Emerald City’s 3 Best Neighborhood

Almost every country, town, state, or city has a nickname and has a very interesting back story for each. Some nicknames are popular while others don’t even seem like they have nicknames. Some names are uncomplicated and easy to understand while others are difficult to comprehend. Rest assured that while Seattle neighborhoods are far and wide in diversity and demographics, Divine Maids is happy to clean for all of Seattle.

Have you ever wondered why Seattle is called the Emerald City? Some people don’t even know that Seattle is Emerald City. Some people may even think that Emerald City is a fiction land in L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but actually the city has nothing to do with it. Some people may think that Seattle is rich of emeralds, but no the nickname of the city is not because of emeralds or any other gemstones.

Seattle is named as Emerald City because the city is filled with green all year around, and when you visit the city you will notice the green grass covered parks. The name Emerald City portrays the color of the environment. As the years went by, the city has also rebuilt itself to a more contemporary style with skyscrapers, Seattle has also managed to still keep the city stunning as it has always been. Emerald City is also known as the fastest-growing cities in the United States of America. You probably have heard famous names of coffee shops like Seattle’s Best and Starbucks. That’s right! Emerald City is also known for its great reputation for coffee. The city has also developed not just on a tourism scale, but also on an economic level. Emerald City became famous for being the home of major company establishments, such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing.

Emerald City makes a perfect getaway! With the city’s breathtaking skyline and distinctive attractions, you will surely enjoy this beautiful city. Each neighborhood in this city has a distinctive vibe and just in case you’re considering to tour around, here are the top 3 best neighborhoods in Emerald City.

To learn more about the coolest neighborhoods in Emerald City click here.

---

Downtown

Downtown is not just another neighborhood. After centuries of settlement by Indians, the first Europeans to call Seattle home established farms and a steam-powered sawmill in the area of Pioneer Square. As downtown grew, it spread north, becoming the financial and retail center of Washington's largest city and of the region.

Are you anxious or wondering what to do in town? Do not worry! Downtown is the real heart of Seattle, this cool place provides a bustling amount of fun activity and work. A famous landmark in Downtown is Columbia Center where it has 76 floors, which is a greater number than any other building west of the Mississippi River. Downtown also has a very stunning view at night. This neighborhood is known for its famous spots like Pike Place Market where you will see an overlooking view of the Elliott Bay waterfront, it is also the oldest continuously operated public farmers’ market in the United States. The market is home to hundreds of farmers, small businesses, craftspeople and even residents, who make up the special character of this 17-acre historic district. Although it is named for one single street within the area, Pike Place Market is actually made up of several levels set against the edge of a steep hill, each one featuring a mélange of shops, restaurants, fresh product stands, crafts stalls and collectible stands. It is not for nothing that this market is officially the city’s most popular tourist destination. Plan your visit to Pike Place Market so that you have enough time to stop off at the Farmers Market, the Crafts Market and the Specialty Foods areas.

No itinerary yet? Click here to check the things you can do in Seattle.

Capitol Hill

Back in the old days of Seattle, Capitol Hill is already known as a vibrant community with a thriving business district. In circa 1990, Capitol Hill was known as “Broadway Hill” because of its vibrant community along Broadway Avenue. This neighborhood of Seattle is part of a long ridge that overlooks downtown. It is home to Volunteer Park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum, St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral as well as other churches, Seattle Central Community College, Cornish College for the Arts, Richard Hugo House (a center for writers), as well as many shops, restaurants, and coffeehouses. Capitol Hill is the site of Seattle’s annual celebration for Gay Pride week.

Capitol Hill is the LGBTQ center of Seattle. This neighborhood encourages the community about individuality and counterculture community. Some would say that this place is a densely populated residential district in Seattle, but it is also one of the city’s most prominent nightlife and entertainment district. Global flavors rule this eclectic neighborhood. Capitol Hill is packed with hip bars, eateries, and gay clubs, plus laid-back coffee shops and indie stores. You have to try it yourself!

Waterfront

Waterfront is one of the most inevitable spots in Seattle. Thanks to the likes of Big Bertha, and the city’s mission to revitalize the waterfront, this area is currently experiencing an incredible renaissance! If you are wondering what Big Bertha is, it is a 57-foot diameter tunnel machine built specifically for the Washington State Department of Transportations. Some of the city’s finest institutions are located here, it is home to some of the most iconic Seattle experiences and imagery, and it’s the center point of much of Seattle’s rich history. It’s impossible to talk about the history of Seattle without mentioning the role the Waterfront has played in the city’s development.

Tourists would always visit this area as they will surely enjoy Elliott Bay, the perfect place for taking a stroll and visiting iconic destinations such as the Seattle Aquarium, the Seattle Great Wheel, and Ye Olde Curiosity Shop. Some tourists would also prefer to explore the nearby islands or snap a spectacular view of the city from the water, just head on to the Washington State Ferries. Since we are already talking about islands, the shore is also home to incredible seafood restaurants, including Ivar’s Pier 54 Fish Bar.

DIY Interior Bedroom Designing

Even if no one ever sees it, your bedroom should still represent your style and feel like a place you want to unwind in. It's your private space to recharge, relax, or just escape from everyone entirely, so make sure it's a place you actually look forward to spending time in. No matter how bold you want to go, how large your space is, or what your design preference is, we've got plenty of bedroom ideas to inspire you.

Even if you’re not currently designing your bedroom, this practice can help you purchase a private and colorful collection of items you can use once the makeover moment emerges.

CREATIVE HEADBOARDS

In choosing a headboard, always match it to the theme or style of your room. Imagine how your bed will look like of you are going to choose this color, texture and style. You also need to consider the size, the function and the creativity.

ECLECTIC ELEMENTS

A bedroom is the most personal space in your house, which makes it perfect for expressing seemingly disparate facets of your own unique sensibility.

WORKHORSE NIGHTSTANDS

It might seem counterintuitive, but in a bedroom with relatively small square footage, sizing up the bedside tables can make the most of every inch. In this apartment, a dresser is repurposed as a roomy nightstand to house bouquets, books, and beauty products.

DRAMATIC CURTAINS

A room is never completely finished until you address your window dressing situation. In the guest bedroom of a Paris apartment, the custom forged-iron bed frame is finished in gold leaf and stands out against the curtains made from a Pierre Frey chintz and Dedar fabric.

A STATEMENT ART PIECE

Less can be more when designing around a statement art piece. In minimal apartment, the a wall sculpture stands out beautifully against walls sheathed.

MONOCHROMATIC LOOK

Sticking to one light color is an easy way to make a small bedroom feel less claustrophobic. In a young couple's monochromatic Swedish home, the master bedroom blends white and cool brown for a color scheme that makes the petite space feel more open and airy.

LAYERED BEDDING

Layering is key to a beautiful bed. It gives your space an instantly glamorous upgrade, plus you'll be beyond cozy in the wintertime.

Lighting

A good lighting will add a good vibes in your room. It will help the room to show the warm and cozy feeling that it offers. Choose a light that has a dimmer, it will help you to feel more relax and comfortable.

ARTWORK YOU ADORE

There's no need to go overboard with the art in your bedroom: pick one piece that speaks to you and also makes a statement.

A COMFORTING COLOR PALETTE

You want everything in your bedroom to exude comfort, and the color palette is no exception. Whether you're a fan of warm or cool shades, pick colors that you naturally gravitate toward and give you a sense of calm.

PHOTOGRAPHS...BUT NOT OF FAMILY

You should have as many family photos as you wish in other rooms in the house, but it's best to keep the bedroom's artwork less emotionally loaded. Elegant photographs add some character to your space without reminding you of specific people while you're trying to fall asleep.

A TOUCH OF DRAMA

Even the brightest, most cheerful bedrooms need an element of dark, sexy glamour. Balance is key. Stick with a few dramatic pieces.

A VARIETY OF TEXTURES

Of course your bedding is plush as could be, but don't forget texture throughout the rest of your room. The guest bedroom of a glamorous Illinois home plays with texture by incorporating a black channel-quilted leather headboard and a Moroccan wedding blanket covered in sequins.

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

Whether they're on your nightstand, vanity, or windowsill, flower arrangements are a lovely thing to wake up to. Especially in the winter when you need a dose of greenery. Take inspiration from the fresh flowers that flank the bed.

CREATIVE STORAGE

The end of your bed is a perfect and unsuspecting spot to fit in more storage. In the bedroom of a Los Angeles country house, a vintage clothing trunk steals the decor spotlight while also giving you much-needed space.

A DESIGNATED WORK AREA

Although most designers would advise against working in your bedroom, that's not always a reality. Designate a specific work area in your room, preferably as far from your bed as possible, so that you don't feel guilty for finishing up paperwork.

A GOOD MIRROR

Mirrors are a pretty magical design element. They make any space feel larger, brighter, and more unique, whether you decide to hang them or simply prop one up against the wall. A rustic-style mirror perfectly complements the antique bed frame and Swedish chest.

A STATEMENT BED FRAME

Give your personal space some glamour with a statement bed frame. From four-posts to platforms, the options for a chic piece of furniture are endless.

A COMFORTABLE RUG

Nothing ruins a happy morning (or makes a gloomy one worse) than stepping out of the bed onto a cold, hard floor. Do yourself a favor and make sure your feet are greeted with a beautiful cushy rug. Opt for something soft, stylish, and timeless, and you'll be destined to keep it (and love it!) forever.

A THEME

It's the first thing a child will consider when putting together their bedroom, but adults tend to shy away from decorative themes. A theme can be a powerful unifying device, not to mention calming. In this Netherlands bedroom, the wall-covering, curtains and bedcover are all a classic toile de Jouy. The headboard is custom-made, and the side table is vintage.

THE RIGHT NUMBER OF THROW PILLOWS

How to figure out this number: It should be enough pillows so that your bed looks sumptuous and inviting when properly made, yet not so many that getting in bed requires 10 minutes of excavating. The sweet spot is usually between two to six, depending on the size of your bed. The bedroom of this country home makes a solid argument for four being the perfect number!

A SEATING AREA

This room, has more than one area to unwind. A good spot to sit down will serve you well when you're reading or need to have a conversation with your partner. It's also great for putting on shoes or checking email so you can leave tech out of your bed.

Keeping your bedroom cozy is really hard because you are too excited to decorate it, there will be a lot of ideas.

Always consider your feelings in choosing color, furniture and style. Your bedroom will also reflect on what type of personality you have.

Struggle is real in keeping your bedroom clean and cozy. Sparkly Maid is here to help you in maintaining that coziness and freshness. You will get 100% cleaning satisfaction, unparalleled work ethic and pet-friendly house cleaners.

Where to Dine in Seattle

Among Seattle’s shiny new restaurants opening their doors each day and the old-school local classics that have been turning out the same great food for half a century lurk a few special gems: the places to eat that welcome children and even appeal to their wide eyes and sometimes wild ways. Some serve cuisines from around the world, catering to a natural curiosity. But the one thing that unites all of the restaurants on this list: All of them offers the great food!

Tipsy Cow Burger Bar

This Eastside burger joint features over a dozen tasty burgers to tease your taste buds. Stick with the traditional Tipsy Burger or if you’re feeling a little on the wild side, go Beast Mode or check out The Rockstar. Tipsy Cow supports local ranchers, farmers, brewers, distillers and winemakers, so all food and drink are fresh and local. Not feelin’ like a burger? Check out their awesome salads or snacks. Burger-lovin’ babes will flip for the extensive children’s menu, featuring kid favorites like house-dipped corn dogs, burgers, grilled cheese and chicken strips served with housemade ranch. And don’t forget to round out your meal with a milkshake.

Anthony's Beach Cafe

Fresh Northwest seafood and incredible water views? Yes, please! Anthony’s Beach Café is a casual neighborhood restaurant serving lunch and dinner daily. The menu features fresh seafood (think: fish, oysters, shrimp, chowder…you get the picture) in original, inventive dishes. Kids can indulge in fish and chips, prawns and chips, grilled cheese or pasta. Visit in the spring and summer months and request outdoor seating. While you wait, your kids can play in the giant sandbox, complete with toys to entertain the little ones.

Vios Cafe

Vios Café’s Capitol Hill location oozes kid-friendliness with its huge kiddie corner play area (separated by a glass window) and delicious family-style Mediterranean menu. Try the fan favorite chicken or lamb souvlaki or choose from a wide array of soups and salads. Kids can indulge in mac and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs or the hummus, pita and fruit plate. Gather around the table with friends and family and fill your bellies with delicious, traditional food.

Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria

With multiple locations around Seattle, there is bound to be a Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria near your neighborhood. And not only do their authentic, wood-fired pizza pies taste like a slice of Italian heaven, but Tutta Bella is just as kid-friendly as it is delicious. As soon as you’re seated, kids get Wikki Stix to keep their little hands busy while their food is cooking and the open kitchens, that allow kids to watch as their pizzas are being made, are another great distraction. If your little diners aren’t feelin’ pizza, there is an extensive kid’s menu with favorites like pasta al burro or the Neapolitan meatball.

Beecher's Handmade Cheese

It's no secret that mac 'n' cheese is one of the main food groups for kids. If you’re in the city, hit up this Pike Place Market favorite that serves up the best mac ‘n’ cheese in the Seattle area (or arguably, in the world!). Young and old(er) cheese heads go nuts for the ooey, gooey, cheddary goodness at Beecher’s, who make their flagship cheese on premise—while you watch! Order cheese curds, paninis or soup, but save room for a steamy cup of mac. Psst...stop by the cheese counter on your way out and take home one of Beecher’s award-winning cheeses.

Uneeda Burger

If burgers are your thing, Uneeda Burger. See how we did that?! The self-described "casual, roadside style burger shack,” is the perfect place for grown-ups and kids to get their burger fix. The all-weather patio blends seamlessly into the dining room; both provide picnic table seating to enjoy hefty locally sourced burgers and delicious tater tots (and onion rings and fried mushrooms and…). Choose from locally sourced beef, chicken and veggie options. Our favorite specialty burgers include the Sonora (roasted chili relish, jack cheese and cilantro) and the Monsieur (black forest ham, gruyere, Dijon-mayo, and truffled shoestring potatoes). They don’t have a kid’s menu, but Uneeda’s classic no-frills burger is just $5, and kids can also order soup, hot dogs or a grilled cheese. And make sure everyone saves room for dessert: All shakes are hand dipped and made with Snoqualmie Ice Cream in flavors like salted caramel, blackberry, strawberry and blackberry. A wide variety of microbrews, artisan sodas and wines are also on tap.

Cafe Flora

Cafe Flora is Seattle’s go-to spot for inspired vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free cuisine. Café Flora uses locally sourced ingredients and periodically reinvents their menu to feature seasonal items. Kids go wild for Cafe Flora's classic children’s menu which includes pita pizzas and if you’re enjoying brunch, don’t miss the animal-shaped pancakes and fresh fruit. Grown-up favorites include Oaxaca tacos and portobello Wellington. There’s also a centrally located play area, crayon cups, and even step stools in the bathrooms to help the Littles wash their hands and everyone can appreciate the pretty indoor fountain and the lovely, leafy, sunlight-filled space in general.

Lola

Who says pint-sized foodies can’t enjoy fine dining? Iconic Seattle chef and author Tom Douglas’ popular Mediterranean-inspired eatery features breakfast, lunch, and dinner cuisine for the whole family. In the morning, kids can order cheesy eggs and bacon or silver dollar pancakes. For later in the day, hungry tots can choose classic buttery noodles and grilled cheese or step it up a notch with chicken or salmon kebabs with fries. Is there anything better than food on a stick? The sweet treats menu features a variety of frozen goodies in innovative flavors—try the pistachio ice cream, pear sorbet or chocolate peanut butter gelato.

Portage Bay Cafe

Weekend brunch at this family favorite used to mean planning on an hour-plus wait for a table, but now all four Portage Bay locations take reservations. Score! You’ll find a menu full of unique twists on classic favorites. Order any of their pancakes or French toast options and you’ve earned yourself a trip to the breakfast bar: a buffet of seasonal fruits, nuts and all the whipped cream you can eat. Portions are big enough you could likely share with tinier appetites, but the kid’s menu of scrambled eggs, French toast, pancakes and grilled cheese is so good they’ll want their own. Psst...it’s gonna be crowded on weekends in particular, but brunch is served all day at the Roosevelt and Ballard locations, which means diners can go later in the day without needing reservations.

Steps of Cleaning your Windows

Cleaning windows, mirrors, and other glass around your home on your own isn't a difficult task, but getting it done efficiently and streak-free can be a challenge. Oftentimes we spend hours spraying and wiping only to be left with windows that look almost as dirty as they were to begin with. A few tips and the correct tools, however, can make this dreaded task simpler, leave your glass surfaces sparkling clean, and save you a lot of money in the long run.

By following these simple steps and making just a few small changes to how you clean your windows, this once daunting task can be made easy. However, hiring residential window washers in Chicago is still easiest way to the most beautiful windows on your block! Without further ado, here are three quick and easy tips to wash your windows, just like the professionals! I hope you like our window washing hacks

Step #1: Treat Your Windows Before You Wash

Has it been awhile since your windows have been cleaned? Has there been construction on your house or yard, or even nearby? If so, you can likely see a layer of dust, dirt, and grime built up on your windows. Trying to go from dirty, grimy windows to squeaky clean windows just like that is nearly impossible. You’ll waste time, energy, and tons of cleaning solution in the process.

The best exterior window cleaners in Chicago know that using a pretreatment on windows instead of jumping right into the cleaning process will save time and make your windows look even better. You can buy a commercial pretreatment for your windows, or you can make your own. In order to make your own solution, find a high-quality dish soap (Dawn is always a great choice) and mix just a few tablespoons into a gallon of water. You can also add Jet Dry or another rinse aid to add even more power to your solution.

Once you have your pretreatment solution, spray your windows down with water. Using a sponge or cleaning brush, cover your windows with the solution. Typically, you will use the pretreatment on the exterior of your windows. However, in some cases, it may be necessary on the interior side of your windows as well. Once you have applied the solution to your windows, give it time to soak, but do not allow the solution time to dry completely. Before the solution has dried, make sure you carefully and completely rinse your windows, removing both the pretreatment solution and all the dust, grime, and build up from you windows.

After the pretreatment has been rinsed off, you can clean your windows as normal, using the cleaning solution of your choice.

Step #2: Remove Stains Caused By Hard Water

In Chicago, most houses have hard water, especially from outside faucets. Professional residential window cleaners in Chicago know how to combat hard water and the stains that come with it. Hard water stains are typically white or translucent stains left on your windows, even after a great cleaning. They can be incredibly difficult to remove if you don’t know the secrets to getting them off.

The best way to get rid of hard water stains on windows, or any glass surface, is to use a vinegar solution. Mix a 1:1 vinegar: water solution into a large spray bottle. If you don’t have a spray bottle handy, you can just mix it in any container (even inside a vinegar bottle) and pour it directly onto your rag or towel. Vinegar is one of the best-kept secrets for beating hard water stains and will help your windows shine with very little effort! For added effectiveness, we recommend using a squeegee to clear the surface once you have sprayed your vinegar water solution onto the window.

Step #3: Don’t Neglect the Interior of Your Windows

No matter how beautiful and crystal clean you get the exterior of your windows, they still won’t shine if the interior remains dirty and stained. Tiny fingerprints, pet nose-prints, even built up dust, can all lead to less than stellar window interiors. What is the best way to clean the inside of your windows? Since your interior windows are more likely to come in contact with pets and children, we recommend using a non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning solution on your windows. While you can, again, purchase a commercial cleaner, making your own interior window cleaning solution can also be quick and easy.

For window cleaning in Chicago, we recommend a solution of one cup of water mixed with one cup of rubbing alcohol and one tablespoon of vinegar. You can increase or decrease the amount you make depending on how many windows you need to clean. Much like with the hard water spot treatment, we highly recommend putting your solution into a spray bottle. Spray your windows with the solution and use a clean cloth or your squeegee to dry your windows. This will leave your windows sparkling and shining, both inside and out!

Get Professional-Quality Clean Windows

Here are a few more tips for getting windows that look like you hired a professional residential window cleaner in Chicago.

1. Purchase your own professional equipment. We recommend purchasing a squeegee and a specialized window cleaning brush with an extendable handle.

2. Leave the paper towels behind. Instead, use high-quality microfiber towels to clean your window. They are softer, safer, and less likely to scratch your windows. They are also better at leaving a spot free finish.

3. If you really want windows that look professionally cleaned, hire the best residential window cleaners in Chicago.

We pride ourselves on our excellent service. If your windows are hard to reach or are too dirty to clean, by following this step-by-step guide, feel free to contact us and we'll be happy to sort it out for you. You can call Chicago Cleaning Services Company at (773) 538 3031. We can give you a reasonable estimate for beautiful, squeaky clean windows!

House Cleaning Hacks That You Should Know

Having a healthy household does not just mean eating the right food, but having your house germ-free as well. While we exert too much physical effort in cleaning, we also exert too much money on buying cleaning products. Be pragmatic and avoid overspending on household supplies. You probably didn't know it, but here are some cheap, convenient, and easy-to-do cleaning tips that would help you stretch your budget and patience in cleaning even further.

Pastry Brush

Use a pastry brush to clean crumbs out of your toaster

Get tricky-to-reach crumbs and burnt bits out of your toaster by unplugging it and sweeping with a pastry brush. This will help your toaster last longer as well as making crumbs less likely to catch and smell.

---

White bread

Get rid of greasy fingerprints from walls with white bread

It sounds weird, but rubbing finger marks with a slice of white bread will give your walls a new lease of life! We're not sure how someone discovered this, but we're grateful they did...

---

Salt and foil

Clean your iron with salt and foil.

If you’ve got a dirty iron, remove built-up dirt from the bottom with salt and tin foil. Turn on the iron, and run it over a piece of aluminum foil sprinkled with salt.

---

Lint Roller

Dust Your Surfaces With a Sticky Lint Roller

Dusting is an imperfect art. However, when you need to pick up that handful of craft glitter your kids spilled, get pet hair off a lampshade, or just grab some dust, a sticky lint roller does the trick with ease.

---

White Vinegar

Aside from cooking with vinegar, you may also use it to keep your dishwasher, windows, floors, microwaves and refrigerators extra clean. Pour an equal amount of vinegar and water on a cup and dip a cloth or sock. Run it over and use another cloth or sock to remove the dampness.

---

Ice Cubes

Every few weeks, toss in a handful of cubes in your sink. Add some orange, or lemon to ward off some stenchy odor.

---

Newspaper

Don’t throw away your old newspapers. Use it to get rid of garbage grime and crusty dips and drops of garbage juices. Cover the bottom of your trash can with old newspapers to soak up leaks and odors.

---

Clay Doh

If you think that clay is only for playtime, think again. Clay Doh can be used to pick up the small pieces of broken glasses and glitters. Just press the clay into the area and the glass or glitters will stick onto it.

---

Coffee Filters

Use Coffee Filters On Glass

Clean your mirrors and windows with coffee filters instead of rags or paper that wells for a streak and lint free shine.

---

Mouthwash

Mouthwash Mopping

Aside from killing bad breath, adding a considerable amount of mouthwash to a gallon of water and mop the vinyl and tiles.

---

Baby Oil

Baby oil helps the dirty water bead roll down the drain faster. Use this to clean your sink, toilet bowl, or tub.

---

Grapefruit

Get rid of water marks or stains in your bathtub by cutting a grapefruit in half, sprinkling on some rock salt and giving it a good scrub. Have the other half for a nutritious breakfast!

---

Potatoes

Did you just went on a camping trip? To remove hardened mud on your clothes, especially comforter or blankets, slice a potato in half and gently rub the cut end on to it. Soak the fabric in cool water after before tossing them into the laundry.

---

Rice

Having a hard time fitting your hands while cleaning a narrow vase? Just pour two tablespoons of dry rice and half a cup of warm water inside the vase. Shake the vase vigorously while covering it with your hands. Drain the vase afterwards.

---

Soda

Toilet Cleaner

Pour carbonated soda directly into the toilet and allow it to sit at least half an hour. The carbonation will remove stains and leave it sparkling like ne

---

Blow Dryer

Give chandeliers a quick cleaning with a blow-dryer (set on low) or a feather duster. For tougher jobs, fill a spray bottle with one part vodka to five parts water, spritz on fixtures and blow-dry.

---

Wax Paper

Wax Paper for Faucets

Wiping faucets with wax paper prevents water spots and finger prints.

---

Hair Spray

Walls doodled with markers can be cleaned by misting them with hairspray and wiping them immediately. Crayon on walls on the other hand could be removed by scrubbing with a toothbrush covered with toothpaste. You may also use a damp microfiber cloth with baking soda. Hairspray may also be used to remover lipstick stains on clothes.

---

Shaving foam

Remove sofa stains with shaving foam

If your sofa is looking a worse-for-wear, try dabbing a little shaving foam on any stains, leave it to settle, then blot it away to remove the shaving foam – and the stain!

---

Chalk

For those who are not aware, chalk has a powerful absorbing quality. Greasy and oily fingerprints can be removed by rubbing a chalk on walls, even clothes. Wash it with water after to make it completely grease-free.

---

Onion

Peel and cut the white onion in half. Rub the onion back and forth over the grates of a hot grill. The onion will deglaze the grates and add a little extra flavor the next time you grill in for some barbecue adventure.

---

Toothpaste

Use toothpaste to defog mirrors

If you get annoyed when, after a hot bath or shower, you can''t see yourself in a misty mirror, toothpaste could be the answer! Just rub your bathroom mirror with toothpaste and wipe clean with a clean, dry cloth before you shower and hey-presto - one easy to use mist-free mirror.

---

Maria's Green Cleaning Services Seattle can also help you out with your cleaning needs. They are also using eco-friendly cleaning products, meaning our home is free from toxic cleaning supplies. Who wouldn't love natural product?

Best Hotels in Seattle

Best Hotels With Views Of The Space Needle

Seattle is a good place to visit, but the Space Needle is an iconic landmark. So if you are interested in staying in a place that gives great views of this unique structure, read on! Here are the top hotels with Space Needle views.

The Mediterranean Inn

With stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Elliot Bay, you won’t want to miss the rooftop patio of the Mediterranean Inn. Not only does this hotel offer views, it also has great rooms! The rooms are well equipped for those interested in making simple things at home, with a microwave, coffee maker, small fridge and kitchenette.

There are also plenty of tasty restaurants located close by, if you prefer the convenience of eating out. A fitness center is available at the Mediterranean for those who don’t want to miss a workout. Other amenities include a business center and a 24-hour laundry facility

---

The Westin Seattle

The Westin Seattle is situated in the heart of the city. Highlights of a stay here include the available in-room spa service, indoor pool, and sweeping city and water views. The Westin also boasts a 24-hour fitness center and a full service and self-serve business center.

Rooms are designed for guest comfort, with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, coffee and tea making supplies, and a work desk. The Monorail is easily accessible from The Westin.

---

Pan Pacific Seattle

The Pan Pacific Seattle is a lovely hotel, just steps away from the Space Needle and many of Seattle’s most famous attractions. Here, guests can enjoy gourmet dining at the convenient on-site restaurant. Guest rooms are spacious and designed for guests to achieve optimal rest and relaxation.

The Pan Pacific Seattle is a great hotel for guests who are interested in walking around the city to explore its main sites and beautiful scenery.

---

Hyatt House Seattle Downtown

Hyatt House has rooms that will make you feel right at home. Contemporary and bright, each one has an individual kitchen, seating area, terrace, flat screen TV, and refreshing air conditioning. WiFi is available for all guests and the on-site restaurant and bar are perfect for those looking to relax after a long day.

With the fitness center, guests can continue with their regular exercise routines. And an extra incentive to stay at the Hyatt: complimentary breakfast with made to order omelets, every morning! Hyatt House is easily within walking distance of many main Seattle sites.

---

The Edgewater - A Noble House Hotel

The Edgewater offers excellent views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, as it sits right on Seattle’s waterfront. It is within walking distance to famous sites like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Seattle Ferry Terminal, and the Seattle Aquarium. A free shuttle service from the property is also offered to downtown.

An on-site restaurant offers local food and amazing views and the onsite gift shop also has a coffee bar. Rooms are all cozy and comfortable with gas fireplaces, a leather chair, and spa bathrooms.

---

Renaissance Seattle Hotel

.The Renaissance Seattle Hotel is warm, comfortable, and modern. Rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, flat screen TVs, a fridge, and toiletries. This hotel is non-smoking and services, such as babysitting and foreign currency exchange are provided.

Also for guest convenience, there are two on-site restaurants at the hotel. The Seattle Aquarium is a short bus ride away and Pike Place Market and Seattle Center are within a 10-minute drive.

---

Travelodge Seattle by the Space Needle

Travelodge Seattle offers a fantastic location with all the amenities you need! A daily continental breakfast is provided to get you going for the day. Seattle Centre, the EMP Museum and the Space Needle are all easily within walking distance. It is also easy to reach the Travelodge Seattle from the Seattle Monorail.

Rooms offer comfort and convenience with free WiFi, a satellite TV, a work desk and seating area. There is also an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center for guests.

Best Luxury Hotels in Seattle

If you're planning a posh getaway and need a place to start, you've come to the right place. Take a look at our top picks for luxury in Seattle and get inspired!

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

It’s hard to go wrong with this top luxury hotel that has, arguably, some of the best views in the city, not to mention a restaurant with an acclaimed Seattle chef, a rooftop infinity pool, and 147 spacious, classically comfortable rooms. The business-y surroundings might preclude the opulence of other, larger Four Seasons properties, but what you lose in neighborhood ambience you gain in vistas and proximity to the best Seattle attractions.

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle

It’s hard to go wrong with a Kimpton property, and the Hotel Vintage Park doesn’t disappoint. Hailed for its exceptionally friendly staff that goes out of their way to make guests happy, this luxury boutique hotel delivers an intimacy not found in other, more pretentious venues. Quality vintages (hence, the name) are offered at the free nightly wine hour, but the lobby is a bit small for serious socializing.

Grand Hyatt Seattle

If you want modern elegance and lavish rooms -- and are unwilling to spring for the Four Seasons directly on the waterfront -- the Grand Hyatt is an ideal tradeoff. Surrounded by many major Seattle attractions (you can see the Pike Place Market sign just five blocks away), plus great restaurants and shopping, it manages to meld convenience with luxury service.

Hyatt at Olive 8

You almost can’t go wrong with the Hyatt at Olive 8, which is known for its exceptionally high customer ratings, environmentally conscious design, and easy, walk-to-everything location. If you’re looking for a romantic lobby in which to have cocktails, you might want to head across the street to the dark and elegant Grand Hyatt; otherwise, be prepared to happily stay put.

Pan Pacific

There’s nothing innately wrong with this contemporary luxury hotel. That said, its South Lake Union location is a substantial schlep to sightseeing, shopping, and the coveted waterfront. It's convenient for business travelers, but if pleasure is the reason for your visit, best to book one of the hotels closer to Pike Place Market, like the Sheraton or Alexis..

Best Cafes in Seattle

Seattle has long been linked with coffee culture, a connection fortified with the worldwide ubiquity of Starbucks, which opened its first store in the historic Pike Place Market during the spring of 1971. Add to that the city’s continued grunge culture and it’s just about the perfect place for the undone coolness and ragged populism that has come to define the coffeehouse vibe.

Needless to say, there are a lot of great options in Washington’s biggest city. To make the decision a little easier, here are the best places to hit, depending on your brew behavior.

Best for a Flat White: Original Starbucks Coffee Café

A flat white (steamed milk and foam poured over espresso) is an Aussie import, and Starbucks is rather famously all over it, having made quite the hullabaloo about offering it in the United States. Head over to the original Starbucks in Pike Place to try it.

---

Best Pastries: Bakery Nouveau

Seattle is the land of coffee, so it follows that the pastries here are good, too. Ignore every other bake shop’s warm bread smells and head straight to Bakery Nouveau for their incredible double-baked almond croissant, which will result in you getting crumbs and powdered sugar and slivered nuts and euphoria all over yourself. Get one to-stay with a hot latte, or take it with you on a walk to Volunteer Park. If sweets aren’t your thing, we fully endorse gnawing on a baguette here as an acceptable breakfast.

---

Best for 24-Hour Java Fixes: Lost Lake Café & Lounge

Night owls can keep the booths warm at Lost Lake Café & Lounge. Not only do bottomless cups of hometown-favorite Caffé Vita coffee (choose from hot drip or cold brew) entice, but so do hearty dishes like breakfast bread pudding and Wild Boar Sloppy Joe, which is slow-cooked in Snoqualmie stout.

---

Best for Coffee-To-Go: Motofish Coffee

At Motofish Coffee, baristas tamp their espressos in a 1977 Mercedes diesel UniMog once used as a maintenance truck for the Swedish Forest Service. Beans, like Olympia Coffee Roasting Company’s Big Truck Espresso Blend, are often sourced from local roasters.

---

Best for breakfast: Biscuit Bitch

Biscuit Btch is a counter-service breakfast institution, and it’s your duty to eat here while you’re on Seattle soil. The homemade biscuits are great on their own, but if you don’t get the Btchwich with fried eggs, cheddar, spicy aioli, sausage, and country gravy, you’ve made a mistake. This is the perfect breakfast if you plan to do a day’s worth of hiking.

---

Best for Coffee Education: Victrola Coffee Roasters’ Pike Place Location

Coffee geeks are more than welcome at Victrola Coffee Roasters, where cuppings (wherein aficionados sniff and slurp just-ground coffee with hot water) are hosted every Wednesday at 11 a.m. It all lives inside the city’s Auto Row building, which has housed car dealerships as early as the 1920s.

---

Best for Coffee & Doughnuts: General Porpoise

There are a couple of donut spots the city is famous for, but the only one you need to know about is General Porpoise. They have a hot pink espresso machine, delicious homemade filled donuts (get the vanilla custard), and actual iced coffee instead of cold brews and iced Americanos.

---

Best for Pour-Overs: Slate Coffee Roasters

Belly up to Slate Coffee Roasters’ brew bar, where baristas use manual brewers like V60 and Chemex, for cups with in a cleaner mouth-feel. The café offers only a few options, each of which is brewed by hand. Don’t miss a deconstructed espresso or the four-course coffee flight.

---

Best almond milk latte: Anchored Ship Coffee Bar

Anchored Ship has the best almond milk latte in the city, a balcony with a full living room furniture set and string lights, and an eco-friendly nail salon through a hallway in the back, just in case you need a fresh coat of polish before Instagram-ing your hand clutching a mug full of foam art. Not to mention there are delicious specials that pop up, like lavender lemon cold brew. There are no reasons for you not to have a cup of coffee here.

---

Best for French Pastries: La Reve

For a taste of Paris, head to La Reve for a coffee and a french pastry. The old-world charm transports you back to what Paris used to be like. The pastries aren't cheap, but well worth every penny. I recommend the almond croissant. Located in a house on Queen Anne Avenue, during the summer enjoy the Seattle sun on the front patio.

---

Best for an Extra-Strong Cup: Espresso Vivace’s Capitol Hill Location

David Schomer, founder of Espresso Vivace, literally wrote the book on espresso, a manual by the name of Espresso Coffee: Professional Techniques. The café, which roasts in the northern Italian style, is done up in mid century Formica tables, with matching chairs in primary colors.

---

Best for Rock-Star Baristas: Cherry Street Coffee House

The best baristas across America rigorously compete against each other Top Chef–style each year at the U.S. Barista Championship. Last year, Laila Ghambari—the director of coffee at Cherry Street Coffee—snagged first place, wowing judges with coffee-cherry jam and steeped-coffee cherries in her signature drink. (And yes, aromatic smoke was involved.)

.Ten cafés across Seattle—in spots that include downtown, Pioneer Square, Belltown, and Capitol Hill—employ baristas under Ghambari’s tutelage. Whether one opts for a latte to witness flawless latte art, or a simple single shot of espresso, Cherry Street has a tendency to appease the pickiest of palates. Each café also sports its own design, from the graffiti-inspired murals behind the espresso bar in the West Edge neighborhood to Middle Eastern décor on Clay Street.

---

Best for Working Remotely: Zoka Coffee Roasters & Tea Co.’s Green Lake District Location

Drop by Zoka late on a weeknight, and you’ll likely spot students hunched over their laptops and textbooks. Walls of multi paned glass and dark woods make this café feel like an historic library, and surely pastries made in-house and single-origin pour-overs do a lot to cultivate the mind.

Best Ways to Clean and Sanitize your Kitchen

How safe is your kitchen?

Cleanliness in the kitchen begins before you start to prepare food. Everything that comes into contact with your hands or food must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. This includes dishes, cutlery, utensils, pots and pans, counter tops, cutting boards as well as kitchen cloths, faucets, can opener blades, and refrigerator handles. Harmful bacteria that are not visible may thrive and multiply in food that is prepared by unclean hands in an unclean kitchen so, before preparing food, get off to a clean start.

Cleaning the kitchen is an uphill task; for many, it’s never going to be as fun as, say a weekend at the beach because really, who wants to pour lots of hours into a tedious and thankless job that only promises to return with another round of dirts?

While housekeeping is generally a wearisome task, the kitchen often poses its own troubles, especially when shared with some family members who are clueless as to how your utensils should be best placed. That’s still no excuse, because living in a squeaky-clean home is an integral part of being an adult.

What is the difference between cleaning and sanitizing?

Cleaning removes food particles, food juices, dirt, debris and stains from dishes, equipment, counters and other surfaces by using a solution of detergent, hot water and a clean cloth. Cleaning removes debris and stains that you can smell, see or feel.

Sanitizing kills harmful micro-organisms which you cannot smell, see or feel, but which may cause illness in humans.

---

How to clean and sanitize dishes, pots and utensils

• Scrape off all food scraps –then rinse.

• Throw out dishes that are chipped or cracked as bacteria may get into the cracks and spoil food.

• Wash them with detergent and hot water that is 45°C (113°F) or hotter.

• Check the water temperature with a thermometer and always use a clean cloth.

• Rinse dishes, pot and utensils in clean hot water that is 45°C (113°F) or hotter.

• Now sanitize. Let them soak for at least 45 seconds in very hot water (at least 77°C/170°F) or warm water 24°C to 45°C (75°F to 113°F) mixed with a chemical sanitizer.

• Let articles air dry in a clean rack. Drying dishes with a towel can easily spread bacteria.

Never mix chemicals together or with detergents as the mixtures can be poisonous (toxic).

---

Sanitizing with chlorine Dishes, pots utensils: soak in a sanitizing solution of 10 mL (2 tsp.) of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach mixed with 1L (4 cups) of water for at least 45 seconds.

Surfaces: spray the chlorine solution on counters and cutting boards and let stand for at least 1 minute. Don’t touch the surface after you have applied the sanitizing solution. Let all articles air dry (or use disposable towels).

It is important to use the right amount of chemical sanitizer when mixing it with water. If you use too much, you may contaminate the food. If you don’t use enough, you may not kill the bacteria. The temperature of the water is also important. Some chemicals do not work properly if the water is too hot or too cold. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.

---

Cleaning cloths: always use a clean cloth. Cloths that are re-used without being cleaned and sanitized are often a source of cross-contamination. Use different cloths for different jobs.

---

Inside the Microwave

Sure, it's easy enough to wipe down the exterior of the microwave until it shines, but don't forget the interior, which is plagued by general buildup along with any unfortunate food explosions. "We sanitize the microwave with good old-fashioned elbow grease," , who uses a combination of 10 percent borax and 90 percent water to break down tough food stains. "Wear rubber gloves and saturate any buildup with the borax solution, then let it sit to break things down before wiping it away."

---

Wipe of All the Handles

Every handle in the kitchen (think cabinets, appliances, even the light switch) is a hotbed for germs, considering how often your family grips, grabs and pulls them each day. Wipe down handles with a disposable disinfectant cleaning cloth at least once a week.

---

Clean the Refrigerator Shelves

We see a lot of old food spills and gunk. It's important to break down the sections of the refrigerator, pulling out the shelves and drawers, and give it a thorough wiping and disinfecting.Consistent maintenance as the trick to keeping things easy to clean: If you spill something, wipe it up and disinfect the area to keep grime from building up.

---

Sanitizing your Kitchen Sink

A wet sink can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

• Run a sink of hot, soapy water.

• If you have a double sink with a garbage disposal on one side, make sure to use the disposal-free side. Keeping the disposal side free will allow you to scrape leftovers down the drain quickly while you work.

• Scrape off all the dishes into the trash or garbage disposal.

• If step 2 has blocked your disposal, scrape the dishes off onto a dirty plate.

• Place dishes that need to soak into the water.

• Try to choose the dishes that are going to give you or your dishwasher the most trouble to get clean. Put the heavily soiled dishes on the bottom. Large dishes like pans and bowls can be filled with hot soapy water and set on the counter to soak.

• While the dishes are soaking, go through the kitchen clearing out trash from your floor, countertop, cupboards, etc.

• Don’t worry about things that are out of place, or don’t belong in the kitchen. Worry only about trash.

One more thing…

Here is my ONE tip to add to this post. Running a sink of hot soapy water before food preparation is SO helpful. As bowls, cutting boards, knives, etc, become dirty, toss them in the sink to soak until you are done. This will prevent food from drying on the dishes and make clean up a lot easier!

Consumers can protect themselves by preventing the spread of germs. Regardless of which method of sanitizing you choose, it is very important that you clean first. It takes both steps to be effective. If you are a busy person and doesn't have enough time in cleaning and sanitizing your kitchen, Sparkly Maid is here to help. They are one of the best cleaning services in Chicago. effective.