Removing Stains on Your Carpet

Carpets can be easy to maintain on a weekly basis, but stains and deep cleanings can often present a challenge. The best time to treat a stain is as soon as possible before it has a chance to soak into the carpet. Of course, sometimes this isn't possible—perhaps you arrive home and find that your pet had an accident while you were out, or you discover a spill long after the party guests have left. Don't be dismayed; while it may be a bit more difficult to treat a stain that is not fresh, it is still possible to remove it.

So what should you do if you have a spill or stain on your carpets?

Red wine

You may not think of your red wine as a dye, but it’s full of anthocyanins, which are common natural dyes for textiles. Even worse, when you find them in wine, they’re dissolved in alcohol and water, making your glass’s contents the perfect cocktail to ruin any cloth they touch.

When possible, use a surfactant to remove the stain on the surface. That may not be enough, so also apply an oxidizer to knock out the chromophores. For example, you might start with dish soap and follow it up with hydrogen peroxide.

Honey and other sweeteners

Syrups like these mostly consist of sugars, which love water. A little H2O should pull them out. In most cases, you can just scrape off the goo and then dab at the stain with cold water. If a mark remains, try a light surfactant as well.

Coffee

Just as coffee left to cool will change in taste and consistency, so will a coffee stain. If you get a drop of coffee on your shirt, then blot it up, turn the cloth around, and run cold water through the back of the stain. This turns your clothes into a sort of reverse filter, pulling the coffee out of the material.

If the stain has dried, at this point, all you’re really dealing with is the chromophores. So do what the coffee professionals do: Grab some sodium percarbonate. At high concentrations, this substance cleans out industrial-grade coffee machines, so a solution of ¼ cup sodium percarbonate to 2 cups water should easily destroy your stain.

Tomato sauce and ketchup

With tomato stains, time is of the essence. Ripe tomatoes get their red color from tannins, which are also used as dyes. They have enough sticking power to stain plastic. So the second the sauce hits the linen, rug, or other material, apply cold water. If you didn’t notice that stray ketchup squirt right away, older stains can still benefit from treatment with warm water and an enzymatic cleaner.

Blood and other biological materials

Anybody who lives with a baby animal (including baby humans) quickly becomes familiar with the many fluids and semi-solids that escape our bodies—and the seemingly-permanent marks they leave on everything. The good news is, if the stain is fresh, water will likely erase most of it, once you clear away the offending matter. Any leftover traces should quickly yield to enzymes.

You may want to use the enzymes a few times, and then use a solvent like rubbing alcohol to clean whatever’s left. If you’re concerned about applying a solvent to a delicate item, use a weaker solution available at drugstores, or dilute your rubbing alcohol with one part water to one part alcohol.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a one-two punch. It’s both oily, so you’ll need a surfactant, and organic, since the sweet treat includes vegetable oil (such as cocoa butter) and various cocoa solids.

That means for best results, start with soap and then follow up with an enzymatic cleaner. Use plenty of cold water. Once you’ve pretreated a chocolate stain, this is one of the rare occasions where you should rub the mark to loosen it.

Grease

To capture this hydrophobic substance, you’ll need a surfactant like dish soap. Apply a small dab to the area, wet it, gently rub it in, and wash it out.

For really tough grease stains, look for industrial soaps. They use the same action, but have stronger pull. However, for delicate garments that aren’t colorfast—that is, where the dye hasn’t fully permeated the fibers—industrial soap may strip dye as well as grease out of your carpet.

Grass

Grass is a bit tougher than other biological stains, because, much like red wine, it’s a fairly effective dye—especially on light-colored carpet. Start with an enzymatic cleaner, preferably one specifically designed to tackle these kinds of stains. If there’s some stain left over, or enzymatic cleaners don’t meet the bill, try an acid, such as diluted vinegar, to pull the stain out of the fabric.

However, before you apply any vinegar, put a small amount on a clean area of the garment that people won’t see, wait for a few minutes, and then wash it out. This will tell you whether the vinegar reacts. If it damages the material, then you may want to consult with a carpet cleaner instead of tackling the stain on your own.

Mud

Mud will require everything in your toolkit, because dirt contains a mix of everything. First, dry out the mud completely and brush off as much as you can. Then hit it with a surfactant and some cold water. After that, if the fabric can take vinegar, apply some of the acid to eat away at other parts of the mud. Anything left will succumb to enzymes. We also recommend using psychology: Make whoever is responsible for the mud stains do all this; it’s a superb way to stop those stains before they start.

These are just the most common stains, of course, but what’s most important is the toolkit. Once you understand both how the stain works, and how different cleaners clear it away, the battle against contaminants is (almost) won.

Toner and ink

Since ink is supposed to be permanent, you need to resort to solvents for this type of stain. (This is why your parents run for the hairspray; it used to be loaded with alcohol, although you won’t find that solvent in most modern formulas.) To lift it out, you need to bust out a rag and some alcohol. Soak a sturdy cloth rag that you won’t mind ruining in the solvent; as the ink dissolves, it’ll transfer to the rag. After you’ve dabbed the stain a few times, try applying an oxidizer to take the color out of what’s left.

If you need a professional help in getting you carpet clean, Karen's Green Cleaning can help you out with that. They are one of the most reputable cleaning companies that make your home absolutely clean.

Seattle’s Best Coffee Places

The world is full of incredible coffee and one of the best coffees can be found in Seattle. Did you know that Seattle is known because of their great reputation for coffee? That is correct! Seattle is home to several coffee roasters. If you’re a visitor in Seattle, you might wonder why there are coffee shops wherever you go. You will pass three or maybe four Starbucks on the way to work and at least as many independent coffee shops.

Here’s a fact, people in Seattle consume more coffee than in any other American city. A study has been conducted and it stated that there are 35 coffee shops per 100,000 residents. The people in Seattle spend an average of $36.00 a month on coffee. It is also nearly impossible to walk past a single block in a commercial area in Seattle. Coffee drinkers can get coffee at a local sidewalk stand, parking lot, tiny coffee houses, big coffee house, drive-through, and even delivery.

The world famous Starbucks coffee was founded in Seattle. Starbucks is considered the main representative of “second wave coffee”, initially distinguishing itself from other coffee-serving venues in the United States by taste, quality, and customer service experience while popularizing darkly roast coffee. If you are not familiar with the meaning of “second wave coffee”, it means the defining and the enjoyment of specialty coffee. Consumers expressed a desire to know the origin of their coffee and understand the unique roasting styles of what will now be called “specialty coffee” beans. This knowledge added to the enjoyment of coffee as an experience, rather than just a beverage.

To learn more about second wave coffee click here.

This city has the perfect coffee for you! So, here’s a list of Seattle’s best coffee places that Divine Maids wholly recommends

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Starbucks

Of course, first on the list is Starbucks. Starbucks is Seattle’s largest coffee retailer. It was founded in 1971 in Pike Place Market as a roaster, but only later became an espresso bar. In 1984 ownership of the company changed and that change led to a massive international expansion of the company. This company is also known not just for their great coffee but also for their excellent customer service. The ambiance of this coffee place is also good for some quiet time, catch up with friends, and even a perfect venue for meetings.

Elm Coffee Roasters

You'll first spot it by a couple of blue outdoor cafe tables. It's a lovely bright space that feels bigger than it is because of the high industrial ceilings and bank of windows across the front. Try the espresso tonic, fizzy and slightly sweet. Their coffee here is best partnered with croissant.

Little Oddfellows

It's a good place to work, journal, or finish your novel—or procrastinate by taking pictures of your avocado toast—and that's mostly what people are doing. There's a little of everything: Caffe Vita coffee, Rainier beer, house-scratch sodas, and wine on tap.

Peloton Bicycke Shop & Café

Bike shop cafes are a thing in Seattle, and it's pretty much what you'd expect: repairs on one side, coffee and food on the other, and some tables to chill at. You'll spot the little shop by the world champion stripes painted across the front. It's worth going for the free coffee refills and breakfast sandwiches, even if you don't own a bike.

Mistlead & Co.

This place is a pilgrimage site for coffee nerds, with its rotation of coffee from a dozen local roasteries (the flavors lean bright, fruity, and tart) brewed by Aeropress or V60, and La Marzocco espresso machine. No decaf, but they'll make you a spicy golden milk latte, hot or cold.

Vif

This shell of a former drive-up burger joint has been transformed into bright and airy cafe and natural wine bar. The breakfast sandwich is on a homemade sweet roll, with hot pink pickled radish. Lunch and bites to go with wine later in the day are thoughtfully composed, fresh, and healthy-ish.

Tougo Coffee Co.

The long, narrow space is quiet and warm, with wood-paneled ceilings and a long share table (as well as plenty of individual seats) and a kids play area off to the side in the back. The mix of customers reflects the makeup of this historically black and brown neighborhood that's gradually becoming whiter.

Analog Coffee

Hip and perfect, photogenic and famous, it still looks unassuming as you approach its quiet corner of Capitol Hill. The warm sound of music played from a record pours into the bright little space, and they have real newspapers (on paper!) for you to read. Beautiful people work quietly on their laptops or read in the window.

Victrola Coffee Roasters

The 15th Ave location is a longtime favorite of locals, though more of them have their face in a laptop than a book these days (plenty of outlets). The staff are coffee professionals, and the lemon lavender cake goes perfectly with a short Americano.

Navy Strength

If you like to drink your coffee out of a tiki mug, this is your spot. Pops of turquoise and orange and palm-leaf lamps make you feel like you've stepped out of the Seattle rain into a 70s inflected tropical daydream.

Espresso Vivace

Not much has changed since this place opened in 1988, going on to popularize latte art. It starts trends, but doesn't bend to them. A sip of a Cafe Nico, a double espresso with shots of vanilla and orange and steamed half and half, served with an orange twist, is like a time machine back to the late '90s—in a good way.

Ways to Always Keep Your House Guest-Ready

When you need to keep your home nice and tidy, Divine Maids is always at your service!

One of the things that will surely make you panic is the thought of having some friends come over. This is most especially true if you do not clean your house in a regular basis. Before you panic, keep calm and find out the ways on how you can make your home guest ready in just a few minute

Focus on the three T’s.

If you wish to make your house look clean in an instant, then it is recommended that you clean the three T’s. These are your tabletop, TV and toilet. You may think why would in the earth will you clean your television. Well, this is because your television room is the center of your living room and a dirty television is easily noticeable for guests. To make your living room look guest-ready and inviting, it is recommended that you remove the DVD’s on top of your television and clear the space around it. Additionally, wipe off any dust that you can find in the surfaces of your home.Case in point: your table top and countertops. The toilet is a bit self explanatory.

Hide the dirty dishes.

In the event that you have no time to wash the dirty dishes, the best thing that you can do is hide it! No matter how well you cleaned your kitchen counters, your home will never look welcoming when there are dishes in the sink. As a simple and fast solution for this, it is recommended that you hide the dishes in your oven and pray that someone won’t catch you doing it!

Stash your items.

For the quickest clean up step, grab your laundry basket and go around each and every area of your home. Gather all items that doesn’t belong to that certain area and place it in the laundry basket. Keep the basket in a private room that your guests will not visit.

Get rid of dust.

Instead of getting your cleaning tools out of your storage, it is best that you slip a piece of sock over your hands and run your hands on all the dusty surfaces of your home. This is one great way to get rid of dust fast.

Turn on the oil burner.

If you really wish to make your house ready for guests, then you have to make sure that it smells good. If you have an oil burner, then pour in your favorite scent and turn the burner on. If you have none, then we recommend that you light up some scented candles. A great smell is surely a nice touch to your clean looking house for rent.

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Here are some Tips to Keep Your Home Visitor Ready.

TIP #1: CREATE A DESIGNATED PLACE FOR HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, AND KEEP THEM THERE.

It’s so much easier to get rid of the clutter around your house when you know where it should go. Resist the temptation to throw everything in one basket or drawer or leave them sitting out. Instead, clearly label storage areas and always put items where they belong. Not only will your home appear more organized, but you’ll be able to find items them later when you need them!

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TIP #2: PURGE YOUR HOME OF ITEMS YOU DO NOT NEED.

Everyone has items they don’t use. Why not donate those items to charity and let someone else benefit from their use? If you’re a family of 2, do you really need 18 plates in your cupboard? Do you really wear all 15 sweaters in your closet? Seriously, are you really going to read those books on your bookshelf again? Even though I’m personally guilty of holding onto books, I’ve become more of a minimalist the past year. And I have to tell you…if feels good. Your home will look less cluttered without the extra items, and that means less dusting and cleaning for you!

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TIP #3: KEEP THE SURFACES IN YOUR HOME CLEAR.

OK, this one is the hard one. I know the neatly stacked books and various knick-knacks may look chic on your coffee table, but it’s time to let them go. Trust me, your home will look so much cleaner and decluttered without them. I took someone’s advice a year ago and decided to give this a try for a month, and I loved it so much I never looked back! My living room looks so much more open without items stacked on every table in sight. You don’t have to keep your tables completely clear if you don’t want to. Just one basket or tray to hold necessary items will get you on your way to a clearer space.

This doesn’t stop in the living room, though. Do you have kitchen appliances sitting on your counter that you use once every blue moon? Find a convenient place to store them until you need to use them again. 20 bottles of hair products on your bathroom counter? Use baskets to organize them in the cabinets under your sink. Maybe you should go back to Tip #2 and get rid of the stuff you don’t use? Any time you can remove clutter from open surfaces in your home gets you one step closer to an organized home.

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TIP #4: LIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME.

It’s amazing how much different a room can look when you open the windows and let the light in! Consider trading dark drapery for simple, sheer fabric curtains that let light filter into the room. Dark, wooden blinds? Maybe it’s time to switch to white? Or maybe it’s time to give your walls a fresh coat of paint to brighten the room? Choose a color scheme of light hues to make the room appear not only lighter, but larger, too. Use mirrors to reflect the light around the room and give the appearance of a larger space. These tips will make your home look more spacious and inviting instead of dark and cluttered.

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TIP #5: DO NOT FALL BEHIND ON HOUSEHOLD CLEANING TASKS.

It’s easy to fall behind on your household cleaning tasks when life gets in the way. Letting things go makes it that much harder to catch up later. Why not use a weekly cleaning schedule to keep you on task? You can use my weekly cleaning schedule, or learn how to create your own here. Also, commit to cleaning during your most productive time of day. You’ll get more work done in less time, freeing your time up for the important things, like enjoying your home with family.

One good way to maintain your house guest ready is to hire a house cleaner.If you're too busy and doesn't have enough time to prepare for your guest, Divine Maids is here to help.

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.

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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.

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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...

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Baby Oil

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

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Wax Paper

Wax Paper for Faucets

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

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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..