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Diwali – The Festival of Lights: Significance & Celebrations

Diwali is an annual festival that takes place on the new moon day that follows the Hindu month of Kartik, which lands in October or November of each year. The date changes each year, based on the Hindu calendar. This South Asian holiday is also known as the festival of lights, and it celebrates one of the most significant events in Hindu mythology. However, the festivities don’t stop there. Some key elements of Diwali, nicknamed the festival of lights, include lights, sweets, colors, dances, love, and of course – cleanliness. Plan: B Cleaning wishes you and your family a Happy Diwali as we strive to embrace diversity in Fishers, Indiana, and the nearby areas we serve. Check out this blog for more information regarding the significance and celebration of Diwali, as well as more cleaning tips!

Significance of Lights

Lights are an important part of Diwali celebrations. Light is said to be a representation of good over evil. The story goes that when Lord Rama returned home from exile after defeating Ravana, the people of Ayodhya lit diyas, special lamps, and candles, to guide his way back home. Lighting lamps is also a way of welcoming Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, into the homes. The light of the lamp is said to chase away darkness and ignorance while bringing in the good. Often, those who celebrate Diwali decorate the inside and outside of their homes with string lights, tea lights, candles, and more. They enjoy watching fireworks in the sky, as well as hand-held sparklers together.

Significance of Colors

In India, colors have always played a significant role in culture and tradition. They are believed to represent different aspects of life. For example, white is associated with purity and cleanliness. And during Diwali, the Festival of Lights, people decorate their homes with white lights to signify the triumph of good over evil. Furthermore, they use colored powder to make mandalas and other festive shapes like flowers, peacocks, om symbols, and more. These colorful decorations are made inside the homes’ floors as well as outside, on the doorsteps and entrances!

Significance of Dance and Performances

Another important aspect of the festival is the traditional Indian dances. Talented dancers will tell the tales of Hindu mythology through their dance movements, formations, and facial expressions. They often also wear intricate costumes. And at parties, anyone can dance to have a good time! These dances are another way to express joy and happiness and to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The dance is also a way to connect with the Hindu gods and goddesses. The traditional Indian dance is an important part of the Diwali festival, and it is a beautiful way to celebrate the light, cleanliness, and good that is at the heart of the festival.

Significance of Sweets & Gifts

Sweets and gifts are a significant part of most holidays! One of the key aspects of Diwali is the giving of traditional sweets and gifts. This is a way to show your loved ones how much you care for them and to also spread the spirit of happiness and goodwill. So if you are celebrating Diwali this year, be sure to give your friends and family plenty of sweets and gifts! Sweets and gifts also play an important role in Diwali puja or worship. The giving of sweets and gifts is a way to honor the deities and express gratitude for blessings throughout the year.

Significance of Love and Unity

Diwali is a time when people come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and enjoy the festivities in the company of their loved ones. The festival is for gathering with family, and also a time for making new friends and reuniting with old ones. Love and unity are celebrated between families, friends, and the culture as a whole.

Significance of Cleanliness

The significance of cleanliness and newness in Diwali celebrations is twofold. First, Hindus believe that Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, only visits clean homes. So, in order to welcome her into their homes, Hindus clean and decorate their homes beforehand. Secondly, Hindus believe that cleanliness and newness represent a fresh start or a new beginning. Therefore, by cleaning and decorating their homes for Diwali, Hindus are hopeful that the goddess will bless them with a prosperous new year. They celebrate by cleaning and decorating and also wearing new, beautiful clothes. This cleanliness and newness is the perfect way to celebrate and ring in the Hindu new year.

If you would like to deep clean your home for the auspicious occasion of Diwali, you know who to call!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! You do the holiday decorating, we’ll do the cleaning! If you are looking to hire a cleaning service to treat yourself or your loved ones this Diwali or holiday season, you know who to call!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan: B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the holiday festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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Plan Blessing: Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Do you know someone who would appreciate a free house cleaning service? If so, we’re here to show our support. Through this October (National Down Syndrome Awareness Month), our team at Plan: B Cleaning wants to show our love and support to our local community by offering free housecleaning services to families with children that have been diagnosed with Down syndrome. We believe that this will not only offer an opportunity to bless a family in need but will also provide us the opportunity to better support our local community here in Indiana.

The importance of raising down syndrome awareness

Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal conditions and occurs in about 1 out of every 800 births. When individuals with Down syndrome are given opportunities to live, learn and work, they can be successful contributors to society. It’s important for people to understand that this isn’t a disorder but a genetic condition that manifests differently for each person who has it. It’s often incorrectly considered a mental handicap because people don’t know how much these individuals can achieve if provided the opportunity. We want our community members to know that there are many ways we’re supporting awareness month by providing free housekeeping services for a nominee in need during October!

What is Plan: Blessing?

Plan B Cleaning dedicates itself to service the communities we provide by providing free cleanings for those who need it most. During this tough time, we want to demonstrate love and support. A clean house will not fix life’s problems, but it does have the ability to convey love and show support during a tough season. Plan Blessing includes free cleaning services for those in need in our communities. During the month of October, we provide families with a free cleaning in respect of Down Syndrome awareness. Plan Blessing is offered to all individuals who are in need of an extra hand during difficult times. Our hope is that through the power of cleanliness and hospitality, love and encouragement will shine through the difficult days.

What does the free cleaning service include?

A Plan B Clean includes a deep cleaning and light refresh, such as dusting, vacuuming, kitchen cleanup, bed making, bathroom tidy-up, and window washing. We want to serve the communities we provide services to by offering a free cleaning service during this month of down syndrome awareness. You cannot completely repair problems that have fallen on you by making your home clean. But having a spotless home can create peace of mind, and it shows love and support to someone you’re doing your best to take care of. We want to take care of you and let you take care of what matters.

Benefits of a clean home

A clean home can help relieve stress, improve your mood and increase your self-esteem. It also reduces the risk of accidents and will keep your family healthy by reducing dust mites and other harmful particles in the air. But most importantly, a clean house is a comforting place for children with developmental disorders like down syndrome to go home to after school. We want them to know that their home always welcomes them with open arms. And we want their parents to know that our team at Plan: B Clean has taken care of their house while they have been busy taking care of them.

Nominate a loved one for a free cleaning service

Nominate a loved one for a free cleaning for our Plan: Blessing this October. We want to support families and the communities we provide services to by providing them with a clean house. Plan: B Cleaning believes that the power of a clean house will not fix life’s problems but it does have an undeniable power to show love and support during a hard season. If you or anyone you know needs a little help getting their home clean, please fill out the form below and one of our team members will be in touch soon!

Help make a difference in our community

At Plan: B, we feel like it is part of our responsibility to support others in our community and make a difference. Help us make a difference today by nominating a family you know with a family member who has down syndrome. Together, we can strengthen our community and continue to look after one another. To nominate someone, please fill out the form via our www.planbcleaning.com/plan-blessing and click submit. The more nominations we receive, the more people we can bless. Thank you for being a part of our effort to support our local community.

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5 Ways to Make Cleaning More Fun

Cleaning is not always fun for everyone, and we understand that. However, it just takes a little creativity to make it feel like less of a monotonous chore. Here are five ways from Plan B Cleaning that you can use to make cleaning more fun for yourself and your loved ones. You might even find yourself starting to look forward to cleaning!

1) Listen to music

Listening to music while cleaning can help pass the time and make the task more enjoyable. If you have trouble finding music you like, try creating a cleaning playlist on Spotify or Pandora. Any positive, upbeat music will do the trick. You can also listen to podcasts or audiobooks while cleaning. So, if you’ve been waiting to listen to a new book, TedTalk, and so on – this is your chance! Put on your headphones and groove out!

2) Set a timer

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning your entire home, start with just one section and use a timer. Set a timer for 15 minutes and see how much you can get done. Or, you can set one for 5 minutes, 10 minutes, and so on. The hard part is getting started, as it can be overwhelming to fit cleaning into your schedule. The timer will help you commit to cleaning and stay on task for a few minutes. You will be way more productive in much less time! Chances are, once you get started, you’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish in such a short amount of time. And the satisfaction of seeing a clean space will motivate you to keep going.

3) Turn it into a game

You can make cleaning more fun by turning it into a game. For example, you can set a timer and see how long it takes you to clean up the kitchen. Or, you can make a game out of seeing how many items you can put away in a certain amount of time. The possibilities are endless! And, not only will you have more fun, but you’ll get the job done quicker, too. Plus, you can get your family members or roommates involved to join in and get extra competitive. Who can clean their room the fastest? Who can pick up and put away the most items? Let’s find out!

4) Set up a reward system

A great way to make cleaning more fun is to set up a reward system for yourself. For every task, you complete, give yourself a point. Once you reach a certain number of points, you can treat yourself to something you really want. You can set up different tiers of prizes and treats for yourself too, from a cup of Starbucks to a new book, or maybe even a shopping spree. This will give you something to look forward to as you clean and help motivate you to keep your space clean!

5) Be creative!

Creativity is what makes cleaning a little more fun. Here are some of our best ideas, but keep thinking and see what else you can come up with. Once you are able to find what works for you, cleaning will feel a little less like the most monotonous chore.

To summarize our tips,

  1. Set a timer to clean and follow through with it! Setting aside time in your day or week that you know you’ll be home ensures that it gets done. It doesn’t have to be a long time. As long as you are productive and consistent, it will be easier to maintain cleanliness in your home!
  2. Break cleaning into manageable tasks! If the thought of doing all three floors seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller tasks by floor.
  3. Find someone else who enjoys doing chores too! It’s always nice when there’s someone who shares your enthusiasm for organization and tidiness around the house. You can split chores by preference, too. Maybe one person always does laundry and vacuuming while the other always do dishes! Even if you may have to do a bit of convincing, it’ll be worth it!

Contact Us!

Contact Us! If you do not enjoy cleaning at all or just need a break from cleaning, we can take those chores off of your plate! Our cleaning team enjoys cleaning and making you smile – that is why it is their job!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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The Best Move In, Move Out Cleaning in Town

No matter where you live, moving in or out of an apartment or house can be extremely stressful, to say the least. You’ve got to figure out where you’re going to live, pack your things and move them, and then unpack everything when you get there. This process can be even more difficult if you already have a home that needs cleaning before your move-in date, but not enough time to clean it yourself.

Don’t fear, Plan B Cleaning is here! Move-in, move-out cleaning is one of our specialties. We are happy to help you and take these extra chores off of your plate as you’re preparing to move. We understand the stresses that come with moving, and do not want cleaning to be one of them!

Keep on reading to see how we make the move-in, move-out, and cleaning process effective and efficient for everyone in Hamilton county and beyond!

We are reliable.

First and foremost, we are reliable and won’t flake on you at the last minute when you need cleaning the most. We will show up and show out, ready to go. Our cleaning team will be punctual and prepared with the appropriate cleaning supplies and their biggest smiles.

We are flexible.

Moving date got changed? We are always willing to work with your schedule and offer lots of flexibility. The further in advance you are able to let us know, the more likely we are to be able to reschedule your cleaning for a more convenient time.

We are attentive.

Finally, we are attentive. Our team is repeatedly complimented and praised for their attention to detail and mindfulness. Have an important meeting or phone call? Let us know so we can wait to vacuum! Have a pet? No worries, we love puppy kisses.

Check out our checklist!

Plan: B can clean between 500 and 600 square feet of space per hour. What we clean well when we clean your home:

  • Dusting: High (ceiling areas and walls)/low (baseboards) dust-remove cobwebs; Surface dusting-all flat surfaces hand-wiped with a microfiber towel
  • Floors: Vacuum carpets: Sweep and wet mop floors hard surface floors with a ph Neutral cleaner
  • Walls: Mirrors & pictures left clean and shiny
  • Trash: Trash removed and relined with plastic bags
  • Kitchen: Disinfect and Sanitize countertop, stovetop, outside/top of the fridge, and inside microwave; Sink is disinfected and left clean; Sweep and wet mop the floors with Microfiber Mops.
  • Disinfect, sanitize and wash all showers, tubs, commodes, and sinks; Sweep and mop the floor.

When we clean your house, we want to make you happy with our best house cleaning services imaginable!

Our best house cleaning services guarantee you that when we make a mistake, we re-clean any area of your concern. That’s our promise and our guarantee. This is a comprehensive 100% House Cleaning Satisfaction Guarantee because you deserve it!

Testimonials

Check out these testimonials to back us up!

From a mom of two… “Lisa and Katana are the BEST. We started using Plan B Cleaning after having our second child and realizing we needed help with house cleaning. They pay attention to the details and do such a great job. We’ve used a few companies before for one-time cleans and have never been this happy with the results. Thank you so much for making my life a little easier!!!” – Lily Shogren

From a perfectionist… “I found Plan B to be quite prompt and thorough. The owners, Debbie and Ben, are extremely conscientious and professional; their teams are well trained. They ensure that their clients are satisfied, which is amazing since my husband and I are perfectionists! If there would ever a problem, I have every confidence that they would make it right. We trust them with our current home, and I will not hesitate to hire them for cleaning and prep our new home before and after move-in. Thanks, Plan B, for holding yourselves to higher standards! Your integrity has set your business apart in your industry.” LJH

From a loyal customer… “We have enjoyed Plan B’s house cleaning services for . . . gosh . . . I don’t know how long. 2 years, maybe? Regardless, our carpets, hardwood, cabinets, appliances, bathrooms, closets, etc have received a lot of love over that time, thanks to Plan B. When we occasionally request special attention to items that can use a little extra scrubbing, they don’t balk. Today, Tiffany and Nyhle went above and beyond by giving a little extra love to baseboards and photo frames. Plan B is our Plan A.” – Jeff Bugher

Contact Us!

Contact Us! As you’re packing boxes and moving furniture around, you may realize that your home could use a deep cleaning!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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6 Things You Need to Add to Your Cleaning Checklist

When was the last time you dusted the top of your refrigerator? When was the last time you mopped the floor of your garage? These are just two of many things that might fall through the cracks when it comes to household cleaning, but they shouldn’t be neglected because they can create health hazards if left unclean. By adding these eight cleaning jobs to your regular cleaning routine, you can ensure that your home stays clean, germ-free, and safe at all times. Check out 6 things you may be missing, that Plan B Cleaning recommends you give some extra attention to!

1) Computer keyboard and other devices

A keyboard is one of the dirtiest places in your home, and it’s full of germs. A study by the University of Arizona found that computer keyboards have more germs than toilet seats. Yuck! So it’s important to clean your keyboard regularly to prevent the spread of illness. Here are some tips for keeping your keyboard as clean as possible:

  • Keep your desk or workstation neat so you can find things when you need them.
  • Make sure you wipe down all surfaces with antibacterial wipes on a regular basis.
  • Get into the habit of using disposable gloves when touching anything that might be dirty, such as wiping up spills on your desk or using the bathroom.
  • Get a keyboard cover or mat to reduce the dust piling up. Regularly use compressed air (or a vacuum) to remove dust and debris from between the keys.
  • To keep food off your keyboard, get an elevated mousepad.

While you’re at it, you may want to wipe down all of your devices with screen cleaning wipes. We are always touching our devices, even between meals. Plus, we hold our phones up to our face, so the dirt and germs can easily transfer to our skin, mouth, and so on. Hence, it is so important to wipe down the devices, chargers, and cables that we are always using. Just think about it – we use these items nearly every day, but how frequently do we clean them?

2) Door knobs

You might not think to clean your door knobs, but they are actually one of the dirtiest things in your home. Door knobs are constantly touched by dirty hands, and they can easily become covered in bacteria. Plus, if you have pets, their fur can also transfer onto door knobs. To keep them clean, simply wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with soapy water. Or spray some disinfectant on a rag and then scrub the knob. But don’t forget about other parts of your home! You should also make sure to get your doorknobs, light switches, toilet handles, bathroom sinks, refrigerator handles, and more all scrubbed down too!

3) Microwave & Refrigerator

Most people don’t realize how important it is to clean their microwave. Not only does it get used multiple times a day, but it also accumulates a lot of dirt, grime, and food particles. Over time, this can lead to bad smells, poor performance, and even dangerous bacteria growth. That’s why it’s important to give your microwave a good cleaning every few months.

Most people think to clean the refrigerator when they see spills or when it’s time to do a deep clean of the kitchen. But you should be cleaning your fridge more often than that! At least once a week, you should wipe down the shelves and dispose of any expired products. A build-up of bacteria can cause food poisoning, so it’s important to keep your fridge clean. Plus, expired items can cause odors and also take up unnecessary space.

4) Trash Can

Let’s face it, your trash can is one of the dirtiest places in your home. It’s full of germs and bacteria, and it’s just plain gross. So, it’s important to clean it regularly. Here’s how:

  1. Empty the trash can and remove any liner or bag.
  2. Wash the inside of the trash can with hot, soapy water.
  3. Rinse the trash can with clean water and dry it with a clean towel or paper towel.
  4. Once the trash can is dry, add a new liner or bag.
  5. Repeat this process once a week or as needed.

Add citrus peels or a couple of drops of essential oil at the bottom of the bag to prevent odor.

5) Washing machine lint trap filter

Most people don’t realize that their washing machine has a lint trap filter that needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. A lint trap filter helps to prevent lint and other debris from clogging up your washing machine and causing it to break down. Over time, the lint trap filter can become clogged with lint and other debris, which can reduce the efficiency of your washing machine and cause it to break down. To clean your washing machine’s lint trap filter, simply remove it from the washing machine and rinse it off with warm water. You can also scrape with an old toothbrush. You should also clean the area around the lint trap filter to ensure that there is no build-up of lint or other debris.

6) Bedding

Our bedding sees a lot of action. We sweat in it, we shed skin cells in it, and we even drool on it while we sleep. That’s why it’s important to wash our bedding regularly. At least once a week, strip your bed and wash all the sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water and detergent. If you have an extra-large bed or you’re washing an expensive comforter, separate them into two loads so they get washed separately from smaller items like sheet sets.

If you may be too busy, try to still change out your pillowcase weekly. Sheets can still last biweekly.

Contact Us!

Contact Us! As you’re thinking about the last time you cleaned these things, you may realize that your home could use a deep cleaning!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service with Plan B Cleaning. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy the fall festivities in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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10 Ways to Save Money and Create the Life You’ve Always Wanted

Most people assume that you need to earn more money in order to live the life you want, but this doesn’t have to be the case. By learning how to save money and prioritize your spending, you can still create the life you want even on a budget. This includes investing in a cleaning service, taking nice vacations, and doing anything else on your wishlist. These 10 tips from Plan B Cleaning will help you get started today!

1) Track expenses and set goals

In order to save money, you need to be aware of your spending patterns. Track your expenses for at least one month so you can see where your money is going. Then, set goals for each month. For example, if you want to save $100 per month, you’ll need to find ways to cut back your spending by $100. One way to do this is to create a budget and stick to it.

There are several tools and techniques you can use to do this, such as an online Excel sheet or template. You can also go old school and just stick to a paper and pen format. However, some people who mainly use cash like to section off using labeled envelopes, as well.

2) Avoid shopping for fun

When you’re trying to save money, it’s important to be mindful of your spending. One way to do this is to avoid shopping for fun. Only shop when you need something, not when you want something. This will help you stay on budget and avoid impulse purchases. It also means that you won’t feel guilty about purchasing a new item because you really needed it. A great example of this is kitchen appliances: many people go to the store with one appliance in mind, but they end up coming home with three or four items that they don’t need at all. Same thing for clothes. You only need a new pair of jeans but come back with some other things you already have and really may not even wear more than a couple of times.

3) Shop online at bargain sites

To save money, it’s important to be mindful of your spending. One way to do this is to shop at bargain sites like eBay and Mercari. You can also find great deals on second-hand items at consignment shops and garage sales. By being a savvy shopper, you can save money and still get the things you want. Plus, you’ll be helping the planet by shopping second-hand! When we purchase new items, those materials have to come from somewhere. Oftentimes, those resources are scarce and the manufacturing process is harmful to both humans and animals. Buying new clothes just because they’re on sale means that more natural resources will be used in manufacturing them. Instead, buy what you need when it becomes available and save your money as well as the planet.

4) Use coupons, discounts, and cashback apps

Manufacturer coupons are a great way to save money on groceries and other items you purchase on a regular basis. You can also find store coupons and discounts that can be used at your favorite retailers. Another way to save money is to shop when there are sales. By waiting for items to go on sale, you can save a significant amount of money. Finally, using cashback apps can help you get money back on purchases you make online and in stores.

5) Start a side hustle

A side hustle is a great way to make some extra money to help you afford the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. There are a few things to keep in mind when starting a side hustle, though. First, choose something you’re passionate about so it doesn’t feel like work. Second, make sure it’s something you can do on your own time so you don’t have to give up your day job. Third, start small and build up gradually so you don’t get overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family if you need it. Finally, be prepared for bumps in the road, and don’t give up if things get tough.

Some great examples are starting a small business to sell something you can create like jewelry, art, or even digital products. Another idea is to resell your own old clothes and items. Anything that does not fit you and may seem out of style to you can still have value for someone else. Poshmark and Mercari are both good apps for this and you can even get free shipping supplies for your business on USPS’s website.

6) Meal plan and use grocery lists

One of the best ways to save money is to meal plan and make a grocery list. This allows you to know exactly what you need and prevents you from buying things you don’t need. Meal planning can also help you save money by allowing you to cook in bulk and freeze meals for later. Another great way to save money is to start cooking your own food at home. By cooking at home, you’re able to control your portions and what goes into them, as well as save on take-out or dining-out costs. If you want an easier option, there are plenty of grocery delivery services that will allow you to order your groceries online with just a few clicks! Grocery delivery services typically have deals or coupons available on their website too, so be sure to check those out before placing your order!

7) Drink water

Drinking water at home and at restaurants is a great way to save money instead of spending it on sugary drinks and juices and alcohol that is not even good for you. Avoid sports energy drinks and soda or even orange juice and opt for water to keep both you and your wallet healthy.

8) Cancel subscriptions

Cancel any subscriptions that you may not be using or using enough. This can include streaming services for shows, movies, and even music. This can also include random websites you may have not even been aware of. This brings us to the next tip – cancel subscriptions and always review your credit card bills to make sure you are being charged correctly.

9) Learn how to invest

Investing money can be a great way to save money. You can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other securities. Learning how to invest can help you make your money work for you. If you put $1,000 into an investment that earns 7% annually, it will grow to $1,074 after five years. There are plenty of resources online that teach people how to invest for free. They are often funded by advertising on the site which means they don’t cost anything and you’ll see ads from time to time as you browse through articles. Learning about investments can help put your money where it needs to go so that it continues to grow.

10) Contact Us

Contact Us! By scheduling our cleaning services, you can actually save money by not having to buy a lot of cleaning products and pay for damages that they may cause to your home and furniture. Additionally, if a cleaning service is not something you have budgeted for yet, these tips will help you get to that point where you can enjoy the leisure of letting us take over some of your chores. This way, we can clean and you can do more of what you love!

We recommend signing up for a one-time, weekly, biweekly, or monthly cleaning service. This will give you the time to do what you love most and enjoy your newly decorated patio in Fishers, Indiana. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area in Indiana, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist. Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit our website at www.planbcleaning.com.

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A Guide to Cleaning Any Type of Flooring

There are many methods to choose from when it comes to cleaning floors, carpets, or tiles. You can use a mop, a broom, or a vacuum. You can scrub with a cloth or spray a detergent onto the surface and scrub with a rag. The options for cleaning floors are endless. Which one is best? Different types of materials for different cleaning methods largely depend on the type of floor you have to clean. This guide will introduce you to different floor cleaning methods and the materials they are best used with.

Different Types of Floors, Different Cleaning Methods

One of the toughest questions regarding floor care is “how do you clean different types of floors?” The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem. While it is possible to clean most types of floors using the same or similar methods, some flooring requires special care. If you are moving to a new home or looking for a different cleaning method for your current home, it is important to consider the type of flooring you have. For example, wood, laminate, and tile flooring are durable flooring types that are easy to maintain.
Let’s get to learn more about the different types of floors and how you should clean them:

Wood Floors

While hardwood floors have bounced back in popularity, they can still be a pain to clean. One of the biggest turn-offs to having wood floors is the frequent need for maintenance. Dust, dirt, and debris can build up over time and cause scratching of the surface. And if you don’t have good vacuum cleaners or cleaning solutions, it’s easy to end up with dirty and scratched floors. Luckily, it’s not too complicated to clean your wood floors, and you don’t need any expensive cleaning products to do it.
The best way to clean wood floors is with a mild detergent and pH-neutral cleaner You can also use a cleaner like Bona Hardwood Cleaner which is created specifically for hardwood flooring. Read the instructions carefully. Make sure to clean all spills immediately, as that will prevent staining and discoloration. Use a towel or sponge to wipe up spills. If your wood floor looks dirty, use a mop and broom to remove dust. Make sure to mop the floor in the direction of the grain.

Marble Floors

Marble floors are a beautiful addition to any home, but they need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Marble is a type of crystal composed of calcite and dolomite. It is generally white to pale gray. Marble is smooth and requires very little maintenance, but the downside is that it can easily stain. The cool thing about marble is that there are so many beautiful colors to choose from. So, how do you clean marble floors?
You can periodically buff up marble floors with a microfiber cloth and some cleaning solution, but marble is sensitive to acidic chemicals and abrasives. Just be careful not to overdo it with cleaning products since marble can react with acidic cleaners and strip the polish off. It is recommended to use a mild detergent and a pH-neutral cleaner to clean your marble flooring safely.

Ceramic Tile Floors

Tile floors are attractive and practical, but they’re not the easiest floor to clean. They can be difficult to keep clean, especially if you live in an apartment and have to share maintenance duties. Fortunately, there are many different ways to care for your tile floors.
However, ceramic floors are a tough material to maintain, and you may need a professional to come in and help with cleaning them. There are many different kinds of ceramic tiles, and not all are cleanable. You can clean the grout with a steam cleaner, but that is not recommended unless you have glazed and sealed tile. Glazed tiles are easy to clean, and sealed tiles will get dirty easily. Unsealed tiles should be sealed, but mopping them daily with a mild detergent and water should be enough.

Linoleum Floors

Linoleum Floors are old, but they are making a comeback. Homeowners are rediscovering the vintage look of these resilient floor coverings, and there are some big reasons you might consider having them in your home. One reason being is that they are very durable and can last for decades. They are also easy to clean and are resistant to water, stains, and bacteria.
If you have linoleum floors, you know just how tough they are. Linoleum flooring can withstand just about anything, from dog messes to spills, dirt, and even snow. The good news is that linoleum floors also tend to be easy to clean. You can vacuum the floors and then mop them. You can also disinfect the floors with a disinfecting solution and water.

Terrazzo Floors

Terrazzo floors are a beautiful floor option for many homes and offices today. They add a unique, luxurious touch to any space and are the perfect accent to almost any design. However, as a floor option, the upkeep of terrazzo floors can be a bit difficult.
Because terrazzo floors resist scratches and stains, they’re an attractive option for flooring in kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and other high-traffic areas. But like any other floor material, terrazzo accumulates dirt, grime, and scuff marks over time. Many homeowners clean terrazzo floors with mops, but the process can be time-consuming and ineffective. Instead, consider trying out an alternative method: terrazzo floor cleaning with vinegar.

Vinyl Floors

Floor cleaning is an important part of home maintenance. Vinyl floors are easy to clean in most cases, and a quick mop and sweep are usually all that’s needed.
Also, avoid using a steam mop on vinyl flooring since the steam and heat can warp the vinyl flooring. Vinyl floors don’t “wear out” like carpet or hardwood; they stay beautiful, shiny, and easy to clean for years. Vinyl floors can be damaged by even the best cleaning methods, so following the product’s manufacturer’s recommendations is very important.

Concrete Floors

Concrete flooring is an excellent option for many homes and buildings, providing a durable, attractive, and cost-effective alternative to other flooring materials, such as hardwood, carpet, or tile. These qualities make it a popular choice for flooring in high-traffic areas, but concrete surfaces also tend to harbor stains, dirt, and dust over time, making them harder to keep clean. Fortunately, these surfaces are not as difficult to clean as you might have imagined. You can:

  • Sweep the floor to remove any debris and loosen impediments.
  • Apply an appropriate cleaner for the floor (if necessary, mix the cleaning solution yourself).
  • Scrub the floor using cleaning pads or brushes.
  • Rinse the floor area with clean water, then dry it with a towel.
  • If needed, apply a sealer to the floor after it dries.

Whether you’re dealing with concrete on the street or in the home, cleaning it up can be a daunting task. Concrete is porous, making it perfect for mold and germs to grow, along with stains from dirt and spills. But, with the right cleaning supplies, it’s not impossible.

Hire a Professional

Clean floors are important to every single house, but almost all types of floors can gather dirt over time if not properly cared for. That is why if you are still not confident in handling floor cleaning, then hiring cleaning companies will be better. Professional cleaning companies like Plan: B Cleaning can provide a deeper floor cleaning that goes above and beyond what a homeowner can do.
Interested in a residential cleaning service to do the hard work for you? Call Plan: B Cleaning today at (317) 572-8515 or visit www.planbcleaning.com. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Fishers, Indiana area including Geist, Noblesville, Carmel, Fortville, and more!

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How to Declutter Your Life & Enjoy The Benefits of Cleaning on Mental Health and Well-being

Wondering how cleaning improves mental health and wellbeing? Several recent studies show that cleaning your space may help reduce your cortisol levels, reduce visual noise, and help you focus on the things you need to. Furthermore, even taking small steps to clean and organize, like making your bed in the morning or hanging up your clothes, can heighten your mood and productivity for the day. What may seem like a small task or chore really does have the ability to boost your well-being and impact your life positively.

At Plan: B Cleaning, we understand the benefits of cleaning and organizing both your space and mind, so we want to share them with you! We know that decluttering your life can be difficult, but one way to ease the process is by choosing our cleaning services as an ally to your mental health and wellbeing. Let’s take a look at some of the tips and tricks, as well as the positive effects cleaning has on your mind, body, and overall well-being.

Tips for getting started

Before you begin, decide if you’re going to start with what’s easiest for you – your workspace or your bedroom – or if you want to set a goal for how much cleaning you want to and can do. If your goal is something lofty, such as “I’m going to declutter my entire house!” – that might be overwhelming at first. Instead, break it down into smaller chunks – perhaps starting by tackling your desk area, then moving on to other areas as they become manageable. Setting goals can help keep you motivated, but don’t be afraid to take breaks when needed. It may take several days or even weeks before you feel comfortable getting rid of things in your home. Just remember: You just have to start somewhere! Then, you can always pick up where you left off.

Why decluttering and donating can improve your mood

Decluttering is one of the first steps to deep cleaning. By getting rid of old items that you no longer use, you are actively creating more space for yourself and new, positive thoughts. When you give away or throw out things that aren’t serving you, it can also help reduce feelings of stress. If a room is overflowing with objects you rarely use, give those objects away. Donating items gives them a new life with someone else who will use them and frees up space in your home. You will feel happy to help someone in need, and also an immediate sense of relief once your new, clean space is established. It’ll be like taking a breath of fresh air.

If you are wondering where to donate clothes and gently used items, check out this blog for places to donate near Indianapolis, Fisher, Carmel, and so on. Find a cause that speaks to you, whether it is donating to domestic abuse survivors, homeless folks, refugees, and so on.

Ways to eliminate clutter

One rule that works well when decluttering is that if you haven’t used it in a year, get rid of it. If you have doubts about whether or not you’ll ever use an item again, consider donating it rather than putting it in storage. And remember: Don’t sweat your stuff. Try to avoid getting worked up over clutter by reminding yourself that material things are simply items. They don’t define you, but neither do they dictate your happiness. Be disciplined but forgiving with yourself if some items seem hard to part with—after all, we all have sentimental attachments to certain items.

Organizing your belongings is as important as throwing them out

A well-organized home helps combat stress by being more effective, easier to use, and ultimately healthier for your mental wellbeing. You’ll be able to find things when you need them, making it easier to make plans and follow through. You won’t have a panic attack every time you come home from work; instead, you can enjoy kicking off your shoes and relaxing in a calm environment. Having less stuff just laying around also gives you a greater sense of freedom as there will be fewer options for clutter throughout your living space. Here are some easy tips and item recommendations to get organized:

  • Invest in desk organizers. (Check out your local office supply store or order online!)
  • Closet organizers. I am a big fan of my hanging closet and shoe storage purchases. These come in different sizes and styles so you can find what works best for you.
  • Baskets, lots and lots of baskets. Baskets can go anywhere and are great for storing nearly anything as they also come in different shapes and sizes.
  • Utensil organizers … basically special baskets for your utensils. These make putting away dishes so much easier.

Freeing up space in your home can have positive effects

Sort everything into four piles: trash, recycle, donate, and keep. Clearing out clutter has been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase feelings of happiness. As satisfying as it is for our brains, decluttering also has practical benefits; you’ll save money by avoiding purchases you don’t need or making better use of household resources. If you’re trying to get your finances in order or simply have too much stuff, start decluttering now!

Examine your relationships with possessions, both material and digital

Being careful with possessions is important because every object you own serves a purpose. Ask yourself why you have each possession in your life and whether or not it enriches your life or consumes it. It’s also important to examine your relationship with digital possessions, like emails. You can start by asking questions like: Why do I have so many emails? What use are they adding to my life? Do I ever really read them? And what do they do when they just sit there in my inbox, untouched? A lot of times, we collect items that we don’t even need but convince ourselves that we need them. These items aren’t helping us; instead, they are literally sucking our time away from us. Start by deleting any old apps on your phone or computer programs you no longer use. Declutter your inbox while you’re at it. You can do this by unsubscribing to any newsletters from stores you no longer shop at. This will also help you avoid impulse buying.

Decluttering leads to more time you can spend doing things you enjoy

Simply having less stuff around can reduce stress, but we know you want more than just that. Not only will there be less clutter around your home making things easier to find, but you’ll also save a lot of time by not searching through piles or looking for misplaced items. If you’re always running behind because you can never find anything, maybe it’s time to declutter. If you can find your contact lenses, a spoon for cereal, and a spoon for cereal – you will be out of the door in no time!

Next Steps

After decluttering and organizing, you are ready for a deep clean. Treat yourself to assistance from a cleaning service to really get the grime out of your newly organized space.

Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit www.planbcleaning.com. Plan: B Cleaning serves the Hamilton County area, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist.

 

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How to Clean When You Hate Cleaning: 10 Tips to Get You Started

Let’s face it – cleaning isn’t anyone’s favorite thing to do. However, if you don’t do it, your house will quickly fall into chaos, which can affect your mood and health. If you hate cleaning, though, that makes the prospect of doing it even worse, right? With these 10 tips, you can learn how to clean when you hate cleaning and find yourself enjoying the benefits of a tidy home in no time!

1) Start With Simple Tasks

The biggest thing that can hold people back from cleaning is that they think of it as a big task. Think about all of those small tasks, like making your bed in the morning, taking out garbage and recycling, or wiping off your desk at work. If you start doing these little things throughout your day, it will make it much easier for you to tackle bigger chores. There is even a great book called “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World” written by a navy seal, Admiral William H. McRaven, that describes how making your bed can improve your mindset. Start with those simple tasks, and then slowly start adding in bigger ones until cleaning becomes a habit for you!

2) Choose Your Tools Wisely

The first step in cleaning is choosing your tools. First, you want to pick a broom with sturdy bristles for sweeping up large amounts of dust and dirt. Next, get a good vacuum—not just any vacuum, but one that can thoroughly clean carpets and bare floors alike. Our cleaning professionals at Plan: B depend on high-quality and efficient vacuum cleaners. So we recommend checking out Miele canister vacuum cleaners and finding the right fit for you. Finally, don’t forget to grab a mop or sponge—these are essential for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas like kitchen counters and bathroom sinks. Once you have these items, it’s time to start cleaning!

3) Divide and Conquer

Is cleaning your entire home one project too daunting? Break it down into smaller steps. Start with one room or part of a room and go from there. As you tackle each area, think about what you can do in just five minutes—this should keep you moving at a steady pace while still ensuring that you don’t get bored by longer projects. In addition, these short spurts of time are much easier to carve out in your busy schedule than larger chunks would be.

If you find yourself getting stuck on something, give yourself permission to stop for now and come back later. Remember: If it doesn’t look like it needs doing right now, leave it alone! That way when you pick up where you left off tomorrow, you won’t feel overwhelmed.

4) Take Small Breaks in Between

Too much cleaning at once can be tiresome or even stress you out. So, take small breaks in between tasks to keep yourself from getting overwhelmed. If you need a break, get up and stretch your legs for a few minutes before returning to work. It’s also a good idea to change up your routine every so often by doing something different with each task. This will help you focus on what needs to be done instead of getting bored with repetitive chores like washing dishes or vacuuming floors. Grab some water while you’re at it! Staying hydrated is important, especially when you’re working hard.

5) Avoid Clutter at All Costs

Having a messy house isn’t just unsightly—it can also wreak havoc on your mental health. While more stuff does not equate to a better life, living in constant disarray can be incredibly stressful and, if you have children, dangerous. So if you hate cleaning but want to get organized once and for all, avoid clutter like the plague. Declutter your home by making three piles (keep, donate/recycle, trash) whenever you bring something new into your home.

6) Find Supplies Suited for You

It sounds trivial, but when you hate cleaning, spending a lot of time and energy on supplies is frustrating. Therefore, in order to effectively get your house clean when you hate cleaning, it’s important that you stock up on supplies that make scrubbing your house easier.

For example, if mopping irritates your back or knees then opt for a Swiffer Sweeper rather than a mop and bucket. If dusting makes you sneeze, try investing in some microfiber cloths so you can dust without all those irritating allergens flying around. Here at Plan: B Cleaning we love our microfiber towels. They do a great job at picking up dirt, dust, and germs. For your home we’d recommend considering the perfect clean microfiber or the Buff ™microfiber product from microfiberwholesale.com.

Vacuuming can also be a hassle if you have a lot of space to clean or find yourself vacuuming often. If vacuuming feels like too much work, invest in a robotic vacuum cleaner that will do all of the hard work for you!

7) Add Music

Most cleaning chores can be made easier if you have a great playlist on your phone. If you don’t have one, it’s time to get busy! Create a playlist of songs that are upbeat and inspiring. The right music will inspire you to clean up and help clear your mind when you are too stressed. This is an easy way to make cleaning more fun! And what could be better than that?

8) Keep a Routine

Of course, no amount of cleaning products or techniques will work if you don’t keep them up consistently. That’s why it’s important to try and get into a routine that fits your life and stick with it as closely as possible. If you can make daily maintenance part of your schedule, then you’ll be less likely to let things slip through the cracks. And when things do slip? Don’t beat yourself up—just start again! It may take time to find what works for you, but in time you’ll have an effective system down pat. The key is to not give up and always move forward.

9) Do it in little bits of time

Like anything you’d rather not do, cleaning can be a pain. But chances are there are little pockets of time in your day where you aren’t doing anything important—waiting for the coffee to brew, standing in line at the grocery store, staring into space during a meeting—that you could use for scrubbing and polishing. This is especially true if you have pets or children—two groups that typically require frequent cleanup! Set aside time each week and make it a habit.

You might even surprise yourself with how much you enjoy it. If nothing else, you’ll feel accomplished when you walk away from a clean house (and won’t be as tempted to leave things undone).

10) Hire a cleaning service

Hiring a cleaning service is one of those luxuries that make life so much easier. If you do hate cleaning, paying someone else to do it for you could be just what you need. Fortunately, Plan: B has an excellent cleaning service! It’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for help with housework.

Call today to set up your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit www.planbcleaning.com. Plan: B Cleaning services the Hamilton County area, including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, Fortville, and Geist.

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6 Things You Could Do With Your Time If You Hire a Cleaning Service

How much time do you waste cleaning your home each week? An hour? Two hours? Three? If it’s more than an hour, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many people find themselves spending far too much of their free time trying to maintain a clean house. When you hire a cleaning service available in your area, you can spend all that time doing something else—like spending quality time with your family or getting to work on that project you’ve been putting off. In this blog, we will discuss 6 things you could do with your free time when you hire a residential cleaning service to clean your home.

1) Volunteer

With the free time you get from hiring a cleaning service, you can start volunteering more of your time to a cause that you care about.  This is not only an effective way to give back, but it’s also a great way to make new friends and spend time with family members who share similar interests. For example, if you’re passionate about animals, consider volunteering at an animal shelter or helping out at your local zoo on weekends. This could help you connect with people in your community who have common interests.

By hiring a residential cleaning service for your house or apartment, you can spend your valuable time giving back to others! Your free time can be spent giving back to those in need in your community thanks to the help of a professional residential cleaning service.

2) Get creative

Spending your free time using your creativity can be just as important to your health and well-being as working out or getting enough sleep. (That said, it’s important to get enough sleep.) When you hire someone to clean your home, you still have plenty of free time and energy left over for painting, drawing, reading, writing, or making crafts that bring joy into your life.

With the extra free time that hiring a residential cleaning service can give you, you can pick up a wide variety of creative hobbies that will bring you happiness. You can paint a portrait, write a novel, learn how to make jewelry, or read a new book series with your newly found time. 

If you are starting a new creative hobby, try watching free instructional videos to learn how to do things or go to a local class with friends. You can also try thrifting certain things like books, canvases, jewelry pieces, and more for your chosen hobby. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to start a new hobby with your free time!

3) Spend time with friends or family

When you hire someone to do your cleaning, you’ll find yourself with extra time on your hands to spend your time with friends and family. With work taking up most of the day,  it can be hard to find time for our loved ones—but having a cleaning service frees up time that you can use for other things. 

Whether it’s going out for dinner or catching a movie, spending time with those around us is an important part of life that we often don’t make enough time for. So when you have time off from housework, take advantage of it! The time will go by much faster than you think.

Some fun activities you could do with friends or family in your free time include:

  • Host a game night
  • Go to a concert
  • Play a sport 
  • Attend a yoga class 
  • Try a new restaurant
  • Have a board game night
  • Host a movie night
  • Learn how to cook a new dish
  • Start a garden
  • Paint together

4) Redecorate

Decorating your home or apartment is an excellent hobby, as it gives you something to do on days off and is highly rewarding. Pick up some books on interior design, check out your local flea markets for unique pieces, or simply spend time looking at magazines and daydreaming about what you’d like to do with your space. The time saved cleaning can be better spent redecorating your space.

Try also drawing inspiration for redecorating from online idea boards, such as Pinterest. You can research what style you like and curate your design ideas to fit your specific house or apartment’s look.

And as an added bonus, your home will be cleaned by the professionals when you redecorate so you’re starting with a clean foundation. Redecorating is much easier when you are moving furniture and hanging art on the walls when you are starting with a clean home. The last thing you want is to redecorate on top of dust and dirt that you will have to clean up later!

5) Catch up on sleep

It’s no secret that your cognitive ability is sharpest when you’re well-rested. Who has time to make sure everything is clean while they’re trying to stay on top of their job and manage personal life too? That’s where hiring a cleaning service comes in handy. You won’t have to stress or spend time cleaning and can therefore rest easy when you get home from work or other activities!

With the time you save by hiring a residential cleaning service to clean your home or apartment, you can catch up on the sleep you’ve missed out on by trying to keep up with work, cleaning, and all of your other tasks. Make sure to plan ahead so that you can get enough rest before an important meeting or presentation!

6) Exercise

Having someone else clean your home not only saves you time but can also give you an opportunity to start exercising! Since you won’t be tied down with chores or worried about cleaning your home, feel free to do some exercising—go on a hike out in nature, take a jog around your neighborhood, or attend a yoga class. There are so many different ways to get active with your free time so you can find an activity that you enjoy doing. From biking to dancing to rollerblading, you can try any exercise in your newfound free time.

Be sure to set aside time each day to make these activities part of your daily routine; you’ll feel better knowing that you’re doing something good for yourself in addition to hiring us. And as an added bonus, exercising is proven to improve your overall well-being, mentally and physically!

Take Back Your Free Time

We all know that spending more time with our families and practicing new hobbies is something that’s on everyone’s wish list, but for many of us, time seems to slip away faster than we can keep up. That’s why you should consider hiring a residential cleaning service. A professional maid service can make your life easier by coming into your home and doing some of your chores so you have more free time in which to spend doing what you love and enjoy.

Plan: B Cleaning can give you back your free time to enjoy doing what you love again by offering residential cleaning services in Fishers, Indiana. When you hire our team of cleaning professionals for deep cleaning services, your home will be cleaned from top to bottom so your house or apartment is as clean as it was when you moved in.

Call today to schedule your cleaning service at (317) 572-8515 or visit www.planbcleaning.com. Plan: B Cleaning services the Fishers, Indiana area, including Carmel, Noblesville, Fortville, and Geist.