Did you know that the average 6-room house collects 40 pounds of dust each year? Or that approximately 40,000 dust mites can "thrive" in only one ounce of dust? The dirt, dust and debris especially build up during those winter months as contaminated air circulates the home every time the heating system is on. Polluted indoor air and unclean floors and surfaces can harbor dirt, bacteria and dust mites. Studies have also shown that contamination within the home can aggravate allergies and asthma.

With spring's arrival, the time is here to say good-bye to the dirt and dust and protect ourselves from allergies. It is spring cleaning time! Stanley Steemer is offering up some simple home cleaning tips to help you and your family breathe easier.

Stanley Steemer recommends:

• Vacuuming regularly to remove dust and dirt from carpeting and flooring. Vacuums with a HEPA or double filter if possible for even better removal.

• Clean and dust upholstery and leather furniture to pick up dust, dust mites, and other debris. Brush or vacuum upholstery before cleaning. This will help to avoid rubbing in any existing dirt that may be present on the fabric.

• When dusting leather furniture, use a dry microfiber cloth or the brush attachment of a vacuum to remove dust particles that have settled.

• When cleaning upholstery, use cool or lukewarm water when removing spots. Hot water will only help set the stain.

• Wash your bedding and blankets often. This will decrease your exposure to dust mites.

Hardwood floors as well as tile and grout can also attract lots of dirt and dust and Stanley Steemer has helpful cleaning tips for these areas in the home as well.

Stanley Steemer recommends:

• Sweep or vacuum hardwood or tile floors prior to cleaning to remove excess dirt and debris.

• Sprinkle baking soda on your carpet to neutralize odors. Let it sit for 30 minutes then vacuum as normal.

• For an at-home grout cleaner, make a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the mixture to grout and allow it to sit overnight. Scrub with a soft bristled brush and repeat as necessary.

Stanley Steemer has many more useful tips for cleaning even more surfaces and parts of the home too!

• Make your own window & glass cleaner by mixing 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with a gallon of water in a spray bottle. Spray on windows and wipe away with newspaper.

• A mixture of lemon juice and water can be used to clean kitchen countertops and cutting boards.

• To clean your garbage disposal, pour liquid dishwashing detergent down the disposal while running hot water. Finish by grinding up lemon or orange peels to freshen.

• A homemade paste of baking soda and water can be used to clean various bathroom surfaces.

• Bleach and water is a cheap and effective toilet bowl cleaner. Pour 1 cup of bleach into the bowl and scrub with a cleaning brush. Let stand for ten minutes before flushing.

• Remove common marks and spots on wall and baseboards by applying baking soda to a damp sponge. Gently rub then rinse.

• To remove grease stains from kitchen appliances, create a paste of cornstarch and water. Gently scrub and remove.

So go ahead and get rid of your winter blues and get a jump start on your spring cleaning! Stanley Steemer is ready to help with all of your Spring Cleaning needs with 24/7 scheduling available for carpet, hardwood, tile and grout and upholstery cleaning. Stanley Steemer also provides air duct cleaning in many locations. Call 1-800-Steemer or click the ad that will direct you to stanleysteemer.com so you can book your appointment today!