by Paula Grypma, Outlooks Design –
Upon reflection after the year gone by and the wear and tear of the Christmas Season, I realize that for many of us, our beautiful interiors need a little TLC. While consulting with clients, I am often asked for insight on maintenance. Lack of understanding of how to care for some finishes, or perhaps not realizing that they are in need, prevent our interiors from reaching their beautiful potential.When disaster strikes, like the red wine spill on the white wool rug,
it prompts us to take action.
I had a great conversation with a favourite of many homeowners, good old “Mr. Clean” (you know: the bald man in the white T-shirt and bulging biceps) about reaching out to professionals who furbish our interiors and he provided valuable insight.
Chad Parker from Abstract Stone suggests the easiest way to keep your stone looking great is to avoid bad habits that may damage it. Natural stone and solid surfaces are similar in many ways, but their differences require varying degrees of maintenance. Keep it simple, he says. “Clean surfaces using a sponge or soft cloth with a mild soap and water solution. And, blot up spills immediately!”
Our floors take a beating! Many flooring types do well with minimal water and a superior microfiber cloth (mop). Leanne Rowan, Sales Rep for Norwex Cleaning Supplies, which is a provider of many chemical-free cleaning aids, explains: “the Norwex mop with a detachable ‘wet’ microfiber cloth is ideal for cleaning all types of hard floor surfaces, and because of the very high count of microfibers, it disinfects as it cleans without chemicals!”
What about the broadloom and area rugs that give us warmth and softness? How do they stand up to daily use? Rob Green, owner of Greenway Carpet Cleaning Ltd., recommends MicroSeal®, a state-of-the-art non-toxic stain guard that penetrates all fibers including wool and leather. Because MicroSeal® penetrates, it withstands many cleanings and will not wear off, offering superior results in cleaning both carpets and fabrics. “Wouldn’t that have been a good plan before that red wine spill!” exclaimed Rob.
One of my favourite applications for seasonal changes and easy maintenance is using slipcovers. They can be taken off for dry cleaning or laundering (depending on fabric type and size), allow the base fabric to stay free of soiling, and offer sun protection. The applications I have worked on range from dining room Parson chairs to a mini grand piano!
Thank you Mr. Clean, but I have one last question: what is the secret to your shiny head? He smiled his big-toothed smile, and winked. “I’ll never tell.”
