Why you should clean your carpet, hardwood, walls, and ceiling.

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your carpet, hardwood, walls, and ceiling.

Carpet in the house acts as a filter, over time it will trap dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. Cleaning your carpet will increase the life span of your carpet. At SERVPRO of North Rhode Island, we offer five different types of cleanings for your carpet.

Hardwoods

Many homes have hardwood in their homes, it may look easy to clean hardwoods, however over time they will accumulate soil over time. Don’t worry though because our workers will clean and restore the beauty of your floors.

Wall and Ceiling

Most people never think to clean their walls or ceilings, which is why it should be apart of the cleaning process in your home. The perfect time to clean your walls is right before you plan to paint them. But once a year you should get them clean, to remove any dust, oils, smoke, pet fur that adheres to them over time.

Cleaning hacks for your North Providence home

9/13/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you need to spruce up your home for dinner guests (limited number, of course) or need some new hacks to speed up your daily chores. 

Get that pet hair off the couches with rubber gloves! Just rub any areas that need some extra cleaning, and rinse the gloves off after and the hair will come right off (or throw them away).

Get rid of odors from your couches by combining vinegar, water, and an essential oil...we like a mix of orange, cinnamon, cardamon, and clove. 

Wipe your TV screen with a coffee filter, it won't leave any stray fibers behind like a paper towel... use filters to wipe windows too, they'll be squeaky clean!

Clean your glass stove top by sprinkling baking soda and a little bit of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, then wipe it clean.

If your oven needs some TLC, mix 1 cup water, 1 cup vinegar, and some lemon essential oil and spray the oven and wipe/scrub it clean. Cleaning your oven can help prevent dangerous fires. 

Get rid of carpet stains with vodka...yes, vodka... we know you have some in the cabinet.  Blot the stain first, then pour a little bit of vodka onto the stain and dab until the stain lifts.

For more household cleaning hacks click here.

If your home or business is too messy for you or your janitorial staff to handle, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island is here to help!! Give our office a call at 401-949-9955.

What you should be cleaning regularly in your Cranston, RI home

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

If cleaning your Cranston home has proven to be too much for you to handle, give us a call at 401-949-9955!

When you go about cleaning your home, it's probably the big stuff. Floors, carpets, counters, bathrooms and bedrooms. But, some of the dirtiest items in your home probably don't come to mind on your cleaning day. 

Remote controls

This goes hand in hand with your cellphone, the remote is touched on a daily basis and germs can be spread through the contact. You should wipe your remotes with a disinfecting wipe at least once a week. (More during flu season, and especially now, during this coronavirus pandemic) 

Doorknobs 

Think for a second, when was the last time you actually cleaned your doorknobs? (In the office we wipe them down every day...but some of us are guilty of forgetting to do so at home...)

Make it a weekly chore to do! (It's recommended twice a week)

Light switches go along with this, too! 

Refrigerator 

Sometimes, we open our fridge and see all those leftovers we swore we'd eat...but now they're growing something fuzzy...oops!! 

No need to worry, we all do it (well, most of us). Once a day, you should wipe any spills or food debris right away to prevent any cross contamination or mold growth. Once a week, go through all those leftovers and have a "trash day" for the fridge. Leaving leftovers for a long period of time, mold will grow, and mold spores can spread to new, fresh food... which you surely don't want! 

At the change of each season, you should deep clean your refrigerator. Take everything out (put anything necessary in a cooler) check all the expiration dates, toss anything expired. Clean all produce drawers and wash the shelves.

Dryer and dryer vent

This is a very crucial part of preventing dryer fires! Dryer lint can (and will!) build up inside the dryer vent and can be ignited very quickly. You should be cleaning your dryer vent at least once a year, depending on your usage. 

Oven 

Food bubbles over, fries fall off of the pan...stuff happens! But, you should get into the habit of cleaning your oven on a regular basis. Just simply turn on the oven's cleaning cycle, and you're good!! (Take out the food crumbs though.)

Toothbrush holder

Toothbrush holders are a hot spot for germs to gather!! This is probably something you don't really think about cleaning often. Most of them are dishwasher safe, so once a week, toss it in with the other dishes and let the dishwasher do all the sanitizing/cleaning! 

These 6 areas and objects around the home, among others, should be cleaned along with your regular list of items/rooms to clean. This'll keep your Cranston, RI home nice, clean, mold free, AND you can prevent fires too! 

If cleaning and disinfecting your home goes beyond what you can handle, give us a call at 401-949-9955, we're here to help!! 

Warwick Rhode Island - Wipes clog pipes!

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

It's best to stick to flushing only toilet paper to preserve your septic system and city sewage systems!

Wipes

When you go to the store, you might pick up some flushable wipes or baby wipes, while they may say 'flushable', you really shouldn't flush them! Even if something is labelled as flushable, it can cause damage to your pipes, the sewage treatment facilities, and your septic system (especially septic systems).

Recently, more wipes have been flushed down toilets due to the coronavirus. With the lack of toilet paper, people were turning to wipes/baby wipes and flushing them. Even flushing paper towels!

According to nytimes.com, this has resulted in a surge in backed up sewer lines and overflowing toilets...yuck! These clogged sewer lines are not good for the environment either! Sewage is spilling into natural bodies of water and overflowing toilets can be harmful to your health if not taken care of right away! 

While flushable wipes may go down the pipe initially, they don't break down as well as toilet paper is designed to do. 

There are some criteria that wipes need to pass in order to be considered "flushable":

• Disintegrates quickly 
• Must not float 
• Contains biodegradable material, no plastics. 

Remember the 3P's- Pee, Poo and toilet Paper 

The only things that should be flushed!

Wipes and your septic system

Since your septic system receives less waste than the city's system, wipes and sanitary products will cause a little less damage, but it's still not recommended to flush anything except toilet paper and waste through your septic system. Typically the most recurring reason to get your septic pumped more than usual is wipes and sanitary products being flushed. 

If you still prefer to use wipes, you can still use them, but the pros suggest not flushing them, putting them in the trash. Or if you would rather flush, Scott Flushable Wipes broke down the best in a test. 

Let us help you clean up your disaster sewer damages and water damages in your Warwick commercial office building We will clean up with care and can be your single source for all your cleanup needs. If you experience a sewage backup, call SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island  right away to get that cleaned up! We're experienced and trained to handle sewage the safe way. Warwick disaster cleanup will be on the way fast.

(401) 949-9955

Before turning on your AC unit this summer in Cranston

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Photo from: https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/air-conditioning

As we all know well, the weather in New England can be unpredictable. One day you need a sweater and the next we're in shorts and t-shirts! Although summer isn't officially here in Rhode Island yet, we have been seeing some very warm days! Before you switch your AC unit to "ON" be sure you check the system! 

By checking your system before using it, you can catch any possible problems before they can get worse. Always be sure you are preforming these checks and maintenance with the AC breaker switch "OFF"! 

Check the condenser fan

This is the unit located outside. Remove any tarp or other covering you have on it. 

Remove the grill that covers the fan, then clean the blades with a vacuum attachment or cloth.

Vacuum out the bottom of the condenser box to remove any leaves or other debris.

Be sure nothing is blocking the airflow. Trim away any vines or bushes if they are in the way 

Check the coolant lines 

The lines should be checked for any leaks. Damaged or leaking lines must be replaced by a professional HVAC contractor. 

You should also check for proper insulation surrounding the coolant lines. If any insulation is damaged, you can remove and replace. Coolant pipe insulation can be found at your local hardware stores. 

Electrical 

Check the battery in your thermostat (If it is battery operated)

*Quick tip* Replace the batteries each year at the beginning of the season. This will make a good habit so you don't forget before the batteries have a chance to die. 

It's a good practice to change the filter in your HVAC unit before the AC unit is turned on each year. 

Checking for any imperfections, dings, crimping, or electrical faults before turning your appliances on for the season can save you in extensive repair bills and save you from running a broken appliance! 

If you HVAC system has been running for some time without attention it could be circulating things such as dust, pollen, and other contaminants. At SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island we offer air duct and HVAC cleaning services. Call  (401) 949-9955 with any questions today! 

Why SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island is your #1 choice for cleanup

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

One of our core values is to provide our customers with the best service we can possibly provide. 

We work around our customers schedule, time constraints, and any other requests they (you) may have!! 

When you as a homeowner, business owner, or renter, in Rhode Island contact us, we will handle your call with the most empathy and understanding. This is one of the first steps to building trust and a relationship with our customers. We will gather all the necessary information so we can quickly get to your property. When we say quick, we mean quick! (in 4 hours or less)

We are in constant communication with our customers throughout the process. From the initial call, to 30 minutes before we arrive, and throughout the cleanup! 

We understand that your home, even office, is sort of a haven for you. When you contact us for a cleanup, we will clean with care! We take care of your home and belongings as if they were our own. 

Cranston Warwick West Warrick and more let us be your single source for disaster clean up. If you are a renter, home, or business owner in Rhode Island, you don't have to wonder who you should call for cleanup services while we're around! Give us a call at (401) 949-9955, we'll make anything "Like it never even happened." 

Visit us online at https://www.SERVPROnorthernrhodeisland.com/ for more information! 

SERVPRO Professional Cleaning Services for your RI home or business

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

We're here to help you! Call (401) 949-9955 to contact us about cleaning and disinfection

SERVPRO Professional Cleaning Services for your

Rhode Island commercial business or home.

With flu season upon us and a growing concern for disinfection, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island wants you to know that we are capable of cleaning, disinfecting, and removing biohazardous contaminants! Our crews have specialized training and products to get you back into "business"!

We can preform a proactive cleanup which would include

- Cleaning

- Disinfection 

We will do this for "high touch" surfaces such as

- Counters

- Tables 

- Doorknobs & lightswitches 

- Fixtures

- Bathrooms 

- Offices 

etc!

We are capable of cleaning in commercial spaces too!

- Kitchens

- Schools

- Retail stores

- Sales counters 

- Carpets

- Elevators 

and more! 

Our cleanup procedures include cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces, tools, and supplies. As well as disposing of the waste. 

If you suffer a water damage, fire damage, soot/smoke damage or sewer damage and need disaster cleanup we are here to help you.

Providence 02914, East Providence 02915, Warwick 02888, East Greenwich 02818 and more we are ready. We can be your single source for your disaster clean up and will always try to clean with care.

SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island

401-949-9955 

click and go to: https://www.SERVPROnorthernrhodeisland.com/emergency-restoration

Toothpaste - Life Hacks for Woonsocket Home/Commercial Properties

6/25/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning household items with your non-gel toothpaste.

Non-Gel TOOTHPASTE - #LifeHacks 

Over the weekend, our marketing manager discovered some wicked cool uses for a very common household item which we use every day - toothpaste.  Everyone needs to know about this effective, easy and cheap life hack. Toothpaste is obviously essential for keeping your dental hygiene in-check, so it makes logical sense that it can get stains out of your favorite and most-common items. Non-gel toothpaste is not too different from gel pastes. The non-gel just thicker and creates foam when scrubbing teeth. Non-gel toothpaste has baking soda which helps with stains (That’s why people advise also brushing your teeth with baking soda to whiten).

Toothpaste has so many different uses that many people don’t even know about. Toothpaste is hazardous-free - I mean, we put this stuff into our mouths so it must be great for the environment, right?

• Clean the rubber soles on your white sneakers. Another trick is to apply small amounts of toothpaste to where your white sneaker is stained. You can then leave it out for a few hours and it hardens like powder, so you can just knock the excess powdery toothpaste off and your shoes looks brand new!
• Clean the tiles on your bathroom floor with an old toothbrush or sponge. 
• Grab and old tooth brush and scrub the toilet and sinks
• Clean soap scum by using a damn sponge and applying a little amount of toothpaste. A little usually goes a long way, but of course it depends on the severity of the stain. 
• Stained clothing can be cleaned with toothpaste too, but it might not. Give it a try because throwing the damages clothing away!

For those huge stains that cannot be gone by means of toothpaste or other household cleaning items, call SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, serving areas of Woonsocket, Smithfield, Burrillville, Lincoln, and Central Falls. 

Call 24/7 @ 401-949-9955

Source: https://www.thespruce.com/ways-to-use-toothpaste-for-cleaning-4160076

Natural Cleaning Alternatives

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Image crafted using Canva Photo Editor

Harmful ingredients in cleaning/freshening products (like phthalates) can be hazardous to our health. Especially if you have children or pets, you might want to reconsider these natural, organic options the next time you're shopping.

Warning: These oils are very potent, so a little goes a long way!

Tea Tree (Melaleuca) - Derived from the Tea Tree plant, this a natural anti-bacterial disinfectant. This is not harsh on the skin and completely safe for children, pets, and your household. It's also perfect for cuts and scrapes. Put a few drops in your laundry machine to help disinfect the clothes! 

Grapefruit Peel -This is perfect for cleaning that dirty drain while leaving your space smelling AMAZING. It's powerful, citrus scent is perfect for freshening up your space. Side note: we are referring to the oil from the Grapefruit peel (not the seed extract). 

Rosemary - Antibacterial and antiseptic, Rosemary smells amazing and it's not just for cooking! It's perfect for clogged drains!

Peppermint - This oil has a plethora of benefits for the body, mind, and household. Because of it's clean, fresh scent this is a perfect deodorizer. Cleaning with this (perhaps mixing with water or vinegar) will get rid of bacteria. Additionally, it relieves nausea and headaches. 

Eucalyptus - This oil is great for freshening the air due to its amazing smell. It opens up the sinuses and it's a natural air freshener. This is a natural germicide, so don't fear - Eucalytpus oil is here!

Consider these options next time you're looking for wholesome, organic ingredients.

In addition, SERVPRO has the most trusted, certified equipment to handle any size job. 

Clean green and bleed green like we do!

Rhode Island - Say Farewell to Cigarette Smoke!

5/18/2018 (Permalink)

Let us help you!

Not much is worse than the smell of lingering cigarette smoke in a home or building. If you recently purchased a home that is contaminated by the smell of nicotine, or if you have recently quit smoking and want to free your home from the odors of your past habit for good, there are a few home deodorization tips you need to know. Before you get started, however, there are a few supplies you need to gather:

Cleaning Carpets & Upholstery

7/20/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island has the training and expertise to clean your carpets and upholstery, regardless of the situation.

Did you know? The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration states that 79% of soil in carpets is dry soil. In order to properly care and maintain the quality of your carpet, some preventative maintenance actions include:

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

If soil and dirt have made their way into your carpets, SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island offers a range of specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning - a less aggressive method for short piled carpets
• Hot Water Extraction – a deeper cleaning method for all carpet types
• Deluxe Precondition & Rinse – Helps restore deeply soiled areas
• Showcase Premier Cleaning – The most thorough cleaning method in the industry
• Dry Cleaning – When color-fastness is an issue

At SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, we care about our local community as well as all of those that live in the area. If you have any questions, or would like to contact one of our professionals, please call (401) 949-9955 or visit our website.

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#Cleaning 

Examples of Cleaning Services

3/31/2016 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, our crew is trained and ready for any sized cleanup, regardless of the severity. Our services include, but are not limited to, the cleaning of:

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Biohazardous Waste
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Ceilings, Floors & Walls
• Drapes & Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage
• Trauma & Crime Scene
• Vandalism & Graffiti

Air Ducts & HVAC

Often one of the biggest culprits in poor indoor air quality, a standard HVAC system should look to be inspected/cleaned around once a year. Not only can a routine inspection keep your system clean and prolong the life of the equipment, but it can also provide you and your family with cleaner air to breathe.

Biohazardous Waste

Even the slightest bit of exposure to biological and chemical containments can pose serious health consequences. Any home or business that has experienced any type of trauma, sewage backups, spills, etc., should look to evacuate the area, and contact SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island IMMEDIATELY!

Carpet & Upholstery

According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), “79% of soil in carpets, is dry soil.” Over time, even the highest-quality of carpets and upholstery begin to show soiling over time. The little fibers in many carpets, act as a filter, frequently trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils that have the ability to ruin carpets if left untouched.

Ceilings, Floors & Walls

Whether you know it or not, ceilings and walls are subject to countless amounts of dirt, dust, pet dander, grease from cooking, and other contaminants that invade your home. If not properly taken care of, these containments can cycle through ventilation units, and be distributed throughout the entire property.

Drapes & Blinds

Similar to the ceilings, floors, and walls of your home, draperies and blinds retain whatever smells and odors are circulating throughout your home. A good rule-of-thumb, is to clean drapes and blinds approximately every two years. If you have questions or concerns about the state of your drapes and blinds, do not hesitate to contact us!

Odor Removal

As certified experts, our crew is ready to tackle and remove any and all offensive odors in your home. Although each scent is different, the science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing. In any case, look to take the strain off of yourself, and contact us for any and all questions.

Sewage

Sewer system backups are no joke. The water that spews out is very unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that have the potential to cause serious illnesses. Look to take care of these spills IMMEDIATELY!

Trauma & Crime Scene

After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning process is the very next step. Many times, blood and other biohazardous pathogens are present and pose major health concerns for those around. Our technicians are trained to follow OSHA and EPA protocols to help transform these dangerous environments into clean and safe ones.

Vandalism & Graffiti

Here at SERVPRO of Northern Rhode Island, we act quickly to remove any and all forms of vandalism and graffiti from home and commercial spaces. If your home or space requires any type of removal, do not hesitate to contact us!

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