Categories
COMMUNITY EVENTS GREEN HOUSEKEEPING

Houseplant Appreciation Day- Keep Your Plants Happy and Healthy!

Houseplants bring so much more than beauty to your home—they purify the air, boost your mood, and create a calming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor jungle, caring for your leafy friends ensures they flourish and make your home an even more inviting space.

Plants are more than just decorative accents. They purify the air, uplift your mood, and even boost productivity. Keeping them healthy not only helps them thrive but also enhances your home’s ambiance. Here are some approachable tips to care for your houseplants and create a vibrant indoor environment.

 

Give Your Plants the Right Light

Not all plants have the same lighting needs. While some bask in bright sunlight, others thrive in cozy, low-light corners.

  • Bright light lovers: Fiddle leaf figs, succulents, and cacti
  • Low-light champions: Snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants

Find the perfect spot in your home to match their light requirements. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights. Rotating your plants periodically helps them grow evenly and stay vibrant.

 

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Water with Care

One of the most common mistakes in plant care is overwatering. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil about an inch deep. If it feels dry, your plant is ready for a drink. If it’s still damp, hold off for a few days.

  • Thirsty types: Peace lilies and ferns
  • Drought-tolerant champions: Cacti and snake plants

Set reminders or use self-watering pots to avoid forgetting—a lifesaver for busy plant parents!

 

Dust Those Leaves

Dust can accumulate on plant leaves, blocking their ability to absorb light and grow. Gently wiping the leaves with a damp cloth keeps them clean and healthy.

While you’re dusting, why not freshen up the rest of your space? A tidy environment benefits both you and your plants. If you’re in Snohomish County, WA, a one-time deep cleaning service or recurring house cleaning can help keep your home—and your plants—feeling their best.

 

Repot When Needed

Just like people outgrow their spaces, plants do too! If you notice roots poking out of drainage holes or your plant looking cramped, it’s time for a new pot. Repotting with fresh soil gives your plants the nutrients they need for renewed growth.

 

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Check for Unwelcome Guests

Even well-cared-for plants can attract pests like spider mites or aphids. Regularly inspect your plants, and if you spot anything suspicious, treat them with a natural neem oil spray or rinse the leaves gently.

 

Talk to Your Plants

Yes, you read that right! Studies suggest that talking or playing soft music around plants can encourage growth. Whether you sing, chat, or hum, it’s a wonderful way to connect with your leafy companions.

 

Plants do so much more than beautify your home—they transform it into a sanctuary. With a little care and attention, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, green space that brightens your mood every day. So, nurture your plants, keep your home fresh, and enjoy the many benefits of having plants in your life!

If you’re ready to give your home and plants the love they deserve, consider the benefits of a clean and inviting space with help from professional cleaning services in Snohomish County, WA. Together, you and your plants can thrive!

 

Categories
CLEANING TIPS Cleaning and Maintenance COMMUNITY EVENTS FAMILY

Stress-Free Thanksgiving: Pro Tips to Tackle Post-Dinner Messes

Ah, Thanksgiving! A day filled with family, laughter, and delicious food. But let’s be honest—when the last slice of pie is gone and the laughter fades, you’re left with one undeniable truth: the mess. Before you let the sight of piled-up dishes and splattered gravy steal your holiday joy, take a deep breath. We’ve got a step-by-step guide to help you clean up quickly and efficiently so you can savor those post-dinner moments of gratitude.

 

Start with Leftovers (and Avoid the Midnight Fridge Shuffle)

Thanksgiving leftovers are a treasure, but they need proper storage to stay fresh and avoid waste. Here’s a quick system to tackle them:

  • Label and Store: Grab some containers with lids or resealable bags, and label them with dates. This way, you won’t be playing “Guess That Side Dish” next week.
  • Divide and Conquer: Let guests take home their favorite dishes. It’s a sweet gesture and cuts down on your fridge load.

Pro Tip: Stack containers neatly in your fridge, leaving room for drinks and snacks for the weekend.

Once the food is squared away, it’s time to face the bigger challenge: the kitchen.

 

Clear the Table Without the Chaos

Clearing the table doesn’t have to feel like a marathon. Teamwork is key here.

  • Set Up a Sorting Station: Create a “dirty dish” zone near the sink or dishwasher. This keeps the chaos contained and prevents you from zigzagging around the kitchen.
  • Work in Layers: Start with glasses and cutlery, then move on to plates and serving dishes. (Bonus: enlist a helper—Thanksgiving is all about sharing!)
  • Quick Trash Check: Toss any food scraps or disposable items as you go to avoid sticky surprises later.

 

Tackle Dishes with a Game Plan

Dealing with a pile of dishes after Thanksgiving dinner can feel overwhelming, but a solid game plan makes it manageable. Start by soaking the toughest pots and pans in warm, soapy water to loosen stubborn residue while you handle the easier items. Next, load the dishwasher with anything that’s machine-washable, arranging heavier items on the bottom rack and more delicate ones on top for efficient cleaning. If you’ve got an extra set of hands, take advantage of teamwork—one person washes while the other dries. It’s not only quicker but can even turn cleanup into a fun, shared moment!

 

Conquer Countertops and Stains

Thanksgiving stains have a way of sneaking up on you—whether it’s cranberry sauce on the counter or red wine on your favorite cloth napkin.

  • Wipe as You Go: Use a damp microfiber cloth with a gentle cleaner to tackle spills and crumbs. Work from top to bottom, so everything lands on the floor for easy sweeping later.
  • Spot Treat Stains: For counters, a baking soda paste works wonders on tough spots. For fabrics, dab stains with a mix of water and dish soap before tossing them in the wash.

 

Reset the Kitchen for Tomorrow

The kitchen is the heart of Thanksgiving, and it deserves a little TLC after the festivities. Wipe down all counters, scrub the sink, and sanitize high-touch areas like cabinet handles. Take out the trash so your home stays fresh for the next day.

Bonus Tip: If you’re local to Washington and feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring an Everett cleaning service to give your kitchen a post-holiday refresh.

 

Keep It Stress-Free Year-Round

If the idea of keeping your home this clean every day feels daunting, you’re not alone! Many families in Washington rely on recurring house cleaning or bi-weekly cleaning services to maintain their spaces—especially during the busy holiday season. Professional cleaning services like Everett Cleaning Service can help lighten the load, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your time with loved ones.

 

With these tips in your back pocket, you can handle post-dinner messes like a pro—quickly, efficiently, and without breaking a sweat. Remember, Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and fun. Don’t let the dishes steal your joy!

 

Happy cleaning, and even happier Thanksgiving from all of us at Clean and Simple Cleaning!

Categories
Cleaning and Maintenance COMMUNITY EVENTS EMPLOYEES

Celebrating Excellence: Top-Rated Lynnwood House Cleaning Services

There’s something truly special about finding a local service you can count on. It’s that sense of comfort, reliability, and knowing that the people who come into your home genuinely care about making your life a little easier. For over 30 years, we’ve had the pleasure of providing that support not just in Lynnwood, but also in wonderful communities like Edmonds, Mukilteo, Everett, Shoreline, and throughout Snohomish County.

This isn’t just an award for us—it’s a celebration of all the moments, connections, and hard work that go into what we do every day. So, let’s take a moment to reflect on this exciting achievement and share a bit about what it means to us (and hopefully to you, too!).

 

A Journey That Started with a Simple Idea

When we first opened our doors three decades ago, we had dreams of being more than just another cleaning company. We envisioned something special—an experience that could genuinely make a difference for the people we serve. We didn’t just want to tidy up homes; we wanted to bring a bit of ease and happiness into people’s lives. That’s why, from day one, we focused on creating a service that’s rooted in real relationships, trust, and a whole lot of heart. Here’s how that vision took shape:

  • Do more than just clean houses; we wanted to be a dependable partner in making lives simpler.

Cleaning is a practical service, yes, but it’s also deeply personal. A clean, organized home brings peace and calm, turning your space into a true haven after a long day. We wanted to be the team you could count on to provide that sense of relief. 

  • Build a company that cared as much about people as it did about cleanliness.

For us, people come first. Over the years, we’ve been privileged to share moments with our clients, from welcoming babies into the family to navigating life’s ups and downs. We don’t see ourselves as just service providers but as part of our clients’ everyday lives. 

  • Create a team of dedicated individuals who put heart and effort into every visit.

Behind every service is our amazing team, who bring warmth and dedication to each visit. From our friendly customer service reps to the cleaners who carefully dust every surface, every person on our team shares a commitment to doing things right. They’re the heart of Clean and Simple, and we’re so proud to work with such caring people. 

 

Our team members aren’t just cleaners—they’re the heart and soul of what makes Clean and Simple Cleaning special. Each person who joins our team shares a commitment to bringing a little more lightness, cleanliness, and care into our clients’ lives. We see every visit as an opportunity to connect, to serve, and to make a difference in the spaces we clean and the lives we touch.

 

What This Award Means to Us

Being recognized as a Top Rated Local® company is an honor, but it’s also a reflection of the relationships we’ve been fortunate to build. Many of our clients have trusted us for years, and over time, we’ve become part of each other’s stories. We’ve watched kids grow up, celebrated milestones together, and shared countless conversations about life’s ups and downs. Our work goes beyond cleaning floors or scrubbing sinks; it’s about showing up, week after week, and bringing a little extra brightness into people’s lives.

This award is a reminder that the values we hold—integrity, professionalism, and a dedication to quality—really do matter. And it’s a thank-you to every team member who brings their best to each and every home and office we care for.

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Building Relationships That Last

One of the things we’re most proud of is the long-lasting connections we’ve made with our clients and team members. We’re not interested in one-time transactions or quick fixes; instead, we focus on building genuine relationships based on trust, dependability, and a shared commitment to creating clean, comfortable spaces. We love knowing that when we walk into a home, we’re more than just a service provider; we’re a trusted partner in keeping that space beautiful and welcoming.

And these relationships aren’t just with clients. Many of our team members have been with us for years, and we’ve built a workplace culture where everyone’s contributions are valued and everyone’s voice is heard. It’s a place where kindness, laughter, and hard work all mix together to create an environment we’re proud of.

 

Grateful and Ready for What’s Next

As we celebrate this recognition, we want to thank every client who has welcomed us into their lives and every team member who pours their heart into their work. You’ve helped shape Clean and Simple Cleaning into what it is today, and this award belongs to all of us.

Looking ahead, we’re more motivated than ever to continue raising the bar, expanding our reach across Snohomish County, and serving our community with the same dedication we’ve always had. Here’s to many more years of creating clean, happy homes across Washington!

 

If you’re looking for a cleaning service in Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mukilteo, Everett, Shoreline, or anywhere in Snohomish County, we’re just a call away. We’d love to help you simplify your life with a clean and welcoming space.

 

Categories
COMMUNITY EVENTS

Cleaning for a Reason/Spreading Hope & Clean Homes

At Clean and Simple, we believe that a clean home does more than just make a space look good—it provides comfort, peace, and relief, especially for those facing life’s hardest battles. We are a proud charter member of Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit organization dedicated to offering free cleaning services to cancer patients. Through this partnership, we’re committed to making life a little easier for those undergoing treatment by providing a clean, healthy home environment.

What is Cleaning for a Reason?

Cleaning for a Reason is an amazing non-profit organization that provides free house cleaning services for cancer patients across the U.S. and Canada. Since its founding in 2006, the organization has grown into a network of residential cleaning companies, industry professionals, and volunteers who offer this critical service to patients and their families. The organization understands how cancer can take an emotional, physical, and financial toll, and it aims to provide support in the form of a clean, safe home.

To date, Cleaning for a Reason has served over 57,000 cancer patients and their families, delivering more than $19 million in free cleaning services. These impressive numbers reflect the dedication of Cleaning for a Reason’s partners—including Clean and Simple—to spread hope through the simple act of cleaning homes for those in need.

The Importance of a Clean Home During Cancer Treatment

A clean home means more than a tidy space—it’s a place of refuge and safety. This is especially important for cancer patients, many of whom experience extreme fatigue and weakened immune systems from treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Maintaining a clean living environment becomes more than just a preference—it’s a necessity to avoid germs and allergens that could compromise their health further.

For those battling cancer, daily tasks like cleaning can feel overwhelming, adding to the stress and frustration they already face. This is where Cleaning for a Reason steps in. By offering free cleaning services, we help lift the weight of household chores, allowing patients to focus on what truly matters—healing and spending time with their loved ones.

At Clean and Simple, we understand how much a clean home can help in the healing process, and we’re proud to be a partner in this cause.

Clean and Simple: Proud Partner of Cleaning for a Reason

As a charter member of Cleaning for a Reason, Clean and Simple is honored to provide free cleaning services to cancer patients in our community. We are committed to making their homes feel safe, welcoming, and peaceful during a difficult time.

Our compassionate, professional cleaning team approaches each home with the same care and attention to detail that we provide for all of our clients. Whether it’s a full deep clean or regular maintenance, we make sure every corner is spotless, ensuring that our clients have one less thing to worry about. For cancer patients, a clean home can be a lifeline, offering both practical assistance and emotional relief.

How Cleaning for a Reason Works

For cancer patients who need support, applying for Cleaning for a Reason services is easy. The organization partners with local cleaning companies, like Clean and Simple, to match patients with professionals in their area. Once a match is made, the patient receives free home cleaning services, tailored to meet their specific needs.

At Clean and Simple, we customize each cleaning to fit the patient’s situation. Whether it’s a deep clean or ongoing support, we ensure that our services work around the patient’s treatment schedule and preferences. Our team is sensitive to the unique needs of cancer patients, and we aim to provide services with care, discretion, and respect.

The Impact of Cleaning for a Reason

What makes Cleaning for a Reason so special is the sense of community it fosters. By connecting cancer patients with cleaning professionals, the organization not only helps with practical tasks but also offers emotional support. Patients often feel a sense of comfort knowing their community cares about them, and the simple act of receiving help with cleaning can bring renewed strength.

Many cancer patients share that having a clean home lifts a huge burden off their shoulders, giving them more energy to focus on their recovery. Knowing their home is cared for allows them to feel a sense of peace and support during an incredibly difficult time. For Clean and Simple, being part of this mission means the world to us. We take pride in contributing to a cause that makes such a real difference, one home at a time.

Deep Cleaning Services for Every Home

At Clean and Simple, we offer a variety of cleaning services to meet the needs of every home. From deep cleaning for those moving into or out of a home to routine services for families looking to maintain a clean, healthy space, we’ve got it covered.

Our deep cleaning services go beyond surface cleaning, tackling the hard-to-reach areas that may need extra attention. From scrubbing floors to disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms, we leave no detail overlooked. Especially for families dealing with the challenges of cancer, this thoroughness helps create a clean, healthy living space.

We understand that life can get busy, and keeping up with cleaning tasks isn’t always easy. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling to fit different lifestyles, whether it’s regular cleaning support or a one-time deep clean. Our goal is to make life easier, especially for those going through tough times.

How You Can Get Involved

If you’re inspired by the work of Cleaning for a Reason, there are several ways to get involved. Whether it’s spreading awareness, donating, or volunteering, your support can help provide free cleaning services to those in need. Every contribution counts, and together, we can continue to bring hope to homes.

If you or someone you know is battling cancer and could benefit from these services, don’t hesitate to reach out. Clean and Simple is here to help, providing free, compassionate cleaning services that bring peace and comfort into the home.

Cleaning with Compassion

At Clean and Simple, we are more than just a cleaning company. Through our partnership with Cleaning for a Reason, we are part of a mission to bring hope, support, and kindness to cancer patients and their families. By offering free cleaning services, we help lift the burden of household chores, allowing patients to focus on healing.

A clean home can be a powerful source of comfort during difficult times. For cancer patients, it can make all the difference in their well-being. We are honored to be part of their journey and remain committed to making a positive impact, one clean home at a time.

Together, let’s continue to spread hope and compassion. We remind those in need that they are not alone in their fight against cancer. By working together, we can create a community where everyone has access to a clean, safe space for healing.

Categories
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS COMMUNITY EVENTS

Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Reflection and Support

October brings with it crisp air, beautiful fall colors, and a sense of unity as communities come together for a cause close to many hearts—Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At Clean and Simple Cleaning, we want to take a moment to honor those affected by breast cancer, celebrate the incredible strength of survivors, and emphasize the importance of self-care and wellness for all.

A Time to Reflect and Raise Awareness

Breast cancer touches so many lives, directly and indirectly. As a woman-owned business, this cause resonates deeply with us. We’re reminded of the power of women supporting women and the strength that comes from community. Raising awareness is more than just wearing pink; it’s about educating ourselves and others on prevention, early detection, and supporting those currently facing this battle.

Wellness: Body and Mind

While breast cancer is a physical fight, it also takes a mental and emotional toll. That’s why wellness is key—not just during this month but year-round. At Clean and Simple Cleaning, we believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy home environment to support overall well-being. A clean, organized space can bring a sense of calm and clarity, offering a place of peace during difficult times.

Showing Support in Simple Ways

Throughout October, there are so many ways we can support those impacted by breast cancer. Whether it’s participating in local fundraising events, sharing helpful resources on social media, or simply checking in with a friend or loved one going through treatment, every gesture matters.

The Connection Between Clean Spaces and Wellness

When we think of health, our minds often go straight to diet, exercise, or mental health practices. But did you know that your surroundings can also influence your health? A clean environment can do wonders for both physical and mental well-being. It helps reduce stress, improve mood, and create a safe space, particularly for those with compromised immune systems or chronic conditions.

For individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, maintaining a clean home is essential. Recovering from treatments often leaves the body vulnerable, and a clean, safe space can be a crucial aspect of the healing process. It reduces the risk of infections and allergens, giving individuals peace of mind that their home is a healthy place to rest.

Tips to Create a Clean, Peaceful Space for Healing

  • Use Green Cleaning Products: Many traditional cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harsh on the respiratory system, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Switching to natural, non-toxic cleaners helps protect the air quality in your home while still keeping it spotless
  • Ventilate Your Space: Fresh air circulation is key to maintaining a healthy environment. Open windows whenever possible to allow fresh air to flow through your home and reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants.
  • Keep Bedding Clean: Bedding can accumulate dust, allergens, and germs. Make it a point to wash bed linens weekly, and if possible, invest in hypoallergenic pillow and mattress covers.
  • Incorporate Houseplants: Certain houseplants can help purify the air by absorbing pollutants. Plants like peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but also improve air quality.

Together, We Are Stronger

As we honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re reminded that no one faces this journey alone. It’s a time for community, support, and hope. Let’s stand together, lifting up those who need it and committing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer.

From all of us at Clean and Simple Cleaning, we send our love, support, and strength to those battling breast cancer and to the families who stand by their side. This October, let’s honor the courage, resilience, and determination of the amazing people who inspire us all.

For resources and ways to offer support, visit, https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org

Categories
FAMILY Cleaning and Maintenance CLEANING TIPS COMMUNITY EVENTS HEALTHY LIVING Home Organization HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

Home Cleaning Tips for Elderly Loved Ones: Grandparents Day Guide

Grandparents Day, celebrated on September 8th, offers a wonderful opportunity to show our appreciation for the beloved elders in our lives. While gifts and gestures are lovely, ensuring that your grandparents’ home is clean, comfortable, and safe can be a deeply meaningful way to express your care. A well-maintained environment not only enhances their daily living but also supports their independence and overall well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating a welcoming space for your grandparents, focusing on practical tips that can make a significant difference.

Declutter and Clean for Safety and Comfort

Declutter for Safety

Clutter can pose significant safety risks, particularly for older adults. It can lead to trips and falls, which are common accidents in homes filled with obstacles. To address this, consider organizing a family decluttering session. Not only does this activity improve safety by creating clear pathways, but it can also be a bonding experience for the family.

Start by tackling high-traffic areas where clutter tends to accumulate. Clear out unnecessary items, organize shelves, and simplify the space. Removing excess belongings helps create a more functional environment where your grandparents can easily find what they need, contributing to their sense of independence. Remember to involve your grandparents in the process if they are able; it can make them feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

Gentle Cleaning

Maintaining a clean home is crucial for health and comfort, but harsh chemicals can be tough on sensitive skin and respiratory systems. Opt for natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and water. These are effective for wiping down surfaces, especially high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.

For a more thorough clean, you might consider hiring local house cleaners or a top-rated cleaning company serving Snohomish County. Professional cleaners can ensure every corner of the home is addressed, from under beds to behind appliances. Their expertise helps create a healthier living environment by tackling dust, dirt, and allergens that might affect your grandparents’ health.

Safety Enhancements for Senior Living

Improve Lighting

Good lighting is essential for preventing falls. Ensure that all areas, particularly stairwells, hallways, and bathrooms, are well-lit. Bright lighting helps prevent accidents and makes it easier for your grandparents to navigate their home safely.

Consider adding motion-sensor lights in entryways and installing nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. These small, yet effective additions can provide guidance if your grandparents need to get up during the night, reducing the risk of stumbling in the dark.

Accessibility Modifications

Simple modifications can greatly enhance ease of movement and reduce physical strain:

  • Install Grab Bars: Adding grab bars in bathrooms and showers provides extra stability, especially on slippery surfaces.
  • Replace Doorknobs: Swap traditional door knobs for lever handles. These are easier to use for individuals with arthritis or reduced hand strength.
  • Raise Toilet Seats: Elevated toilet seats can make sitting and standing easier for those with limited mobility.
  • Widen Doorways: Adjusting doorways can accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers.
  • Adjust Light Switches and Thermostats: Lowering these controls makes them more accessible and reduces the need for bending or reaching.
Flooring Safety

Flooring can significantly impact safety. Rugs and loose carpets are common tripping hazards. Opt for non-slip rugs with secure backing or consider installing hardwood or low-pile carpeting. Ensure that all floors are well-lit, particularly at night, to help prevent accidents. In high-traffic areas, it might be best to remove rugs altogether to minimize tripping risks.

Foster Community and Support

Local Resources

Communities often offer valuable resources for seniors. Explore local programs such as Meals on Wheels, in-home care services, or transportation assistance. These services can provide essential support and help your grandparents live independently. Other helpful services may include grocery delivery, housekeeping assistance, and companion visits that offer social interaction and check on their well-being.

If your grandparents are in Washington, you may also find that local house cleaners can provide additional support. Engaging with house cleaners in the area ensures that their home remains in top condition without added stress on the family.

Neighborhood Connections

Encourage your grandparents to build relationships with their neighbors. A supportive community can offer companionship and help with tasks or emergencies. Strong neighborhood connections provide a safety net and reduce feelings of loneliness. Neighbors can assist with small tasks, like picking up mail or running errands, and be a source of support in case of an emergency.

Organize and Maintain the Home

Strategic Organization

Creating an organized home environment can significantly enhance safety and ease of use. Keep frequently used items within easy reach and label shelves or drawers for clarity. This approach prevents accidents and helps maintain a clutter-free environment.

Consider installing pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in kitchen cabinets to make items like pots, pans, and food more accessible. Organizing medications by day and time can help ensure your grandparents take the correct doses. Brightly colored labels or large-print fonts can also aid in easily identifying items.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Maintaining cleanliness is essential for a healthy living environment. Simple tasks such as wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and sweeping can keep dust and allergens at bay. Focus on high-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room to ensure cleanliness and reduce the spread of germs.

Encourage your grandparents to perform light cleaning tasks like wiping down countertops and using antibacterial wipes on frequently touched surfaces. Regular maintenance keeps the home inviting and fresh, contributing to overall well-being.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is important for maintaining a healthy home environment. Open windows regularly to improve air quality and reduce the risk of mold or mildew. Clean air filters and use dehumidifiers in damp areas to prevent mold growth. Good air quality helps prevent respiratory issues, which can be particularly important for older adults.

Regular Connection and Quality Time

Share and Engage

While maintaining a clean and safe home is crucial, spending quality time with your grandparents is equally important. Share stories and photos to relive cherished memories. This simple act of reminiscing can brighten their day and strengthen family bonds.

Engage in hobbies together, such as gardening, baking, or playing games. Activities that involve creativity or gentle movement can be enjoyable and keep your grandparents active. Planning outings, like trips to a museum, a coffee date, or a stroll in the park, provides a refreshing change of pace and helps reconnect them with the outside world.

Creating Lasting Memories

The changes you make in your grandparents’ home are not just about safety—they’re about enhancing their quality of life. Small adjustments can significantly impact their comfort and independence. By creating a safer environment and spending meaningful time together, you’re demonstrating your care and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Grandparents Day is a perfect occasion to celebrate and show your love, but these practices can be beneficial all year round. By focusing on these aspects, you contribute to a more comfortable and joyful life for your grandparents, making each day a little brighter and more secure.

Categories
COMMUNITY EVENTS NEWS

Clean and Simple Honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Cleaning For A Reason

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — get ready to start seeing pink everywhere! For the month of October, some organizations donate part of their profits from pinked out items to Susan G. Komen or other cancer awareness and treatment societies.

Second only to skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States. Knowing the symptoms, self-examinations, and screenings with your doctor are of vital importance to the prevention and fight against breast cancer. Because this cancer is so prevalent, The American Cancer Society doesn’t just want you to know what you can do to help fund research; they feel it’s important for you to understand how you can help on a more personal level..

Clean and Simple Partners with Cleaning for a Reason

At Clean and Simple, we’re proud participants in Breast Cancer Awareness month; however, our involvement doesn’t stop with raising awareness. We are partnered with Cleaning For A Reason, a nonprofit organization that provides free home cleaning services to women who are going through cancer treatments. Clean & Simple has been partnered with Cleaning For A Reason for years— we always have a warrior woman we are cleaning for on our schedule.

Cleaning For A Reason was started by Texas cleaning company owner Debbie Sardone. Debbie was once notified by a prospective client that she would not be able to afford the cleanings because she had to undergo cancer treatment. At that moment, Debbie decided she there was something she could do to help this client and others like her; going forward, she made it her company’s policy to give free cleanings to anyone going through cancer treatments.

As word of her mission spread, so did the free cleanings. Before Debbie knew it, more than 1200 cleaning companies had joined the movement. Today, these companies with a heart have donated more than $10,000,000 worth of cleaning to women who are too busy fighting the battle against breast cancer to worry about cleaning.

Cleaning for a Reason Lifts Spirits

There are testimonials from women who are fighting the fight of their lives and received cleanings from one of the many partners across the country who work with Cleaning For A Reason. These show exactly how important this service is to those women who are in the middle of cancer treatment.

From Jaimie in Texas, “Thank you! Thank you! She already called me and my first cleaning is this Wednesday, which happens to be my surgery day! It will be super nice to come home to a clean home!!!! Thank you! Thank you!”

Patients who have experienced a clean from Cleaning For a Reason partners will tell you the physical and emotional relief that they feel to not have to worry about the cleanliness of their home.

Imagine that you’re going through cancer; naturally,  your friends and family want to come and spend time with you during your recovery. But the thought of allowing people into your home causes you stress— after all, your home isn’t looking like it normally does. You just don’t have the energy you need to get up and clean to your usual standards. Thanks to Cleaning For a Reason, these women know their home will be the place of comfort and health it has always been while they concentrate on the more important task at hand.

Giving Back Just Feels Good!

One of the benefits that people who partner with Cleaning For A Reason experience is a tremendous sense of satisfaction in knowing that they are making a painful situation a little bit more bearable for someone else.

Maria Roberts from Wisconsin says, “I’ve been with Cleaning for A Reason for 5 years now and I enjoy doing what I do and will always believe that my extra hands have helped someone and put a smile on their face and a sense of relief…..I’ve had my cleaning business for 17 years and couldn’t wait to join this wonderful foundation and offer my services…..”

Clean and Simple is a charter member of Cleaning For A Reason. We are proud to give back to the community in Snohomish County, Washington. In fact, Clean and Simple goes even further and takes nominations each year from the friends and family of cancer patients and chooses a person to give one free year of cleaning to.

If you know someone or are someone, who could use cleaning services while undergoing cancer treatments, contact Cleaning For A Reason to be matched with a cleaning service in your area. Clean and Simple knows we cannot fight this fight for you, but we can make it just a little easier to recover from.

Categories
COMMUNITY EVENTS EMPLOYEES

Showing Flat Stanley the Pacific Northwest

I got reminded how fun acting like a tourist in the place where you live is and how amazing the Pacific northwest truly is.  Flat Stanley* is visiting us from IL which is where we lived before moving to Washington 8 1/2 years ago.

When we first moved here, we did all of the touristy things. However, the longer we live here all of the neat things the pacific northwest has to offer to seem reasonable. Moreover, we do not always take the time to enjoy them.  It was time to act like a tourist. Additionally, go on some adventures, and Flat Stanley gave us the push we needed.

We, of course, had to take Flat Stanley to Seattle!  We stopped by the Space Needle. Snapped a picture before heading to Pike’s Place Market.  I always find there is no better place to indulge your senses than at Pike’s Place.  The smell of seafood and donuts to seeing the beautiful colored flowers and fruit.

And, let us not forget fish flying, hearing the different street musicians as you walk around just makes you feel alive.

The employees at the fish market and our favorite fruit stand, Sergio’s, are very familiar with Flat Stanley and did some great poses with him.

Our next adventure was one of my boys’ request.  We headed to the Fremont Troll.  They climbed all over the troll under the bridge and even stuck their heads up the troll’s nose.  Flat Stanley smiled nicely for the picture but needed dusting off afterward.

This week we are going to the Tulip fields to take another photo with Flat Stanley and take in the rows and rows of beautiful colored tulips.  I remember going for the first time and being amazed and am looking forward to going back.  Tulips fields are a lot prettier than corn fields.

We plan on taking Stanley to the Edmonds waterfront and get a picture with one of the ferries and Everett’s navy base as well.  And of course, Flat Stanley will be taking a trip or two or three to Starbucks.  My boys have also decided that we need to send Flat Stanley back to IL with an umbrella and a Seahawks jersey too!

Where would you take Flat Stanley if he visited you?  

*Flat Stanley is a 1964 children’s book written by Jeff Brown and originally illustrated by Tomi Ungerer. It is the first in a series of books featuring Stanley Lambchop who becomes flat as a pancake after an accident and then gets to go on adventures to different places by being sent in the mail.  As a learning project in 2nd grade, many schools in the country have each child send a Flat Stanley to someone in another part of the country or world to go on adventures and then send them back with information about that place teaching them about the country and the world.

Categories
COMMUNITY EVENTS

We’re at the Mill Creek Festival

July 14th and 15th we spent our weekend at the Mill Creek Festival!

Saturday we worked from 10 to 7, getting people to sign up for our newsletter, enter into our raffle to win some cleaning supplies and the grand prizes were house cleanings! We adorned our booth with a pink tablecloth, pink, blue & white balloons, as well as a brand new banner! I think the bright pink color attracted a lot of people to our booth and once they heard “win a free house cleaning” their ears perked up.

By the end of the day on Saturday, we had run out of candy and entry forms! Sunday the weather was not as warm. Moreover, something in the air was taking a toll with allergies. However, that did not stop people from having fun and enjoying the rest of the festivities.

We would say Sunday, even though it was 2 hours less than Saturday was our busiest day. The festival goers really seemed to love our booth! With candy for the kids, a free cloth for signing up for our newsletter and entering our raffle I think it was a hit. It was incredible to reach so many, hand out our brochures and answer any questions they had about our services. We hope everyone else who attended Mill Creek Festival had a good time too!