria, mould, and mildew having an absolute party in there. These microscopic troublemakers feed on the residue left behind from detergent, fabric softener, and the general grime from your clothes. When they throw their party, they produce waste gases, and those gases are what’s assaulting your nostrils.

The main culprits behind this bacterial rave are fairly predictable. Modern eco-friendly washing at low temperatures (30°C or below) is brilliant for the environment and your energy bills, but it’s also like running a tepid bath for bacteria – they absolutely love it. Combine that with closing the door immediately after washing (trapping moisture inside), using too much detergent (which leaves behind residue), and forgetting to clean the rubber seal (which becomes a five-star hotel for mould), and you’ve essentially created a petri dish that happens to clean your pants.

The rubber door seal deserves special mention here. Those folds and crevices? They’re catching water, detergent, fabric fibres, and all manner of organic matter, creating what professionals lovingly call “biofilm” – a slimy coating where bacteria set up permanent residence. It’s grim, but it’s fixable.

The Bermondsey Bog Effect: Why London Water Doesn’t Help

Here in London, we’re blessed with hard water – and by “blessed,” I mean we’re dealing with mineral-rich water that leaves limescale deposits on everything it touches. For those of us in Bermondsey and across South East London, this means your washing machine is battling calcium and magnesium buildup alongside everything else. These deposits create rough surfaces where bacteria can cling more easily, and they trap organic matter like a very unwelcome net. It’s an extra layer of challenge that makes regular cleaning even more essential. Think of it as playing the cleaning game on hard mode.

The Professional Deep Clean Method: Reclaim Your Machine from the Swamp

Right, let’s roll up our sleeves and evict these unwanted tenants. This isn’t a quick wipe-and-go situation – we’re doing a proper deep clean that’ll have your machine smelling fresh again. Set aside a good hour or two, and let’s crack on.

Step 1: The Rubber Seal Rescue Mission

Start with the door seal because this is where the horror show typically begins. Pull back the rubber gasket – and yes, I mean really pull it back to expose all those hidden folds. You’ll likely discover a collection of hair, lint, coins, and possibly something that was once alive. Don your rubber gloves (trust me on this), arm yourself with an old toothbrush, and mix up a solution of equal parts white vinegar and warm water, or use a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water).

Scrub every fold, every crevice, every millimetre of that rubber seal. Pay particular attention to the bottom section where water pools. If you encounter black spots that won’t budge, that’s mould that’s really settled in – give it some extra attention with undiluted white vinegar or a dedicated mould remover. Once you’ve scrubbed thoroughly, wipe everything down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any cleaning solution residue. If the mould has permanently stained or degraded the seal, you might need a replacement – this is your washing machine’s way of telling you it’s been suffering for quite some time.

Step 2: The Detergent Drawer Detox

Here’s a secret many people don’t know: that detergent drawer? It comes out. Completely. Find the release button or tab (usually at the back of the drawer), press it, and pull the whole drawer free from the machine. Prepare yourself – it’s probably covered in a slimy combination of detergent residue, fabric softener, and mould.

Run it under hot water and use an old toothbrush (sensing a theme?) to scrub every compartment. Pay special attention to the fabric softener section, which tends to develop the most spectacular slime. The siphon cap (that little plastic piece in the softener compartment) should come out too – clean it separately. While the drawer is out, use a bottle brush or pipe cleaner to reach into the cavity where the drawer sits in the machine – this area often harbours forgotten gunk. Once everything is spotless, dry thoroughly before replacing.

Step 3: The Hot Service Wash

Now for the main event. You’re going to run an empty hot wash – and I mean properly hot, the hottest setting your machine offers, typically 90°C. This is where we kill bacteria, dissolve grime, and generally show the swamp who’s boss.

Add 500ml of white vinegar directly into the drum (not the detergent drawer). White vinegar is brilliant because it’s acidic enough to break down limescale and detergent buildup, deodorises naturally, and won’t harm your machine. Some people swear by adding 50-100g of bicarbonate of soda as well – chuck it in the drum along with the vinegar. Don’t worry about the fizzing; it’s not going to recreate your Year 7 science fair volcano experiment on a catastrophic scale.…

Could there be an uglier sight in a kitchen than greasy streaks on the walls above the cooker? However, grease build-up in the kitchen is more than just an unsightly nuisance. It poses potential hazards and health concerns that can affect your home environment.

This article provides practical methods for tackling grease, from DIY solutions to commercial cleaners, and highlights best practices for maintaining a pristine kitchen. We’ll also discuss when it might be time to call in the professionals. Read on to keep your cooking space safe and clean!

The Importance of Removing Grease Build-up

Removing grease build-up from your kitchen walls and appliances is key to keeping your cooking space clean and hygienic. Grease affects the appearance of your kitchen, harbours bacteria, and creates potential fire hazards.

Regularly tackling grease protects your surfaces and enhances your kitchen hygiene, which is very important for your family’s health. With the proper cleaning methods, you can quickly deal with those stubborn grease stains, ensuring your kitchen remains a pleasant place for cooking and socialising.

Potential Hazards and Health Concerns

Ignoring grease build-up in your kitchen can lead to some serious health concerns and hazards. Over time, that accumulated grease can become a cosy home for bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Plus, those slippery surfaces can lead to accidents and injuries when trying to whip up a meal. Regularly tackling grease build-up can reduce these risks and keep your cooking area safe.

If you let things slide and don’t maintain a clean cooking space, not only do you make these issues worse, but you could also face long-term health problems, such as respiratory issues from inhaling grease particles. And let’s not forget about fire hazards—neglected grease can ignite, threatening both lives and property. That’s why cleaning your surfaces, appliances, and ventilation systems is essential to prevent such dangers.

Focusing on kitchen hygiene makes meal preparation safer and creates a healthier home environment, a win-win for everyone involved.

Common Causes of Grease Build-up

Understanding the common causes of grease build-up in your kitchen helps you take proactive steps to prevent it. Grease usually accumulates from cooking activities, especially when frying or sautéing. That’s when oil and food residue tend to splatter onto various surfaces.

Don’t forget about your kitchen appliances; hobs, ovens, and extractor fans can contribute to the grease problem. By recognising these factors, you can make smarter cleaning choices and adopt some handy kitchen tips to keep that grease accumulation at bay.

Identifying the Culprits

Identifying the culprits behind grease build-up is crucial for effective cleaning and maintenance. Common sources include cooking methods that generate a lot of oil, such as frying and forgetting to wipe down kitchen surfaces after use.

Check around hobs, oven doors, and splashbacks—these spots often hide stubborn oil stains that need attention. You can choose the right cleaning tools and methods for a successful grease removal mission by determining where the grease comes from.

Inspect surfaces that usually get splattered or spilt on to tackle these messes effectively. Look for dark patches along edges and crevices where grease lingers.

Tools like microfibre cloths can be a game changer since they capture oil without spreading it around. For those tougher stains, a scraper or a soft-bristled brush can help lift the grime without too much fuss.

Remember, specialised degreasers are made for kitchen use; they can work wonders at dissolving stubborn grease while saving you from endless scrubbing. Using these strategies, you can restore your kitchen’s cleanliness and create a safer cooking environment.

Methods for Removing Grease Build-up

There are plenty of effective ways to tackle grease build-up on kitchen surfaces, keeping your cooking space clean and safe. You can whip up some DIY solutions with natural cleaners like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, or you might prefer to grab a commercial degreaser that promises quick and easy grease removal.

Your chosen method depends on the grease situation and your preference for eco-friendly cleaning options.

DIY Solutions

DIY cleaning solutions are a fantastic way to tackle that pesky grease build-up without diving into harsh chemicals. For example, mixing vinegar with bicarbonate of soda creates a powerful potion that acts as a natural cleaner, cutting through grease and grime like a champ. Washing liquid with hot water can also help break down oil stains on kitchen walls and appliances.

These natural methods are effective and eco-friendly, making them a smart choice for keeping your kitchen in tip-top shape.

Combine equal water and vinegar in a spray bottle to make a versatile all-purpose cleaner. This solution is perfect for worktops, hobs, and chopping boards, offering antibacterial properties that disinfect surfaces while still being safe for food contact.

Another handy trick is to blend lemon juice with bicarbonate of soda for a powerful scrub that tackles tough stains and leaves a refreshing citrus scent in its wake.

By opting for these DIY formulations, you can embrace a healthier, greener cleaning routine that leaves your kitchen sparkling without the downsides of commercial cleaners.

Commercial Cleaners

Commercial cleaners can be your best friend for effective cleaning when dealing with stubborn grease build-up. Look for products labelled as degreasers or grease busters, specifically designed to tackle tough grease stains and food residue. These specialised cleaning supplies can save time and effort, allowing you to clean your kitchen surfaces and appliances with minimal scrubbing.

Moreover, many commercial cleaners come in different forms—like sprays, foams, and wipes—so you can easily pick the application method that works best for you. Most of these products pack a punch with powerful ingredients like surfactants and solvents that break down grease molecules easily.

For instance, solvent-based cleaners are ideal for heavy-duty jobs, while enzymatic cleaners are more eco-friendly and can tackle organic stains.

Understanding the different types can improve your cleaning game, ensuring you hit every stubborn spot with the right solution.

Preventing Grease Build-up in the Future

Preventing grease build-up in your kitchen is just as crucial as tackling it once it appears, and establishing a routine can make a difference.…

Having a clean kitchen isn’t just about looking good; it’s about creating a healthy and safe space for your cooking adventures. In this guide, we’ll explain why a clean kitchen is so important, the perks of keeping your cooking area tidy, what cleaning blunders to avoid, must-have cleaning supplies, efficient cleaning methods, organising hacks for simple upkeep, handling stubborn stains and grease, and setting up a cleaning schedule to maintain your kitchen’s sparkle.

Whether you’re a pro home chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these tips will keep your cooking space in tip-top shape.

Importance of a Clean Kitchen

Keeping a clean kitchen is crucial for the health and well-being of your family. A tidy kitchen ensures proper hygiene and creates a healthy environment for preparing and cooking meals.

When you maintain a clean kitchen, you’re not just stopping harmful bacteria from spreading but also making a space where your family can feel safe and comfy. Professional cleaning practices are crucial to keeping this level of cleanliness. They focus on thorough disinfection and regular maintenance routines, which help prevent foodborne illnesses and save you time and effort in the long haul. Prioritising cleanliness in your kitchen is a simple yet powerful way to show love and care for your loved ones.

Benefits of Maintaining a Clean Cooking Space

Having a clean cooking space offers you more than just good looks. It gives you a pristine area for prepping and cooking your meals, ensuring that you whip up dishes hygienically and healthily.

When your kitchen is neat and organised, you can easily find ingredients and cooking tools, making the cooking process a breeze. A tidy kitchen lowers the chances of cross-contamination and foodborne illnesses, keeping your food safe.

When everything is in its place, you’ll spend less time hunting for things and more time enjoying your culinary creations. Keeping your cooking space clean isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about creating a harmonious environment that sparks creativity and brings joy to the cooking experience.

Common Kitchen Cleaning Mistakes

Avoiding common kitchen cleaning mistakes is crucial to keeping your space free from grime, grease, and harmful bacteria. Whether at home or in a commercial kitchen, following proper cleaning practices is the key to preventing hygiene issues.

One mistake many people tend to make is not thoroughly cleaning kitchen appliances, which can result in a nasty buildup of grease and grime over time. Also, forgetting to disinfect high-touch areas like countertops and handles can increase the risk of spreading bacteria.

To keep your kitchen spick and span, it’s vital to use the right cleaning products, like antibacterial sprays or wipes, and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintaining your appliances. Regularly sanitising surfaces and utensils and practising proper waste disposal are essential to ward off contamination and create a safe cooking environment.

Avoiding Unnecessary Hazards

Regarding kitchen cleaning, you want to steer clear of unnecessary hazards to keep your cooking space healthy. Following proper sanitation practices and sticking to the best standards is crucial to stopping bacteria from spreading.

Always remember to clean and disinfect all surfaces, utensils, and appliances after each use to lower the risk of cross-contamination. A consistent cleaning routine not only helps you eliminate potential health risks but also makes your cooking area more inviting and pleasant.

Remember to wash dishcloths, sponges, and cutting boards regularly with hot, soapy water or disinfectant solutions to prevent harmful bacteria from building up. Keeping hygiene a priority in the kitchen is essential to protecting the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Regarding maintaining a sparkling kitchen, you must ensure you have all the essential cleaning supplies at your disposal. Using the right eco-friendly and non-toxic products is critical for effective and safe cleaning, whether it’s your appliances, countertops, floors, or cabinets.

A good mix of vinegar and water or a specialised stainless steel cleaner works wonders to keep your appliances free from fingerprints and stains. For your countertops, gentle dish soap mixed with warm water will remove dirt without causing damage.

If you have natural wood cabinets, olive oil and vinegar are your best bet to maintain their shine. And don’t forget about the floors—using eco-friendly cleaners designed for different types of flooring, like tiles or hardwood, will keep your kitchen floor looking gleaming without exposing your family to harmful chemicals.

Must-Have Products for a Pristine Kitchen

To achieve a pristine kitchen, you need the right cleaning products and techniques. By following expert advice on home cleaning, you can keep your cooking space spotless and sparkling.

Experts in home maintenance stress the importance of using multi-purpose cleaners that are tough on grease and grime but gentle on surfaces. Microfiber cloths are a favourite choice because they trap dirt and bacteria without leaving streaks. For a more natural approach, vinegar and baking soda are popular alternatives that work wonders at cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

Make it a habit to Wipe down countertops, appliances, and cabinets every day to prevent buildup and keep your kitchen clean and hygienic. A good-quality vacuum cleaner for the floors will complement the overall cleanliness of your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Kitchen

1. If you want to clean your kitchen effectively and feel good about it, follow this step-by-step guide. Whether routine maintenance or deep cleaning, proper techniques and tools will keep your kitchen fresh and germ-free.
2. Start by ensuring good airflow – open those windows or turn on a fan to eliminate any lingering smells. Clear off your countertops and cabinets, stash away the dishes, and give everything a good wipe-down.
3. Now it’s time to tackle the sink with hot, soapy water and disinfect the countertops and appliances. And don’t overlook the inside of the microwave, oven, and fridge.
4. For a deep clean, scrub those floors, clean the grout lines, and dust those light fixtures. Keep up with a regular cleaning schedule to avoid any buildup and bask in the glory of your sparkling kitchen.

Effective Techniques and Strategies

Regarding keeping your kitchen spick and span for your customers or clients, employing effective cleaning techniques and strategies is crucial.…

Are your bookshelves collecting dust and looking neglected?

It’s crucial to keep them clean for aesthetics and the longevity of your books. We will discuss the importance of cleaning bookshelves, the supplies needed, and step-by-step instructions on how to clean them. Learn how often you should dust and get tips for maintaining neat and organised shelves.

Stay tuned for all the information you need to keep your bookshelves looking their best!

Why Is It Important to Clean Bookshelves?

Regular cleaning of bookshelves is essential for maintaining a tidy and organised home and preserving the quality and longevity of your furniture. Dust buildup can lead to stains and scratches, affecting the overall appearance of the shelves and the room decor.

Neglecting to clean bookshelves can accumulate allergens and dust mites, which could impact indoor air quality and pose health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory issues.

To combat this, a simple dusting routine using a microfibre cloth or a gentle vacuum attachment can help remove dirt and grime without damaging the wood or finish. For stubborn stains, a mixture of mild soap and warm water can gently scrub away dirt marks, followed by a disinfecting solution to sanitise and refresh the shelves.

What Supplies Do You Need to Clean Bookshelves?

To effectively clean bookshelves, you will require specific tools and supplies to ensure efficient and thorough cleaning. Dusting tips and hacks can enhance cleaning, making it more effective and convenient.

1. One essential cleaning supply for bookshelf maintenance is a quality microfiber cloth. This cloth is gentle on surfaces and effectively captures dust particles without spreading them around.
2. A gentle wood cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar can help remove stubborn stains or grime.
3. A soft-bristled brush or a small vacuum attachment can assist in reaching tight corners and crevices.

It’s crucial to dust regularly to prevent dust buildup. This keeps your bookshelves looking tidy and helps maintain indoor air quality.

Microfiber Cloth

A microfibre cloth is an indispensable tool for dusting and wiping bookshelves efficiently. It is recommended to include regular cleaning schedules that involve using microfibre cloths to maintain cleanliness and shine.

The unique structure of microfibre cloths allows them to trap dust particles effectively, rather than just pushing them around like traditional cloths.

When dusting bookshelves, gently wipe the surfaces in a sweeping motion to capture the dust. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as this could scratch the shelves’ surfaces.

By incorporating a consistent cleaning schedule with microfibre cloths, you ensure a cleaner and dust-free environment and prolong the lifespan of your furniture.

Vacuum Cleaner

A hoover is essential for removing dust buildup from bookshelves, especially in hard-to-reach areas. It is a powerful cleaning tool that can facilitate deep cleaning processes for thorough maintenance.

The suction power of a hoover can effectively remove dust particles trapped between books and along the edges of shelves, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment. The various attachments provided allow one to easily access nooks and crannies that are typically challenging to clean. A hoover equipped with a HEPA filter can trap even the smallest dust particles, preventing them from circulating back into the air and maintaining better indoor air quality.

Regular hoovering of bookshelves keeps them looking tidy, helps extend the books’ lifespan, and prevents dust-related allergies.

Cleaning Solution

A suitable cleaning solution is vital for tackling stains and disinfecting bookshelves effectively. Opting for eco-friendly cleaning solutions can ensure thorough cleaning while being environmentally conscious.

Using the right cleaning solution not only removes unsightly stains but also helps maintain a healthy environment. Eco-friendly options, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, are great alternatives as they are safe for your shelves and the planet.

When applying the cleaning solution, test it on a hidden area first to avoid damage. For optimal results, follow the instructions on the product label and use a gentle scrubbing brush to remove tough stains without scratching the surface of your bookshelves.

Soft-bristled Brush

A soft-bristled brush is ideal for dusting delicate surfaces on bookshelves without causing scratches. It offers precise cleaning techniques that aid in surface restoration and maintaining the shelf’s pristine condition.

The gentle nature of soft-bristled brushes makes them perfect for removing dust and debris from intricate carvings or patterns on bookshelves, ensuring thorough cleaning without damaging the wood or finishes. To effectively clean a bookshelf using a soft-bristled brush, start from the top and work your way down, gently sweeping the brush along each surface. This technique not only removes dust but also helps in restoring the shelf’s original shine and appearance. Regular dusting with a soft-bristled brush can extend the lifespan of your bookshelf and keep it looking brand new for years to come.

How to Clean Bookshelves?

Cleaning bookshelves involves a systematic process that includes dusting, wiping, organising, and preserving the wood or furniture. Proper storage and decluttering techniques contribute to maintaining a clean and polished look.

1. Start by removing all items from the shelves to have a clean slate.
2. Dust each book and decorative item individually to ensure thorough cleaning.
3. Use a soft microfibre cloth to wipe down the shelves, paying attention to corners and crevices.
4. Consider using a wood-friendly cleaner or a mixture of water and mild soap for harder stains.
5. Once cleaned, reorganise the items by category or size to maximise space and aesthetic appeal.
6. Regular decluttering prevents accumulating unnecessary items and maintains a visually appealing shelf arrangement.

Remove All Items from the Shelves

Before cleaning bookshelves, it is essential to remove all items to facilitate thorough dusting and cleaning. This process can pose a cleaning challenge but is crucial for effective maintenance.

By removing everything off the shelves, you make it easier to clean and get a chance to organise and declutter. It may seem daunting initially, especially if you have numerous items to relocate, but the result will be worth the effort. To streamline this process:

1. Start by categorising items and clearing one shelf at a time.
2. Utilise this opportunity to dust or wipe down each item before placing them back in a more organised manner.

If you ask my friends and family what is the one thing I can’t live without, most will say burgers. I do love my burgers! I consider myself a connoisseur and an adventurer at the same time – always looking for new joints and recipes, tasty flavours and exotic gastro choices.

My colleagues at The Dairy Cleaners Bermondsey know not to call me during Friday lunch hours – Friday is “burger day”. I usually pick up a restaurant and treat myself to a feast – a whole menu (the fries are a must, come on now!) and a dessert on top of that, so I can barely move afterwards. The Friday I am going to tell you about was no different. I was sitting at a cosy table next to the front windows of the Gourmet Burger Kitchen at Waterloo Rd near the Southwark Underground station. I was just finishing a fabulous Korean BBQ Chicken burger with sweet potato fries, already picturing the chocolate cheesecake I was about to order when my phone rang.

Do you have those perfect moments in life when the stars align in your favour, the weather is perfect, you are having an excellent lunch, and you feel full of joy? The last thing you want in those preciously fleeting moments is your smartphone to buzz. My teenage daughter was at school, and even if she had a problem, she would first call her mom. Her mom, my better half, was busy running her upholstery store near Tabard Gardens. The only option left was my colleagues – and they knew better!

So I picked up my phone, ready to burst into an all-time rage rant, when I glanced at the screen. Weird, it was an unknown number. Customers had to go through our support centre, so this could not be a cleaning-related issue – or so I thought. Intrigued, I picked up.

“Hello, Frankie boy!” The sweet, playful voice sent shivers down my spine. I hadn’t heard it for years, but I could never mistake it for anyone else.

“Hello, Joe Rabbit!” Joe Rabbit was Joy-Anne Mills. We had a tempestuous high school relationship that didn’t end well, but as time passed and we matured, we managed to mend fences. Whenever we met at our random class reunions, we would joke about what would have happened if we had married as we planned at seventeen.

“Sorry to bother you, Francis, but I have a cleaning issue, and I know you work as a quality supervisor. I messaged your sister, and she sent me your phone. I hope it is OK.”

“It isn’t, actually”, I responded jokingly. “Friday is my burger day, and you interrupted me in the midst of a royal feast. And before ordering the dessert, too. Unacceptable!”

“You are incorrigible!” she sighed in mocked desperation.

“Do you still live near St James’s Church? Send me the address, and I can be there in less than an hour.”

“Are you serious? That would be great! Thank you!”

Joy-Anne was a very special person to me, but I would miss the chocolate cheesecake only for my wife, daughter, siblings and parents. So I stuffed myself like a Thanksgiving turkey and headed southeast across Bermondsey. After a rejuvenating 40-minute walk, I arrived at her apartment”building. “I wish my street were so leafy and quiet”, I thought while waiting for her to answer the doorbell.

We hadn’t seen each other for more than five years, so there was an awkward moment when she opened the door, but we quickly laughed it off and hugged. “I really appreciate you coming at such short notice. But I fear my house cleaner has ruined my kitchen, and I need an expert opinion.”

“Did she now?” I had heard that before. Customers see a stain on their floor or a black streak on the window, and they act as if it is the end of the world. “What company do you use?”

“Oh, Maya is not with a company – at least none that I know of. A colleague of mine recommended her, and I’ve had no problems with her so far. But you have to see my kitchen.”

When we stepped into the room, Joy pointed me to the marble countertop. I could immediately see why she was concerned. The once milky white surface was blotted with porous yellowish stains as if something had corroded right through the uppermost layer. I knew what had happened the moment I saw it, but I needed to be 100% certain and not make wild accusations.

“Could you please call your cleaner and ask her what detergent she used on the countertop?”

I took my phone out and made some close-up pictures of the damaged surface. Meanwhile, Joy was talking on the phone, and I could sense the conversation was not going well. It was another scenario I had seen throughout the years – a cleaner refusing to take responsibility for a mistake, even though it was obvious they had made one. Finally, Joy finished the call and gave me the name of the detergent. I knew the brand well, as well as the specific product. Unfortunately, my initial suspicion had been correct.

“Here is what happened”, I began explaining. “The detergent your cleaner has used is perfect for the bathroom. We usually use it to remove limescale or mould. The problem is you need an acid-based product to remove limescale. It is OK to apply it to terracotta – the surface is glazed, and the acid cannot corrode it. Marble is another thing. Its surface is porous, and its chemical composition makes it particularly susceptible to acid. I don’t mean to trash-talk your cleaner, but with all due respect, this is a rookie mistake.”

Joy hit the countertop with her fist and cursed. “So the countertop is ruined, and I have to get a new one, is what you are telling me?”

“Well, let’s not jump to conclusions just yet. I know one of the best bathroom renovation technicians in London.…

You have bought all the snacks, stacked all the drinks, and your playlist is smoking hot! It looks like you are ready for the wildest party in years! But let’s be honest – you are not the type of person with the YOLO mentality, carpe diem – tomorrow come what may! So even before the first glass of wine ends up on your carpet, here are the three most important reasons to book your professional after-party cleaning in advance!

You will probably have a terrible hangover

Hey, we’ve all been there – we are not judging. But the last thing you want to do while trying to figure out why your head feels twice the size is pick up popcorn and chips from the floor. Let a perfectly sober and good-humoured cleaner do that for you while you rehydrate. 

Some cleaning issues will require more than just vacuum cleaning

You will have tough stains and bad smells to remove depending on how much the party gets out of control (and believe me – I’ve seen my fair share of after-party calamities). Even on a good day, you will have a cleaning mountain to climb – with a few hours of sleep and no energy at all, let’s call it a lost cause.

With stains, time is a crucial factor

Let’s assume you haven’t booked an after-party cleaning procedure in advance. You wake up to find out your living room looks like a war zone, and you have no desire to start undoing the damage of the previous night. Does this sound like a good time to start looking for a cleaner? You would be lucky to find one for the next day, which means an additional 24 hours for the stains to soak in. Alternatively, you book the cleaner BEFORE the party, and they will arrive like the cavalry saving the day!…