Your best directions for a deep cleaning team?

6 years ago

I have a deep clean team arriving tomorrow in advance of our move-in and they just asked what products I want them to use. Yikes, I did not do my homework! I'm scrambling to get all manufacturers reccos on things like bathroom fixtures, flooring, etc. but I am short on time (just starting to pack up our rental for move in two days!).

I guess my first question is how to gently clean recently sealed grout ? The house is almost all brand new so I don't want any chemicals (or vinegar?) stripping away the sealant.

Also, best way to rid the walls and ceiling of drywall dust? The team wants to spray with water then wipe with microfiber cloths, but I'm a little sketched out on moisture getting to my hardwood floors.

Thanks for whatever input you can offer!

Featured Answer

PRO

User

6 years ago

last modified: 6 years ago

pH neutral tile and stone cleaners for any stone or tile. That pH neutral is a must. No acids or bases. ZEP makes a good one, easily found at Lowe’s. Stock up, and have them use it. Stock up on microfiber too.

For wood floors, whatever your wood floor maker recommends. Bona or Armstrong, after a vacuuming, and dust mopping with a dampened microfiber cloth. For cabinets, a damp microfiber only should be needed to remove dust, after vacuuming construction dust. NEVER EVER anything with silicone (Pledge) or oil (Murphy’s or Orange Glo) NEVER use detergent without rinsing with a water only rag. Never use a kitchen rag that might have oils on it, and never handle the cabinets themselves. Hand oils destroy finishes over time. Even factory conversion varnishes, over an extended period. Use the handles.

For newly painted walls and wood work that may not have the 30 days needed to cure yet, a vacuuming with a light brush attachment only. No microfiber and no scrubbing. Yet.

Basically, for everything, they need to vacuum with their backpack HEPA vacuums first. Then a dampened microfiber to pick up any residual dust. After that, only damp mop or damp clean with the appropriate product. Only if it needs it. Like a small bit of haze on a backsplash, or floor. Your Pros should have removed any major grout haze, and any major chunky dust.

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Comments (9)

recordaras
6 years ago
I’d love to hear what the more experienced folks have to say. I’d think that walls would be best vacuumed and dry dusted, but I’m no pro.
Mittens Cat thanked recordaras
decoenthusiaste
6 years ago
Bump!
Mittens Cat thanked decoenthusiaste
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Mittens Cat
Original Author
6 years ago
Thanks so much @User!! I'd been looking at backpack vacuums but decided against as I don't think my back could handle the weight. I am doubting they use them but I will ask. I just bought a new Shop Vac with HEPA, a Dyson, a Shark, a big box of microfiber cloths and will get a couple of extension poles so they can dust the walls and ceilings. Fingers crossed!
recordaras
6 years ago
If you’re hiring professional cleaners, shouldn’t they provide the necessary equipment?
Mittens Cat
Original Author
6 years ago
You would hope, huh? I don't want to take any chances with our brand new house!
PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
6 years ago
IMO just make sure what they use is a natural product not a bunch of stinky cleaning stuff. I am trying to figure whty there is drywall dust anywhere if this is not a brand new build. Maye abit more info I would ask if they have their own equipment before letting them in and if they are actually licensed to do this they should have knowledge about what to use .IMO use the same stuff you use to clean your house now why is this different maybe the floors might have to use something specific .
Mittens Cat thanked Patricia Colwell Consulting
Mittens Cat
Original Author
6 years ago
@Patricia Colwell Consulting, I refer to it as a remodel but much of it is new build (added 50% more SF, and every wall and ceiling was freshly drywalled). If it makes a difference, it was a "level 5" drywall finish, so maybe that extra skim generated more dust than usual?

They emailed me their license and proof of insurance immediately after I inquired.

Natural products for sure, but I read that even white vinegar can be too harsh if not diluted correctly, so I figured I'd see if the Houzz tribe had any special tips. :)
PRO
User
6 years ago
Vinegar is not a cleaner. Or a disinfectant. It isn’t even a surfactant. It is an acid. It also damages grout, stone, and wood. The only suitable choice for a cleaner is what your manufacturer tells you. It must be pH balanced. Many times, it must also be rinsed. Residue films from cleaners are what cause a lot of damage to wood.
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