Fall 2018 Specials at Triple S

“Spring cleaning” is typically the most popular time of the year to purge and reorganize your home. However, there are many things in your home that are actually better to clean in the fall time. Cleaning in autumn is the best option for your patio and boat cushions, carpet, and tile and grout — and luckily, Triple S has some great cleaning specials going on to help with all of the above.

Triple S Fall 2018 Specials:

FREE Winter Storage for Patio & Boat Cushions

No need to worry about where to store your cushions this winter. We will thoroughly clean, sanitize, and protect your cushions — plus, FREE storage until May 2019.
Cannot be combined with other discounts. Prepayment required.
Offer expires 5/19.

SAVE 20% Rug & Drapery Cleaning

When you bring your rugs or draperies to Stamford, Norwalk or Stratford for Cash & Carry service.
We offer convenient pickup & delivery schedules and services.
Includes FREE rolling & spreading; FREE take down & rehang of window treatments.
Offer expires 12/8/18.

SAVE 10% Wall-to-Wall Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

When you combine wall-to-wall carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning.
Not valid with any other offers. Minimum charges and some restrictions may apply.
Offer expires 12/8/18.

Save 10% Grout Cleaning

Professional cleaning and sealing of grout, marble, limestone, terrazzo, porcelain tile, and more!
Not valid with any other offers. Minimum charges and some restrictions may apply.
Offer expires 12/8/18.

At Triple S, we offer professional cleaning services, including rug, carpet, upholstery, and tile cleaning. Schedule your service online today!

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Why You Should Store Your Patio Cushions With Us

Generally, if you leave your patio cushions out overnight and it rains, they will be protected (since they are moisture, mildew, and fade resistant). But if you leave them unattended for days and weeks on end, they’re bound to be damaged and sometimes become unrepairable.

At Triple S, we offer winter storage and cleaning services every year to help you keep your outdoor cushions CLEAN, FRESH & BRIGHT®!

3 Ways Triple S Keeps Your Patio and Boat Cushions Clean

1. Triple S ProSeal Fabric Protector

Our fabric protector helps keep cushion fabric water-resistant and stain-free, so next year you won’t have to worry about storing them indoors when a thunderstorm is in the forecast. 

2. Antimicrobial/Deodorizing Treatment

Not only will we keep cushions stain-free, but we will also use a treatment to eliminate mildew on fibers and stop the growth of bacteria. That way, you won’t need to fret about the heat and humidity anymore!

3. Our 7-Step Process

At Triple S, we will take care of it all - from inspecting stains to cleaning and speed drying. During our 7-step process, we will take care of the following: inspect items, test fabric, pre-vacuum, precondition, hand spot, clean, and speed dry.

Patio and boat cushions are custom cleaned with our four-step proprietary hand cleaning process, including the application of our ProSeal fabric protector. Each step is necessary to ensure the cushions Look Like New after cleaning.

It’s very important to store your outdoor cushions and upholstery during the off-season. Simply tying or wrapping a plastic cover over your furniture isn’t enough (mildew can easily develop over time). You’ll want to store your cushions in a dry environment.

Visit our website to learn more. You can bring in your cushions or we will send on of our experts to pick them up!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Clean With This, Not That

There’s always a smarter way to clean — and when we find it, we love sharing it with our readers! We’ve discussed time management tips, how to stay organizational, and more. This time, we’re comparing some of the most common cleaning tools versus their alternatives...and you may be surprised at which ones you actually shouldn’t be using!

Sponges vs. Microfiber Cloths

Sponges are germ magnets! Which explains why they are one of the dirtiest things in your home. Opt out of using sponges as a cleaning tool and choose microfiber cloths instead! Microfiber cloths are not only better at cleaning surfaces, but they’re also machine washable and quick-drying — this means they’re less likely to hold onto any germs — phew!

Brooms vs. Vacuums

In reality, brooms just push the dirt and dust around instead of actually collecting it. We say it’s time to goodbye to your broom and invest in a good vacuum. Your vacuum will need a little maintenance and TLC, so don’t forget to clean the roller brush and HEPA filter every once in a while. (And still call a professional to vacuum as well!)

Floor Cleaner vs. Floor Steamer

Sometimes a simple, all-in-one floor cleaner can do the trick. But if your floors really need a deep cleaning, then a floor steamer is your secret weapon. Not only can it remove stains from ceramic tile or vinyl flooring, but it can also kill off bacteria that’s been lingering as well.

The dedicated and highly skilled Triple S staff includes the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast. Contact us today!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

5 Things You Are Cleaning Too Often

What if we told you that you were cleaning way too often?

That’s right; you don’t actually have to be cleaning every Sunday, all afternoon, to keep your home clean.

Here are 5 things you are probably cleaning too much.

Clothes

If most of your time is spent in the laundry room, you are most definitely cleaning your clothes too often. Unless you were sweating in them or were rolling around in mud, there’s no reason to wash your clothes if you haven’t worn them more than once.

Just think: Fewer laundry loads also means you’ll have extra free time and money to spend on your other bills.

Read more: Bad Cleaning Habits You Need to Break

Dirty dishes

You are wasting your time if you rinse dirty dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, so skip sink duty after you eat a meal!

Dishwasher detergent contains enzymes that attach themselves to food particles. When you wash the dirt and grime away, the detergent can’t cling to your dishes or silverware and it’ll just be wasted (not to mention all that water you’re wasting also!).

Bedspreads and Comforters

Unless you spend 24 hours in your bed or you have a lot of pets that do, you don’t need to wash your bedding weekly. Clean them at the end of every season instead.

Carpets and Upholstered Furniture

If you want to get a good, deep clean for your carpets and upholstered furniture, it’s best to call a professional. But don't forget, you really should be cleaning your carpets at least once a week.

Curtain and Drapes

These don’t need frequent cleaning — but you should at least give it a thorough cleaning once a year. If you are concerned about dust, take down the drapes and toss them in your dryer on the “air-only” cycle. This will remove the dust and even some wrinkles. (Don’t use heat, this will shrink fabrics!).

The dedicated and highly skilled Triple S staff includes the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast. Contact us today!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

5 Tips to Help You Organize After a Move

It’s not easy to move. Sometimes, the stress makes you wonder why you went through this process in the first place.Even the most organized people are left feeling uneasy and overwhelmed.

We’ve found that the key to a successful move revolves around your packing and unpacking process.

Follow these 5 tips to help you stay organized after your move

1. Don’t wait until the last minute.

This will really help not stress you out. Setting a schedule will help you make sure everything gets done before you officially head out that door for good.

2. Label your boxes.

That’s why taking the time to label all of your boxes will save you a lot of time during your moving process. Besides, knowing where all your belongings are is also a huge weight off your shoulders. Don’t forget to also label boxes that are fragile!

3. Have a “necessities” box.

There are some things, like a coffee maker or pet food, that needs to stay out. So, instead of taping up the box and stacking it at the front door, leave a box of necessities open for you to easily grab items from.

4. Purge as you go.

Tossing out unnecessary items as you pack will help you pack less and be more organized. It’s a great feeling to get rid of unused items, and you can make yourself feel even better by donating these items to an organization or store in need.

5. Unpack in zones.

The best thing you can do once you move in is to unpack room by room. And this is when you start to see that your labels really paid off! You can carry each box into it’s assigned room and organize it without any trouble.

Once you’re finally all settled in, it’s time to start finding professionals to help around the house. If you need a cleaning technician to restore your carpets, drapes, upholstery, tile, and more, contact Triple S! Our company has the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast.

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Green Cleaning: Paper Towel Alternatives

It’s hard to get rid of a habit, like using paper towels for every mess up and spill.

However, paper towels are not ideal if you’re looking to help the planet and reduce your carbon footprint. Here are two eco-friendly options you can try instead of using paper towels.

Paper Towel Alternatives

Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths are a housekeeping necessity. They are absorbent, quick drying, and tiny, making them very effective. They are small enough to pick up dust and dirt particles and if you take care of them properly, they can clean around 500 times (talk about efficiency!).

Bamboo Towels

One of the newer alternatives on the market is bamboo paper towels. They look a lot like plain paper towels, except they are more durable, so you don’t need as many pieces of paper as paper towels. Each roll of bamboo towels has around 20 sheets, and some brands can be washed around 100 times, so these bad boys can last you around 2,000 uses!

Tips For Your Paper Towel Alternatives

1. Color Code: Microfiber cloths come in many different colors, which can be very convenient when it comes to your home cleaning. You’ll never have to worry about mixing up your bathroom cleaning cloth with your kitchen cloth — assign each room a different color.

2. Wash Regularly: Both paper towel alternatives will be cleaning a lot of your home's surfaces. To make sure it's not transferring any germs or bacteria, it’s a good idea to keep them in their own container or hamper.

3. Follow Care Instructions: Eco-friendly paper towel alternatives can save you some cash, but not if you don’t care for them properly. Look into the proper care for your microfiber cloths and bamboo towels to make sure they can last their entire lifespan.

Read more:
Green Cleaning The Bathroom
DIY Green Cleaning Recipes

Triple S is dedicated to green cleaning and offer many eco-friendly services to keep your house looking Clean Fresh & Bright throughout the seasons.

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Best Ways to Remove Makeup from Your Carpet

Sometimes, we have time to spend an hour or more applying makeup. But most of the time, we are rushing out of the door to work. And when you’re in a hurry, it’s very easy to spill some foundation, eye shadow, or powder on your carpet flooring.

Don’t panic, our trusted cleaning technicians know a few ways to make sure your makeup doesn’t stain.

How To Clean Foundation
What you will need:

• A butter knife or spoon.
• Clear dish washing liquid.
• Cold water.
• Microfiber cloths or paper towels.
• A vacuum cleaner.

1. Scrape any excess foundation from the carpet using the butter knife or spoon. You’ll want to do this IMMEDIATELY so the foundation doesn’t cause a deeper stain.
2. Mix a few drops of dish soap and cold water. Lightly dampen your cloth or paper towel with the mixture and gently blot the stain (work from the outside in!).
3. Keep dabbing the stain until there’s no more foundation in the carpet (no scrubbing or rubbing!).
4. Dampen another cloth or paper towel in plain water. Use this to remove any soap still in the carpet.
5. Blot the area until it’s dry and vacuum the spot.

How To Remove Eyeliner
What you will need:

• ½ cup of warm water.
• 1 tsp of vinegar.
• Microfiber cloths.

1. Mix the water and vinegar.
2. Place your cloth into the solution and blot the stain (from the outside, in).
3. Lightly dampen a cloth with plain water and remove any vinegar solution left on the stain.
4. Pat dry.

TIP: Use the same steps for removing mascara and eye shadow, but instead of warm water, use cold water!

AND

If you have lighter carpets, use hydrogen peroxide instead of a vinegar-based solution — it doesn’t have bleaching properties that will ruin your carpet.

The dedicated and highly skilled Triple S staff includes the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast. Contact us today!

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Organize Your Home in 10 Minutes or Less

Not every home improvement project needs to take up a full Sunday or your entire weekend. Take home organization for instance — you can accomplish plenty of tasks in a little under 10 minutes.

Think about breaking it up into 10-minute chunks.

There are 10-minute chunks of time that pop up all day (you just haven’t envisioned it this way). But think about it — the first 10 minutes after you walk through the door, sitting in the waiting room before an appointment, or waiting for your food to finish cooking.

Do you know you need to do a major bathroom clean, but you can’t find the time to do so? Instead of scheduling a 3-hour timeframe on your calendar, break it up into 10-minute projects throughout the week or weekend. If you like where we’re heading, but have no idea where to start, we have a few ideas.

10-minute tasks to tackle throughout the week.

1. Choose one drawer in your dresser and go through and organize your clothing — clean, re-fold, stack, and give away. 2. Vacuum your car or at least one room in your house. 3. Save important contact information on your mobile phone — organize them and delete any information that you don’t need anymore. 4. Go through your email. Take 10 minutes to reply, RSVP, and organize your inbox. 5. Organize your entertainment. Believe us, this will save a lot of time during movie nights. Add movies into your Netflix queue or add them to the notes section on your phone. 6. Clean your make up brushes — seriously, when was the last time you did this? 7. You cleaned out one dresser drawer, now it’s time to clean and organize one of your office drawers. 8. Go through one bag (work bag, gym bag, lunch bag), and clean and organize it. The dedicated and highly skilled Triple S staff includes the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast. Contact us today! Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Bad Cleaning Habits You Need To Break

We all want cleaning to go as quickly and easily as possible. The only problem with that is most of us end up taking shortcuts, making our chores the complete opposite — harder and longer.

It’s time for you to stop those bad cleaning habits you may have learned throughout the years. Start with one and then work your way up until you’re cleaning like a pro.

3 Bad Cleaning Habits You Need To Break

1. Allowing paper to clutter and accumulate. 

Even though we have online billing and banking services, there is still a mound of paper that ends up in our home. From magazines and newspapers to school papers and invitations — the list goes on and on.

Designate a place for all mail and papers and at least once a week sort it through and toss it away!

2. Leaving wet towels and shower curtains bunched together.

Spend less time in the laundry room by picking up your wet towels off the floor and separating your wet shower curtains as soon as you get out. By closing the curtain after each use, it will dry more quickly and lead to less mildew growth. And by hanging wet towels to dry, you can get a second and even a third use out of it — lightening your laundry load.

3. Using too much cleaning product. 

Using more cleaning product won’t make it work better or faster. Using too much dish soap or laundry detergent can actually cause more harm than good. The excess residue becomes a dirt magnet, trapping soil, so don’t waste your time (or money) using extra product!

4. Cleaning with dirty tools.

You can’t expect to get a good cleaning in if your tools are dirty also. If your washing machine has an odor, it’s most likely from built-up residue from your detergent. If your vacuum bag or filter is filled to the brim with dust, it won’t suck all the dirt up. And a dirty sponge or mop will simply move bacteria from one area to the next. Clean them right away!

The dedicated and highly skilled Triple S staff includes the most Clean Trust* Certified Technicians and Master Technicians of any company in the Northeast. Contact us today!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Expert Homeowner Cleaning Tips

Over the years, Triple S has helped thousands of families and businesses clean their space. From carpets and rugs to tile, grout, and upholstery. Our licensed and insured cleaning experts love the opportunity to help out.

With years of experience under our belt comes an excess amount of knowledge on all things home cleaning — and we’d love to share a few tips we’ve learned along the way.

Home Cleaning Tips From Triple S

Use under-padding with your rugs.
Steven DeMarco II, CRS: “It’s important to use under-padding with your rugs because it will add comfort and extend its lifespan. Durahold Under-Padding offers the best rug protection for rugs used over hard surfaces like wood, tile, and stone.”

Store your outdoor cushions every season.
Ed Marcarelli, Upholstery Manager: “Covering or storing your cushions when they are not in use (as well as cleaning before you store them) will help prevent excess soiling and increase the life of the fabric.”

Triple S has a dry climate-controlled warehouse to clean and store your outdoor cushions, find out more here.

Use a homemade cleaner to remove skunk smell on pets.
Ron Sanders, VP: “What can you use on a dog that got sprayed by a skunk before he lays on your carpet or furniture? The formula: 1 quart 3% peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon of liquid soap. Mix completely in a pan or bucket and apply to fur wearing rubber gloves. Massage in and let sit for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry. May require a second application.”

Vacuum weekly — especially if you suffer from allergies.
Ed Marcarelli, Upholstery Manager: “The same dust that builds up on your wood furniture also collects on your upholstered items. Vacuuming on a regular basis will help keep them clean and extend the life of the textile.”

Look for solution-dyed acrylics for outdoor furniture.
Ed Marcarelli, Upholstery Manager: “When looking for outdoor fabrics, look for solution-dyed acrylics. You will get a color that is more stable, they are almost impossible to stain, and they won’t fade.”

Don’t use acid or alkaline cleaners on marble.
Kevin DeMarco, CRS: “Marble flooring is chosen for its beauty. However it’s a relativity soft stone, porous, and chemically sensitive. Clean up spills immediately, dust mop regularly and use area rugs and runners in traffic areas. Do not use acid or alkaline cleaners. Dull or scratched marble can be professionally polished and sealed."

At Triple S, we offer several cleaning services to restore your carpets, drapes, and upholstery once more! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience and are here to help you keep your home looking and feeling Clean, Fresh, & Bright no matter how messy your furry friends might be!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

10 Easy Summer Storage Tips

If you still have winter clothing laying around, it's time to store them away! Temperatures have hit the 90's — you won't be needed that over-sized sweater anymore (trust us).

To keep your winter materials looking fresh season after season, follow these simple rules for storing your warm and wooly items:

10 Easy Summer Storage Tips

1. Since dirt and food are invitations to insects, clean or dry clean everything before storage.
2. Make all necessary repairs before cleaning and storing - sew hemlines, replace buttons, and fix split seams.
3. Store all items in a cool, well-ventilated area.
4. Store away from natural and artificial light. This means hot attics, damp basements, and garages should be avoided.
5. Store woolens in cedar chests or in other airtight containers. Second choices for storage of woolens are cloth or canvas bags and cardboard boxes. If you store in a closet, drape a cloth sheet over your clothes to protect them from dust and light. Do not store in plastic.
6. Pack airtight containers with mothballs separate from the clothes, never on them.
7. To discourage wrinkles in sweaters, fold them, and wrap in white tissue paper before storing. If you hang your sweaters, fold over the crossbar to avoid shoulder stretches.
8. Down, like all winter clothing, should be cleaned (either washed or dry cleaned according to the care label) before end of season storage. Down should be stored loosely, to allow for air circulation.
9. Furs should be stored on a well padded hanger in a cool dark place, ideally with a professional fur storage company or a dry cleaner with fur storage capacity.
10. If you do not have proper storage space, ask your drycleaner about box storage. You can get your clothes cleaned and properly stored for the season all at the same time.

At Triple S, we are dedicated to keeping your home Clean Fresh & Bright through all four seasons! Our textile experts have all the tools and experience you could need when looking for an upholstery and carpet cleaning company. We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street
Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue
Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Get Rid Of Pet Dander at Home

When we're cuddling with our pets, the last thing we're thinking about is how dirty they are. But, they are, very dirty! With dander, dandruff, and dirt (allergy-sufferers worse nightmare!). Luckily, there are a few ways to prevent pet dander from affecting you.

What Is Pet Dander?
Pet dander is made up of tiny, microscopic flecks of skin shed. People with allergy sensitivities can be triggered by pet dander the same way they are affected by an animals saliva and urine.

Which Pets Should you Avoid?
Many people think cats have the most dander, but twice as many people report allergies to cats than to dogs. And unfortunately, there aren't any "non-allergenic dogs or cats," so both short-haired and long-haired animals will contribute to allergens and poor indoor air quality.

How Can I Control Pet Allergens?
Here are a few tips to help you minimize the discomfort:

• Keep your pets out of your bedroom.
• Wash your fabrics once a week (i.e., linens, pillowcases, and window treatments).
• Wipe up your tile floors once a month.
• Vacuum carpet and upholstery once a week and by a professional once a month (if you're in need of a certified cleaning company, call us!).

At Triple S, we offer several cleaning services to restore your carpets, drapes, and upholstery once more! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience and are here to help you keep your home looking and feeling Clean, Fresh, & Bright no matter how messy your furry friends might be!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Choose The Best Window Treatment

Your window treatments are just as important as the art hanging on your wall. If you pick the wrong pattern or the wrong color, it can completely change the decor of the room.

What Are The Best Textiles For Each Room?

Living Room

If you entertain often, the living room window treatments are the most important ones. If your home as large windows, Hunter Douglas sheer shades would fit perfectly.

The Silhouette® vertical sheers provide a warm and cozy feel, while still brightening up your home. This award-winning shade can also roll completely into the headrail, providing a clear view outside.

Bathroom

Just like your bedroom, your bathroom is your private space. Sheer curtains just can't provide you with the privacy you need, so installing shades is the way to go.

We love the top-down, bottom-up Hunter Douglas Vignette® Tiered™ Modern Roman Shades. They give you the privacy you need and they are easy to use, too!

Bedroom

We all need at least two things in our bedroom, privacy and comfort. That's why Hunter Douglas Prouette® window shadings are the best option in this room. They feature soft fabric vanes attached to a single sheer backing so it appears to be floated when open, drawing more natural light into your room.

Let Triple S inspire your next window treatment purchase with the highest quality products products and materials. Our experts will do the work measuring dimensions, assessing your room’s lighting, and making sure your purchase is perfectly customized to your home.

To learn more about DUC interiors and Triple S, visit our website.

Get Your Backyard Ready For Summer

Cleaning Your Vacation Home: Part III

Now that you’ve successfully cleaned the interior of your home, how does the outside look? If your backyard needs a little TLC, there’s still time before summer officially (and unofficially) begins!

Keep reading for the best ways to spruce up your backyard.

Patio and Deck
Take a moment to sweep and power spray the remaining grime from your deck.

Don’t forget to wipe down your patio furniture, clean your patio cushions, and cover your furniture after each use. But, if there’s no saving your outdoor furniture and you think it’s simply time for an upgrade, read our blog: Tips For Buying Outdoor Furniture.

If you left your patio cushions with Triple S for cleaning and storing, call us and we’ll deliver them straight to your door!

Outdoor Kitchen
Give your grill a good cleaning (utensils and all!). And while you’re at it, make sure you have extra plates, cups, and other utensils for you and your guests.

Outdoor Lighting
Go around your property and check to make sure all your lights are working properly. Add a little glow to your patio so you can enjoy this space after dark — it’ll also come in handy when you want to grill at night.

Another great way to spruce up your outdoor space is by adding an outdoor rug! They can withstand the high-foot traffic that outdoor parties bring and plus, they make your space more welcoming!

Don’t worry about getting any spills or stains on your outdoor carpet either (it’s bound to happen at least once over the summer). We have all the tips you need, here: Spot Removal Tips.

To keep your backyard clean all summer long, follow our weekly cleaning checklist from part II of our blog series: Cleaning Your Vacation Home.

At Triple S, we are dedicated to keeping your home Clean Fresh & Bright through all four seasons. So if you need us this summer, please don’t hesitate to give us a call! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Keep Your Home Clean This Summer

We know the last thing on anyone's mind during the summer is cleaning. We would all much rather be lounging by the pool or the beach. However, if you want to come home to a neat and tidy place, then sticking to a daily or weekly cleaning schedule is best.

Cleaning Your Vacation Home: Part II

Monday
Monday’s we always schedule our lighter chores (we all know how hard it is to do anything after the weekend). Don’t be fooled though, these lighter chores will still have a large effect on your home.

Wipe down all of the surfaces in your bathroom and kitchen (and your office too, if you have one!), and sweep the floors quickly — there’s bound to be some sand somewhere. 

Tuesday
Tuesday is pickup day. Go to every room and pick up any excess clothes, toys, or garbage. This small task will help clear away the clutter little by little.

Wednesday
Sunday’s are typically a popular day for laundry, but not in the summertime! The weekends are usually the time we get to enjoy a little sunshine. So, once Wednesday rolls around, grab your whites and your colors, and get your laundry done just in time for some weekend fun.

Thursday
Your bathroom needs a deep cleaning at least once a week, so get out your toilet bowl brush and your shower scrub and start rubbing away.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Mini weekend vacations are a staple in the summer. This is why we’ve clumped Friday, Saturday, and Sunday chores all in one — just make sure you get to it at least one of the days. 

Use your weekend to focus on the kitchen. Plan out your weekly meals, scrub the sink and appliances, and wipe down the counter tops. We also suggest cleaning out the fridge and throwing away any expired meals.

To find our cleaning checklist, and keep up with your summer cleaning, check out part I of our blog series: Cleaning Your Vacation Home.

For help with cleaning your carpets, hardwood floors, upholstery, patio cushions, and more, call Triple S!

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Cleaning Your Vacation Home

Once summer finally arrives, you should be in vacation-mode — not cleaning-mode! If your family has a home away from home for the next 3 to 4 months, it’s best to take a trip to your oasis now to start cleaning!

We know that it can be hard to find the time, but if you don’t want to be completing chores for hours on arrival, grab your cleaning supplies, a cleaning buddy, and start scrubbing! 

Indoor Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen:

• Clean ALL kitchen appliances and equipment (i.e., coffee maker, microwave, grill). Don’t forget to give your pots and pans a good rinse — they’ve been left aside for dust and debris to collect.
• Wipe down all countertops, stovetops, and glass cabinets.
• Stock your fridge and pantry with plenty of food, snacks, and drinks for your family an friends to enjoy when they arrive.
• Replenish your kitchen with dish and hand soap, garbage bags, pot holders, and dish towels.

Living Room:

• Dust off ceiling fans, lamps, blinds, TV units, and air vents.
• Clean glass windows and curtains or blinds.
• Wipe down your couches and clean any blankets or upholstery.
• Last, but certainly not least, don’t forget to vacuum!

If you need a professional carpet or upholstery cleaner, call Triple S!

Bathroom:

• Clean, scrub, and sanitize your entire bathroom — toilet, sink, and shower included.
• Restock toilet paper, hand towels and shower towels, and shower supplies.
• Check for any leaks or clogs with your plumbing.

If you want to take your cleaning one step further, read our blog: 4 Ways To Green Clean Your Bathroom!

Bedroom:

• Change bedsheets, pillowcases, and comforters. It will also come in handy to have a few spare bed sheets, pillowcases, and blankets for your guest bedrooms. 
• Check and change any broken light bulbs.

To find out how to clean your bedding, read: We Care For Bedspreads and Comforters.

Outdoor Cleaning Checklist

Patio

• Powerwash and sweep the deck.
• Clean your patio furniture and cushions.
• Clean your outdoor grill utensils.
• Replace any broken landscape lights.

If you left your patio cushions with Triple S for cleaning and storing, call us and we’ll deliver them straight to your door!

Yard

• Plant new flowers and pick out any weeds.
• Plan out your watering schedule for the summer.

Read, How To Give Your Backyard Personality.

Extra:

• Clean the windows, screens, and shutters.
• Powerwash your home’s siding.

At Triple S, we are dedicated to keeping your home Clean Fresh & Bright through all four seasons. So if you need us this summer, please don’t hesitate to give us a call! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

The Best Eco-Friendly Carpet Cleaner For Your Home

In our attempt to keep your home environmentally friendly, Triple S has proudly used DICC for around 10 years.

Greening the Cleaning® has a line of products that strive to eliminate all cleaning agents containing hazardous ingredients and replace them with eco-friendly products. 

Here Are 4 Reasons Why You Should Try It

1. It’s All Natural
Greening the Cleaning® makes a strong effort to make formulas that contain naturally-derived, plant, and mineral-based ingredients - avoiding harmful toxins.

2. It Protects Animals And People
These products are never tested on animals and are not formulated with animal-derived ingredients or known human carcinogens. All ingredients are fully disclosed!

3. It’s Used In Facilities Nationwide
Greening the Cleaning® products have been implemented in hospitals, schools, day care centers, government facilities and businesses around the country. Not to mention, they are used at Hackensack University Medical Center - the 4th largest hospital in the country.

4. It Helps Non-Profits
All profits from GTCTM products go directly to the Deirdre Imus Environmental Health Center for supporting the Greening the Cleaning® program. It also funds research and education to ultimately protect the environment from toxins that threaten children's’ health. It also helps the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CABVI) to provide for those who are blind and visually impaired.

Triple S helps protect the environment while keeping your home eco-friendly! We are a Clean Trust* certified firm that can help you meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommendations for Indoor Air Quality programs. We have three main plant locations:

                                           Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street
                                            Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue
                                           Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Clean Your Bedroom in 4 Easy Steps

Do you have clothes dangling off your bed, towels hanging over your door, and random piles of mess on the floor? Well, no more! Although smoothing your sheets and picking up your clothes might not seem like a high priority as you’re rushing around in the morning, you’ll reap the benefits come the end of the day.

The key to cleaning your room is being prepared and understanding which tasks need to be tackled first. If you follow these simple, daily chores, you will consistently maintain a peaceful space.

1. Declutter and Pick-Up
You want to clear off as many surfaces as you can. So organize and empty your room of any items that don't belong. Throw dirty clothes in the hamper and rehang any outfits on the floor.

2. Dust All Surfaces
Take a moist cloth and wipe up any dust on your furniture. Don’t forget about the tops of mirrors, windows, and even your blinds. Use a hand attachment with your vacuum to get to the hard-to-reach spots. This step only has to be done once a month.

3. Vacuum The Floor
Spend some extra time behind/under your bed and other furniture. You should also try cleaning your mattress. You can also come in and have a professional clean your hardwood floors or wall-to-wall carpeting.

4. Remake The Bed
Whether you tuck your covers in or drape them loosely, make sure you’re making your bed before you leave your room. This simple task alone can set your day off on a productive note.

At Triple S, we know how important it is to keep your floors, drapery, and valances spotless. That is why we offer several professional cleaning services including carpet and grout tile cleaning. We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Go Green: 4 Ways To Clean Your Bathroom

Nowadays people are finding new and eco-friendly ways to clean up their home (bye-bye, bleach!) and for good reasons! Harsh chemicals cause environmental damage and are hazardous to your health. So why not try these green cleaning tips instead?

1. Little By Little

If given extra time in the morning (or at night), make it a daily habit to clean up after every shower. Overtime, that icky black mildew can grow and grow. So wipe up the surface with a non-bleach cleaner. And if you can, reuse your towel twice before tossing in the laundry.

2. Natural Scents

Don’t let your bathroom stink up! To keep it smelling fresh, squeeze several drops of essential oil, such as eucalyptus or peppermint into a small vessel and let it sit on your counter top. In the guest bath, leave a few options for your visitors to enjoy!

3. Shower Head Cleanse

Shower heads can become clogged with mineral deposits, so skip the harsh chemicals and fill a plastic bag with undiluted white vinegar. Then, tie the plastic bag over the shower head and let it work its magic overnight. Lastly, scrub the surface clean with a toothbrush - should be good as new!

4. Air It Out

While the best way to prevent mildew is to turn on the exhaust fan, another eco-friendly and energy efficient option is to crack open the window when showering. This will allow the steam to escape before you fog the windows up!

Looking for more green cleaning tips? Turn to Triple S! We can help you efficiently clean your tiles, grout, counter tops, and more! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Buy Safe Cleaning Products 101

Cleaning is more than just a chore, it’s a science. And if science wasn’t exactly your forte in grade school, you may be in unfamiliar terrain while shopping for safe cleaning products, but Triple S is here to help.

Inspect The Ingredients

Just because the label says “natural,” “non-toxic,” or “eco-friendly,” doesn’t mean that it’s true. Verify the product by looking them up on EWG’s Guide To Healthy Cleaning. Here are a few major ingredients to look out for:

Petroleum Solvents

Also known as surfactants, this solvent is derived from the toxic chemical petroleum.

Phthalates

A hormone disruptive that are often components of complex synthetic fragrances.

Chlorine Bleach

Very strong, corrosive, and irritating.

Choose Healthy Alternatives

You don’t need harsh chemicals to get things cleaned. In fact, there are plenty of healthy (and arguably better) alternatives on the market.

• Baking soda.

• Vinegar.

• Lemon juice.

• Essential oils.

Don’t Be Afraid To Try Something New

Once you find a brand you love, it’s hard to part ways. But sometimes even your most favorite brand can tweak its formula and add harmful ingredients. Make sure you’re constantly checking the ingredients list of every item you buy, including your most beloved and trusted brands.

CLEANING TIPS

For cleaning up stains, be sure to avoid mixing ammonia and bleach during the cleaning process. Also, test the spot removal method in a hidden area of your carpet or upholstery before applying to the entire area. Lastly, blot - do not rub or brush, as this can agitate and distort your textiles.

At Triple S, green cleaning is of the utmost importance to us. We use quality green cleaning formulas, the most modern techniques and equipment. We then apply all of our skill, energy and experience into restoring their like-new look & beauty.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks

From cleaning your tile and grout to purifying the indoor air you breathe, this month, Triple S is focused on helping you create a healthy and happy home environment. And in honor of National Cleaning Week, we have a few more tips to help with your spring cleaning.

Keep cleaning supplies within reach.
By having easy access to your cleaning supplies, you’ll save time and energy when you clean.
Get them out of your attic or basement and make room in your cabinets or closets.

Work from top to bottom.
People often make the mistake of cleaning their floors and then working on the final touches (i.e. cabinets and faucets). However, if you start at the top (walls, windows, ceilings) and end with your floors, you’ll avoid re-cleaning multiple areas.

Use your time wisely.
If you clean efficiently, you’ll cut down on your cleaning time. For instance, after spraying a cleaner on your fixtures, take out the trash. When you come back inside, your fixtures should be ready for a good scrubbing.

Carpeting and rugs
Clear out your family - and their clutter - and wash your carpets and rugs (don’t forget to treat the wood underneath your area rugs as well).

Curtains
Most curtain fabrics can be vacuumed with an attachment, spot-cleaned, and steamed. However, lace and sheers should be tossed in the dryer on the delicate cycle with no heat.

Upholstery
Be fabric-specific when spot-cleaning your furniture and check your labels - generally, synthetics are DIY, but natural fibers will need professional cleaning.

If you need help with your spring cleaning, call the textile experts at Triple S - we’ll make the process a breeze! We serve Fairfield County, Greenwich, Cos Cob, and the surrounding regions of Connecticut!  Triple S is a family owned business with over 50 years of experience.

We have three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue

How To Avoid a Carpet Cleaning Disaster

Stains on your carpet can be an absolute disaster...we know!

But the mess that they cause isn’t always the worst of it. Sometimes, it’s the process that follows — or should we say, your cleaning method.

A dirty spot on your carpet can be temporary if remedied the right way.

Here are a few methods to ensure you avoid any and all hiccups while cleaning your carpet.

Leave The Bleach Alone!

While it may seem like a strong cleaner, bleach can cause irreversible damage to your carpet, and leave entire areas of it discolored forever.

When cleaning your carpet, think of it as clothing-- if you wouldn’t clean your clothes with it, don’t clean your carpet with it.

Assess The Stain Immediately

Depending on the type of stain, it is critical to understand the type of cleaning method you’ll need to move forward with. Did you spill your favorite cocktail? There are specific methods to cleaning that prove much more effective than the ones for a blood stain.

Blot, Don’t Rub!

Paper towels, napkins, and towels are great options for spills and stains. Scrubbing will only spread the stain and force it into areas that may not be reachable.

If The Stain Is Dry, Vacuum First!

Chances are, your vacuum has the reach and cleaning capabilities far superior than using a bit of elbow grease. Applying this type of suction from different angles gives you the possibility of cleaning the stain without having to get on your hands and knees.

Call The Professionals

If your pesky stain won’t come out after a few trials, it might be time to give it a rest and make the call. The professionals will have access to equipment to clean even the toughest blemishes!

At Triple S, we offer professional carpet cleaning services to prevent your favorite piece of home decor from aging! We are a family owned business with over 50 years of experience and are here to help you keep your home looking and feeling Clean, Fresh, & Bright!

Triple S has three main plant locations:

Stamford Plant | 400 West Main Street

Norwalk Plant | 337 Westport Avenue

Stratford Plant | 1800 Stratford Avenue