Friday, May 2, 2008
Recruiting Domestic Cleaners for Your Cleaning Agency
The fact remains that without a good supply and access to good quality cleaners in your business; there is really no business at all. It is often times more easier said than done and the process of taking on cleaners, keeping them satisfied and maintaining a good relationship between the clients, cleaners and yourself is made to look much easier than it really is. There are many publications about how easy it is to start and run your own cleaning company but the fact is that; this is far from the truth. There are many areas that must be carefully considered and the most important of these is where are your cleaners going to come from.
A good quality cleaning staff must possess the following qualities: reliability, honesty, attentive to details, respect for clients and their space and most importantly the love for the job. However, while you may not get a cleaner that fits all these areas; there must be an effort to recruit cleaners that are fully vetted, insured, have signed an agreement and that you are willing to invest in through training and continued development.
In many instances; cleaners work as a temporary means of getting some quick cash to solve a few problems around the home. While this may have to be the case sometimes; you should endeavour to take the necessary measures to recruit the right cleaners that are suited for the job that you have to offer. You must be able to provide some level of stability in the cleaning service that you provide; as clients would rather to have the same person throughout the duration of using your service.
Also negligence from a cleaner could mean that you could loose many contracts all at once leading to the loss of your time and marketing resources. Employing of cleaners must include a strategic plan that should become apart of your operational manual. This plan should be sensible that when used with consistency could improve the way in which you provide a cleaning service.
It is to be reminded that the vetting processes along with the insurance are major selling points of any cleaning agency. It is therefore imperative that some level of investment is put aside to do this. The recommended vetting process of each cleaner should involve:
· Providing a recent proof of address · Right to work in the Country · Reference Request · Next to Kin (Optional)
This above is not confined to the areas that can be used to vet cleaners, but they are certainly standard ones that are almost mandatory. Some companies also does CRB cheques, for each members of staff that they employ.
In addition to this system; you must ensure that your cleaners sign an agency agreement that is specific to your company. It is not professional to just add things as you go along. You must have it all in an agreement before you offer a cleaner an address or a key.
Cleaners must be aware of the job hours and whether it is likely to be long term or short term. Remember that cleaners that have genuine love for the roles; does so for a living and so it is only fair to provide a clear explanation of the employment terms before they begin.
There are other things that agency cans do to make sure that they continue to provide job satisfaction and they are petrol/travel incentives, instead of cash in hand, payment on fortnightly or monthly basis. You can also employ your cleaners though Cleaners Plus http://www.cleanersplus.co.uk. Cleaners Plus is a service that provides you with the details of cleaners from across London. The Cleaners on the database will benefit from travel and training when an agency or individual employs them.
There are other areas where an agency can advertise jobs in Job Centres, in the local shop window or paper or on online communities.
The key to employing the right cleaners for an agency is about finding someone who enjoys the job; but at the same time as an agency you must be willing and able to invest in your cleaners while maintaining good communication and a good supply of work.
London Domestic Cleaners and Ironing: http://www.cleanart.co.uk
A good quality cleaning staff must possess the following qualities: reliability, honesty, attentive to details, respect for clients and their space and most importantly the love for the job. However, while you may not get a cleaner that fits all these areas; there must be an effort to recruit cleaners that are fully vetted, insured, have signed an agreement and that you are willing to invest in through training and continued development.
In many instances; cleaners work as a temporary means of getting some quick cash to solve a few problems around the home. While this may have to be the case sometimes; you should endeavour to take the necessary measures to recruit the right cleaners that are suited for the job that you have to offer. You must be able to provide some level of stability in the cleaning service that you provide; as clients would rather to have the same person throughout the duration of using your service.
Also negligence from a cleaner could mean that you could loose many contracts all at once leading to the loss of your time and marketing resources. Employing of cleaners must include a strategic plan that should become apart of your operational manual. This plan should be sensible that when used with consistency could improve the way in which you provide a cleaning service.
It is to be reminded that the vetting processes along with the insurance are major selling points of any cleaning agency. It is therefore imperative that some level of investment is put aside to do this. The recommended vetting process of each cleaner should involve:
· Providing a recent proof of address · Right to work in the Country · Reference Request · Next to Kin (Optional)
This above is not confined to the areas that can be used to vet cleaners, but they are certainly standard ones that are almost mandatory. Some companies also does CRB cheques, for each members of staff that they employ.
In addition to this system; you must ensure that your cleaners sign an agency agreement that is specific to your company. It is not professional to just add things as you go along. You must have it all in an agreement before you offer a cleaner an address or a key.
Cleaners must be aware of the job hours and whether it is likely to be long term or short term. Remember that cleaners that have genuine love for the roles; does so for a living and so it is only fair to provide a clear explanation of the employment terms before they begin.
There are other things that agency cans do to make sure that they continue to provide job satisfaction and they are petrol/travel incentives, instead of cash in hand, payment on fortnightly or monthly basis. You can also employ your cleaners though Cleaners Plus http://www.cleanersplus.co.uk. Cleaners Plus is a service that provides you with the details of cleaners from across London. The Cleaners on the database will benefit from travel and training when an agency or individual employs them.
There are other areas where an agency can advertise jobs in Job Centres, in the local shop window or paper or on online communities.
The key to employing the right cleaners for an agency is about finding someone who enjoys the job; but at the same time as an agency you must be willing and able to invest in your cleaners while maintaining good communication and a good supply of work.
London Domestic Cleaners and Ironing: http://www.cleanart.co.uk
Monday, April 28, 2008
Start a Cleaning Business
If cleaning is your passion; you may have considered setting up and running your very own Cleaning Service. There is a substantial amount of money that can be made from an efficient cleaning business as there are always clients that are looking to change or to utilise a good service. This guide will explain some of the things that you may wish to consider if you would like to venture into setting up and running your own cleaning business.
Many guides on the topic may be misleading as they claim to have a easy and fast way of doing so; however while a cleaning company may be easier to set-up in terms of the initial cost; a good quality of work must be anticipated for the initial stages of the business.
Areas that must be considered are as follows:
Vetting and Recruitment of Cleaners: In the initial stages of business, you may be able to cover all the work yourself. However, as your client base grows there is a chance that you may need staff to assist you in covering these jobs. It may be that you would prefer to employ a team of 2 or 3 person to start with. Whatever the case may be; you need to make sure that you carry out the right checks. The basic checks that are needed are as follows:
1. A persons right to work in the UK
2. Proof of address
3. References
4. Next to Kin Details (optional)
5. Preferably a face to face interview
Insurance: If you start a cleaning service, insurance must be mandatory. When a client comes to a cleaning agency, they do so with the intention that they will get the benefits of vetted and insured cleaners. A good insurance should not cost more that £50 and this should be well worth it as you will find that you may need to provide your insurance certificate to clients. You may need to get an insurance that covers against Loss/Damage of property, Employers Liability, Public product liability, Lock replace and telephone misuse.
Marketing: Expectedly, this is a must for any successful business. Most cleaning agencies uses Google Adword to market their services and this proves to be very effective to attract clients. However, there are other methods of marketing that can be use such as flyer distribution, posting an ad in the local paper and on Gumtree. You will need a good quality website to market your services and this again does not have to be costly. In our next edition we will provide more information about how to get a website.
Get your Terms Right: It is important that you get your terms correct in the early stages of your business. You will need to set the appropriate prices and a good idea would be to look at companies in your area and come to a reasonable balance. Please remember that you cannot make your prices too low as you will not be able to cover your running cost and make a profit. At the same time you do not want to make your rates too expensive. You will also need to draft up a terms and conditions of service, some companies offers a minimum term contract while some do not.
Some points to note are as follows:
* Always pay your cleaner at a good rate; a suggestion is atleast £6.00 an hour for regular clean and £7.00 onwards for other cleans.
* Also a minimum term contract will mean that you will enhance the security of your company and job satisfaction for cleaners
You also need to get your hands on:
* Cleaning checklist for the cleans that are offered.
* Key Holders Form
* Standing Order Forms
* Stationary e.g. letterheads
With the right attitude you will be able to run a great cleaning business and its a great feeling to know that you can also do it from home and still be professional.
London Cleaning Services
Many guides on the topic may be misleading as they claim to have a easy and fast way of doing so; however while a cleaning company may be easier to set-up in terms of the initial cost; a good quality of work must be anticipated for the initial stages of the business.
Areas that must be considered are as follows:
Vetting and Recruitment of Cleaners: In the initial stages of business, you may be able to cover all the work yourself. However, as your client base grows there is a chance that you may need staff to assist you in covering these jobs. It may be that you would prefer to employ a team of 2 or 3 person to start with. Whatever the case may be; you need to make sure that you carry out the right checks. The basic checks that are needed are as follows:
1. A persons right to work in the UK
2. Proof of address
3. References
4. Next to Kin Details (optional)
5. Preferably a face to face interview
Insurance: If you start a cleaning service, insurance must be mandatory. When a client comes to a cleaning agency, they do so with the intention that they will get the benefits of vetted and insured cleaners. A good insurance should not cost more that £50 and this should be well worth it as you will find that you may need to provide your insurance certificate to clients. You may need to get an insurance that covers against Loss/Damage of property, Employers Liability, Public product liability, Lock replace and telephone misuse.
Marketing: Expectedly, this is a must for any successful business. Most cleaning agencies uses Google Adword to market their services and this proves to be very effective to attract clients. However, there are other methods of marketing that can be use such as flyer distribution, posting an ad in the local paper and on Gumtree. You will need a good quality website to market your services and this again does not have to be costly. In our next edition we will provide more information about how to get a website.
Get your Terms Right: It is important that you get your terms correct in the early stages of your business. You will need to set the appropriate prices and a good idea would be to look at companies in your area and come to a reasonable balance. Please remember that you cannot make your prices too low as you will not be able to cover your running cost and make a profit. At the same time you do not want to make your rates too expensive. You will also need to draft up a terms and conditions of service, some companies offers a minimum term contract while some do not.
Some points to note are as follows:
* Always pay your cleaner at a good rate; a suggestion is atleast £6.00 an hour for regular clean and £7.00 onwards for other cleans.
* Also a minimum term contract will mean that you will enhance the security of your company and job satisfaction for cleaners
You also need to get your hands on:
* Cleaning checklist for the cleans that are offered.
* Key Holders Form
* Standing Order Forms
* Stationary e.g. letterheads
With the right attitude you will be able to run a great cleaning business and its a great feeling to know that you can also do it from home and still be professional.
London Cleaning Services
Sunday, April 27, 2008
If cleaning is your passion; you may have considered setting up and running your very own Cleaning Service. There is a substantial amount of money that can be made from an efficient cleaning business as there are always clients that are looking to change or to utilise a good service. This guide will explain some of the things that you may wish to consider if you would like to venture into setting up and running your own cleaning business.
Many guides on the topic may be misleading as they claim to have a easy and fast way of doing so; however while a cleaning company may be easier to set-up in terms of the initial cost; a good quality of work must be anticipated for the initial stages of the business.
Areas that must be considered are as follows:
Vetting and Recruitment of Cleaners: In the initial stages of business, you may be able to cover all the work yourself. However, as your client base grows there is a chance that you may need staff to assist you in covering these jobs. It may be that you would prefer to employ a team of 2 or 3 person to start with. Whatever the case may be; you need to make sure that you carry out the right checks. The basic checks that are needed are as follows:
1. A persons right to work in the UK
2. Proof of address
3. References
4. Next to Kin Details (optional)
5. Preferably a face to face interview
Insurance: If you start a cleaning service, insurance must be mandatory. When a client comes to a cleaning agency, they do so with the intention that they will get the benefits of vetted and insured cleaners. A good insurance should not cost more that £50 and this should be well worth it as you will find that you may need to provide your insurance certificate to clients. You may need to get an insurance that covers against Loss/Damage of property, Employers Liability, Public product liability, Lock replace and telephone misuse.
Marketing: Expectedly, this is a must for any successful business. Most cleaning agencies uses Google Adword to market their services and this proves to be very effective to attract clients. However, there are other methods of marketing that can be use such as flyer distribution, posting an ad in the local paper and on Gumtree. You will need a good quality website to market your services and this again does not have to be costly. In our next edition we will provide more information about how to get a website.
Get your Terms Right: It is important that you get your terms correct in the early stages of your business. You will need to set the appropriate prices and a good idea would be to look at companies in your area and come to a reasonable balance. Please remember that you cannot make your prices too low as you will not be able to cover your running cost and make a profit. At the same time you do not want to make your rates too expensive. You will also need to draft up a terms and conditions of service, some companies offers a minimum term contract while some do not.
Some points to note are as follows:
* Always pay your cleaner at a good rate; a suggestion is atleast £6.00 an hour for regular clean and £7.00 onwards for other cleans.
* Also a minimum term contract will mean that you will enhance the security of your company and job satisfaction for cleaners
You also need to get your hands on:
* Cleaning checklist for the cleans that are offered.
* Key Holders Form
* Standing Order Forms
* Stationary e.g. letterheads
With the right attitude you will be able to run a great cleaning business and its a great feeling to know that you can also do it from home and still be professional.
Clean Art
Many guides on the topic may be misleading as they claim to have a easy and fast way of doing so; however while a cleaning company may be easier to set-up in terms of the initial cost; a good quality of work must be anticipated for the initial stages of the business.
Areas that must be considered are as follows:
Vetting and Recruitment of Cleaners: In the initial stages of business, you may be able to cover all the work yourself. However, as your client base grows there is a chance that you may need staff to assist you in covering these jobs. It may be that you would prefer to employ a team of 2 or 3 person to start with. Whatever the case may be; you need to make sure that you carry out the right checks. The basic checks that are needed are as follows:
1. A persons right to work in the UK
2. Proof of address
3. References
4. Next to Kin Details (optional)
5. Preferably a face to face interview
Insurance: If you start a cleaning service, insurance must be mandatory. When a client comes to a cleaning agency, they do so with the intention that they will get the benefits of vetted and insured cleaners. A good insurance should not cost more that £50 and this should be well worth it as you will find that you may need to provide your insurance certificate to clients. You may need to get an insurance that covers against Loss/Damage of property, Employers Liability, Public product liability, Lock replace and telephone misuse.
Marketing: Expectedly, this is a must for any successful business. Most cleaning agencies uses Google Adword to market their services and this proves to be very effective to attract clients. However, there are other methods of marketing that can be use such as flyer distribution, posting an ad in the local paper and on Gumtree. You will need a good quality website to market your services and this again does not have to be costly. In our next edition we will provide more information about how to get a website.
Get your Terms Right: It is important that you get your terms correct in the early stages of your business. You will need to set the appropriate prices and a good idea would be to look at companies in your area and come to a reasonable balance. Please remember that you cannot make your prices too low as you will not be able to cover your running cost and make a profit. At the same time you do not want to make your rates too expensive. You will also need to draft up a terms and conditions of service, some companies offers a minimum term contract while some do not.
Some points to note are as follows:
* Always pay your cleaner at a good rate; a suggestion is atleast £6.00 an hour for regular clean and £7.00 onwards for other cleans.
* Also a minimum term contract will mean that you will enhance the security of your company and job satisfaction for cleaners
You also need to get your hands on:
* Cleaning checklist for the cleans that are offered.
* Key Holders Form
* Standing Order Forms
* Stationary e.g. letterheads
With the right attitude you will be able to run a great cleaning business and its a great feeling to know that you can also do it from home and still be professional.
Clean Art
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
How to Mop Floors
Mopping floors seems like one of those things everyone knows how to do, but few people actually know the right way to do it. If you're not using the right technique, you're causing a lot more work for yourself and are probably taking a chance with your own safety as well. Following are the steps to proper mopping:
1. Mop heads come in different sizes. Choose a weight that works for your body size. If you choose one that is too heavy, you'll likely put too much stress on your back and it might be more difficult to move quickly and efficiently.
2. Fill your mop bucket with 4 gallons of cool water. Add your cleaning solution according to manufacturer's directions. Always use a neutral pH floor cleaner to keep from damaging any finish on the floor.
3. Before you start mopping a floor, make sure you sweep or vacuum it first. If you don't remove the loose soil, you'll simply push it all around the floor, making more of a mess. Use a putty knife to remove gum, stickers or other items stuck to the floor.
4. Put out wet floor signs near entrances to the area you'll be mopping.
5. Start at the farthest corner of the room and work your way backwards toward the door. Keep the mop bucket on the section of floor that has not been mopped yet in an area where it won't be tripped over.
6. Start by mopping along the baseboards to keep from slopping your cleaning solution up onto the wall or baseboard. Then fill in the open areas.
7. Never push the mop forward and backward. Instead, move it from side to side in a figure eight motion, overlapping each stroke as you move back and forth. Keep your back straight as you mop - do not twist your spine, as it puts stress on the back. Use your arm muscles to move the mop back and forth - do not use your back muscles.
8. As one side of the mop gets soiled, turn it over to use the other side.
9. Rinse the mop in clean water and wring it out. Try to wring out as much liquid as possible, but do not force the wringer and do not twist the mop head as it will break the fibers.
10. Change water as necessary.
11. When the floor is dry, pick up the wet floor signs. Rinse out the mop head, mop bucket and sink. Store the mop properly - hang it so it can air dry.
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)Steve Hanson
1. Mop heads come in different sizes. Choose a weight that works for your body size. If you choose one that is too heavy, you'll likely put too much stress on your back and it might be more difficult to move quickly and efficiently.
2. Fill your mop bucket with 4 gallons of cool water. Add your cleaning solution according to manufacturer's directions. Always use a neutral pH floor cleaner to keep from damaging any finish on the floor.
3. Before you start mopping a floor, make sure you sweep or vacuum it first. If you don't remove the loose soil, you'll simply push it all around the floor, making more of a mess. Use a putty knife to remove gum, stickers or other items stuck to the floor.
4. Put out wet floor signs near entrances to the area you'll be mopping.
5. Start at the farthest corner of the room and work your way backwards toward the door. Keep the mop bucket on the section of floor that has not been mopped yet in an area where it won't be tripped over.
6. Start by mopping along the baseboards to keep from slopping your cleaning solution up onto the wall or baseboard. Then fill in the open areas.
7. Never push the mop forward and backward. Instead, move it from side to side in a figure eight motion, overlapping each stroke as you move back and forth. Keep your back straight as you mop - do not twist your spine, as it puts stress on the back. Use your arm muscles to move the mop back and forth - do not use your back muscles.
8. As one side of the mop gets soiled, turn it over to use the other side.
9. Rinse the mop in clean water and wring it out. Try to wring out as much liquid as possible, but do not force the wringer and do not twist the mop head as it will break the fibers.
10. Change water as necessary.
11. When the floor is dry, pick up the wet floor signs. Rinse out the mop head, mop bucket and sink. Store the mop properly - hang it so it can air dry.
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)Steve Hanson
5 Ways to Make Stone Floors Shine
The first question we need to ask when talking about making stone floors shine, is "why does stone shine?"
When light hits uneven stone, it scatters. But if the stone is even, the light bounces off the surface, and that makes it shine. Think of is this way -- imagine yourself on a boat on rough waters (uneven stone). If you look over the side of the boat you can't see your reflection. But if you look over the side of the boat with calm water (even stone), then you can see your reflection. That's because the light is bouncing off the water the same way it bounces off an even stone floor.
So how do you make stone floors shine?
1. Add a coating or finish. Although coatings or finishes add gloss to stone floors, this is not a recommended way to add shine to granite or marble floors. Natural stone needs to breathe, and adding coatings or finishes blocks the floor from breathing. Travertine or Terazzo floors are better suited to adding a coating or finish.
2. Polishing. Polishing stone floors using diamond pads on your slow speed floor machine will add a highly reflective gloss to stone floors.
3. Honing. Honing is a more agressive procedure that smoothes the stone by using a more abrasive diamond disk that grinds imperfections on the floor surface.
4. Grinding. Grinding is the most aggressive way to add shine to stone floors. This procedure will take care of lippage (uneven tiles). Grinding should only be done by experienced stone floor technicians.
5. Crystallization. Crystallization is a chemical polishing process that is used in heavy traffic areas. In this situation you would use a crystallizer polish to add shine to the floor.
The best way to keep stone floors shiny is to maintain them regularly by vacuuming and mopping to keep dirt and grit off the floor. This will not only keep you from having to perform more aggressive stone floor services too often, but will save your customers money in the long run.
http//www.cleanart.co.uk
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)Steve Hanson
When light hits uneven stone, it scatters. But if the stone is even, the light bounces off the surface, and that makes it shine. Think of is this way -- imagine yourself on a boat on rough waters (uneven stone). If you look over the side of the boat you can't see your reflection. But if you look over the side of the boat with calm water (even stone), then you can see your reflection. That's because the light is bouncing off the water the same way it bounces off an even stone floor.
So how do you make stone floors shine?
1. Add a coating or finish. Although coatings or finishes add gloss to stone floors, this is not a recommended way to add shine to granite or marble floors. Natural stone needs to breathe, and adding coatings or finishes blocks the floor from breathing. Travertine or Terazzo floors are better suited to adding a coating or finish.
2. Polishing. Polishing stone floors using diamond pads on your slow speed floor machine will add a highly reflective gloss to stone floors.
3. Honing. Honing is a more agressive procedure that smoothes the stone by using a more abrasive diamond disk that grinds imperfections on the floor surface.
4. Grinding. Grinding is the most aggressive way to add shine to stone floors. This procedure will take care of lippage (uneven tiles). Grinding should only be done by experienced stone floor technicians.
5. Crystallization. Crystallization is a chemical polishing process that is used in heavy traffic areas. In this situation you would use a crystallizer polish to add shine to the floor.
The best way to keep stone floors shiny is to maintain them regularly by vacuuming and mopping to keep dirt and grit off the floor. This will not only keep you from having to perform more aggressive stone floor services too often, but will save your customers money in the long run.
http//www.cleanart.co.uk
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)Steve Hanson
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Introducing Some Common Surface Cleaners
Special Surface Cleaner
Oven Cleaner
Stone Cleaner
Dish Soap
Dish Detergent
Wood Polish
Upholstery Spot Remover
Leather Cleaner
Laundry Soap
Laundry Stain Remover
Laundry Additives
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Soft Scrubbing Cleaner
Air Freshener
Glass Cleaner
Bleach
Silver or Metal Polish
http://www.cleanersplus.co.uk
Oven Cleaner
Stone Cleaner
Dish Soap
Dish Detergent
Wood Polish
Upholstery Spot Remover
Leather Cleaner
Laundry Soap
Laundry Stain Remover
Laundry Additives
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Soft Scrubbing Cleaner
Air Freshener
Glass Cleaner
Bleach
Silver or Metal Polish
http://www.cleanersplus.co.uk
Monday, January 21, 2008
How to Rid Sinks of Germs and Bacteria by Steve Hanson
One of the most common jobs you need to perform in your cleaning business is cleaning and disinfecting sinks. Sound like a pretty simple thing to do, right?
These days with so much emphasis on disinfecting and preventing the spread of bacteria and diseases, it's very important to use proper cleaning procedures.
First, you need to wear disposable, protective gloves. This will protect you from being exposed to germs and bacteria.
Next, you need to avoid cross-contamination within the area you're cleaning. Using color-coded microfiber cloths will help. For example, only use yellow cloths for cleaning sinks and countertops, red for toilets and urinals, and blue for mirrors.
And finally, use a disinfectant cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dwell time. Without the proper dwell time, the disinfectant can't do its job properly. When use according to the directions, the disinfectant will kill many forms of bacteria so it is removed when wiped away with the microfiber cloth.
When finished, dispose of the gloves to avoid spreading germs and bacteria any further.
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)
These days with so much emphasis on disinfecting and preventing the spread of bacteria and diseases, it's very important to use proper cleaning procedures.
First, you need to wear disposable, protective gloves. This will protect you from being exposed to germs and bacteria.
Next, you need to avoid cross-contamination within the area you're cleaning. Using color-coded microfiber cloths will help. For example, only use yellow cloths for cleaning sinks and countertops, red for toilets and urinals, and blue for mirrors.
And finally, use a disinfectant cleaner. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dwell time. Without the proper dwell time, the disinfectant can't do its job properly. When use according to the directions, the disinfectant will kill many forms of bacteria so it is removed when wiped away with the microfiber cloth.
When finished, dispose of the gloves to avoid spreading germs and bacteria any further.
Copyright (c) The Janitorial Store (TM)
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Good Conduct Guide for Cleaners
Conduct on clients’ property
1. Never smoke in clients attention
2. Always switch off irons once you have used it and never place an iron flat down even if it is switched off. Always leave it upright
3. When cleaning flat top cooker hobs it is easy to brush up against a switch and turn the hob on accidentally. Do not rest down magazines, clothes or anything else on the oven as they will increase the risk of fire
4. Take extra caution when cleaning sinks, kitchen surfaces etc as they are easily marked/chipped. (Abrasive cleaning fluid or clothes should not be used on these surfaces). JIF & Similar products are more suitable.
5. Do not leave taps dripping as this may cause flooding or waste the water of the client. Always leave plugs outside of holes in the sink, bath etc.
6. Always lock all doors and windows before leaving
7. Never use your own substitute cleaner to cover your job, they are not covered by our insurance. Inform us if you cannot make it!
8. Clean Art operates a Zero tolerance for theft or misuse of clients’ property. The Law will prosecute all cleaners that are found guilty.
http://www.cleanart.co.uk
1. Never smoke in clients attention
2. Always switch off irons once you have used it and never place an iron flat down even if it is switched off. Always leave it upright
3. When cleaning flat top cooker hobs it is easy to brush up against a switch and turn the hob on accidentally. Do not rest down magazines, clothes or anything else on the oven as they will increase the risk of fire
4. Take extra caution when cleaning sinks, kitchen surfaces etc as they are easily marked/chipped. (Abrasive cleaning fluid or clothes should not be used on these surfaces). JIF & Similar products are more suitable.
5. Do not leave taps dripping as this may cause flooding or waste the water of the client. Always leave plugs outside of holes in the sink, bath etc.
6. Always lock all doors and windows before leaving
7. Never use your own substitute cleaner to cover your job, they are not covered by our insurance. Inform us if you cannot make it!
8. Clean Art operates a Zero tolerance for theft or misuse of clients’ property. The Law will prosecute all cleaners that are found guilty.
http://www.cleanart.co.uk
Saturday, January 12, 2008
End of Tenancy Clean Checklist From (A-Z)
Spring Cleaning ChecklistAll Areas Steamed CleanKitchenDust ceiling/corner of wallDust/clean photograph and art workDust/clean ceiling fanVacuum/clean window sillClean windows in reachClean oven/refrigeration, appliances etc.Sweep/mop/ vacuum underneath movable furnitureClean in/outside of cupboardsWash counter topsWash/de-scale sinkWipe down/clean drawersSweep/mop/vacuum floorEmpty and wash binBathroomDust ceiling/corner of wallDust/clean photograph and art workDust/clean ceiling fanVacuum/clean window sillClean windows in reachScrub shower doors/tubs/bathClean toilets incl. Inside, underneath, handles etcClean medicine cabinetsClean all fixtures including door handlesClean mirrors including framesShake out/ wash rugsSweep/vacuum/mop floorsEmpty and wash binPolish all surfacesLiving areaDust ceiling/corner of wallDust/clean photograph and art workDust/clean ceiling fanRemove and replace curtains, drapes, blinds etcDust clean sofa, chairs including crevicesDust lamp and other furnitureRemove books and dust bookshelvesDust entertainment system including TV set. etc.Polish all surfacesBedroomDust ceiling/corner of wallDust/clean photograph and art workDust/clean ceiling fanRemove and replace curtains, drapes, blinds etcDust lamp and other furniture/fixturesSpot clean wallsRemove and change beddingClean underneath bedClean skirting boardPolish all surfacesClean/wipe/vacuum floorDining RoomDust ceiling/corner of wallDust/clean photograph and art workDust/clean ceiling fanRemove and replace curtains, drapes, blinds etcDust clean sofa, chairs including crevices
http://www.cleanart.co.uk
http://www.cleanart.co.uk
Recommeded List of Cleaning Products
Cleaning Products
Sponge and dust cloth
CIF Lemon
Kitchen Cleaner
Oven Cleaner
Window/glass cleaner
Toilet Cleaner
Mop and Bucket
Vacuum Cleaner/Bags
Long Duster
Soap pads/Brillo Pads
Floor Cleaner
Lime Scale Remover
Vacuum Cleaner Bags
Sponge and dust cloth
CIF Lemon
Kitchen Cleaner
Oven Cleaner
Window/glass cleaner
Toilet Cleaner
Mop and Bucket
Vacuum Cleaner/Bags
Long Duster
Soap pads/Brillo Pads
Floor Cleaner
Lime Scale Remover
Vacuum Cleaner Bags
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Clean Art is Now Recruiting
Clean Art is looking for keen cleaners who would like to join their team of self employed cleaners. By self employed we mean that cleaners sort out their own tax affairs and is paid cash on the day of the clean. Cleaners are paid between £6-£7.50 an hour and there is now a bonus of £50 welcome to our cleaners. If you would like to join us in bringing a quality cleaning service to London. Get more info here and apply here
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Guide in Choosing an End of Tenancy Clean
Helping our clients to decide on the most appropriate end of tenancy clean .
An end of tenancy clean is not just any regular clean, it encompases cleaning to a high standard and the main skill needed for such a clean is an eye for detail. it requires crevices and corners to be cleaned thorougley and effectivley leaving no dust, stains and looking as good as new. An end of tenancy type clean after its completion should be suitable for new group of people to just move in without performing any any furthure clean. It does not include other cleaning services such as carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning. these are done at an additional cost. Because of attention to detail the clean cannot be performed by one cleaner, but requires a team of cleaners (minimum of 2) to produced the energy needed to be proffessionally effective in covering all areas. using less cleaners than the minimum will result in disaster, this is not because of the cleaners cleaning abilities but purley on the defiency of the human body to keep consistency on the high level required.
Factors that should be taken into consideration when booking a spring clean are as follows:
Clean art eradicates all the risk, and our prices are all inclusive of cleaners rate, travel, and VAT, and we stay until the job is complete. In this way, there are no suprises.
An end of tenancy clean is not just any regular clean, it encompases cleaning to a high standard and the main skill needed for such a clean is an eye for detail. it requires crevices and corners to be cleaned thorougley and effectivley leaving no dust, stains and looking as good as new. An end of tenancy type clean after its completion should be suitable for new group of people to just move in without performing any any furthure clean. It does not include other cleaning services such as carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning. these are done at an additional cost. Because of attention to detail the clean cannot be performed by one cleaner, but requires a team of cleaners (minimum of 2) to produced the energy needed to be proffessionally effective in covering all areas. using less cleaners than the minimum will result in disaster, this is not because of the cleaners cleaning abilities but purley on the defiency of the human body to keep consistency on the high level required.
Factors that should be taken into consideration when booking a spring clean are as follows:
- How effecient are yours cleaner?
- Number of cleaners?
- Number of hours needed?
- Rate per hour, per cleaner?
- Size of your property?
How clean do you need your property?
If you are just after a surface clean, then an one off clean would be what you need.
One thing that should be taken into consideration is the the time needed for a spring clean / end of tenancy clean. sometimes it takes longer than agreed and expected. to get a bathroom looking its best will take between 1 - 2 hrs.
Studio flat - 4 hrs
1 bed - 6 hrs
2 bed - 8 hrs
3 bed - 10 hrs
most cleaning companies price their clean at £13 an hour per cleaner. For example a studio flat: 4x13 = £52. This is a good price, but things can go wrong with these pricing system, This excludes everything else such as VAT, cleaning products and travel. this system also creates oppertunity for cleaners to stretch out jobs for extra money. The greatest risk is that you are unaware of how many cleaners the company will send out, and how long it will take for the job to be done properly.Clean art eradicates all the risk, and our prices are all inclusive of cleaners rate, travel, and VAT, and we stay until the job is complete. In this way, there are no suprises.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Natural Products used for cleaning the bathroom area
Baking soda: a natural scourer and odour remover
Lemon/lemon juice: a natural degreaser and lightener for stains
Vinegar: another good degreaser To Clean Window, Glass and Mirrors
Shaving cream prevents the build up of steam on your bathroom mirror.
White vinegar, rubbing alcohol or dish washing detergent can be used to clean a mirror. Wiping it clean with newspaper or a coffee filter will avoid streaky residue. To Clean the Bath and Shower
Alkaline in water causes water marks.
Car wax can be used to remove staining
Orange and lime based cleaning products are effective on bath and shower grime. Cleaning is effective on a weekly basis.
Heavy Soap Scums can be cleaned by the following:
Apply hot white vinegar and continue to scrub until it dissolves, OR
Sponge with solution of 1 cup of hot water, 2 tablespoons of rottenstone and a cup of water softener, OR
Use 1-2 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate in 1 gallon of hot water.
To treat bathtub rings, try wiping it with undiluted ammonia or a sponge sprinkled with baking soda. Stubborn stains can be cleaned by scouring with dish washing detergent or rubbed with a white vinegar covered cloth.
If the shower head is particularly clogged, remove it and soak it in vinegar. This will both clean and sanitize it. Blocked holes in the shower head can be freed by poking out the dirt with a pin prior to the soak.
Once the shower base has been cleaned, don't forget to give attention to the shower door or curtain. Lemon juice wiped clean with newspaper will provide a streak-free shower door, while plastic shower curtains can be machine washed. Alternatively, spray it with an orange based cleaner or baking soda solution and wipe clean. Air drying will prevent further mold and mildew build up, and as a further prevention try cutting off the seam at the base of the curtain, as this is where mildew is likely to collect.To Clean a Toilet
Rings in the toilet are again created by the alkaline water. To combat this and other stains, there are several methods you can try:
Pour in 1-2 cups of white vinegar on a monthly basis. Leave it for an hour to overnight and then brush and flush.
Drop in a couple of Alka Seltzer tablets and leave for an hour before brushing.
Cola poured into the toilet bowl and left for an hour has the same effect.
Vitamin C capsules or denture cleaning tablets can be left in the toilet overnight.
A sponging solution that is effective contains 1 tablespoon of detergent to 1 gallon of hot water. For stubborn stains, gently buff the surface with a pumice stone and flush to see the results.To Clean Sinks
To prevent scum and blockages in the sink, pour a cup of baking soda and a cup white vinegar down the plughole on a monthly basis. Leave it for an hour and rinse with warm water.
Shaving cream wiped clean with newspaper is a good general cleaner for the bathroom sink. To tackle stains; rubbing lemon can treat light staining, while borax and lemon juice can remove darker stains like rust.
Taps can easily appear dirty as water deposits collect round these areas. To dissolve this, soak a paper towel in white vinegar and wrap it around the tap, allowing about an hour to loosen the alkaline. Then scrub the tap with a stiff toothbrush.
Orange based or powder cleansers should not be used on brass or gold plated taps and fittings as it can scratch or corrode the surface. To prevent damage, always dry them after use.
To make tile cleaning easier, run the shower on hot for a few minutes so the steam will loosen the dirt.
Ceramic tiles can be regularly maintained with detergent and water or with commercial cleaning solutions that are specific for the job. A general polish and mildew removal can be achieved with either a water and ammonia or water and vinegar solution.
For a more thorough clean, especially concerning tile grouting, sponge on a solution of water with chlorine bleach and leave for several minutes. Do not use bleach on coloured grout. When it is washed clean, you can apply lemon oil or an acrylic sealer to protect the grout.
Mildew - To ensure that mildew does not become as issue in your bathroom, treat your ceiling and potential problem areas every six months with a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide. Spray the solution and leave it alone. If you are already affected by mildew, re-spray the area after 24 hours and repeat as necessary
http://www.cleanart.co.uk/
Baking soda: a natural scourer and odour remover
Lemon/lemon juice: a natural degreaser and lightener for stains
Vinegar: another good degreaser To Clean Window, Glass and Mirrors
Shaving cream prevents the build up of steam on your bathroom mirror.
White vinegar, rubbing alcohol or dish washing detergent can be used to clean a mirror. Wiping it clean with newspaper or a coffee filter will avoid streaky residue. To Clean the Bath and Shower
Alkaline in water causes water marks.
Car wax can be used to remove staining
Orange and lime based cleaning products are effective on bath and shower grime. Cleaning is effective on a weekly basis.
Heavy Soap Scums can be cleaned by the following:
Apply hot white vinegar and continue to scrub until it dissolves, OR
Sponge with solution of 1 cup of hot water, 2 tablespoons of rottenstone and a cup of water softener, OR
Use 1-2 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate in 1 gallon of hot water.
To treat bathtub rings, try wiping it with undiluted ammonia or a sponge sprinkled with baking soda. Stubborn stains can be cleaned by scouring with dish washing detergent or rubbed with a white vinegar covered cloth.
If the shower head is particularly clogged, remove it and soak it in vinegar. This will both clean and sanitize it. Blocked holes in the shower head can be freed by poking out the dirt with a pin prior to the soak.
Once the shower base has been cleaned, don't forget to give attention to the shower door or curtain. Lemon juice wiped clean with newspaper will provide a streak-free shower door, while plastic shower curtains can be machine washed. Alternatively, spray it with an orange based cleaner or baking soda solution and wipe clean. Air drying will prevent further mold and mildew build up, and as a further prevention try cutting off the seam at the base of the curtain, as this is where mildew is likely to collect.To Clean a Toilet
Rings in the toilet are again created by the alkaline water. To combat this and other stains, there are several methods you can try:
Pour in 1-2 cups of white vinegar on a monthly basis. Leave it for an hour to overnight and then brush and flush.
Drop in a couple of Alka Seltzer tablets and leave for an hour before brushing.
Cola poured into the toilet bowl and left for an hour has the same effect.
Vitamin C capsules or denture cleaning tablets can be left in the toilet overnight.
A sponging solution that is effective contains 1 tablespoon of detergent to 1 gallon of hot water. For stubborn stains, gently buff the surface with a pumice stone and flush to see the results.To Clean Sinks
To prevent scum and blockages in the sink, pour a cup of baking soda and a cup white vinegar down the plughole on a monthly basis. Leave it for an hour and rinse with warm water.
Shaving cream wiped clean with newspaper is a good general cleaner for the bathroom sink. To tackle stains; rubbing lemon can treat light staining, while borax and lemon juice can remove darker stains like rust.
Taps can easily appear dirty as water deposits collect round these areas. To dissolve this, soak a paper towel in white vinegar and wrap it around the tap, allowing about an hour to loosen the alkaline. Then scrub the tap with a stiff toothbrush.
Orange based or powder cleansers should not be used on brass or gold plated taps and fittings as it can scratch or corrode the surface. To prevent damage, always dry them after use.
To make tile cleaning easier, run the shower on hot for a few minutes so the steam will loosen the dirt.
Ceramic tiles can be regularly maintained with detergent and water or with commercial cleaning solutions that are specific for the job. A general polish and mildew removal can be achieved with either a water and ammonia or water and vinegar solution.
For a more thorough clean, especially concerning tile grouting, sponge on a solution of water with chlorine bleach and leave for several minutes. Do not use bleach on coloured grout. When it is washed clean, you can apply lemon oil or an acrylic sealer to protect the grout.
Mildew - To ensure that mildew does not become as issue in your bathroom, treat your ceiling and potential problem areas every six months with a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide. Spray the solution and leave it alone. If you are already affected by mildew, re-spray the area after 24 hours and repeat as necessary
http://www.cleanart.co.uk/
Tips in Choosing a Professional Cleaning Service
Cleaners should be fully vetted (CRB, References etc)
Services must be fully insured
You should have access to regular and out of hours customer service
A key holding policy should be outlined and it always remain your choice to give cleaners access to your home when you are not around
Always check to see of cleaners checklist meets your criteria
Clean Art assures you all this and more, Contact us Today 0800 043 1504
Services must be fully insured
You should have access to regular and out of hours customer service
A key holding policy should be outlined and it always remain your choice to give cleaners access to your home when you are not around
Always check to see of cleaners checklist meets your criteria
Clean Art assures you all this and more, Contact us Today 0800 043 1504
Exploring the Benefits of having a Domestic Cleaner in London
London is one of the busiest cities in the world. The cost of living when compared to other cities are preety high and so residents are often more likely to be busy working long hours, keeping a balance on social life and family activities. Most of us know that we need a clean environment to even concentrate; but the fact is that we are often times so busy to do our own cleaning.
This contibutes to the rising demand for domestic help around the home to keep things under control. An efficient maid service can provide clients with a cleaning solution that they can really appreciate. Cleaners would go in on a regular weekly basis or forthnightly basis to clean. The areas that are covered would normally be the general household duties. Clean Art Cleaning services thrive to provide an efficient cleaning solution.
This contibutes to the rising demand for domestic help around the home to keep things under control. An efficient maid service can provide clients with a cleaning solution that they can really appreciate. Cleaners would go in on a regular weekly basis or forthnightly basis to clean. The areas that are covered would normally be the general household duties. Clean Art Cleaning services thrive to provide an efficient cleaning solution.
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