A video of a cleaner removing smoke stains from an apartment that housed a smoker for 10 years has gone viral on TikTok.
The clip was shared by Kaylee Marie Green (@aliyahsmamaxox), 31-year-old mom who lives in Tennessee. The clip has garnered 10.1 million views since it was shared on August 13.
Text overlaid on the video reads: “More from our day of removing nicotine from the apartment of a 10 year smoker.” The clip shows smoke stains being scrubbed off of what appears to be an air conditioning unit, as well as a door and a floor.
The poster told Newsweek that she was cleaning the apartment for a customer who had just moved her father out of the house. “He lived there for 10 years. It took us eight days to clean the stains and smells,” the poster said.
She said: “We used Zep [a brand of cleaning products] purple degreaser in a pump sprayer, sprayed the walls down and wiped them with a paper towel.”
A screenshot from a viral TikTok video showing a cleaner scrubbing the floor of an apartment. A screenshot from a viral TikTok video showing a cleaner scrubbing the floor of an apartment. @aliyahsmamaxox on TikTok
The viral post comes as cigarettes are reported to be the most commonly used type of tobacco product in the United States, according to a 2022 report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2022, 49.2 million U.S. adults—nearly one in five—reported current tobacco product use, the report said.
While cigarette smoking among adults has declined over the past decades, the use of e-cigarettes, also known as vapes, among adults increased from 2019 to 2022. Those aged 18 to 24 had the highest prevalence of e-cigarette usage, while those aged from 45 to 64 years old had the highest prevalence of cigarette smoking, the CDC report found.
The national health body warns that “tobacco product use remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death” in the U.S., noting that “smoking causes many diseases including cancer and cardiovascular and lung diseases.”
‘Crazy’
Viewers on TikTok were shocked by the scene of the apartment captured in the viral post.
User huccimamatay asked: “Isn’t that really dangerous?” and the original poster replied: “To live in? Yes. To clean, not if you take the proper precautions and do it right which we did.”
User @thecinnamonspide wrote: “unfortunately no amount of cleaning is going to make this sanitary and livable in my opinion.”
EleanorKerry78 said: “So this is NASTY. I’ve never smoked, never will…I’ve been friends with people who had parents that smoked and I literally couldn’t be around them without having an asthma attack. There’s no way to hide the smell of cigarettes. Sorry, there just isn’t. Perfume and air fresheners do nothing btw [by the way].”
User curte wrote: “Imagine his lungs! Why would anyone want to put toxins into their own body,” and user935794600848 agreed, saying: “Just imagine the residue on the lungs.”
User libby said: “what’s crazy is this could’ve been completely prevented if they had just stepped outside. Smoking should NOT be [allowed] inside on any property. I don’t care how old you are.”
Do you have a similar video or story to share? Let us know via life@newsweek.com and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Several years ago, at the launch of its V15 Detect Submarine, Dyson finally dipped its toe in the wet-mop game. The clever, water-filled detachable head and super scrubbing bars gave customers one device with which to vacuum and wet-mop hard floors. It was a quick, premium fix, for those people who want to bring Dyson’s signature efficacy and ease of use to the horrible chore of mopping. And now with the new Dyson WashG1, the company has ditched vacuum suction altogether and designed an all-in-one wet mop that slurps up debris and scrubs your floors.
I’ve spent the past few weeks using the Dyson WashG1 and have been impressed by the cleaner’s ability to embarrass me with just how dirty my floors had become, while also gathering up a surprising amount of pet hair and general detritus.
Photograph: Dyson
Dense Fibers
The secret to the mopping suction of the Dyson WashG1 lies in the two highly absorbent microfiber rollers that rotate counter-clockwise to each other. A pump then distributes water from the 27-ounce tank evenly across 26 pulse-modulated (read: squirty) water outlets, soaking each roller. As the rollers spin, they scrub the floor beneath, while the 64,800 filaments-per-square-centimeter of microfiber soak up spills and cling onto any bits of dust, food, pet hair, and Cheerios.
Traditional wet-and-dry vacuums have been able to suck up all manner of stuff for years, but cleaning them is often disgusting, with hair and dirt matted around wet, grubby brush bars. Here, Dyson has done a superb job separating the solids from the dirty water, making cleaning impressively simple. Fill the water tank, press Go, push around your home, and dirty water is extracted from the rollers and pumped into the dirty water tank. A nylon-bristled inner brush removes dirt and debris from the microfiber rollers, depositing it in the removable debris tray.
Photograph: Chris Haslam
It is a significant upgrade in almost every way from the Dyson Submarine.
The pull-out debris tray has a 500-micron mesh to further separate dirty water from the large debris. The result is dirty, but not gritty, water in the tank—which can be simply poured down the sink—and a tray full of dirt that can be tapped into the bin. It’s worth noting too that, once back charging on the supplied upright dock, it will automatically self-clean to be ready for the next job. Dyson recommends you manually clean the rollers after three washes, which involves running everything under the faucet.
Wait a Minute
The Dyson WashG1 cannot entirely replace the need for a traditional vacuum. Maybe if your home has only hard floors and is hermetically sealed, you might get away with it, but for most people, especially those with pets and kids, you’ll still need to vacuum or have a robot do it for you. Dyson claims it can replace your vacuum, but I’m not yet convinced. Combined with even the cheapest Dyson cordless vacuum, you’ll not get much change from $1,000.
It is great at cleaning hard surfaces though, and I was impressed by how little standing water was left after passing the rollers over the kitchen tiles. When I first tried the WashG1, the color of the water in the dirty tank was shameful. I naturally blame it on the two dogs that had stayed the previous week. I was most impressed by the cleaning performance on tiles. While it won’t bring grout back to life, the tiles were noticeably cleaner.
Let’s not Konmari our backyards. It doesn’t need to be a beautifully curated and perfect space before we settle in for the winter. No, let’s make fall gardening the relaxing activity it’s supposed to be! Here’s how to make your fall garden tasks easier to tackle when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
If you were to pop into my home, you’d see the graveyard of half-completed to-do lists. A post-it note here, a scribbled napkin there, and perhaps even the remnants of a half-finished task.
Some have most things crossed off, some just a couple. I’m busy, I’m overwhelmed, and that’s okay.
It happens to us all, and having a long list of to-dos can get very overwhelming very quickly.
When it comes to the fall garden, I always make a checklist (like this one here). There’s a lot of work that goes into putting the garden to rest while still trying to squeeze out as much of the remaining sun and warmth as possible.
Us gardeners know that spring and fall are truly the busiest gardening months, not the summer when the plants are busy doing their own thing.
While checklists and to-do lists are very helpful for some, including my past self, I’m trying a different approach this year, and I wanted to share it with you.
This post will cover…
Planting bulbs with a power planter is always something I do in the fall.
Making Fall Gardening Tasks Attainable
Rather than make a big list of things you need to do in the garden and set out a day or even a week to do them, give yourself a little grace.
My philosophy to gardening has always been to do what you can, and don’t fuss about it. Gardening should never be a stressful activity where you’re running ahead with a rake in one hand trying to get the leaves and a hose in the other spraying down your gardening pots.
You’ve got all the time in the world!
Start with five minutes a day, or ten minutes a day, or even half an hour twice a week. Whatever time you think you have to dedicate before getting stressed about everything else you need to do in your life should be the starting point.
Set the minimum time you want to spend in the garden and make it a daily ritual. Maybe skipping a rainy day or two (I won’t tell, I promise).
For instance, your first “task” might be to deal with the compost bin. On the first day, you might turn your compost and see if it’s ready. On the third day, you could empty it and put a layer down on your gardening bed. The fourth day, you could give your compost bin a rinse, and voila! You’re done.
Things begin to slow down in the fall from the busyness of summer, so you should, too!
Go With the Momentum
Getting out in the garden for just five minutes a day is a good start. Often, starting is the hardest part. But once you’ve started, you may find yourself with more momentum than you initially thought.
This is why I always tell Kiddo that the very first thing to put on a to-do list is “make a list.” Because you instantly get to check it off, and you feel so good. That rush of dopamine propels you into doing the next thing.
Prioritize Your Tasks
Some tasks you must do, like putting away your outdoor furniture and cleaning out your water feature, while some tasks you could get away with not doing, like dividing perennials or recycling plant pots.
Make sure to get to those must-dos first so you know that if you run out of time and energy for the others, it’s not the end of the world.
Work From Front to Back
If you look out at your garden and all you see are tasks and too much to do, you might need a different approach. In this case, I like to work from the back of my garden to the front, the left to the right, or vice versa. Just start with one spot and slowly work your way over until the garden is more manageable.
Enjoy your fall bloomers, like echinacea, while you’re at it.
Fall Gardening Tasks to Consider
You can definitely still make a general list, or break up larger tasks into smaller ones. However you want to do it, you’re welcome to do it.
This year, we’re coming from a place of forgiveness and peacefulness. There’s no pressure to make your yard look perfect and to get everything done before the first frost touches ground.
Below are some tasks I usually like to complete in the garden. Use them as inspiration for making your own list, but remember, you only do what you can. Your garden will be okay, regardless!
Plastic Nursery Pots
If you’re like me, you might have a small mountain of plastic nursery pots hiding away somewhere in your garden.
If they’re collected cobwebs and standing water and are overall icky and not something you want to even touch, it’s time to get rid of them. Recycle them the next garbage day in your city allows them.
Yes, it’s nice to keep a few for seed starting. But recycle what you don’t need!
Look for the recycling symbol on the bottom of your plastic nursery pots.
Clean Your Pots
For all those pots you’ve decided to keep, it’s time to give them a clean. You can give them a quick clean with the garden hose, or wash them with dish soap and a sponge for a more thorough clean (I like to do this with my terracotta).
Stack them neatly and safely, somewhere where they’re ideally covered and protected from nesting animals and the cold from potentially cracking them.
Dirty pots can have pests, bacteria, fungus, and minerals that could harm plants you plan to pot in them next year.
Container Plants
If you have plants that will be staying in their containers for the winter, AKA your perennials, you’ll want to give them some TLC. Everyone needs a helping hand to get through the winter, let’s be real!
Drain any water you might have from self-watering pots. But keep any tender plants undercover or tuck them away in the garage.
I also like to still get my creative itch out in the fall, and containers are a great way to do this. You can decorate hardy planters with fall annuals and some evergreens for some seasonal and festive gardening.
Many garden centres will have plenty of fall annuals for sale to spruce up your summer planters.
Discard Old Seeds and Bulbs
I know you look at that crusty, dusty bag of bulbs you forgot to plant and think, “Maybe I can still get them in the ground next year.”
It’s time to let go. Ditch the guilt, and compost those old bulbs and get rid of those seeds. Try again next year with some new summer bulbs or plant some spring bulbs right now!
You can always try and sow some seeds now and see what happens. You never know, you could get some beautiful flowers next spring. Or not. But it doesn’t really matter!
Clean Out the Garden Shed
I bet you there are either dried-up grass clippings, little pieces of caked mud, mouse droppings, or cobwebs hanging out in your garden shed.
Give the floor a quick sweep. If you’re feeling up to it, organize and purge as necessary.
My she-shed set-up at my old house.
Soil Prep
Your garden beds are easy peasy. I leave all the seed heads, dead foliage, and dying plants to return to the earth. Don’t worry about making everything look pristine.
The only thing I do with my garden beds is add a layer of compost. I then cover it with leaves. I’m a firm believer of leave the leaves, instead leaving them to be chopped up in the lawn mower or pushed into the gardening beds to become natural mulch and feed the soil.
Prepare Your Water Features for Winter
If you have water features in your garden, such as a pond or fountain, you will want to prepare them for winter. Otherwise, they might break or be damaged the following spring.
Now, I know I’m supposed to sanitize my pruners whenever I clip something new, but that doesn’t always happen. And there maybe a little rust on them too. Just maybe.
The end of the summer is a good time to go through your gardening tools and give them a good clean. I list out my tool care in this post if you want to check it out.
You’ll want to take the pruners apart to fully clean and sanitize them.
Move Furniture Undercover
Outdoor furniture goes through A LOT, and the winter certainly isn’t its friend. Most outdoor furniture has such a short lifespan (it’s actually quite a big pet peeve of mine), and we want to prolong its life as long as possible by tucking it away for the winter.
Before storing it for the winter, I like to make repairs to any broken pieces, wash any fabrics, and sand and stain wood (which can be a big project).
Toss what can go in the washing machine, hand wiping down all the rest with a natural cleaner.
Divide Perennials
If you’re taking a look at your garden and things are starting to look a little overgrown, it might be time to divide some of your perennials. And fall is the perfect time to do so!
Generally, you need to divide your perennials every three to five years. I have a whole post dedicated to teaching you how to divide perennials.
Plant Shrubs and Trees
What if I told you that fall is the perfect time to make design changes to the garden? Yes, I’m giving you permission to go to the garden centre and buy some new plants. And better yet, all the plants are on discount.
I have some design suggestions you can follow in this post. You want to get the perennials in the ground ideally six weeks before the first big frost to give the plants time to settle in before the winter.
Trim Hedges
I’ve already started to notice the fallen soldiers of hedge trimmings when I go for a walk in my neighbourhood. Fall is also a great time to trim your hedges. This will give them the perfect shape for all winter.
Get ready to fill your compost bin with all your trimmings.
Buy New Garden Items
I like to look on Facebook Marketplace or in free groups for second-hand items I might need, whether that’s replacing some broken tools or something that’s been on the wishlist for a while.
A lot of people don’t want to store their gardening materials for the winter, so they will give away or inexpensively sell their outdoor furniture, water features, pots, etc.
And you can be there to scoop them up!
Clean anything you get secondhand to avoid accidentally transmitting anything to your garden.
Harvest Your Food
You’ve spent all spring and summer carefully tending to your veggies, berries, herbs, and fruits, so don’t let them go to waste. See if you can dedicate a day to storing your food. This can include canning, drying, or preserving them.
If I’m strapped for time, I like to freeze what I can and save it for a day when I’m not so busy and can do something with it.
You can always share your bountiful harvest with friends, family, and neighbours.
I hope this got the juices flowing. So make a fall gardening list…or don’t! Just try to enjoy your time, because even though the days may be getting shorter ever so slowly, it’s a great time to still be out enjoying the garden.
How to Make a DIY Fruit Fly Trap with Apple Cider Vinegar
To create a easy, low-cost fruit fly trap, you’ll need a jar or bottle, some dish soap, apple cider vinegar, and plastic wrap. To make the trap, you’ll add apple cider vinegar and dish soap to a jar, wrap plastic wrap tightly around the top, and poke a few holes. The fruit flies will be attracted to the apple cider vinegar and get trapped inside the jar.
Haley is your ultimate shopping authority, dedicated to bringing you the latest deals and the best product choices for Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn. With prior experience as a full-time commerce writer for POPSUGAR, she’s passionate about helping you discover the best places to shop for top-notch products without breaking the bank. Born in Vermont and based in Boston, she has a deep-rooted love for New England and enjoys her weekends exploring the charm of the region, hopping from one (very small) state to another.
Spending hours at your computer, whether for work or play, is unavoidable for most of us. Constant use is going to take a toll on your keyboard. Dust and hair buildup is inevitable, and fallen tortilla chips and sandwich crumbs can be avoided only by the kind of discipline many of us do not possess. We’re not here to judge; we’re here to help you clean up. In this guide, we’ll highlight the supplies you might need, and run through how to clean your keyboard step by step.
Updated June 2024: We added some photos, an electric air blower, and refreshed our tips (thanks to our readers’ suggestions).
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Keyboard Cleaning Supplies
Photograph: Simon Hill
You can definitely clean your keyboard with stuff you already have in the house, so don’t feel like you have to buy special cleaning supplies. Here are some things you might consider and a few household alternatives you likely have lying around.
Brush: I have had a pop-up brush ($7) for a few years, and it’s perfect for sweeping debris out of your keyboard, but you can use any soft-bristled brush you have at home (a toothbrush or a 1.5-inch paintbrush can work).
Compressed air: A 10-ounce can of Dust-Off ($11) will last you for ages and can be very effective at blasting things loose from your keyboard.
Electric Air Blower: A good alternative to compressed air is a rechargeable electric air blower that you can use again and again. I have the KiCa Jetfan 2 ($99), which has a sliding control for upping the power and blasting everything out and a couple of attachments to concentrate the air. Battery life is surprisingly good and you can recharge via the USB-C port on the bottom. It’s pricey, but I love it. You can use it to blast dust out of anything, from keyboards and PCs to radiators and mesh chairs.
Cloth: You probably have microfiber cloths already, and any cloth will do, but I have found the fancy thin ones you use for glasses work best—pack of microfiber cloths ($10).
Cleaning slime: A tub of cleaning gel ($6) can be effective for removing dust from hard-to-reach places like a keyboard, but I don’t recommend it. Apart from general ickiness, it leaves a residue, gets dirty, and deteriorates quickly, leaving you with a slimy mess that can’t be eco-friendly.
Cotton swabs: You might have Q-Tips already, or you can snag cheap cotton swabs ($3) and use them to clean between keys. Wooden toothpicks work well for caked-on grime.
Isopropyl alcohol: Dampening your cloth or cotton swab with water will usually do the trick, but alcohol is a very effective cleaner. This Max Professional spray ($10) is easy to use.
Magic eraser: For scuff marks and stubborn dirt, magic erasers ($7) made of melamine can be amazingly effective. Sometimes regular pencil erasers can do the trick.
Keycap removal tool: If you’re really going to town and deep cleaning your mechanical keyboard, you may want a keycap removal tool ($6). (This one includes a switch puller and a pair of brushes.)
You probably won’t need most of this stuff unless your keyboard is truly filthy, so try cleaning it with what you have before springing for extras.
How to Clean Your Keyboard
It’s time to get to work. Start by turning your computer off, disconnecting your keyboard, and removing cables. Clear your desk or table and assemble your cleaning tools.
Shake, Brush, Blow, and Vac
For relatively well-kept keyboards, the following four steps might be enough:
Begin by turning your keyboard upside down and gently shaking it to see what falls out.
Use your brush to gently sweep debris loose. It works best if you tilt your keyboard one way then another, and brush down the rows.
If you have compressed air or an electric blower, use short blasts (but don’t get too close) to dislodge dirt that’s lodged in the depths. Tilt your keyboard at different angles and blow into the gaps.
If you have a small brush tool for your vacuum or a handheld vac, use it to suck up the dirt you’ve uncovered and run it gently over the keyboard.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
I have vivid memories of sitting on the floor of my childhood home watching my mom wash dishes by hand. (To this day, my parents still don’t own a dishwasher.) I never knew how she did it; my mom juggled two rowdy kids and a full-time job as an overnight nurse. How did she have the energy to not just cook dinner, but also clean a mountain of dishes every single night? That was until recently, when it finally clicked.
As I was washing some dishes by hand after dinner one night, I looked down into my sink. In it, just like my mom’s sink, was a bowl of ready-to-go, warm soapy water, complete with a sponge. Because it’s already sudsy, all you need to do is scrub your dish, then dip the sponge back in the bowl before washing your next item. My mom’s clever trick — which she’s been doing for over 40 years! — makes washing dishes so much faster and easier. You don’t need to constantly keep putting soap on a sponge or to fill up an entire sink with soapy water.
Nowadays I have a dishwasher, yet I still do the same because, between the two kids, two cats, and a full-time job, the dishwasher is often overloaded — and every little bit helps when you’re just trying to get through the day.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
My dad, like many dads, has a lot of “sayings,” cute little quips, or metaphors that he throws out whenever applicable. Some of his most oft-repeated advice has helped me live a better life. One such saying is, “Move in ever-widening circles.”
It was his method for finding parking or a location, and whenever he got lost or our family got frustrated in a busy parking lot, he’d calmly say, “I’m just going to move in ever-widening circles and I’ll find it.” When you zoom out on this advice, it might mean that you should broaden your scope when trying to solve a problem. Don’t focus so much on the small stuff, but methodically and in an orderly fashion, work through your problem from the smallest detail to the most general.
I apply this idea whenever I tidy my home. I start in the living room, and as I find things that belong in the bedrooms or office, I don’t ping-pong between the locations. I make piles while still in the living room and then put things away starting with the closest location. As I widen, I may notice other areas that need tidying, but I keep my epicenter static until the entire living room is dealt with.
Then I move to another room. For instance, I could move into my son’s room and start at the bed. Moving in ever-widening circles, I’ll toss Legos into bins and gather lone dirty socks for the hamper. Then I’ll go to the next space. This method helps me not get overwhelmed by the enormity of the task and focus on one area of the house at a time.
I can also apply “move in ever-widening circles” to finding lost objects. As an individual, I’m great at remembering where I put my things like keys or phone. But living in a home with two busy kids means objects move. If I can’t find something, I don’t look around chaotically, running from room to room. I start where the object is meant to be and look there (it’s amazing how often the obvious is overlooked).
From there, I move in ever-widening circles, looking around furniture, the floors, shelves, etc. If it’s not in that room, I move on to the next space and widen my search. This way, there’s no stone unturned and I start with the most logical place first, maintaining efficiency.
If I or someone else has lost an object and they have no idea where it should be, I start in the place we noticed it was missing and move in ever-widening circles from there. Sometimes, on a busy day, moving out in this spiral motion helps me remember that, yes, I did go from the laundry room to the living room. By reversing the spiral, I hit the location where the object resides.
I have noticed that by repeating this phrase to myself as I go, I find things much faster and stay focused on tidying. If I get to the edge of where the object might be, I spiral back to the center and then start over, making sure I make a thorough sweep. While it may seem more efficient to go directly to the various locations where an object might be or, when tidying, where it might go, this method means I thoroughly hit all the possibilities and don’t end up looking in the same place twice.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Every couple of years or so, there’s a hot new kitchen accessory on everyone’s radar. From air fryers to SMEG toasters, your countertops just can’t catch a break. But, even amid the sea of electric appliances and cooking gadgets, there’s always one constant: paper towels. Whether you spilled some OJ or some cooking oil splashed onto the burner, you need a roll within reach at all times. But this cleaning essential can be an obstruction in itself, especially if you have a small kitchen with limited counter space. If you find that your pots and pans all have a home, larger utensils aren’t in the way, and the dish rack isn’t taking up more room than it needs to, and yet you still have a lack of space, this next find is likely for you. It’ll help keep paper towels handy while also reducing some of the clutter in your cooking station. Adding to its utility, the bar on which your paper towels rest also swivels, according to some reviewers. It’ll be easier for you to grab a lot of paper towels when an unexpected mess occurs.
This stainless-steel paper towel holder from Amazon mounts directly onto the wall or underneath cabinets. You can slide your paper towel roll on and get it off your counters — for good. You technically can drill it in, but the holder comes with adhesive tape on its base. You just have to peel off the film, stick the holder onto your surface, and wait 24 hours before using it. This feature makes the holder great for rented apartments, as it won’t damage any walls. Plus, once it’s in, it’s there to stay. “NASA needs to study the adhesive they give you to mount this thing because it’s crazy strong,” one reviewer writes. “I haven’t had to use the screws.”
Plus, it’s easy on the eyes. “If you are a fan of farmhouse or industrial-style decor, this is an excellent addition to any kitchen!” one reviewer writes. You’re not just limited to the silver color; it also comes in black, gray, gold, and rose gold finishes. The stainless steel also won’t rust or sustain any water damage.
Essentially, customers appear to agree that this product works exactly as advertised and is super easy to install. And how could we not mention that it’s only $10 right now?! For clutter-free counters, it’s a small price to pay. Your paper towels will no longer have to battle for real estate with the cutting boards and spice rack.
Whether it’s the smell of freshly cleaned floors or the sight of gleaming countertops, there is no denying the pure joy of a sparkling clean house.
However, keeping your home clean is on ongoing challenge, and worrying about dirt and grime can quickly wear you down. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using professional cleaners for one-off spring cleaning, and how it can take some of the pressure off your busy life.
The stress of constant cleaning
Are you tired of spending every weekend scrubbing tiles, mopping floors, and dusting shelves? Constant cleaning can be a real pain.
As well as being time-consuming, the never-ending cycle of home cleaning can take a toll on your mental well-being. The joy of maintaining a beautiful home can turn into a dreadful chore, with the dip in enthusiasm inviting more clutter, which leads to more stress. In other words, a vicious cycle.
One way to break free from perpetual house cleaning is to use professional cleaners like The Happy House Cleaning for a one-time cleaning service. Their expertise can give you back your leisure time, allowing you to focus on things that really matter.
Benefits of one-time spring cleaning
Remember when you last arrived at a meticulously clean home after an exhausting day? How rejuvenating was it? That experience is precisely what one-time deep-cleaning services promise.
There are also health benefits that go beyond appearances. Those invisible pathogens lurking in your home are evicted with a one-time spring cleaning service, providing you with peace of mind.
A clean home also improves efficiency. Everything is right where it should be, saving you precious minutes every day.
Tackling tough house Areas
Some areas in your home can seem immune to your cleaning efforts. Despite grappling with the grime, they remain stubbornly dirty. These tough spots are what one-time cleanings are for.
Deep-cleaning service professionals have access to high-grade equipment, enabling them to clean traditionally difficult-to-clean areas effectively. Be it under your furniture, bathroom grout, or even those high shelves, all dirt is targeted and eradicated efficiently.
Additionally, these services help rid your home of accumulated dust mites and allergens that regular cleaning can’t handle effectively. You could see a significant improvement in your indoor air quality.
Professionalism in task execution
From the start of the job until until the end, one-time spring cleaning professionals are meticulous, organised and thorough. Their expertise allows them to identify problem areas and use appropriate cleaning solutions safely and effectively.
These professionals are trained to take care of delicate items and specific surfaces that might otherwise be accidentally damaged with DIY cleaning. They come equipped with the right tools and follow strict safety protocols, ensuring a risk-free cleaning experience.
Unsurprisingly, The British Institute of Cleaning Science acknowledges these one-time professional cleaning services as essential for maintaining not just hygiene, but also mental peace in homes across the UK.
Gift yourself leisure time
When you hire a one-time house cleaning service, you’re essentially buying yourself leisure time.
This isn’t merely time off from doing actual cleaning work. It’s also about taking a mental break from planning, buying supplies, and worrying about the overall task. This newfound freedom could help you to feel less stressed and more invigorated.
A clean living space can do wonders for your social life too. For example, you could plan that dinner party that you always postponed due to the effort required for pre-party tidying and post-party cleanup.
Bringing a fresh home feeling
If you’ve ever walked into a spotless room and felt that immediate surge of positivity, you know what we’re talking about here. It’s a feeling of being in a space where everything works in harmony, and there’s nothing out of place to disrupt the vibe.
Despite regular cleaning habits, stubborn dirt and grime tend to lurk around the house, diminishing the sense of freshness. You may have tried to handle it manually or even employed weekly cleaning help, but there’s something missing. This is where one-time cleaning comes into the picture.
One-time cleaning services are thorough and dedicated to achieving the highest level of cleanliness. The experts will leave no stone unturned – or rather, no corner un-vacuumed – to bring back that new home feeling.
Safe and eco-friendly practices
Safety at home is as important as cleanliness itself. Professional cleaning services can help you maintain this balance. The staff abide by stringent safety protocols to ensure no harm comes to your home or its residents during the cleaning.
Moreover, many of today’s one-time house cleaning services champion eco-friendliness by choosing green products for their toolkit. These products not only deliver excellent results but also keep you away from harmful chemicals.
Additionally, several cleaning services nowadays maintain transparency with their clients about the materials used during the procedures. They provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to assure you of the quality and safety of all products.
In summary, one-time professional cleaning is a package that can offer cleanliness, safety, and sustainability without any compromise.
Saving costs with bulk cleaning
Cleaning is an inevitable expense. Some expenses are direct, like the cost of cleaning supplies. Others may be indirect, like the power consumed by your vacuum cleaner or the water used for mopping. Over time, those costs can add up.
A one-time deep cleaning service could very well be your secret weapon against these unnecessary expenses. This bulk cleaning approach handles everything in one go, saving you both time and resources. Moreover, because professionals use efficient tools and economical methods, they often end up conserving more resources than DIY cleaning ever could.
Last but not least, investing in a one-time clean-up means investing in your home’s long-term health. By nipping potential issues like pests and structural damage in the bud, you could prevent sizeable repair costs down the line.
Why trust Happy House Cleaning?
All this talk about professional cleaning certainly sounds appealing, but where do you find reliable professionals? Here’s where Happy House Cleaning enters the picture.
Happy House Cleaning is a team of trained experts committed to delivering a flawless deep-cleaning experience. Their technology-backed solutions ensure every inch of your house receives the care it needs. And they do all this while staying eco-friendly.
This company believes in creating happy homes by liberating them from dust, dirt, and melancholy. Their detailed approach to cleaning ensures not just surface-level sparkle, but also deep-level sanitisation.
The growth of Happy House Cleaning’s satisfied customer base is evidence of their success. Accompanying their impeccable results are trustworthy service and customer support that respects your time and preferences.
Booking your Happy House Cleaning
Booking with Happy House Cleaning is easy and hassle-free. You can log on to their website or place a call directly to schedule an appointment. Choose from their array of plans tailored to different house sizes and specific cleaning requirements.
The company believes in being upfront about its pricing, so there are no hidden fees or last-minute surprise charges. Once you’ve confirmed your booking, you can sit back and let the professionals take over.
In conclusion
Achieving a clean home and peace of mind has definitely been made easier with the advent of one-time cleaning services like Happy House Cleaning.
These services allow you to enjoy a dirt-free environment without impacting on your leisure time. With today’s hectic pace of life, that makes them an investment in your home that could pay back in many positive ways.
There’s also only one roller head on the Submarine, but it already has a debris tray you can no-touch rinse and empty. It’s also easy to take apart the Submarine head to rinse it and let it air dry at my laundry room sink. After six months of use, the roller head still doesn’t smell. If you’re wondering why Dyson is releasing a new wet floor cleaner when the Submarine just came out, you’re not the only one. The WashG1 doesn’t clean with suction and doesn’t have a separate dustbin.
In a briefing, a reporter asked whether one can use the WashG1 to handle common household messes, like broken glass. Dyson representatives suggested first sweeping or vacuuming the shards separately—a two-step process that seems to defeat the purpose of an all-in-one floor cleaner. This holds especially true in a market crowded with competitors like the much more affordable Bissell CrossWave OmniForce ($380) I’m currently testing.
Dyson’s killer app, so to speak, has long been its ability to move air in new, beautiful, and sometimes frighteningly forceful ways, whether that’s in a high-end air purifier, in a vacuum, or a hair styler that spins the strands of your hair up and around a hot barrel for effortless curls. However, despite reporting consistent revenue increases, the company has had a few pretty notable flops in the past few years.
The Zone, Dyson’s venture into high-end audio, was kind of silly. There is still no sign of the new battery technology that prompted the construction of a new facility in Singapore. The company must still be searching for new robotics and software developers to hire because our reviewer found the new Vis Nav robot vacuum’s ability to make its way around table legs lackluster.
Still, with a few notable exceptions, we have all underestimated the allure and the efficacy of Dyson’s premium designs at one time or another, and home cleaning is one of Dyson’s core strengths. Am I a little skeptical? Yes. Am I still going to test it eagerly? Also, yes.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
If you have an ever-growing collection of candles accumulating in your home, you’re not alone. With so many scents for different seasons, occasions, and moods, there’s always some extra temptation to add another one to your collection when you get a whiff of a new smell. Not to mention, there’s something so cozy about candlelight illuminating your space.
But when all the wax has melted and the candle has reached the end of the wick, removing that extra wax can be a challenge — especially because you can’t throw glass in the recycling bin with residue on it. Plus, there are so many smart ways to upcycle glass jars in order to avoid any waste. So I spoke to Katie Berry, the cleaning expert behind Housewife How-Tos, to learn the best way to clean out a candle jar. Here’s what she had to say.
How to Remove Wax from a Candle Jar Using the Freezer
The first method requires you to freeze your candle for an hour at minimum, but you can also leave it in there overnight. “The freezer method is great for softer waxes like soy and for wide-mouthed jar candles,” explains Berry. According to the pro, here’s what you need to do.
3. Pull out the remaining wax. The wax should easily pop out without much effort at all, although you may need to use a butter knife to get it started.
4. Use a paper towel and rubbing alcohol to remove any stubborn wax bits.
5. Wash in hot, soapy water or run it through the dishwasher.
6. What’s left of the wick should come off easily.
7. Reuse your jar however you please!
For paraffin candles or jars with more narrow openings, Berry suggests using another strategy: the boiling water method. If you’re opting for this method, Berry suggests taking the following steps:
How to Remove Wax from a Candle Jar Using Hot Water
2. Place the jar on an oven pad or folded towel.
3. Slowly add boiling water to the jar.
4. Use a slotted spoon or fork to scoop off the wax rising to the top.
5.Pour the remaining water in the jar through a fine mesh sieve or coffee filter to remove tiny wax bits.
6. When the jar’s cool enough to handle, wipe the inside with a soapy rag to remove any remaining wax.
7. Run it through the dishwasher or wash in hot, soapy water before use. Then, follow the last two steps of the first method.
Once your candle jar is spotless, there are endless ways you can upcycle the vessel. Depending on its size, you can fill the jar with water to use as a makeshift flower vase, or fill with faux greenery for a DIY centerpiece. You can also use them to store kitchen essentials like utensils, small cooking tools, or pencils for jotting down your grocery list.
However, if you’re looking to use your cleaned out candle jars for food, whether that’s concocting overnight oats, storing homemade salad dressings, or using as a glass for drinking water, make sure the jar is made of food-safe glass.
“If you want to reuse one with a lid for food storage, wash the lid thoroughly then make sure it still fits on the jar tightly,” says Berry. “Fill it with water, add the lid, and check for leaks, but if it’s stained or still has a scent after washing, I wouldn’t use it for that. They’re great for holding toiletries, hair ties, or to stash your makeup brushes in, though.”
The upcycling possibilities are truly endless. And while you’re not only giving yourself the extra storage (without any extra cost), you’re also helping the planet by keeping unnecessary waste out of landfills.
Maintaining the pristine condition of fabric sofas and chairs is an ongoing challenge for homeowners. In a busy home, accidental spills and the occasional stain are pretty much inevitable. The key to preserving the looks and longevity of your upholstered furniture lies not in preventing every accident, but in mastering the art of stain removal.
This guide to dealing with stains on fabric sofas and chairs will help you keep your soft furnishings looking great, and could even extend their lifespan.
Understanding your fabric’s cleaning code
Before embarking on any stain removal, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with your furniture’s fabric cleaning code.
This code is typically found on the care label, and is your key to selecting the right cleaning solution without causing damage. There are four primary codes to look out for:
W: Signifies that water-based cleaners are safe to use.
S: Indicates the need for solvent-based cleaners.
S/W: Suggests that either solvent-based or water-based cleaners can be used, depending on the stain type.
X: Advises against any wet cleaning, recommending brushing or vacuuming only.
Identifying and adhering to these codes ensures the correct treatment for your upholstered items, preventing potential damage from inappropriate cleaning methods. For stains that prove challenging or for items marked with an ‘X,’ considering a professional sofa cleaning service London might be the best course of action to ensure your furniture receives the care it deserves without risking damage.
Immediate action for fresh stains
When a spill occurs on your fabric sofa or chair, it’s important to act quickly.
The first step is to blot the stain gently with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel, absorbing as much of the spill as possible. It’s critical to avoid rubbing the stain, as this can work the spill deeper into the fabric fibres, making it more challenging to remove. By blotting, you’re not only preventing the stain from setting, but also minimising the risk of spreading the spill further.
This initial response can significantly enhance the effectiveness of any subsequent cleaning efforts.
DIY solutions for common stains
For general stains, a homemade solution comprising baking soda, washing-up liquid, white vinegar, and warm water can work wonders. This mixture leverages the cleaning power of these common household items to break down and lift a variety of stains from fabric surfaces. Simply mix these ingredients to create a frothy solution, apply it directly to the stain, and after letting it sit for a few minutes, wipe away with a clean cloth to reveal a cleaner surface.
In the case of ink stains, which can be particularly stubborn, applying rubbing alcohol to the area with a white cloth can be effective. The alcohol acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve the ink and making it easier to blot away. It’s important to use gentle pressure and work in circular motions to cover the entire stained area without spreading the stain further.
These DIY solutions provide a first line of defence against common stains, using readily available products to restore the look of your furniture.
Commercial stain removers: when to use them
At times, the stubbornness of certain stains like coffee, wine, or grass may be too much for a homemade stain remover. This is where commercial stain removers may be a good option. Such products often incorporate enzymes or bleaching agents tailored for tough stains, offering a more targeted approach.
The golden rule before using commercial stain removers on your cherished furniture is to perform a discreet spot test. You need to make sure the selected product does not harm the fabric before you go ahead.
Special techniques for difficult stains
For more persistent or older stains, a combination of baking soda and dry carpet cleaner can be a formidable ally. This duo is particularly adept at neutralising odours and lifting stubborn stains from fabric sofas and chairs. Sprinkle onto the stain, leave it for around 20 minutes, then vacuum.
For permanent marker stains, the solution might be as close as your bathroom cabinet. Toothpaste, especially when applied with care and a bit of elbow grease, can lift these daunting stains. The mild abrasives in toothpaste gently work against the stain, helping to erase the marks without leaving a trace on the fabric itself.
Professional help: knowing when to call in experts
Despite your best efforts, there are times when DIY methods simply don’t cut it. This is particularly true for delicate fabrics that demand a gentle touch, or stains that have settled into the fibres of your furniture. Recognising when to call in professional cleaning services is key.
Professionals possess the expertise, equipment, and specialised cleaning solutions that are often beyond the reach of household remedies. Whether it’s an heirloom chair or a cherished sofa, entrusting these pieces to experts can ensure they are restored without the risk of damage. In situations where the fabric bears an “X” cleaning code, or when faced with a stain that has resisted all attempts at removal, seeking professional assistance is often the best option.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of fabric furniture maintenance requires a blend of knowledge, prompt action, and sometimes, the wisdom to call in the professionals. Understanding your furniture’s fabric cleaning code lays the foundation for effective care, guiding you to the right cleaning methods. The importance of acting swiftly on spills cannot be overstated, as it significantly increases the chances of stain removal. Equipping yourself with a variety of DIY and commercial solutions will prepare you for most eventualities. However, regular maintenance is the best strategy to keep your furniture looking its best. And when faced with a challenge that exceeds your capabilities, recognising the value of professional cleaning services can save you not just time and effort, but also safeguard the beauty and longevity of your furniture.
You may cringe each time you wring out your dirty, old kitchen sponge, thinking you should replace it. And often, you then forget. But you really should swap it out for a new one – and probably more often than you might think.
At least once a week is the minimum that some health experts generally recommend for replacing sponges. Other recommendations call for cleaning your sponge between each use – even for using a new sponge each day.
Here’s why: Sponges provide the perfect environment for bacteria growth because the smaller chambers appeal to microbes that prefer secluded spaces, and the larger wells cater to bacteria that need each other to survive, according to a 2022 study published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology. These researchers recommended people regularly replace sponges and find ways of sanitizing them in between.
Researchers from a 2017 study found kitchen sponges to be among the most dirty household items, right there with door knobs and toilets. They discovered more than 360 kinds of bacteria – even E. coli and Salmonella – on kitchen sponges, concluding that people should replace them once a week.
Another study in 2022 determined that it didn’t really matter how people cleaned their sponges or how often. The researchers concluded that kitchen sponges harbored more bacteria than kitchen brushes because the brushes dried out more quickly.
Experts at the University of Rochester Medical Center even recommend tossing out sponges altogether. Instead, they suggest using a clean dishcloth every day, wringing it out and drying it after each use, and then running it through the washing machine.
If you still can’t part with your sponge, a comparison from 2017 concluded that polyurethane sponges had “several advantages over use of cellulose sponges in reducing exposure to enteric bacteria in the kitchen.” But sometimes it’s hard to distinguish between the two when shopping for sponges online, because not all brands list their contents.
However, Jennifer Quinlan, a professor with Drexel University’s Nutrition Sciences Department, told NPR after the much-cited 2017 study came out, that perhaps a more measured approach to sponge use was appropriate: keep sponges away from raw meat and poultry and using paper towels instead, frequently clean sponges, and replace them on a regular basis.
How to sanitize a kitchen sponge
For those who want to hang onto their sponges, here are some sanitizing tips to keep them as bacteria-free as possible:
• Good Housekeepingrecommends mixing 3/4 cup of bleach in one gallon of water. Soak the sponge in the mixture for five minutes, then rinse. The magazine alsosuggestszapping your sponge in the microwave. Make sure it’s saturated with water, then heat it on high for one minute. Remember not to put sponges containing metal in the microwave.
• Marthasterwart.comsays to fully submerge and soak your sponge in a bowl of white vinegar for 5 to 7 minutes. Then rinse it in hot water, wring it out and let it air dry.
• Forbesexplains that you can put a sponge in 2 cups of boiling water for five minutes. Let it cool in the water, and then wring it out and let it air dry.
• Better Housekeeping says to place your sponge in the top rack of the dishwasher, running it on the hottest, most-extended cycle available.
Getting ready to welcome your baby into the world can be stressful, as you naturally want everything to be perfect. It’s a busy time, but it’s definitely worth deep cleaning your house and getting it in order before you bring your newborn home.
Here’s a quick guide to help keep you on track and prepare your home for the new arrival.
Declutter your house
You’ve probably got things in your house that you don’t need or use any more. Now is the time to organise and declutter your living space; doing it before your baby’s arrival will create a clean and safe home for them.
Before you start to declutter, try making a checklist of the messiest rooms in your home. This will ensure you don’t miss anything and focus on the biggest wins. A great tip is to get rid of bigger items first, such as furniture, and then move onto smaller items.
Once you’ve cleared out unnecessary items, organise your belongings in designated areas. Baskets and storage furniture are great for keeping everything tidy and easy to find.
Get rid of cobwebs and dust
Even if they are not always visible, cobwebs are commonly present in the corners of ceilings. You probably don’t pay much attention to the tops of your furniture, so you might find a layer of dust on there too.
To get rid of cobwebs easily, use a long-handled duster or a vacuum attachment to reach the corners of the ceiling. Make this a regular step in your cleaning routine to prevent their reappearance.
When it comes to the dust collected on furniture, this can require a bit more effort, especially in kitchens where grease may be involved. Start by wiping excess dust away with a clean cloth, then use warm water and your usual cleaning product to remove the rest of the dirt.
Deep clean fabrics
A deep clean of the fabrics in your house includes your sofa, curtains and carpet.
Fabric items can contain lots of dust and dirt collected over time that isn’t always visible at first sight. You might want to consider asking for professional help for your sofa cleaning to remove germs and bacteria that could be dangerous for your newborn. Carpets are also a hard job when it comes to deep cleaning, so it’s a safe choice to leave this to professional cleaners as well. You can still contribute to the cleaning process by choosing to wash curtains yourself.
Clean the furniture
Your cabinets can quickly become greasy and dirty, especially in the kitchen. To prevent germs, they need to be cleaned regularly.
You can create your own cleaning product using warm water and a liquid soap or vinegar. You can also buy a wide range of safe cleaning products designed for specific materials like wood to prevent any damage.
For regular cleaning, when you don’t have much time to dedicate to this step, consider furniture wipes to make the job easier and quicker.
Vacuum and mop floors
To ensure a proper clean of your flooring, you need to move the furniture and prioritise the areas you usually don’t have easy access to. You may be surprised by the dirt under your cabinetry and sofa, for example.
Vacuuming and mopping are both essential steps to integrate into your cleaning routine. Your flooring represents a trafficked area of your house, and it’s easy to bring germs inside any time you enter while wearing outside shoes. This is particularly important when your baby starts to crawl.
Sanitise your baby’s nursery
Your baby’s nursery will be a place where both you and your baby spend a lot of time, so it needs proper cleaning. Make sure you avoid any substance that contains toxic chemicals and conduct some research on baby-safe options.
After a deep clean of flooring, furniture and walls, you need to sanitise using non-toxic substances that are still powerful enough to eliminate germs and bacteria from your newborn’s room. It’s also a good idea to implement a no-shoe rule to keep contamination to a minimum.
The bottom line
Getting your home ready for your new baby can feel like an endless process, but if you get organised with the cleaning it can feel less daunting. Remember that you can always ask friends and family for help, or even contact professionals to make sure your house is spotless before your newborn’s arrival. By making a plan and asking for help when you need it, you’ll be all set and ready to welcome your baby into a lovely home.
Spring is just around the corner, and for many of us that brings the urge for a fresh start in our homes. Months of indoor living, darker days, and the chaos of Christmas can all take their toll on your home, and you might feel like it’s time for a good old spring clean.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to get your home looking ship-shape for spring. There are lots of budget-friendly ways to revamp your interior space and give it a new lease of life.
How to spring clean and declutter your bedroom on a budget
In this article, we’re going to focus on low-cost ways to give your bedroom a spring refresh, using products from the Very home range.
Here are some of our favourite products and top tips to help you spruce up your bedroom without breaking the bank.
Clear the clutter
First on the list for any room revamp is a declutter. Not only will this make your bedroom feel bigger and a nicer place to be, it will also make it easier to keep things tidy going forward.
Start by dealing with any items that are currently lying around without a home, then move onto the contents of wardrobes, drawers, and cupboards. Sort items into the following categories:
Keep: find somewhere to store everything on this list.
Donate / Recycle: Move these items onto the charity shop or recycling centre as soon as possible.
Sell: Make a plan to get these items listed for sale, and stick to it!
Storage boxes and baskets are incredibly helpful with this job. Your can use them to organise your cupboards and wardrobe, or to keep those ‘Donate’ and ‘Sell’ piles tidy until they move on. The Cotton/Seagrass Storage Baskets from Very that we’ve used will get everything under control, and have sturdy handles to make transporting them easy.
We’ve also used the Set of 2 Round Baskets to neatly store extra blankets and cushions when not in use on the bed.
Banish the dirt
Once you’ve dealt with the clutter, it’s time to give your bedroom a good clean.
A powerful Shark vacuum cleaner will make this job so much quicker and easier. The Shark Stratos Upright NZ860UKT tackles carpets and hard floors with ease, while the portable mode and accessories make cleaning tricky crevices, upholstery, and under furniture a breeze. We love the Anti Hair Wrap Plus technology too; it’s a lifesaver in bedrooms where hair styling is a regular occurrence.
Bring in the light
Making the most of the natural light in a room will always make it feel bigger and brighter. Here are some easy ways to maximise light in a bedroom:
Clean windows & mirrors
You’ll be amazed by the difference this simple cleaning job makes! Clearing dust and dirt from windows and mirrors allows the maximum amount of natural light into the room. It will make the whole space look smarter too.
Use mirrors strategically
Mirrors are your secret weapon when it comes to creating the illusion of space and light in a bedroom. When placed in the right location they will bounce light into dark areas and make the room feel more airy.
Introduce light coloured bedding
Using a light colour palette is a tried and tested way to make a room feel brighter and more spacious. You don’t have to blow the budget on re-decorating or changing major items like carpet and furniture; instead, consider switching to a lighter shade of bedding. Your bedding covers a sizeable area in the room, so changing it can have a big impact.
Finish your bedroom refresh with a few new accessories to set the mood and create a welcoming ambience.
Cushions and throws are always a good option for a bedroom revamp on a budget. You can use them to introduce a pop of colour like we’ve done with the Bianca Cushion, or go for a crisp white like our Diamond Tufted Cushion.
Plants are another fantastic finishing touch in a bedroom. Use them to add colour, texture and a touch of nature to your space. As well as looking lovely, plants can also improve air quality and help you sleep better. What’s not to love?!
As you can see, there are lots of cost-effective ways to refresh and declutter your bedroom in time for spring. With just a few simple changes, you can welcome the new season and take your bedroom from cluttered and uninspiring to chic and relaxing without going over budget.
Very supplied us with the products used in this feature for review purposes. All comments and opinions are honest and based on our experience of using the products.
There comes a day when you glance at your bathroom cabinet or vanity and realize that you have an overwhelming amount of skin-care products. And trust us, we understand completely – our own cabinets are brimming with buzzy new serums, moisturizers, and face masks. But a little bit of spring cleaning could bring new life to your beauty routine.
Ready to embrace minimalism? Start by following these tips from dermatologists and an aesthetician for stripping your skin-care regimen down to its basics and using your products to the last drop – before they gather dust on your shelf.
Skin-Care Decluttering Tip 1: Assess What Your Skin Needs
According to Edyta Jarosz, a licensed aesthetician at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City, the first step in decluttering your skin-care collection is deciding which products are keepers. “Assess what your skin needs and what you want to achieve with your skin-care routine. Consider your skin type, concerns, and any specific issues you want to address,” Jarosz tells PS.
According to cosmetic surgeon and board-certified dermatologist Bertha Baum, DO, your skin-care capsule wardrobe should always include three core products: “No matter what type of skin you have, you should always have a basic cleanser, a quality moisturizer, and sunscreen as part of your skin-care regimen.”
Beyond that, keep the products that best suit your skin or your most persistent needs (such as acne or fine lines), and consider tossing the rest.
Skin-Care Decluttering Tip 2: Check the Expiration Dates
“Skin-care products have a shelf life, and using expired products can be ineffective or even harmful to your skin,” Jarosz says. “Dispose of any products that are past their expiration date.”
Some products’ expiration dates are on their outer packaging, which gets trashed as soon as you get home from Sephora. So aesthetician Elizabeth Grace Hand, the founder of Ställe Studios, says she writes the date she starts using a new product right on the label with a Sharpie. “This way, I know when something has been open for too long and should be replaced,” she says.
The expiration date is particularly important for natural products, which tend to be formulated without preservatives and thus expire quicker, Hand says.
Skin-Care Decluttering Tip 3: Try the Rule of Threes
Feeling like all your products spark joy? Hand limits herself to three products per category: three cleansers, serums, moisturizers, SPFs, exfoliants, lip products, toners, acne treatments, and masks. “Practically, I save space in my bathroom, and I’m also hyper-focused and ruthless about what products I keep as one of the three.”
Skin-Care Decluttering Tip 4: Store Everything Properly
Dr. Baum emphasizes that storing skin-care products properly is essential for maintaining their efficacy, which will help you get the most of your product. (Be honest: how many half-full but neglected products are sitting on your vanity right now?) “Store your products in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight,” she says.
Dr. Baum recommends avoiding storage in humid environments to prevent bacterial growth and emphasizes the importance of keeping product lids tightly closed to prevent air from getting inside.
“It’s essential to seal containers tightly, refrain from using dirty fingers to apply products to your skin, and avoid diluting products with water, as these practices can potentially contaminate your skin-care products,” adds Elizabeth Callahan, MD, a dermatologist at SkinSmart Dermatology in Sarasota, FL.
Skin-Care Decluttering Tip 5: Play Favorites
Now’s the time for a little tough love. Dr. Baum recommends you identify a brand or specific products that suit your needs and use them consistently. “But this bottle is so pretty” is not a good enough reason to keep it sitting on your shelf if you’re not using it on a regular basis. Happy decluttering!
