Types of Carpet Cleaning Equipment

Carpet cleaning equipment doesn't just include the heavy machines that help you get the job done; it includes everything in the carpet cleaning industry, commercially and residentially. This includes equipment that is portable like a steam carpet cleaner or something that isn't so easy to move around like truck mounted cleaning equipment. Portable needless to say is more relevant to home usage while truck mounted gear is suited more for industrial sized jobs. This equipment is too massive and resides in a truck or van or some other mobile transport.

Truck mounted carpet cleaning equipment has long hoses that can penetrate deep into a business from the truck that houses the cleaning machine. The truck itself acts like a generator to power the equipment. It's a heavy duty no joke type of equipment that can be very dangerous to use for someone who doesn't know what they are doing as it uses pounds per square inch in water pressure to clean carpets and floors.

The residential equipment uses heat and water to break up the stains. It's a steam carpet cleaner of sorts. The brushes agitate the stain and then the cleaning machine blasts the carpet with hot water to break up the stain and the heat dries the carpet afterwards. It's not for heavy industrial use and is more appropriate for light stains associated with home spills. A downside of this type of equipment is that the heat isn't sufficient to thoroughly dry the carpet so it may take a few days to dry. This can create mold issues.

With portable equipment it can still be heavy enough that it can take a truck or van to deliver it but is often self-propelled. This kind of portable carpet cleaning equipment is used exclusively in industrial settings, mostly by janitors or a professional carpet cleaning company.

Autor: Peter Flaherty

If you are interested in learning more about carpet cleaning equipment or perhaps are interested in a particular piece of cleaning equipment like a carpet shampooer just follow the links provided and you will find all the information you need.

Added: September 29, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Interested in Carpet Cleaning Machines?

Carpet cleaning machines fall into several categories of cleaning equipment. You cannot avoid cleaning your carpet but the level of cleaning it needs may vary. That's why we're going to discuss a few options in carpet cleaning machines. These include vacuum cleaners, carpet shampooers, carpet steam cleaning machines and dry carpet cleaning machines. You can either purchase the appropriate machine or rent them. It depends on how often you need a particular cleaning option.

A vacuum cleaner is the most common type of carpet cleaning machine. Almost every home in the country has one. They are perfect for simple dirt removal tasks on every carpet and home furnishing. Almost every one of them has a hose and nozzle for cleaning the crevices of sofas and chairs. They come in upright portable models that easily push across your carpet or as versatile handhelds for easy maneuverability. These are best used for weekly cleaning.

Carpet shampooers are not so much home carpet cleaning machines as they have been professionally employed however there are inexpensive home models that are becoming more and more popular with new home owners. These work great for deep stains that can't be lifted out with a vacuum cleaner. They dispense a cleaning solution via a hose that runs from a tank to the brushes. The brushes then rotate at a hundred revolutions per minute to really work out the stain. After some drying time you vacuum up behind it to get any residual dirt.

Steam cleaning machines are similar to carpet shampooers in that they use a cleaning solution but it is converted to steam before it hits the carpet. It has rotating brushes that work the stains and a suction hose that removes the broken up dirt. Along with that feature is a heater that follows up to dry the carpet. The best thing about it is it doesn't make any noise.

Dry cleaning machines are the least efficient way to clean your carpet as they utilize a vacuum first then a pre-cleaner for the stain, and then you brush the area with the dry carpet cleaning machine. It's a lot of work that most people just aren't willing to put the effort into. The type of cleaning you need done will be the determining factor to your purchase but these are your best options.

Autor: Peter Flaherty

If you are interested in learning more about carpet cleaning machines or perhaps are interested in other types of carpet cleaning equipment just follow the links provided and you will find all the information you need.

Added: September 28, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Options in A Carpet Shampooer

You no longer have to depend on a professional to shampoo your carpet. Today you can purchase your own carpet shampooer. They look like your standard upright vacuum cleaner but some are handheld. They aren't cheap but that's okay, because you can even rent the equipment you need. However, buying one yourself will save you money in the long run. When you need to get out deep rooted stains a vacuum will not get the job done. You need a carpet shampooer.

They come with many features so take some time to explore your options. Most will have a large tank on the back that holds the cleaning detergent. But there are many types of hoses and brushes that can be switched out for specific needs. The brushes often rotate in opposite directions for maximum cleaning power and the oscillations are high speed for maximum effectiveness. This works the cleaning solution well into the carpet to pull out the stains.

It only takes a few hours to complete a full carpet shampooing, which is mostly dry time. The shampoo should build to a heady foam without soaking the carpet. It may leave some residue behind so getting the right level of foam on the carpet is crucial to avoid further staining. Once dry you can simply vacuum up the remaining dirt.

Some of the features of the more expensive models include heaters that dry the carpet after you have shampooed it. Some have the ability to preprogram the shampooing action for tougher stains. Then there are an assortment of brushes that can help with cleaning upholstery, sofas cushions and areas rugs. Whatever style of carpet shampooer you choose you can be assured your carpet will always look like new after each use.

Autor: Peter Flaherty

If you are interested in learning more about a carpet shampooer or perhaps you are interested in other types of carpet cleaning machines just follow the links provided and you will find all the information you need.

Added: September 27, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Right Ways of Preventing Mold

Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that can attack any home at any time. All it needs is a little moisture and some good stuff to eat. Mold's favorite foods in the home environment are paper and wood. Given those conditions, bathrooms are prime breeding grounds for mold because they're frequently loaded with moist air - from showering and bathing - and they're most likely covered in paper - from the paper facing on drywall.

So, the first step in preventing mold in the bathroom is to install a ventilation system to rid the space of excess moisture. Modern building codes require vent fans in all bathrooms, although some may make an exception for rooms that have operable windows for passive ventilation. If you have an older bathroom with windows, you should still include a vent fan because windows are less effective at capturing and evacuating water vapor, and windows don't ventilate at all when they're shut tight during the winter.

The next step for keeping mold out of your bathroom is to take away its sources of food. Drywall is a great building material and can be very green if it's made with recycled content, but in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, today's green builders are increasingly switching to mold-resistant versions of drywall as a preventive measure against mold.

Mold-resistant drywall has become widely available in different forms from several leading drywall manufacturers. It's important to note that "mold-resistant" does not mean "mold-proof". Mold can grow almost anywhere given the right conditions. But by treating or eliminating paper, mold-resistant wallboards make your walls and ceilings much less inviting places for mold to reside.

If mold hasn't been a problem in your bathroom and you're not remodeling, it probably doesn't make sense to tear out all the old drywall and replace it with mold-resistant panels. Standard drywall won't promote mold growth unless there's too much moisture to begin with and the panels don't get a chance to dry out. But if you're planning a remodel that involves some surface changes, it's well worth the minor additional expense of using a mold-resistant product. Mold-resistant drywall typically installs and finishes just like standard drywall panels. Just be sure to check with the panel manufacturer for recommendations for taping and finishing materials.

Autor: Ky Cheah

Cheah has been writing articles online for quite sometimes. His newest interest is in kitchen/bathroom renovation. Please visit his latest website that discusses kitchen/bathroom renovation products such as Bathroom Floor Tile and Vinyl Floor Tile that most of the house will need it during renovation.

Added: September 25, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Celebrity Closet Inspiration

Looking at celebrity closets is a great way to get storage and display ideas for your own walk-in. Closets are getting so big that a lot of people are actually turning bedrooms in their homes into luxury changing areas with boutique style settings. They are reserving their actual closets for storing out of season clothing, sports equipment and linens.

If you don't have an entire room to dedicate to becoming a closet, consider redesigning an existing walk-in or utilizing a corner or wall of your room to becoming a clothing and shoe storage showcase. You can use a room divider or hang a curtain to hide the wardrobe area, or you can make it beautiful enough to show off.

If you dedicate a wall to becoming a closet, of sorts, then you can really let your imagination run wild. Check out images of celebrity closets online and take note of the features that you like best. For example, if you have a lot of shoes, you may want to install slanted shelves that showcase your collection. If not, you might opt for a low-profile "box" that hides inconspicuously below your hanging clothes. You can have a hinged lid that opens and closes, while the box spans the length of your closet design. Shoes and other items can be kept out of sight, but easily found when you need them.

One way to make your closet design interesting is to break it up. Instead of simply having a row of drawers, a hanging bar and then a row of shelves, try to make it more staggered. Have two shelves with three drawers underneath. Then on the other side, you can install a deeper drawer with a laundry cabinet underneath.

You can make your designs more upscale by adding marble or granite countertop pieces above your drawers or shelves. You can use these countertops for jewelry boxes, make-up stations or simply for art or photo display. Another idea, as seen in Paula Abdul's closet, is to buy retail sunglasses display to keep your sunglasses displayed for easy organization. If you don't have a lot of sunglasses, you can use retail displays to organize hand bags, scarves, ties, belts, jewelry or any other item that you have a lot of.

You can also use celebrity closets to get ideas for a theme. Do you like the rustic look? The old English style? Or do you prefer a more modern, sleek look? Add personal touches like interesting hardware, pegs, hooks and organizers. For a more classic look, finish it out with crown moulding around the ceiling and floor. Use cedar hangers or wood hangers to add that extra bit of class. For a sleek, minimalist look, you can use nickel or chrome bars and pulls, metal hangers or chrome hangers and a sleek design.

Autor: Ellen Hamm Ellen Hamm
Level: Basic PLUS
About the Author: Ellen Hamm is on the staff of Everything Hangers, a leading online resource for metal hangers and cedar hangers....

About the Author: Ellen Hamm is on the staff of Everything Hangers, a leading online resource for metal hangers and cedar hangers. Find the highest quality metal hanger or cedar hanger at http://www.everythinghangers.com

Added: September 24, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Professional Clothing Care Tips

Caring for fine fabrics can be a bit of a science. You should always follow the care instructions on the label of the garment that you wish to clean or press. If there is no label, then you can use these general guidelines for ironing and cleaning your clothing with professional results. Use these rules as a guide only and don't take any chances on your favorite garments. Saving a couple of bucks and ruining your clothing is not a good trade-off. Remember, when in doubt, shell it out.

Wool is a natural fiber that is prone to mildew and infestation, so it does require special care. However, wool is very resistant to soils and stains. If you have a wool suit, simply brush it before and after it is worn to remove any moth larvae that may have found their way to it. Store wool in a cool dry place and use cedar to keep moisture and insects at bay. Use a steamer or an iron on a low setting with steam to remove wrinkles and freshen up the garment. Remember, heat shrinks wool.

If you shrink natural wool, you can restore its shape and size by washing it in a volumizing shampoo. Volumizing shampoo is generally free of conditioners and other additives that can build up on clothes. Shampoo is very gentle but surprisingly effective at removing stains. Do not put shampoo in your washing machine or you will regret it!

To starch or not to starch? Starch stiffens fabric and makes it resistant to stains. Some people really prefer the look of a starched and pressed shirt. An interesting thing to note about starch is that it actually wears out fabrics a lot faster. The starch crystals extend out when heated and dried. This creates a microscopic mesh of crystalline fibers that pierce and fray the strings of the fabric. So, clothing will initially look better, but will wear out sooner.

The main thing to remember when you decide to press something without following the manufacturer's directions is that most garments are made of many different materials. Linings, interfacings, shoulder inserts and zippers can all be made out of different fabrics. This is the main reason that many dress and professional attire pieces are dry clean only. Most fabrics wrinkle and shrink at different rates and temperatures in the wash. Some interfacings are actually glued in place and water will release the glue causing irreversible damage to the garment.

When your clothes are steamed, pressed, cleaned and ready to go, hang them on hangers that compliment their shape. Pants need a round bar to hang on so that they don't get a wrinkle across the knee. Crisp shirts hang best on metal hangers that fit directly on the seams of the shoulders. Taking care of your wardrobe can save you money and frustration. Just be careful and remember, when it doubt, shell it out.

Autor: Ellen Hamm Ellen Hamm
Level: Basic PLUS
About the Author: Ellen Hamm is on the staff of Everything Hangers, a leading online resource for metal hangers and cedar hangers....

About the Author: Ellen Hamm is on the staff of Everything Hangers, a leading online resource for metal hangers and cedar hangers. Find the highest quality metal hanger or cedar hanger at http://www.everythinghangers.com

Added: September 22, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Spring Cleaning to Do List

Spring cleaning comes at least once a year. Some people clean out after each season, but that depends on a person. When cleaning out your old stuff, there are always things to consider. Here is a spring cleaning to do list to help you decide what to do. These are not always necessary each time you clean out, but it is a good guide for you and for people that are thinking of cleaning.

1. Out with old. This does not mean that because it is old you should throw it out. It does mean look at what you have and if you are not using it and will not use it, it should probably go. There are ways to recycle and get rid of old items that will limit what goes into a landfill. Recycle centers, groups like freecycle, donation centers like Goodwill or the Salvation Army all exist as ways to get rid of items that other people could use. If you have time, you could always have a yard sale or garage sale to make a little extra money to go towards something you want or your family wants.

2. Bathrooms and furniture. A deep cleaning every once in a while is great for you and for your stuff. Steam cleaning carpets yourself or professionally helps clean them and get rid of dust and allergens that may not be picked up by a vacuum. Scrubbing toilets, floors, tubs, sinks, furniture thoroughly will disinfect and keep germs at a minimum. This does not mean you do not clean them more often. Regular maintenance and cleaning will minimize the amount of scrubbing and dusting that you need to do. Dusting furniture regularly minimizes allergens also.

3. Major appliances. Cleaning out the fridge by taking out old food, cleaning up spills, and defrosting the freezer will keep it functioning well and get rid of smells and sticky spots. Scrubbing out your oven or having the oven self-clean will get rid of spills that have accumulated. This will prevent the kitchen from getting smoky and smelling burnt. Even your dishwasher would benefit from a nice cleaning. If you ever look at your washer, there may be built up dirt and soap on the tops and insides. Scrub it away to prevent more build up.

Cleaning is on everyone's to do list. Once the cleaning is done, it is helpful to up keep and maintain. Easier said than done, but it will help out greatly when you decide to deep clean. If you are shopping, ask yourself if you really need it and will really use it. If the answer is maybe, you probably do not need to add it to the collection of items you already have at the house.

Autor: Billings Farnsworth

All City Cleaning (http://www.allcitycleaning.net/) offers a wide range of cleaning services for both residential and commercial or corporate clients in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens NYC. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.

Added: September 20, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Getting Organized - Unclutter That Garage Once and For All

We've all made half-hearted attempts at cleaning and organizing our garages, only to get overwhelmed and give up altogether or to have it return to a cluttered nightmare after just a few days. The key is to have the right tools to make organization easy and practical: everything should have a place. Here are some ways to unclutter that garage once and for all.

-- Throw Stuff Out!

This is the most basic rule of any organizational project, whether it is getting ready to move or just trying to get a handle on your bedroom closet: throw stuff out! America is a nation of pack rats, so you are in good company; but if you're ever going to get organized and fit in the stuff you need, you need to be brave and throw away the stuff you never use.

-- Hang it Up!

The garage walls as well as the ceiling are valuable square footage spaces that are poorly utilized in most cases. You may lean your tools against the wall, but that takes up valuable floor room. Get your tools, children's balls, skis, and even your bicycles off the floor and onto the walls and ceilings. There are a wide variety of online merchants who sell hooks, brackets, bags, and all kinds of other gizmos to help you get organized.

-- Get a Closet!

A closet in the garage? Well... yes! Open shelves can quickly become dusty, messy, and disorganized, so having closets in the garage instead makes perfect sense. You can get a pre-made, garage unit online that comes with a built-in workspace complete with pegboard, drawers, and cupboards that can hold virtually anything.

With all of the great products available on the market today, there's really no excuse for a messy, disorganized garage anymore: turning the garage into a truly useable room just takes a little elbow grease and a willingness to make it happen.

Autor: Ryan Coisson

Euro Design Center (http://www.eurodesigncenter.com/) best Closet Maryland Organizer, Home Office, Wardrobe Closet, or any other product in our versatile product line while satisfying your needs and providing the best. Ryan Coisson is a freelance writer.

Added: September 19, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Best Cleaning Tips For Stuffed Animals

Most of us have a favorite plush animal. Maybe it perfectly compliments the d�cor in your living room, or maybe it has great sentimental value due to childhood memories or because it is a treasured gift from a significant other. These toys will get some dust and dirt on them over the course of time, but there are ways to keep them looking their best without a lot of effort. The key is to keep it gentle so as not to ruin the plush toy. You can use water on most stuffed toys, so long as you are careful. Don't lose your favorite animal toy due to dirt and grime!

Bath Time

Some favorite plush toys spend a lot of time on the floor. Kids toss them on the floor after playing with them, and some stuffed animals can serve a decorative function in a room to liven up a corner. Plush animals that are on the floor get dirty very quickly, so they need a bath occasionally. (This can be a good object lesson for kids on the power of bathing.) You can bathe a teddy bear or other plush toy by soaking them overnight with a little detergent and some fabric softener. Toss them in the dryer with some scented dryer sheets for a fresh smell. If you decide to put your plushie in a washing machine, put it in a pillow case and tie the pillow case shut to avoid damaging the stuffed animal. Set your washer to a gentle cycle and use cold water to help your plush pal keep its color. Always dry on low. About thirty minutes on low heat should dry your toy nicely, but it may need some fluffing by hand to make sure that its stuffing is in the right place.

Autor: Corina Volegna

Get your lovely cuddly teddy bears, stuffed dogs and many other cheap stuffed toys from KCPlush.com. Discover a world of real-looking stuffed animals from all known habitats and breeds.

Added: September 17, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Best Cleaning Tips For Stuffed Toys

There's Dust in My Fur!

It's a good idea to dust your plush pals regularly, before the tiny pieces of grit become overwhelming. All you need is a duster or even a damp cloth to gently wipe off the accumulated residue. You can even toss them in the dryer with some scented dryer sheets. If you set the temperature on high, it will kill any germs that your plush friend may have picked up. About ten minutes in the dryer should freshen up your stuffed toy. You can also kill germs on plushies with a disinfectant wipe. Taking the dust off of the fur can really freshen up a plush toy!

Miracles Can Happen!

What about the toy with a bad stain of some unidentifiable gunk? Don't despair, your favorite toy can be cleaned, so you don't have to toss out that childhood friend! What you need is some carpet cleaner and a toothbrush. The toothbrush is just the right size for most toy stains and is still delicate enough not to damage the toy you are trying to restore. Squirt some carpet cleaner on the brush and very gently rub the stain. Afterwards, rinse your plush animal in cold water until the carpet cleaner is removed and the water is clear. Put your stuffed toy in the dryer as described above and fluff it for ten minutes. If it is still damp, you can let it air dry. After it dries, you can clean it further with a disinfecting wipe to remove any germs, especially if a child is going to come in contact with the plush toy. This technique can really renew a favorite plush friend.

Don't get frustrated when your favorite stuffed toy gets a little dusty or dirty. A little effort can restore even a grimy animal to its original luster. You and your favorite plush animals will be a lot happier after a good cleaning! So don't throw out your old stuffed toys; clean and restore them!

Autor: Corina Volegna

Get your lovely cuddly teddy bears, stuffed dogs and many other cheap plush animals from KCPlush.com. Discover a world of real-looking stuffed animals from all known habitats and breeds.

Added: September 16, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Get More Time For Yourself With Home Efficiency Improvements

Have you considered how much time you spend doing chores around your house? If you are like most people, the routine tasks of daily living consume many hours per week. If you can find ways to make your work around the house more efficient, you will find that you have a lot of valuable time available that you never thought could be yours to use as you please.

Consider that saving only ten minutes per day on routine tasks would save you over sixty hours per year, or almost two full 2000 hour work-years over the course of your lifetime. Here are some suggestions for things you can do to save time around your house:

• Cook in large batches and freeze the excess, so you can prepare a lot of future meals by simply thawing your dinner.
• Install a wall mounted ironing board to save space and the time it normally takes to get your big clunky board out of the back of the closet and struggle with setting it up.
• Keep a notepad handy to write down items you need at the store, then combine all of your shopping into only one weekly trip.
• Organize your kitchen so that the utensils you need on the stove are stored near the stove, the ones you need near the sink are stored near the sink, etc.
• Unless you have a mountain of dishes too big to stack, stack your washed dishes in a drain tray and let them air dry instead of taking time to dry them with a towel.

These are just a few simple suggestions for ways to save time around your house. If you pay attention to how you spend your time during the day, you can easily come up with a lot of good time saving ideas for taking back your life with improved efficiency.

Autor: Kathleen Scarlett-Mancos

If you can't find a high quality wall mounted ironing board at your local hardware store, shop for one online and have it delivered right to your house. For more great home improvement and time saving ideas, visit the Home Improvement Store on the web. If you can find it anywhere, you can find it there.

Added: September 14, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Speed Cleaning Your Home

If you're looking to cut your cleaning time in your home, then consider the following tips:

• Put on some music, set a timer for 15 minutes and focus on the room you are about to clean, and challenge yourself to see how much you can get done in that time by making it a game. If possible work get others involved like a team effort.
• Have your supplies with you in something that you can easily tote around. Make sure you have the right tools for the job within easy reach. Also consider having a tote for different rooms, for example a different one for kitchen than the bathroom. This helps not get supplies mixed up and are ready to go when the cleaning needs doing.
• Pick up stuff that doesn't belong on the floor so you can clean about freely and not trip over stuff.
• Use gravity to your cleaning advantage, and start at the top and work your way down. Start dusting first, from the top and work your way down before vacuuming.
• Clean what's dirty and leave the rest! Work your way around the room, and clean what needs cleaning from top to bottom, then move on to the next section and vacuum the whole area last.
• Keep on top of clutter, as you bring in the mail, or newspapers, don't just lay them down anywhere, put junk mail in recycle boxes, and newspapers and papers in a organized place for them.
• If your cleaning the bathroom or kitchen, put cleaner on surface, then clean surfaces and then rinse once. By thoroughly cleaning and then rinsing takes less time as opposed to starting and stopping.

Autor: Ann Coltin

Ann Coltin is an Author and cleaning expert that enjoys helping others get their home organized and speed cleaned. For more information and tips on Speed Cleaning your home, visit the website at http://www.CleaningDetails.com and sign up for the free newsletter.

Added: September 13, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Basic Cleaning Products You Should Have

When it comes to cleaning your home, it can become quite a labor-intensive chore. You'll find yourself cleaning many different areas which require a variety of products to do the best job possible. Your floors, sinks, countertops and appliances might all require different cleaning products depending on what they are made out of. The last thing you want to do is use the wrong product on the surface your cleaning.

When it comes to cleaning your kitchens and bathroom surfaces, you might be able to get away with buying a good all-purpose cleaner made by 409 or Windex. You can also invest in kitchen cleaner and bathroom cleaner wipes, as well as sprays for the two areas. In addition to all-purpose or multi-purpose cleaners, there's several other items you'll want to have on hand for cleaning jobs. Sponges, paper towels and cloths will always come in handy depending on what you might need to clean up. Some strong pairs of rubber gloves or disposable gloves will be good to have as well. These will be useful to keep your hands from getting harmful products or grime and bacteria on them.

Other basic cleaning products you'll want to own are scrub brushes, dusting clothes and sprays, and any special cleaning solutions for particular products. For example, you may have a glass top stove that requires a special polish be used on it, or stainless steel appliances. Don't forget about the floors either. Depending on whether you have wood floors, tile or other types of floors, you'll want to make sure you have the product that works best.

Autor: Ben Major

Why not make your cleaning jobs much easier? The Sonic Scrubber Cleaning Tools will help reduce cleaning work while still doing an amazing job!

Added: September 11, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Removing Blood Stains the Easy Way

Blood stains are a common problem for many people - even those who aren't paramedics or ax murderers. It's easy to get small, inconspicuous nicks and scratches that can bleed onto clothing, furniture, or carpet before you ever notice them. Kids are especially likely to get scrapes and cuts that can ruin otherwise good clothing or fabric. Blood stains can be extremely difficult to remove from fabric and other surfaces, because the same process that causes your blood to clot when exposed to the air also causes it to bind to fabrics. However, there are several solutions you can try to "get rid of the evidence".

For starters, keep in mind that the sooner you address the matter, the easier it will be. If the blood is fresh, soaking in cold water followed by gentle blotting of the area may remove it before a stain forms at all. If this is not the case, your next step will depend on the type of material that has been stained.

For delicate or non-washable fabrics, first apply a few drops of laundry detergent to the area, and soak the item in cold water for a half-hour or so. Then, apply washing soda (sodium carbonate) to the stain and gently scrub with a toothbrush. This should remove the stain. If not, try applying a small amount of hydrogen peroxide or ammonia to the stain, and blotting thoroughly. It is important to remember that hydrogen peroxide may cause colors to bleed, so it should be tested on an inconspicuous area first. Also, ammonia cannot be used on silk or wool, as it will damage the material.

For more durable fabrics, you can use a mix of one quart warm water, a tablespoon of ammonia, and a half-tablespoon of dishwashing liquid. Again, soak for about one half-hour, then GENTLY rub the stain, and blot till the stain is removed. Or, again, hydrogen peroxide works well- soak, rub, and blot as per above.

Another method involves three steps: first, blot with a mixture of one cup ice water and one teaspoon of pH-balanced detergent. Then, repeat this with household ammonia instead of detergent. Finally, gently sponge the stain away with just water.

Finally, if you are on the road or do not have access to any of these household supplies, good old-fashioned saliva is chock full of enzymes specifically developed to break down proteins- in other words, blood. Rub a little spit onto the stain, and it may come out.

However you decide to remove the stain, be sure the stain is completely gone before running the item through a dryer. Heat will cause the blood to set into the fabric and stain permanently. If none of these techniques gets the stain out completely, you may consider trying a commercial enzyme-based stain remover such as Nature's Miracle. Many people find that enzyme-based cleaners are the most effective way to remove stains.

Autor: Andrew Massaro Andrew Massaro
Level: Platinum
Andrew Massaro has been involved in the Pet Industry for over 14 years and knows a whole heck-of-a-lot about dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, fish and ... ...

I've found the easiest Blood Stain Removal product to be Nature's Miracle Stain Remover. It is safe for use around pets and kids plus it works quickly and naturally to thoroughly destroy all stains and odors (that are organic) on carpets, hardwood floors and many other types of surfaces. Nature's Miracle can be found at http://www.Natures-Miracle.com

Added: September 10, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Kool Aid Stains and How to Clean Them

Removing Kool Aid stains from fabrics can be a seemingly impossible task. Many people have resigned themselves to living with unsightly stains on their carpeting, furniture, or clothing because they were unable to remove the stains by scrubbing with soap and water. In fact, doing so may have spread the stain without lifting it at all. The difficulty in this task is due to the fact that the food dyes used in products like Kool Aid- especially the red dye- have a chemical structure that bonds easily and strongly to the fibers in fabric. To remove the dye from the fabric, you will need to use some process to break those chemical bonds, and allow the dye molecules to be removed.

Your best bet is to use an enzyme-based stain remover, such as Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor Remover. Cleaners such as these use natural enzymes to speed up the normal decay of those bonds, allowing the dye to be wiped away like a normal spill. Nature's Miracle and other enzymatic cleaners are easy to use, and relatively inexpensive- about $25 per gallon.

However, there are also home remedies you can attempt. One of the more successful ones goes like this:

1: In a bowl, mix two cups of water with five or six drops of Dawn liquid soap (the original blue kind).
2: Dampen a clean rag in this mixture.
3: Place the rag over the stain.
4: Take a clothes iron, and set it to the lowest heat setting. Place it on the cloth and let it sit, warming the stain. Do not press down on it, as this may cause the stain to spread out further.
5: Let the iron sit on top of the cloth for about fifteen minutes. You may want to check periodically to make sure the heat is not causing any damage to the color of the surface- this is possible, but fairly rare.
6: You should see the Kool Aid absorbing into the rag. As the rag becomes saturated, move it so a clean portion is over the stain, or replace with fresh cloth as necessary. Repeat until stain is removed.

Many users have found this method to be effective even on old, stubborn stains. Some users prefer to use a half-and-half mixture of ammonia and warm water, rather than dishwashing liquid. Also, some users prefer to use the iron on the highest heat setting, rather than the lowest, for a much shorter period of time. Be warned that this may have the unintended consequences of setting the stain, making it permanent.

It is also useful to know that certain common household products can help to prevent Kool Aid stains from setting in. Hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice will both help to weaken the stain when applied immediately.

Another method uses a similar process, but replaces the solution with borax.

1: Gently blot the stain to remove as much excess Kool Aid as possible, without pressing it into the fabric.
2: Spray the stain with ice cold water.
3: Spread a layer of borax out over the stain.
4: Lay a cloth moistened with cold water over the borax.
5: Use the bottom of a spoon to gently work the borax into the stain, running it from the outside toward the center.
6: You should begin to see the stain blotting into the cloth. As this occurs, move or replace the cloth so that a clean area is over the stain. Repeat until the cloth stops absorbing the stain.
7: Rinse with water and blot to remove the borax from the fabric. Repeat several times if necessary.
8: Cover stain with absorbent towels, and weight down heavily with large, flat objects- encyclopedias are a good bet. Let sit until all liquid has been absorbed.
9: Remove towels, and let air-dry. Vacuum to remove any residual materials.

If these methods do not produce the desired results, try a commercial, enzyme-based cleaner such as Nature's Miracle. We wish you good luck, and spotless carpets!

Autor: Andrew Massaro Andrew Massaro
Level: Platinum
Andrew Massaro has been involved in the Pet Industry for over 14 years and knows a whole heck-of-a-lot about dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, fish and ... ...

I've found the easiest way to clean Kool Aid Stains on Carpet is with Nature's Miracle Stain Remover. It is safe for use around pets and kids plus it works quickly and naturally to thoroughly destroy all stains and odors (that are organic) on carpets, hardwood floors and many other types of surfaces. Nature's Miracle can be found at http://www.Natures-Miracle.com.

Added: September 9, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How to Find Green Car Cleaning Products

Green is all the rage today. Advertisers are telling us about their green products. Local and federal governments are pushing for greener technologies and clean energy. Organic food choices are becoming more readily available and more cost-effective. You name it, if it can be greened, it is being greened.

Amidst all of this talk about the environment, it can be hard to spot a truly green product in the crowd. Many companies make claims about the eco-friendly attributes about their wares, but few do anything to verify these claims.

So when it comes to buying green car cleaning products, what are you to do? Are there particular characteristics you can look for that would point you in the direction of a sincerely earth-friendly product? With this checklist, you'll have no trouble spotting the real thing:

• Biodegradable: First and foremost, the product should state that it has been tested by a third-party certifier to ensure that it will biodegrade in the environment within a certain period of time (less than 30 days would be ideal). This ensures that it won't be persisting in the environment for an extended period of time.
• Free of petroleum ingredients: By their very nature, petroleum-based products are not sustainable or renewable, and so you should avoid them whenever possible. They also tend to be laced with unhealthy properties.
• Non-toxic ingredients: Many car cleaning products use toxic ingredients such as silicon, mineral spirits, and petroleum distillates that can cause both human and environmental illness. Look for options that have the US Environmental Protection Agency's Design for the Environment (DfE) seal of approval to ensure that your auto detailing products have a low chemical risk and are made in an energy efficient fashion. Plant-based ingredients are also a great option.
• Phosphate-free: Common in soaps, phosphates reduce oxygen levels when they enter waterways which encourages the growth of algae that in turn squelch all other marine life.
• Waterless car cleaners: Choosing a waterless car cleaning system will help you do your own car cleaning without wasting the 140 gallons of water common to DIY car washers.
• Reusables: You'll also want to look for a car care system that don't require the use of disposable products that just add to landfill waste and cost you money. Microfiber clothes are a great option since they can be used hundreds of times without losing their effectiveness.

If you're looking for green car cleaning products that meet all of these eco-friendly standards and more, look no further than Laura Klein's Green Car cleaning system. With a product for every cleaning project, this system is eco-friendly, economical, and time-saving.

Autor: Laura Klein

Want more information on green living tips and tricks? Sign up for the OrganicAuthority.com newsletter and get your free report How to Shop for Organic Foods on a Budget, brought to you by Laura Klein Green Living Expert.

Added: September 7, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Keeping Warm in Flannel Sheets

If you live somewhere in the world where temperatures reach below 7 degrees Celsius for longer than a month then raise your hand. Continue to keep your hand raised if you answered yes to the first question and you also love to sleep. Good. Now keep it raised if you also like to feel all comfy and cozy in your bed.

Most of you reading this article probably raised your hand at the first question and continued to keep it raised. This is great, trust me it really is because then you have met all the requirements you would need in order to enjoy an awesome set of flannel sheets.

Most sheets are made from some sort of linen or more likely cotton. Of course there are silk and satin sheets as well, but here we will be discussing flannel which is typically made from a cotton blend. Flannel sheets are very soft and have the added benefit of keeping you warm on those frigid winter nights. A set will vary greatly on the thickness, warmth and softness depending on the quality you purchase. I would advise you to purchase more than one set so you can have one that is thicker for the very cold nights thereby keeping you warmer and one that is made thinner for those nights when it is just cool, but hasn't dropped to sub zero temperatures yet!

If you want to keep your flannel sheets looking and feeling great for a long time to come then the care you give them should be of the utmost importance. These type of sheets are particularly plagued by pilling, an annoyance to many people. Pilling can ruin the overall softness of your sheets and this is something you want to avoid at all costs. The following is a little trick I learned to prevent this and/or help if you already have a pilling problem.

First, in order to PREVENT pilling, you should wash your new flannel sheets in warm water with a mild detergent and one half cup of white vinegar which is added to the rinse cycle or in a softener ball. Follow these directions during each wash to ensure pilling does not occur. If you are already plagued with pilling then you should wash your sheets in warm water with white vinegar alone and no detergent. This method will remove the pilling and restore your sheets to their wonderful soft glory days. After you have successfully removed the pills, follow each wash after with the warm water, mild detergent, and 1/2 cup white vinegar added to the rinse cycle instructions.

Storing your sheets for winter is also important to keeping them feeling and smelling fresh for their next use. If you are ready to store them the first step would be to wash and dry them thoroughly, then place them folded in a drawer or linen closet with a dryer sheet placed somewhere in between the folds. This will keep them smelling fresh and ready for next winter!

Autor: Lei White

Care when buying flannel sheets is a great way to ensure they will last a long time, but don't forget to follow these instructions for care. You can also do amazing things with bedroom design and a set of flannel sheets so don't think you have to compromise if you want a pair!

Added: September 2, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/