02.05.07
Cleaning Fluids
Most maids are set in the way they use their equipment and even the cleaning supply brands they use. Unless you own a cleaning solution manufacturing plant, go with their choice. It’s not important.
I like vinegar in water for floors, glass and cabinet cleaning (2 T/gal). I have fond delusions that it may cut down on the high incidence of asthma in professional house cleaners. No matter what your choice, if your cleaning supplies are going to be diluted in water you must tie a tablespoon or measuring cup to the container and write in dark marker the amount to be added. Each time you replace the cleaner, transfer the measuring tool and write the amount. If you don’t, maids (and others) have a universal mind-set that more will clean faster and with less work. It won’t, but it will stain or eat away at your fabrics and woods.
Proper Use
If you are supplying Comet® or other chlorine-based powder and Windex® or other ammonia-based spray:
Make very sure that your maid knows that they cannot be mixed.
Spraying a mirror liberally with Windex® above a sink filled with Comet® can produce chlorine gas that can gas your maid.
Accidental death inquiries are very time consuming and completely defeat the idea of having a maid.
All cleaning supplies are chemicals that must be handled correctly to prevent injury to the maid and damage to your possessions. Take the time to read the precautions and repeatedly check that your maid is using things correctly. For instance – tile cleaner is essentially dilute bleach. If your maid is waving the sprayer around and spritzing your cloth shower curtains, you’re going to have bleached spots. Not pretty. Worse, she’s probably breathing in much too much.
Maids should also be encouraged to well-ventilate the room they’re spraying chemicals in. House and ceiling fans should always be on. Windows should be open in the bathrooms, the kitchen and the room that is being deep cleaned.
