Blog | Dreame Canada

A clean vacuum filter doesn’t just keep your vacuum running; it improves suction, traps allergens, and extends the lifespan of your machine. No matter what kind of filter you have, r, knowing how to clean it properly can make a big difference in both air quality and cleaning performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify your filter type, how to clean it step-by-step, and how often to maintain or replace it so your vacuum performs at its best. Let’s start with the signs your filter might need cleaning. Signs Your Vacuum Filter Needs Cleaning Your vacuum filter may not come with a calendar reminder, but it certainly gives warning signs when it needs attention. Here are the most common indicators: Weak suction: If your vacuum isn't picking up dirt like it used to, and you find yourself going over the same spot multiple times, a dirty filter is a very likely culprit. Dust escaping or blowing around: If you notice a fine cloud of dust escaping from your vacuum's exhaust or see bits of dirt blowing around instead of being sucked up, that’s a red flag. This means your filter isn’t effectively trapping particles as it should. Unusual or musty odors: If your vacuum starts smelling musty or like something's burning, it could mean that the filter needs cleaning. Learn more about this using our  “Why Does My Vacuum Smell Bad?” guide. Hot vacuum motor: If your vacuum feels unusually warm after a short period of use, it could be struggling to pull air through a clogged filter. Filter indicator light: Many modern vacuums have smart indicators. If yours lights up with a warning, it's definitely time to take a look. Important If your vacuum stops working or shuts off automatically, it may be due to an overheated motor caused by poor airflow. Check the filter first. Identifying Your Vacuum Filter Type Not all vacuum filters are the same. To clean them properly , you need to know what type you’re working with. Here's a quick rundown of different types: HEPA Filters: HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to capture 99.97% of microscopic particles, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. These filters are typically not washable, but can be cleaned gently to extend their use. Foam Filters: Often used as pre-filters, foam filters trap larger dust particles and prevent them from reaching the motor or finer filters. Many of them are washable.  Washable Filters: As the name suggests, these filters can be rinsed and reused, reducing waste and saving money. They’re most common in bagless vacuum models.  Paper Filters: Mostly found in bagged vacuums, paper filters are disposable and should never be rinsed with water. They require periodic replacement depending on usage. Pro-tip Refer to your vacuum’s manual to confirm the filter type and whether it is washable. Incorrect cleaning can reduce efficiency, or worse, damage the filter permanently. Check out this comprehensive “Vacuum Filter Guide” for more information. How to Clean Your Specific Vacuum Filter Type How to Clean HEPA Vacuum Filters HEPA filters require delicate handling to avoid damaging the fibers. If your manual permits rinsing, here’s how to do it properly: Ensure the vacuum is unplugged from the power outlet. Carefully remove the HEPA filter from the vacuum without shaking it too much to prevent dust release. Rinse under cool, clean water until the runoff is clear. Do not scrub or use detergent. Shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry for at least 12–24 hours before reinserting. Dreame Take The Dreame R20 Cordless Stick Vacuum includes a washable HEPA filter and powerful edge-to-edge suction, perfect for pet owners or allergy sufferers. For a more detailed HEPA filter cleaning guide to cleaning HEPA filters, check out Dreame’s full tutorial here. How to Clean Foam Filters Foam filters are relatively low-maintenance and reusable. Here’s the cleaning process: Remove the foam filter. You'll usually find it near the dustbag or motor. Give it a good tap over a trash can to shake off any loose dirt and debris. Rinse the filter under cool, running water. Add a few drops of dish soap only if the filter is especially dirty. Squeeze gently to help dislodge trapped dirt. Once you've rinsed it clean, squeeze out as much excess water as you can. Let it air dry completely. Don't put it back in your vacuum until it's completely dry; otherwise, you risk mold or mildew.. How to Clean Washable Filters Washable filters are a favorite for eco-conscious users. To clean one: Remove the filter and tap gently to remove loose debris. Rinse with cool, running water until the runoff is clear, gently squeezing to dislodge dirt. Let it air dry thoroughly before reinstalling. This can take up to 24 hours. Dreame Take The Dreame H12 Dual Wet and Dry Vacuum is designed with washable filters and smart water management, making deep cleans easier. How to Clean Paper Filters Paper filters are disposable, but you can sometimes prolong their life with gentle care: Tap the filter gently outdoors or over a trash can to remove loose dust. Avoid aggressive shaking. Use a soft brush to carefully remove embedded dust. Brush in the direction of the pleats. Do not use water on paper filters, as it can damage them. Check the filter against a light source for tears or holes. If found, replace the filter immediately. Special Case: How to Clean Robot Vacuum Filters Robot vacuums generally have small, easy-to-remove filters that need regular care: Remove and tap gently to dislodge dust. Rinse only if the filter is marked washable. Clean the dustbin with water only (no detergent). Let both components air-dry completely before reinstalling. Clean every two weeks and replace every 3 months. Dreame Take The Dreame L10s Ultra Robot Vacuum features automatic dust collection and washable components, meaning less work for you! Special Case: How to Clean Wet and Dry Vacuum Filters Filters for wet and dry vacuums often pick up heavier debris and liquids. To clean: Rinse under water if dirty. Let air-dry completely before next use. If suction remains weak or the filter looks worn, replace it every 3–6 months. Important Never reinstall a damp filter in a wet and dry vacuum. It can lead to mold or even motor damage. How Often Should You Clean Your Vacuum Filter? Cleaning frequency depends on use and environment. A few general rules: Light use (1–2x/week): Clean every 1–3 months. Heavy use or pets/allergies: Clean monthly or more. Robot vacuums: Clean biweekly, replace every 3 months. Paper filters: Replace instead of cleaning. Pro-tip If you vacuum daily or deal with heavy debris like pet fur, consider cleaning more frequently  Best Practices for Vacuum Filter Maintenance To keep your vacuum running like new, follow these tips:  Avoid overfilling the dustbin or bag, which pushes more particles into the filter. Clean the filter outside whenever possible to prevent dust from accumulating indoors. Check airflow regularly. Reduced suction usually means it's time to clean. Keep a backup filter on hand so you always have a clean one ready while the other dries. When Should You Replace Your Filter? Even with regular cleaning, filters wear out. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to replace, not just clean, the filter: Your vacuum’s suction isn’t restored even after cleaning the filter. You notice persistent odors that persist even after drying. The filter is torn, discolored, or permanently clogged. Your vacuum alerts you with a “check filter” or “replace filter” signal. Replace HEPA and foam filters every 6–12 months, and paper filters as needed. Final Thoughts Your vacuum’s filter plays a vital role in your appliance’s performance and your home’s air quality. Clean it regularly, replace it when needed, and always refer to your vacuum’s user manual for specific care guidelines. Bookmark this guide and set a calendar reminder to check your filter monthly. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping both your vacuum and your home spotless!

Many people think cleaning their  floor just means running a mop over it, but that’s a fast track to damage, dullness, and grime buildup. Floors may look clean, but if you’re not cleaning the right way, you’re likely missing bacteria, grit, and residue that can degrade your flooring over time. This guide will walk you through how to clean floors properly, highlighting mistakes you might not even realize you’re making. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or vinyl, we’ll help you get it clean with smarter tools, easier techniques, and fewer headaches. What a Clean Floor Really Means Sure, a clean floor looks good, but real cleanliness goes deeper. A truly clean floor: Is free of fine dust, allergens, and bacteria Feels smooth underfoot, not sticky or gritty Has no lingering chemical smell Doesn’t get damaged over time due to harsh products or oversaturation If you’re aiming for just a “quick wipe,” you’re probably leaving buildup behind. And that can eventually lead to staining, dullness, or even warped floors - especially for wood and laminate. 3 Common Mistakes in Floor Cleaning 1. Ignoring Floor Type Every floor has its own requirements . What works great for tile might actually ruin hardwood. For instance: Using a steam mop on laminate or excess water on hardwood can lead to warping, bubbling, or discoloration. Stone and marble floors can also be damaged by acidic or abrasive products. To avoid costly repairs, always check manufacturer guidelines, and before buying any cleaning product or tool, check whether it’s compatible with your floor type. Dreame Take A smart wet and dry vacuum like theDreame H12 Dual adapts to multiple floor types, taking the guesswork out of your routine. 2. Using The Incorrect Cleaning Product Generic “floor cleaners” often do more harm than good, especially if they contain bleach or acidic chemicals. Many off-the-shelf products contain harsh chemicals that strip protective finishes, leave sticky residues, or attract more dirt over time. Instead, opt for floor-specific cleaners or homemade floor cleaner options like: A few drops of dish soap in warm water (for vinyl or tile) Castile soap and water (for sealed hardwood) pH-neutral stone cleaner (for marble) A rough scrub brush on laminate or a soaking-wet mop on hardwood can spell disaster. You could  try Dreame’s wet and dry vacuum options, like the Dreame H12 Dual, which adapts to multiple surfaces; and no harsh chemicals are needed. 3. Skipping Regular Maintenance Cleaning only when dirt is visible is like brushing your teeth only when you have a cavity. Dirt acts like sandpaper, wearing down floors over time. Regular cleaning not only keeps your home feeling fresh but also protects your floors from wear and tear. Create a floor cleaning schedule based on usage: Area Frequency High-traffic (entryways, kitchens) Daily spot clean, weekly deep clean Bedrooms & low-use areas Weekly clean Pet zones or kids' play areas Every 2–3 days Dreame Take Make a floor cleaning schedule that works for your home and stick to it. Set reminders, or better yet, let a robot vacuum like the Dreame L10s Ultra handle it for you with automated daily cleaning routines  especially for high-traffic areas. How to Clean Floors: Material-Specific Tips Different floor materials require different tools and techniques. Here's how to clean a floor based on what it's made of without causing damage or creating extra work. Hardwood Floors Hardwood is beautiful but sensitive. To avoid warping or scratches, you’ll need to clean gently and dry quickly. Sweep or vacuum daily with a soft brush attachment. Use a bare-floor-friendly vacuum like the Dreame R20 Cordless Stick Vacuum for edge-to-edge dust removal. Mop weekly with a damp (not wet!) microfiber mop and a wood-safe cleaner. Dry immediately to prevent water damage. Pro-tip Avoid steam mops, because they can damage wood sealants. For more details, check out our full guide on “How to Clean Hardwood Floors.” Laminate Floors Laminate looks like wood but doesn’t handle water the same way. Keep it dry and avoid excess moisture. Vacuum or sweep 2–3 times per week. Avoid steam or wet mops, as laminate is not waterproof. Use a laminate-safe cleaning spray. Wipe dry after mopping. Learn more by reading our “How to Clean Laminate Floors” guide.  Tile Floors Durable and water-resistant, tile is one of the easiest floors to clean. Still, unsealed grout can trap grime if neglected. Sweep daily to avoid gritty buildup. Mop with warm water and mild detergent. For grout: use baking soda and water paste and a soft brush to clean tough stains. Rinse thoroughly and dry because soap residue attracts dirt. Consider using the Dreame H12 Dual Wet and Dry Vacuum. It vacuums, mops, and self-cleans with hot air in one go, making it perfect for tackling tile and grout without extra effort. Vinyl/LVP Floors Vinyl is tough and forgiving, but it still needs regular care to keep its finish looking fresh. Vacuum or dry mop regularly. Use warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap (go for vinegar-free cleaners to preserve the top layer). Avoid abrasives or wax-based products, as they create a dull film. Rinse well and dry after cleaning. Marble/Stone Floors Natural stone needs special care. Harsh chemicals or abrasives can etch or dull the surface, so keep cleaning gentle and pH-balanced. Sweep with a soft brush or microfiber. Use pH-neutral stone cleaner only. Never use vinegar, lemon, or bleach. Dry polish with a microfiber cloth. What’s the Best Way to Clean Floors? Here's a quick overview of floor types and the best cleaning methods for them: Floor Type Best Tool Best Cleaner Key Tip Hardwood Soft brush vacuum Wood-safe liquid Dry quickly after mopping Laminate Microfiber mop Laminate spray No steam or wet mops Tile Wet/dry vacuum Mild soap + water Scrub grout monthly Vinyl Robot vacuum Soap + water solution Rinse well Concrete Mop + vacuum Neutral pH solution Reseal yearly Marble Soft cloth Stone-safe spray No acid or bleach Tips for Deep Cleaning Floors Always vacuum or sweep first; never mop over dust. Mop in sections, rinsing frequently. Use flooring-specific solutions; avoid one-size-fits-all. Dry immediately after mopping wood or laminate. Don’t forget the edges and under furniture! Dreame Take For a powerful deep clean, theDreame H14 Wet and Dry Vacuum combines strong suction, hot water mop washing, and edge-to-edge reach—perfect for floors that need extra care. Floor Cleaning Hacks You Should Know Set your robot vacuum to auto-clean during work hours. Use doormats at all entries to reduce tracked-in dirt. Create a DIY cleaner by mixing warm water with a few drops of essential oil and dish soap. Add tennis balls to mop buckets to absorb residue. Create a floor cleaning schedule, stick it to your fridge, and follow it! FAQs Q: Can I make a homemade floor cleaner? A: Yes. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Avoid vinegar or lemon juice. Q: How often should I clean my floors? A: High-traffic areas: sweep daily, mop weekly. Low-traffic: once a week for both is enough. Q: Can I use steam mops on all floor types? A: No. Avoid steam on hardwood and laminate, as it can damage them. Q: How often should I deep-clean floors? A: Every 3–6 months, depending on traffic levels. Q: What’s the best vacuum for all floor types? A: A cordless or wet/dry vacuum like the Dreame H12 Dual works effectively on multiple surfaces. Q: Are robot vacuums good for daily cleaning? A: Yes. Models like the Dreame L10s Ultra can automatically handle daily vacuuming and mopping chores Final Thoughts Getting a clean floor isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter. By using the right tools, cleaners, and techniques for your floor type, you can extend the life of your floors and keep your home looking (and feeling) fresh. Remember to: ✅ Invest in a smart floor care routine✅ Use tools like Dreame’s cordless stick or wet and dry vacuums✅ Avoid cleaning shortcuts that could damage your flooring  later Because a clean floor isn’t just about looks, it’s about comfort, health, and peace of mind. Master the Art of Floor Care How to clean hardwood floors How to clean wood floors How to Clean and Mop Tile Floors How to Clean Laminate Floors How to Clean Grout on Tile Floor How to Clean Linoleum Floors Choosing Floor Cleaning Solution  

While innumerable pathogens harbor the environment, you can effortlessly clear them with the help of an antibacterial floor cleaner. Disinfectants take your cleaning exercise to the next level since they eliminate all micro-organisms that cause diseases. Consequently, they help stop the spread of contagious ailments that would otherwise wreak havoc if they spread. You have to find detergents and cleaning solutions that kill both bacteria and viruses for you to have a successful disinfecting exercise. If you are looking for a full-proof method of disinfecting floors, herein is the best way to disinfect floors using the Dreame robot vacuums and easy to find house cleaning products. The Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting Most people assume that there is no difference between cleaning surfaces and disinfecting. There is a thin line between them that makes it difficult for most folks to differentiate. So, what exactly is the difference between the two procedures? Cleaning Cleaning is the act of removing dirt from a surface to keep the environment looking clean and neat. People clean surfaces frequently using soap and water, and it is a prerequisite to disinfecting the floor with antibacterial cleaning products. This process is relatively fast since you aim to remove soil, debris, and stains from the floor. You can scrub or mop the surface depending on the amount of dirt you are cleaning. Disinfecting Unlike cleaning, disinfectant requires you to use chemicals such as bleach to clean the surface. These chemicals remove germs, bacteria, and viruses that spread diseases. In this process, you have to allow the disinfectant to set on the surface for a specified period before wiping it off. This dwelling time allows the disinfectant to kill the pathogens. Tips for Disinfecting Floors Disinfectants differ from cleaning detergents in chemical composition, making them harsh. Therefore, you need to use pro tips when handling antibacterial cleaning products to avoid damaging your floor and skin. Here are some of the pro tips you can incorporate into your disinfecting routine to achieve stellar results. Always cover up using protective gear while preparing and using a disinfectant. Ensure that your floor is free of soil and general dirt before applying antibacterial cleaning products. Additionally, allow the floor to dry before proceeding to the next step. For the best results, use an antibacterial floor cleaner that the Environmental Protection Agency recommends for your floor type. Keep the disinfectant on the floor for the specified time so that it removes the pathogens you want to eliminate. Read the instructions provided on the packaging. These will help you learn how to handle the solution and how and where to store it after disinfecting the surfaces. Seal the containers well and store them away from children. And once you deplete your solution, discard the container appropriately. Use a spray applicator, antibacterial cleaning cloth, or auto-scrubbers to apply the solution on the floor. Now that you know what to do before and while cleaning, we can learn how to disinfect the floor using the Dreame robot vacuum. The Right Way to Use Antibacterial Floor Cleaner with Dreame Robot Vacuum When you want to disinfect the floor with Dreame robot vacuum, you have to incorporate a disinfectant that will help achieve top-notch hygiene standards. Antibacterial floor cleaners are a bit harsh, especially acidic ones, thanks to the chemical formula manufacturers use in their production. Thus, you have to find a friendly way to use them not to damage your cleaning robot. You are not recommended to add anything other than water into the vacuum tank. The Dreame robot vacuum manufacturer designed the tank to accommodate a neutral solution like water. The acidic antibacterial cleaners will erode the tank from inside, eventually creating holes that will leak water into the mortar. Once water gets to the machine, it is game over for you. The water will ruin your robot vacuum, creating the need to get a new one. And if you think using detergents and soap in the tank is equally fine, you are in for a rude shock. Considering that the pipes have a design that accommodates only water, adding other cleaning agents into the tank will cause the pipes to clog. Consequently, the clogged pores will reduce the machine’s shelf life significantly. Instead of adding solutions into the tank, you can soak the antibacterial cleaning cloth in the disinfectant, then attach it to the robot cleaner and disinfect the house. As the mop spreads the disinfectant, the bot dispenses water to cover the 200m² surface area. You can do the same with cleaning solutions when you want to clean the floors. Remember to dilute the solution to avoid ruining your Dreame robot vacuum. You can also apply the solution to the floor using a spray bottle and let it sit for some minutes before you command your robot to clean the surface. Wrap Up The best way to disinfect floors is, to begin with cleaning the surface. Remove all the dirt and ensure that the floor is spotlessly clean. Allow the floor to dry before you begin disinfecting it using the floor type’s right cleaner. A majority of the disinfectants come as concentrated solutions, so read the instructions to learn how to dilute them before using them on your floor. And while you are at it, remember to protect your hands and face from the harsh chemicals using protective kits. Allow the antibacterial cleaning agent to dwell on the floor for some time so that it can kill the disease-causing pathogens. Failure to do so will result in wasted efforts, and you will have wasted resources too.

A recent global air quality survey shows that 50% of the world’s population suffers from household air pollution effects. The importance of boosting indoor air quality can’t, therefore, be overemphasized. To understand how to improve indoor air quality in Winter, you must first know what causes poor indoor air quality during Winter in the first place. Effects of poor indoor air quality are dire. The solutions range from taking simple measures like ventilating your home to finding the best vacuum for air quality. However, let’s first discuss indoor air quality management in Winter and related issues. What Are the Issues Behind Poor Air Quality in Winter? Indoor air quality reduces in Winter since homeowners become more conscious of air leaks around windows, doors, rim joists, piping, etc., and result in insulation, among other efforts to boost comfort and lower heating bills. People tend to keep doors and windows locked tightly during Winter to maintain indoor warmth; however, these have negative effects. Poor circulation of air indoors allows a buildup of bacteria, viruses, dust mites, mold spores, and other pathogens responsible for many health problems ranging from headaches, fatigue, and dizziness to more severe effects like respiratory diseases, cancer, and heart disease, according to the EPA. Volatile organic compounds (from paint, cleaning agents, etc.), pets, smoke, etc., are also to blame for poor air quality indoors. 5 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality Given the effects of poor indoor air quality in seasons like Winter, it’s important to take certain measures. Here’s how to improve indoor air quality in five simple ways. Grow Plants You can grow some indoor plants to boost your indoor air quality. Numerous studies, including one done by NASA, have linked indoor plants to improved air quality. Houseplants can absorb harmful pathogens in the air. They work perfectly in tight spaces and rooms with little to no airflow. While plants may be slower than air purifiers in regard to their indoor air purifying capabilities, they have other notable benefits. For instance, plants are more therapeutic and cost-effective than air purifiers. However, you need a specific number of plants to realize indoor air quality benefits i.e., 2-3 plants for every 100-square feet of indoor space. Some plants are also better than others at purifying the air. Areca palm, snake plant, money plant, and Chinese evergreens are examples of good indoor plants to consider for better indoor air quality. Monitor Indoor Air Quality To improve air quality indoors, you must first know your indoor air quality status. Indoor air quality monitors (IAQ monitors) offer accurate data on air quality, allowing you to take effective improvement measures. The best IAQ monitors today can detect almost all pollutants indoors, including radon - the chemical linked to 13.4% of all lung cancer-related deaths in the U.S. IAQ monitors can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for many respiratory health problems like sinuses. The benefits of monitoring indoor air quality include identifying the specific pollutant in your home to be able to find effective ways of getting rid of that pollutant. You can be able to know exactly when to ventilate during Winter when the levels of a certain pollutant surpass a certain level. A good air quality monitor will monitor many other metrics, including indoor temperature, air pressure, and humidity, that are linked to how we feel and perform. In fact, imbalances in temperature, air pressure, and humidity are common causes of headaches, migraines, joint pain, and blood pressure variations. There’s even evidence linking indoor air quality to impaired thinking. Open Your Windows It’s understandable why people don’t like opening their windows during Winter. The effort associated with keeping your indoor environment warm and comfortable usually outweighs the need for fresh air. However, you must open your windows periodically to keep your indoor air quality level safe. If you have an indoor air quality monitor, you can know the exact time to ventilate. Clean and Vacuum More Often Keeping your floor and floor covering as carpets and mats can also boost your indoor air quality immensely. There is a clear link between carpets and poor indoor air quality. Carpets are linked to an increased allergen, dust, and pathogen levels in homes. The link between carpets and health problems like asthma, anxious symptoms, and mild cognitive effects is also clear. Carpets, mats, and dirty floors harbor dust, dust mites, mold, and many pathogens linked to indoor air quality problems. All these problems can be solved by vacuuming and moping your floor more often, especially during Winter when air circulation is poor. However, most vacuum cleaners won’t get the job done. In fact, some vacuum cleaners worsen indoor air quality by releasing dust, bacteria, and allergens back into the air. Mops also need to be clean, otherwise, they’ll also reintroduce pathogens. To solve this problem, consider the best vacuum for air quality out there today with a HEPA filter, such as the Dreame D9 robot vacuum. The Dreame D9 is a vacuum cleaner, mop, and robot all in one offering unparalleled stress-free cleaning experiences. It uses a laser system and smart algorithm to map a cleaning route in your home and clean efficiently and thoroughly while avoiding obstacles with ease. Change Furnace Filters Regularly Since indoor heating needs increase drastically, furnace filters are bound to gather particulate matter faster. Furnace filters won’t work as efficiently as they do during winter if you don’t replace them regularly. Removing dirty and clogged filters more than once during Winter will ensure the trapped particulate matter doesn’t recirculate back. After taking the measures above, you won’t have indoor air quality management problems. You should start by monitoring the quality of your air indoors before purposing to open windows and doors more often, adding indoor plants, opening your windows more often, and replacing your furnace filters. Most importantly, you should invest in a good vacuum cleaner and mop like the Dreame D9 proven to clean your carpet, rugs, and floors automatically.

Most people who clean their homes do regular cleaning. Professional cleaning companies do regular and deep cleaning. While you’ll have to pay extra for deep cleaning, there’s unmatched value for money. To understand why you should overlook DIY (Do-It-Yourself) home cleaning over professional cleaning, it’s important to define the two terms. What’s the Difference Between Deep Cleaning and Regular Cleaning Your Home Regular Cleaning As the name suggests, regular home cleaning involves typical home cleaning tasks done to maintain typical cleanliness. While it’s possible to hire a cleaning company to do regular cleaning, it costs less than deep cleaning. You can even clean your room in one hour. Regular cleaning usually involves cleaning tasks such as sweeping floors, cleaning and mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, wiping the dust from surfaces, appliances, and fixtures, cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom, cleaning kitchen appliances, cooking pots and floors as well as cleaning doors, window frames, dusting vents, emptying the trash can, and removing cobwebs. Deep Cleaning Deep cleaning goes further than regular cleaning. The main difference is in the level of detail. Deep cleaning is more extensive. It includes all regular cleaning tasks as well as cleaning neglected and/or hard-to-reach areas of your home. Anything that can be cleaned is attended to. It also focuses on improving the living quality and overall sanitation of your home. Other notable differences include price. Deep cleaning is obviously more costly. It also takes longer. If you are thinking about doing it yourself, we have created a complete cleaning supplies checklist to help you. How Often Do You Need to Deep Clean Your Home As mentioned above, deep cleaning involves cleaning every cleanable place or thing in your home. While it’s not possible to clean everything, there are things you must deep clean often than others. You should deep clean your microwave, shower, toilet, bathmats, bathtubs, and carpets every week. Your refrigerator can be deep cleaned monthly, while your pillows and skirting boards should be cleaned every three months. Windows and drapes should be cleaned thoroughly after 3-6 months. Your mattress, blankets, and duvets can be deep cleaned at least twice a year. Showerheads can wait for a year, while your oven should be deep cleaned when it starts emitting an unpleasant odor. This can even be weekly depending on the frequency, spills, etc. Deep Cleaning House Checklist: How to Deep Clean a House If you are looking for specifics i.e., the different places to clean in your kitchen, bedroom, etc., how to clean those places, the number of times you should clean, among other important information, here’s what you should know. Kitchen Deep Cleaning When deep cleaning your kitchen, you should focus on the microwave, refrigerator, and oven, as these are the appliances that aren’t cleaned properly during regular cleaning. As mentioned above, deep clean your microwave weekly to get rid of food splatters that act as breeding grounds for germs. Your refrigerator should be deep cleaned monthly to eliminate food spills and other sources of germs like rotting vegetables, which can also cause serious bacterial contamination. The process of deep cleaning a refrigerator includes but isn’t limited to removing everything and wiping down all compartments using an antibacterial wash. The oven should be deep cleaned as often as possible, more so when you start to smell previously cooked food. When cleaning your oven regularly, use a damp cloth and soapy water to get rid of good spills and splashes. Other areas and appliances that should be deep cleaned in the kitchen include dishwashers, stovetops, and sinks. Living Room Deep Cleaning Your living room should be deep cleaned weekly to half-yearly, depending on what is being cleaned. Carpets cleaning should be done weekly and deep cleaned once or twice a year. However, deep cleaning can be done often if you have pets or young children that play a lot but still need a carpet that is clean throughout. Deep cleaning is also dictated by factors such as stains and dust levels in your area. Deep cleaning carpets can be a daunting task when handled traditionally. Currently, there are deep cleaning vacuums in the market today, such as the Dreame cordless vacuum sticks for deep cleaning your sofa, carpet, and floors. Windows and drapes can be deep cleaned once every 3-6 months. While you can wipe the woodwork, you’ll need a professional to help you deep clean other elements/parts i.e., to remove grime from your drapes and windows. Skirting boards should be deep cleaned quarterly. Vacuuming and wiping over skirting will remove the layer of dust and pathogens (dust mites/allergens) that accumulate over time on skirting boards. Bathroom Deep Cleaning Bathtubs and showers should be deep cleaned weekly. Deep cleaning is crucial since bathtubs and showers are perfect breeding grounds for fungus and bacteria known to cause skin infections. Cleaning should be as thorough as possible by using antibacterial agents. Toilets should be cleaned regularly on a daily basis, and deep cleaned every week. Like bathtubs and showers, cleaning should be done using antibacterial agents. It’s also crucial to use bleach to keep your toilet free of ugly stains. A toilet cleaner will come in handy when removing mineral deposits. Bathmats should also be cleaned weekly since they are also breeding grounds for fungus and bacteria. Use sanitizing wash or other similar detergents to get rid of harmful bugs that thrive in bathmats. After washing, dry the mat outdoors in direct sunlight to dry. Bathroom shower heads should be deep cleaned once every year to remove minerals that build up over time and restore normal function. Deep cleaning also gets rid of dust and dirt that accumulates over time. Bedroom Deep Cleaning Bedroom pillows should be deep cleaned quarterly, while mattresses, duvets, and blankets should be deep cleaned twice a year. Pillows harbor dead skin, sweat, oil, dust mites, and other allergens. Mattresses also harbor everything found in pillows and more i.e., bed bugs. Mattresses are also prone to become smelly. Duvets and blankets also accumulate dust and allergens. All the bedroom items should be deep cleaned by professional cleaners. You can do regular cleaning; however, deep cleaning should be left to professionals for obvious reasons. While it looks costly, it’s important to consider the health implications of disregarding deep cleaning requirements. It’s also important to choose reputable professional deep cleaners. It may be possible to deep clean some elements/places in your home with the help of state-of-the-art appliances.  Discover More in Our Cleaning Series: How to Keep Your House Clean Before, During & After Vacation How to Clean Your House Like a Pro 10 Tips For Cleaning Your Home This Fall

The best thing a parent can do is to start early on household chores for teenagers. Doing so will teach your children about self-reliance, responsibility, and respect. The problem is, you might have no chore ideas for teens. It’s hard to come up with them – and, sometimes, even harder to get a teenage kid to do them! Fortunately, we have the perfect teenage chore list for you to try. These tasks aren’t hard to do and, in due time, your children will add them to their daily routine with no hassle. Chores That Teens Can Do Take out the trash Taking out the trash is a movie cliché at this point – but there’s a reason for that. Making your teenage children do this will make them understand how important it is to pick up after themselves. Not only that, but this chore will teach them that there are things in life that must be done on time. If they fail to take out the trash before the pick-up truck comes through, they failed their task. So, they will have to do a chore – and pay attention to the daily schedule. It’s the perfect character-building task for beginners! Sweep and vacuum Like taking out the trash, sweeping and vacuuming are some of the most important chores your teenage child can do. This chore is all about taking care of the house. If your teenage kid invites friends over or leaves a mess after eating, it’s only right that they clean up. The best part is, they don’t have to grab a broom because it’s not the 1800s anymore. They can use a Dreame vacuum, like Dreame T10 to make the chore more fun and interesting – but they must make sure everything is nice and clean in the end. Do the laundry This final option is by far the most advanced and complicated of them all. It might not seem like much to an adult – but a teenage kid has little to no idea about doing the laundry. While it is recommended that you tell your children to do the laundry eventually, you need to understand that it will take some time for them to understand how to properly do this chore. So, if you’re interested in trying this option, keep in mind you’ll have to teach your children how to do that. Take care of the pets A pet could be your teenage child’s best friend – but it’s also a huge responsibility. Taking care of a pet teaches important lessons. It also teaches how important it is to be responsible when someone else depends on you. If, for example, you have a dog in the house, your son or daughter should walk the dog, feed the dog, groom the dog, and play with the dog. These are all essential parts in taking care of a pet – and an important household chore for your teenage kid to do. The great part about this is that doing something like this doesn’t feel like a chore – because hanging out with the pet is always fun! How Can You Motivate Teenagers to Do Their Chores? Set consequences if they do not do their chores These days, teenagers have too many things going on for them. Social media alone takes hours away from their daily routine. While that’s not a good thing, you can use it to your advantage. For example, if your children fail to do their part in the teenager chore list, you can restrict their internet access, reduce their video game time, or simply add more chores in the future for them to do. The idea here is not to threaten your children with punishment – but to make them understand that, in real life, not doing what you’re supposed to do has consequences. Do chores along with them Even though you’re trying to delegate household tasks and teach your kids about responsibility, sometimes it’s better to do a team effort to show that you care. This article is about chores for teens, but that’s not enough reason for adults not to give a helping hand! When you do chores side by side with your children, you’re teaching them the right way to do things – and why they should do it. And, sure, this isn’t the most entertaining thing an adult can do with his or her time, but it’ll teach the young ones in the family a valuable lesson. Reward them for doing chores Teenagers should face consequences for their actions, both good and bad. Sure, you should take away your teenage child’s cellphone if they don’t take out the trash – but you should also reward him if he does his household chores. You already know what to do if your child fails to do his part. You should also promise to do something good in return if they do all the chores. A weekly allowance is a great reward for a job well done. If an allowance isn’t possible or necessary, you could come up with something else, like buying a new video game or cellphone in a couple of months, if every chore is done before that time. Conclusion At the end of the day, implementing the right chores list for teenagers could be the difference between raising healthy, educated adults and people who don’t know how to pick up after themselves. Taking out the trash or vacuuming might not seem like much, but they are character-building tasks that will teach your children valuable lessons. And, while your kids learn, you’re learning as well! Trying to make your teenage children do chores isn’t easy – but it’s worth the effort. If you’re coming up short and your teenage kids aren’t listening, try to implement the reward system we talked about. That’ll definitely help!