Author: Courtney Hemmerling

Our friends at Cannon Pest Management wrote an awesome article on “5 All-Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Ants.”

5 All-Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Ants

Ants: once they’ve marched into your place, they’re mighty hard to get rid of. Why’s that? Well, consider this: there are a lot of creatures on our planet … but none as populous and hardy as the ubiquitous ant. In fact, scientists think there are at least one quadrillion (yes, quadrillion) ants on Earth – which is 150,000 of the suckers for every single human. And despite our best efforts to keep our homes and spaces clear of their bacteria-coated nippers, ants always seem to slip through the cracks to steal our crumbs once again. So is it pointless to even explore how to get rid of ants?

How to get rid of ants the natural way

1. Lemon

We find them sour, but ants will actually go to great lengths to avoid the toxicity of the citric acids. If they sense lemon juice or spot a lemon peel, they’ll scurry away.

2. Oils

There are actually a range of natural, plant-based essential oils that ants hate – including peppermint and tea tree oils. Just a few drops in an incense burner should do it, and make your home smell lovely as a bonus.

3. Talcum powder

Another substance we love but ants hate is talcum powder. Put a bit of it here and there in the trouble spots and it will really mess with the critters’ pheromone trail and clog up their airways.

4. Cinnamon

Does every method for how to get rid of bull ants make your house smell delicious? That’s certainly also the case with cinnamon, which is delicious for us but actually toxic and rancid from the ants’ perspective.

5. Vinegar

Ever notice that if you put vinegar on your fish & chips, the ants will never bother you? As a safe and natural ant repellent, dilute some 1:1 in water and splash it around the trouble areas. For extra effectiveness, shake some salt & pepper on the solution and watch the ants scurry away.

How to get rid of ants with our help

We also recommend combining these natural (and lovely-smelling) anti-ant solutions with some other tried-and-tested methods, tips and tricks, including:

• Clearing up crumbs after meals
• Drying up any wet spots/patches
• Seal gaps around your home
• Experimenting with other natural ant repellents including chalk, coffee, cucumber, mint and cloves.

But don’t forget: Your very best weapon against a stubborn ant invasion both inside and outside your home is a professional pest control outfit – like the experienced team here at CleanStart Property Services. To find out about our superior methods, products and specialized equipment, get in touch with the ant control experts at CleanStart Property Services today.

Our friends at Ky-Ko Pest Prevention wrote a helpful article on “How to Spot Bedbugs While Traveling and What to Do About It.”

How to Spot Bugs While Traveling & What to Do

The last thing you want or expect during a relaxing vacation is bedbugs in your hotel room. The issue is a constant concern for travelers and hoteliers, and rightly so, since these pests can spread quickly and can be difficult to kill with DIY efforts. These bloodsuckers can also hitch a ride on suitcases and travel back home with you or to another hotel if you are not careful.

The good news is that you can prevent this from happening and have a great vacation if you know how to spot these critters before you nose-dive into ‘fresh’ sheets in your hotel room.

 

How to Check For Bed Bugs in Your Hotel Room

Bedbugs are smart enough to hide but not smart enough to cover their tracks. So when you check-in and head inside your hotel room, do not unpack immediately. First, check the room for:

●Bed bug shells or molted skin

●Fecal spots

●Bed bug eggs

●Bloodstains

 

Look for these signs in the following spots:

The Bedframe and Mattress

Just picking up the mattress won’t help you. Bed bugs usually hide in frame joints and other dark spots that are difficult to spot. Inspect those with a black light or a flashlight first and then examine the crevices in the headboard, especially in the intricate design. Also, check the seams in the mattress and the zipper. If you don’t spot anything, lift the mattress and look under it.

Sofas and Throw Pillows

If the hotel you are staying at has bedbugs, you may find some in sofas and throw pillows in your room. Examine the seams, the slipcover (inside and out), and along the zippers of the decorative cushions and pillows.

Floorboards and Closets

Bedbugs can hide in the closet in your room and the floorboards as well. Check areas where the floorboards or molding meet the wall and look at the seals of the drawers and doors, joints, and corners of the closet. Wherever you can find a spider web, you can find bed bugs if there is an infestation.

Check the Nightstands

Check the corners and drawer seals in your nightstand. Bedbugs like to crawl into those spots to lay their eggs. Also, check the underside of the lampshade or areas where it touches the nightstand. This includes the alarm clocks, picture frames, and any other bedside décor.

Luggage and Luggage Stands

Before placing your luggage in it, examine the webbing on the luggage stand and especially the area where it wraps around the frame. Plus, never place your luggage on the bed before doing this. You may get some pesky hitchhikers without being aware of it.

 

What You Can Do If There Are Bedbugs

If you find bedbugs in any of the spots mentioned above, take action quickly, so you don’t get them on you. Here are some things you should do:

Separate your belongings

If you think there are bedbugs in your hotel room, the first thing you should do is separate your belongings. The last thing you want or need is bloodsucking hitchhikers. Place all of your items and clothes in close contact with the bed in a plastic bag and seal them. Plus, do not leave any clothes on the sheets.

Take Pictures of the Evidence

The hotel staff may not believe you without evidence. So make sure you take photos of bedbug signs (such as fecal matter, bloody spots, etc.) and bites if you have any. If you aren’t squeamish, capture one and show it to them as irrefutable evidence.

Let the Host Know

Whether you are staying at a hotel or an AirBnB, the chances are that the host doesn’t know they have a bedbug problem. So inform them as soon as you think there is an infestation. You may be offered a different room, and they can contact a pest control company to take care of the problem as well.

Stay calm during this interaction, so you don’t miss out on a potential refund or room change. Tell the staff what you want them to do politely and ask if they can clean your belongings.

Leave the Room

If the room has a bedbug problem, leave it as soon as you can. The longer you stay there, the higher the chances that some will get on you or your luggage. Most hotels provide refunds, and if they refuse, insist and complain to management if they don’t. As hoteliers, they have a duty of care to ensure guests are comfortable while staying with them.

The bottom line is that if you are a frequent traveler, the chances are high that you may bring back bedbugs from your travels. Use the tips mentioned above to reduce those chances significantly. Hitchhikers are difficult to spot. But the good news is that even if you do bring some back, they can be eliminated by professionals easily.

 

Contact Pest Control Professionals

We hope this article helps you on how to spot bugs while traveling & what to do. Bedbugs have become a problem in hotels and homes across the country. If you bring back even a single one from your travels, they can multiply quickly and make your family’s life a living hell. If you are facing this issue and are searching for pest control professionals, look no further than CleanStart Property Services. Please fill out our form or call us to schedule a inspection.

Have you ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed out when you’re surrounded by clutter? You’re not alone.

In fact, studies have shown that a cluttered environment can have a negative impact on your mental health and overall well-being. Here are 5 ways clutter affects mental clarity, and therefore, how decreasing clutter can improve your quality of life.

 

5 Ways Clutter Affects Mental Clarity

Clutter can be distracting

When you’re surrounded by clutter, it can be hard to focus on the task at hand. Your brain has to work harder to process all the visual information, which can lead to feelings of mental fatigue and burnout. By keeping your space clutter-free, you can reduce distractions and improve your ability to concentrate.

Clutter can increase stress and anxiety

A cluttered space can create feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. It can also make it difficult to relax and unwind, as your brain is constantly reminded of the work that needs to be done. By keeping your space organized and clutter-free, you can create a more peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Clutter can be a physical reminder of unfinished tasks

Have you ever looked around a cluttered room and felt like you had a million things to do? This is because clutter can be a physical reminder of all the tasks that are left unfinished. By removing clutter from your space, you can create a sense of accomplishment and reduce the mental burden of unfinished tasks.

Clutter can be overwhelming

The thought of tackling a cluttered space can be overwhelming in itself. However, by breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks, you can make progress and reduce feelings of overwhelm. This sense of accomplishment can improve your mood and boost your self-esteem.

Clutter can affect your sleep

A cluttered space can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. It can create feelings of unease and discomfort, making it harder to relax and fall asleep. By keeping your space clutter-free, you can create a more calming environment that promotes restful sleep.

In conclusion, although we listed 5 ways clutter affects mental clarity, there is many more. Keeping clutter away is crucial for achieving mental clarity and improving your overall well-being. By creating a clutter-free environment, you can reduce distractions, lower stress and anxiety levels, increase productivity, and improve the quality of your sleep. So why not take a few minutes today to declutter your space and reap the benefits of mental clarity? Your brain (and your sanity) will thank you!

 

CleanStart Property Services

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your space, give us a call at 1-855-297-8278. We offer junk removal, cleaning and pest control services – meaning one call and the space is sparkling! Book a free estimate through our website or give us a call for more information!

Our friends at McJunk wrote an awesome article on 3 ways to beat garage clutter, you can find the full HERE.

It’s funny that garages were designed for cars, but they are used as storage units for extraneous stuff in many cases. Most people admit to not even being able to fit their car in the garage. But stop for a moment and imagine a space where you could park, work, enjoy hobbies, or set up a gym. The possibilities are endless.

After years of living in the same house, your garage can take on a lot of clutter. It becomes that black hole where things go and are never seen again. You tell yourself you’ll get to it, but you don’t know where to start every time you attempt to declutter. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out how to clean and organize an area with diverse belongings, but here are a few tips.

3 Ways to Beat Garage Clutter

Separate The Mess

The first step in organizing your clutter is to divide it up. You’ll want to create several categories: what to keep, donate, sell, and throw away. The keep pile is always the easiest, but people have trouble with the other categories. For example, if something has sentimental value, that’s fine, but some people think that about every item, which makes getting rid of things more difficult. In this case, ask someone objective to help sort through things.

You can donate tons of things to local charities (be sure to check what they do and do not accept as donations). If you’d rather see cash, set items aside for a garage sale, but if they don’t sell, you need to have a plan B to get rid of them eventually. Do not put them back into your garage! Also, if you have any hazardous waste or chemicals (i.e., paint, insecticides, etc.), dispose of them carefully and lawfully.

Organize

When you’ve finally finished sorting through all your belongings and deciding which ones to keep, you’ll need to organize them before putting them back in your garage. This isn’t always a simple task and can take some time, so be patient with this process. Remember to label every storage box or container -you’ll thank yourself later.

Maintain

Once you get your garage cleaned up, you’ll want to keep it that way. It’s much easier to maintain a tidy space than clean it again. A decluttered space is pleasing to the eye, and it reduces your stress when you’re in your garage. In addition, you’ll have more room for other activities. You do have the space. You need to declutter and prioritize it!

CleanStart Property Services

Are you decluttering your garage, attic, or basement? Do you need help with junk removal in the Lower Mainland of BC? CleanStart can help. Our team will sort items and recycle, donate or dispose of them for you. No job is too big or too small. Contact us at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website and see what we can do for you.

Our friends at Junk-Buddy wrote an awesome article answering the question “Need to Tear Down Your Aging Wood Deck?.”

Need to Tear Down Your Aging Wood Deck?

Is your deck aging and starting to fall apart? Are you building a new deck or landscaping for your backyard? Do you need to understand how to tear down your old wooden deck and throw it away? A new deck addition to your backyard can be a great way to entertain family and friends.

A wooden deck can last for a long time, but if it hasn’t been well-maintained, you’re looking at an aging deck that needs to be torn down or replaced. Need to tear down your aging wood deck?

Signs Your Deck Needs to Be Torn Down

Here are some signs that your deck needs to be removed or replaced:

Loose boards

Are there loose boards in different locations on your deck? Look for cracked, loose, or rotten boards, and you’ll need to inspect the frame underneath.

Fasteners popping

Over time, the deck boards will dry out from sunlight and start to splinter. Then, the nails and screws will pop up, and bolts can become loose.

Soft spots

Dark brown or green weak spots on your deck boards can be a sign of rot.

How to Demolish Your Wood Deck

A few things you should do before you start to tear down your aging deck are:

• Prepare a budget.
• Research local building code office for the permitting requirements.
• Apply for any necessary permits.
• Clear your deck off.
• Put your patio furniture, grill, and other items in a temporary place.
• Donate items you don’t use or want any more to a local charity.
• Hire a junk removal company to remove any broken items or dispose of them.

Deck Demolition Tools and Safety Equipment

Make sure you have the tools and safety gear needed to complete removing your deck. Everything you need should be available at your local hardware or home improvement store if you don’t have them already.

• Pry Bar
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Drill
• Sledgehammer
• Reciprocating Saw
• Shovel
• Work Gloves
• Protective Glasses
• Closed-Toe Shoes

 

How to Demolish Your Deck

Use this method to breakdown your existing deck:

• Remove any handrails either using a crowbar or use a drill to reverse the screws.
• Pry off the deck boards one by one with a pry bar and claw hammer.
• Collect the nails and screws in a container, so you don’t have any loose items to step on.
• Cut the deck frame away from your home using a saw.
• Stack deck boards together in size off to the side.
• Cut joists off using a sledgehammer.
• Remove hanger boards.
• Dig out concrete footings of the support posts.
• Pull the Steps Apart by prying the treads up and remove the risers and posts.

 

Options for the Old Deck Boards

Once your deck is completely torn down, you’ll be left with a lot of wood. There are quite a few options you have on what to do with your wood from upcycling to disposing of what’s too beat up to reuse in another project.

• Create DIY Picture or Art Frames
• Use Them for Interior Trim Projects
• Reuse the boards that are in good condition on your new deck or handrails
• Rent a dumpster to get rid of them

 

Online Booking

We are a local professional junk pick-up service to provide amazing service and makes your life easier. We handle single-item furniture removal, haul away yard waste, and construction debris, and provide light demo work such as shed removal, carpet removal, hot tub removal, cabinet removal, playground removal, and bulk trash removal.

Book online today!

1. Select your two-hour arrival window.
2. Our junk removal specialist will arrive ready to work.
3. Free quote, we get started and haul away the junk!

 

Junk Removal

Friendly, uniformed gentlemen will come to you, do all the lifting for you, clean up and haul away your junk. It includes same day service, labor, post job sweep up, time saver, cost-effective, and dump fee.

We can help you. We will provide a free, no-obligation on-site estimate. When you call us, our friendly customer service can give you a rough estimate of prices based on your information you provide, but it’s our truck team who will provide an accurate quote when they arrive. You can book online or call us at  1-855-297-8278. Sit back and relax while our truck team handles the hard work and hauls your junk away.

Our friends at Whatcom Junk wrote an awesome article on junk removal for hoarders: overcoming the challenges. You can find the full article HERE.

Hoarding is a common problem that affects many people, and it can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. If you or someone you know is a hoarder, the accumulation of junk and clutter can create a hazardous living environment, and the thought of getting rid of it can be overwhelming. Fortunately, junk removal services can help. In this article, we will discuss junk removal for hoarders and how it can help overcome the challenges of hoarding.

Junk Removal for Hoarders: Overcoming the Challenges

Understanding Hoarding

Hoarding is defined as the excessive accumulation of items to the point where it interferes with the normal use of living spaces. Hoarders may feel a strong attachment to their possessions and find it difficult to let go of anything, even if it is no longer needed or useful. Hoarding can lead to a cluttered and dangerous living environment, which can be difficult to clean up without professional help.

The Challenges of Junk Removal for Hoarders

Junk removal for hoarders can be challenging for several reasons, including:

1. Emotional Attachment – One of the biggest challenges of junk removal for hoarders is their emotional attachment to their possessions. Hoarders may feel overwhelmed by the thought of getting rid of their items and may feel guilty or sad about it. Junk removal services can help overcome this challenge by providing a safe and supportive environment for the removal of unwanted items.
2. Health and Safety Hazards – Hoarding can create health and safety hazards, such as fire hazards, tripping hazards, and pests. Junk removal services can help remove these hazards by removing the unwanted items and cleaning up the living space.
3. Overwhelming Volume of Junk – The volume of junk can be overwhelming, and hoarders may feel overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning it up. Junk removal services can help remove the junk efficiently and quickly, reducing the stress and anxiety of the hoarder.
4. Sensitive Approach – Junk removal for hoarders requires a sensitive approach. Junk removal companies that specialize in hoarding situations understand the challenges and can provide a compassionate and non-judgmental service.

How Junk Removal Services Can Help

Junk removal services can help hoarders in several ways, including:

1. Professional Assessment Junk removal services can provide a professional assessment of the hoarding situation, determining the volume of junk and the best approach for removal.
2. Safe and Efficient Removal Junk removal services are equipped to handle the removal of junk efficiently and safely, reducing the stress and anxiety of the hoarder.
3. Recycling and Donation Services Junk removal services can also provide recycling and donation services, helping to reduce the environmental impact of the junk and giving it a second life.
4. Cleanup and Sanitization Finally, junk removal services can provide cleanup and sanitization services, leaving the living space clean and safe for the hoarder.

Conclusion

Junk removal for hoarders can be a challenging and emotional experience, but with the help of professional services, it can be a positive and stress-free process. Junk removal services can help overcome the challenges of hoarding and provide a safe and supportive environment for the removal of unwanted items. If you or someone you know is a hoarder, don’t hesitate to contact CleanStart junk removal service to help. With our experience and expertise, we can provide a solution that meets your needs and helps you overcome the challenges of hoarding.

 

A Mouse In Your Home

If you see a mouse in your home you may think, “It’s just one, it’s not that bad. I can live with that”, but it’s important to think beyond what’s in front of you. Seeing a single mouse means that others can enter the home through the same entry point that one did and it also means that there are likely many more that you are not seeing. As creatures of prey, they are excellent at hiding and staying out of sight. It can be hard to understand the extent of the infestation.

 

Mice Can Spread Disease

Mice are known for spreading disease-causing pathogens and contaminating food. Some diseases associated with mice are hantavirus, salmonellosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, and leptospirosis. Addressing a rodent issue quickly means cutting down on potentially disease-causing droppings.

Mice Reproduce Quickly

Mice are prolific breeders and can multiply quickly. One female mouse has an average of 6 offspring per litter and 8 litters per year. If a rodent issue goes undetected, mice in a home can balloon in population rapidly.

Act Fast

So, if you see a mouse, it’s important to take action right away. You might be tempted to set a trap or put out poison, but these methods are not always effective. An unsuccessful attempt at DIY rodent control can exacerbate a rodent issue because it gives them more time to reproduce and become more populous.

 

The Best Way To Control Mice

The best way to deal with a mouse infestation is to call the professionals at CleanStart’s Pest Control. Our experts have the knowledge and equipment to identify where how mice are getting into a home and where the problem areas are. We solve rodent issues efficiently and effectively. Once the rodent issue is under control, we can provide preventative service to prevent future rodent issues from occurring. Book an inspection or give us a call for more information.

Our friends at VanGo wrote an awesome article outlining the importance of customer service in junk removal. You can find the full article HERE.

In the junk removal business, customer service is crucial to building and maintaining a loyal customer base. With so many companies offering similar services. it is essential to provide exceptional customer service to differentiate yourself from the competition. In this blog, we’ll discuss some essential tips. for delivering top-notch customer service in the junk removal business.

The Importance of Customer Service in Junk Removal

1. Be Prompt and Responsive

One of the most critical aspects of providing excellent customer service is being prompt and responsive to customer inquiries. Respond to customer phone calls or emails as soon as possible. In other words if you can’t, make sure to let them know when you will be available to respond. Always show up at the scheduled time for the appointment. Therefore if there are any delays, keep the customer informed. Being responsive and punctual shows that you value your customers’ time and are committed to providing quality service.

2. Be Professional

Professionalism is another critical aspect of customer service in the junk removal business. Be sure to dress professionally, have clean and well-maintained trucks and equipment. In addition be polite and courteous to customers. Introduce yourself and your team to the customer when you arrive. Therefore make sure they feel comfortable and confident in your ability to handle their junk removal needs.

3. Provide Clear Pricing

One of the biggest complaints customers have about junk removal companies is hidden or unclear pricing. To provide excellent customer service, be transparent about your pricing structure and what services are included in the cost. Offer a free estimate and make sure the customer knows the exact cost of the service before you start working. This will help build trust with the customer and ensure they are satisfied with the final bill.

4. Ensure Safety

Safety is critical when it comes to junk removal. both for the customer and your team. Make sure to take all necessary precautions to ensure everyone’s safety, including wearing proper protective gear and taking appropriate measures to avoid property damage. Customers will appreciate knowing that you take safety seriously and will trust your ability to handle their junk removal needs.

5. Follow Up

Following up with customers after the job is complete is a great way to provide excellent customer service and show that you value their business. Send a quick email or text message to ensure they are satisfied with the service and ask for feedback on how you can improve. This feedback can be invaluable in helping you improve your services and ensure that you continue to provide top-notch customer service.

Why CleanStart Junk Removal Thrives in Customer Service

In Addition to Offering 5 star Junk Removal Services. We are offering 5 star customer Service to all.  Tools we use to achieve this:

• Transparency
• Availability
• Efficiency
• Respect
• Value

We add so much more the just Junk removal.  Giving our Customers a stress free experience is our biggest goal.  Junk Removal can be very overwhelming.  So making sure you hire a Business that provides value in all the customer services reason is important.  Lastly we always want our customers to leave happy.  With a good taste in there mouth.  Leaving the Customer happy is one of the most important things we preach. Therefore we always Practice what we Preach.

In conclusion, providing exceptional customer service in the junk removal business requires a commitment to professionalism, safety, and transparency. By being prompt, responsive, and clear about pricing, you can build trust with customers and differentiate yourself from the competition. With a focus on customer service, you can create loyal customers who will recommend your business to friends and family and help your business grow over time. Book a free estimate through our website or give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 for more information.

Our friends at Address Our Mess wrote an awesome article exploring the question, “Need Help With Junk Removal Projects?” You can find the full article HERE.

Removing large amounts of junk can be an intimidating task. Sometimes, just figuring out where to start is a difficult decision. CleanStart Property Services offers clients a unique opportunity to work with technicians who are dedicated to making your junk removal project intimate, efficient and easy. CleanStart’s technicians are highly trained. While your project may or may not be as overwhelming as the cases featured on the hit show Hoarders, CleanStart has the tools and the talent to get the job done right.

Some of the items we will help you remove are:
• Large appliances
• Exercise equipment
• Bulky furniture
• Automobile parts
• Trash/Recycling
• And more!

Large junk removal projects are our specialty. Our staff gives clients a chance to decide which items in your collection of junk you’d like to keep, which items to donate and what to throw away. With you in control, CleanStart makes cleaning up your junk easier than ever, providing tips on how to organize your home well after cleanup has ended.

CleanStart is more than just a service that hauls away your junk. Along with environmentally friendly removal services, CleanStart provides the labor necessary to remove large amounts of junk from your collection. Our technicians will devote as much time to your project as needed, ensuring every last bit of unwanted junk is taken out of your home. We are fully licensed and insured, so you can but your mind at ease in knowing that the job will be done to the highest standard.

Contact us today, and one of our fast, friendly junk specialists will get back to you promptly. With dedicated team members and reliable service, you can count on CleanStart for all of your junk removal needs.

Our friends at Address Our Mess wrote an awesome article on What to Expect from an Extreme Cleaning Service. You can find the full article HERE.

Extreme cleaning has become a byword for the most severe cleaning projects, combining overwhelming clutter with filth cleanup. These projects have become a larger focus, in part because as a society that embraces consumerism, people become more prone to increasing the clutter in their home through compulsive shopping. Compulsive shopping can create a home that has a significant amount of clutter and filth that builds up if it is not properly organized and cleaned, creating a need for extreme cleanup. When clutter becomes too overwhelming to address yourself, the ability to sanitize and clean those areas of the home is made impossible, leading to neglect by the owner of the home. When buying compulsively, people tend to buy duplicate and unnecessary items which increases clutter in the home if there is never a purge or removal of items, eventually the house will be full of clutter and an unhealthy and unsanitary home environment may be the result. Given the size of the project and potential danger of being exposed to safety hazards many people choose to use a professional extreme cleaning service for the project. Below, read more about what you should expect from a reputable extreme cleaning service!

Will all items need to be removed & cleaned during an extreme cleaning project?

Yes, extreme cleaning projects, which usually involve homes that have not been cleaned for a long time will require sanitization, which means that items in the home will have to be (when approved) moved, cleaned, and replaced. With so many items in the home some will most likely need to be disposed of or donated to charity (both requiring approval from the owner). All items and surfaces believed to represent a biohazard risk will need to be cleaned.

EXAMPLES OF SOME BIOHAZARDS THAT MAY BE PRESENT IN A HOME INCLUDE:

• Rotting food
• Animals (or pests/insects) residing in the property may leave animal waste and or spread disease
• Harmful bacteria and viruses that may be found on any items or surfaces in the home

Once the items have been removed a deep cleaning must be done. Extreme cleaning involves cleaning everything from floor to ceiling, to ensure that the items placed back into a room and the surfaces of that room are cleaned and sanitized. This thorough scrubbing can remove any possible contaminants from the walls and other areas that can harbor bacteria or filth that can affect a person’s health. Any areas of the home that are suspected of being contaminated with biohazards need to be deep cleaned and sanitized.

WHAT ARE EXAMPLES OF CLUTTER TYPICALLY FOUND IN EXTREME CLEANING SITUATIONS:

• Duplicate items (books, printers, furniture, clothes, home goods, etc.)
• Broken items
• Expired food

The amount of clutter and filth needed to be cleaned in extreme cleaning situations represents a project that most individuals cannot complete on their own. A reputable extreme cleanup company will be able to efficiently bring your home back to a safe and livable condition.

At CleanStart, our expert cleaning technicians will help clean your extreme cleaning project using specialized methods to clean your property from top to bottom. Our primary goal is to ensure that the property owner is given a safe and clean environment to come back too.

Call 1-855-297-8278, email info@cleanstartbc.ca, or use our contact us page to reach out to us for more information on our Extreme Cleanup Service. We are here to help!

When odors linger in your home, it’s important to treat the source of the problem first. If the odor is still strong in the freezer, it is reintroduced into the air each time the door is opened. If the freezer has been removed and the odor still remains, it may take some cleaning and intense odor absorbers/neutralizers to completely rid your home of the stench. While there is no single fix for this problem, there are a variety of steps you can take to target the needed areas. Here’s where to begin.

You Will Need:

• • Bleach
  • Water
  • White vinegar
  • Cans of coffee grounds
  • Activated charcoal
  • Bowls
  • Air neutralizer (ex: NeutraAir)
  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Washing machine
  • Vacuum
  • Cat litter

Steps to Remove the Odors from the Freezer/Refrigerator:

1. 1. Removing odors can be difficult to do when you’re not sure exactly where they are clinging.
   2. The obvious first step is to treat the source of the smell – the freezer.
   3. If the stinky items are still in place, turn the freezer back on and allow them to refreeze. This will lessen some of the smell when it comes time to remove the rotten items.
   4. Once frozen, remove the rotten items and dispose of them immediately. Remove all trash cans from the house. When they thaw, the odor will return, so it is best to complete this task right before the trash will be picked up or taken to the dump.
   5. Once the rotten item(s) are removed, it’s time to clean the freezer/refrigerator.
   6. Begin by mixing bleach with water. Use the amount directed on the label of your bleach container.
   7. Wash the entire interior with the mixture using a soft cloth.
   8. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. This step is very important! The combination of bleach and the white vinegar used in the next step can cause toxic fumes, so rinsing is absolutely necessary.
   9. Next, clean the surfaces with undiluted vinegar. The regular 4% or 5% kind of white vinegar should be sufficient.
   10. Allow them to air dry.
   11. Fill bowls with baking soda, fresh coffee grounds, or vinegar.
   12. Place the bowls inside of the fridge/freezer and close the door.
   13. Allow the bowls to absorb the odors for several days up to a week. Replace them as necessary to keep the odor absorbency strong.

How to Remove Rotten Food Odor from House

1. 1. Once the freezer is cleaned, you are ready to tackle the other areas of the home that may have absorbed the odors.
   2. Curtains and drapes should be removed and washed or dry cleaned.
   3. Sprinkle carpets with a liberal amount of baking soda.
   4. Allow the baking soda to sit overnight.
   5. Vacuum away the following day.
   6. Repeat if necessary.
   7. If the odor still remains in the carpet, use a steam cleaner with undiluted white vinegar in the cleaning solution compartment to clean the carpets. They will smell like vinegar for a couple of days, but the smell will quickly dissipate.
   8. Use an odor neutralizer such as OdoBan or NeutraAir to treat the upholstery.
   9. Allow it to dry.
   10. Once all fabric and carpeted areas have been treated, fill bowls with vinegar, cat litter, activated charcoal or coffee grounds and place several in each room. Allow them to remain in place until the odor is removed. Each of these items will absorb odors that are present. You do not have to use all of them, but choose one or two and place one bowl for every 30-40 square feet of room space.
   11. Open all of the windows and place fans in the windows. This will draw the outside air in and increase the air flow.
   12. With these cleaning efforts and some “airing out” time, the smell should be removed. If a strong odor remains, check around to find the source of the smell. Once the source is removed, the other odors should dissipate. The steps listed above will speed up the process.

 

To book a free estimate for junk removal, pest control, and/or cleaning service give CleanStart Property Services a call at 1-855-297-8278 or book through our website.

Our friends at Apple Pest Control wrote an awesome article on three ways to treat ant bites. You can find the full article HERE.

What Are Fire Ants?

Like most ants, fire ants live underground, digging a network of tunnels in the soil. You can detect their presence in your yard by looking for a soft mound of dirt, a few inches high. Fire ants usually build their mounds near a deck, patio or fallen log for shelter.

The most common species of fire ant in the United States is the Red Imported Fire Ant, which is a few millimeters in size and reddish-brown in color. If you think these pests are inhabiting your yard, the best thing you can do is call pest control to take care of the problem.

Help! I Already Got Stung.

But what if it’s too late? If a fire ant has already stung you, the first thing you need to do is leave the ant-infested area and pick the ants off your skin. Don’t brush the ants off, since it may make them more agitated. Additionally, don’t try to rinse the ants off with water, since this may cause them to latch on tighter to your skin.

Before treating the stings, it’s important to make sure you aren’t having an allergic reaction to the ant’s venom. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911:

• Flushing of the skin
• Hives
• Swelling of the throat, eyes or face
• Chest pain or pressure
• Nausea or vomiting
• Intense sweating
• Difficulty breathing
• Feeling faint

Most people don’t experience dangerous reactions to fire ant stings. If you’ve been stung, you may experience:

• A burning sensation and pain at the sting site
• Redness and swelling
• Pus-filled blisters

At-Home Ant Bite Treatments

If you’ve been stung by fire ants, chances are you’re feeling some discomfort. By using the natural and over-the-counter remedies listed below, these are sure to help relieve the pain!

1. Apply A Cold Compress

To relieve the swelling of the ant bites with a natural remedy, apply a cold compress. Leave it on for twenty minutes, and then remove it for twenty minutes. Repeat this step as necessary for relief.

2. Apply Over-The-Counter Medication

Fire ant stings may take up to two weeks to heal. To relieve the itchiness and heal the blisters during this time, apply over-the-counter medication, such as antibiotic ointment and hydrocortisone cream. You can also take an oral antihistamine to reduce swelling.

3. Leave Them Alone

The best way to help your fire ant bites heal is to leave them alone. Unless you are applying ointment or cream, try your best to not touch them. Picking at or popping the blisters can cause infection, which often calls for treatment with antibiotics.

Preventing Fire Ant Bites

Even though fire ant bites are treatable, they aren’t a pleasant thing to experience. To prevent fire ant bites, the best thing you can do is contact CleanStart pest control! We can take care of your ant infestations so you don’t have to risk getting stung by a fire ant. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Our friends at CASE wrote an article outlining 25 steps on how to remove clutter. You can find the full article HERE. 

Clutter can make a space look and feel disorganized, confusing, and stressful.

Clutter can also make it difficult to keep your home clean and it tends to snowball as piles of paperwork and other ongoing projects are moved from room to room to make space for, well, more clutter. Reducing clutter is a way for your home and life to feel cleaner, better organized, and more manageable.

Desktop clutter is one of the most common causes of chaos in the home.

Many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce or eliminate household clutter. The solution to the problem depends on the source of the clutter. Clutter is usually created when things are scattered around without a place to go. A home remodel is the perfect opportunity to integrate custom space-saving organizational solutions.

An organized home office often requires plenty of shelving and a foolproof filing system.

Clutter is also created by the stuff we use to decorate our homes. Knickknacks and personal trinkets used to be a way to integrate personal style into a home’s decor, but current interior design trends have moved some of our most precious stuff into the realm of kitsch.

A third source of clutter comes from the items we love but never use. Many of these items are toys or gadgets that lost their appeal over time, while others are memorabilia and family heirlooms that can be very difficult to let go of.

A home remodel can be an opportunity to create clean, uncluttered rooms by saying goodbye to items along with the spaces they used to occupy. Removing clutter has become a main goal of many home remodeling projects, and there are a number of ways that you can integrate organization and clutter cutting right into your home’s new design.

Take a look at our list of ideas for preventing and reducing clutter in the home. Some tips can be used in your current space, while others can be integrated into a remodel or become the focus of a home improvement project. If you have any clutter-busting success stories of your own, don’t forget to share them in the comments section at the bottom.

Determine the clutter’s point of origin.

Where is your clutter coming from? What are the sources of clutter in your life? Here are a few common clutter causing items that may be plaguing your home:

• Bills and paperwork
• Piles of dirty or clean laundry
• Children’s artwork
• Coats, mittens, and hats
• Lists and reminder notes
• Old music and photographs
• Tools and related hardware
• Appliances and their parts
• Electronic devices and chargers
• Miscellaneous household items
• Knickknacks and other decorative items

Identifying the source of the problem will help you formulate a solution. If your problem is piles of paperwork, your solution may be a filing system. If your problem is knotted mazes of charging devices and cords, you may need a device charging console.

Say goodbye to unused items and things you “might” use.

You might use the ice cream maker that never came out of the box or the rock tumbler you bought and used once after a trip to the beach. But if you haven’t even thought of them in several years, you probably won’t use them again. A good rule of thumb is to get rid of anything you haven’t used in over a year, especially if you forgot you even had it.

Create a place for essentials.

Everyone needs a place to set their keys, wallet, and phone when they walk in the door. Whether it’s a front entry table, cubby holes, or shelving next to the door, a place for essentials will keep you prepared to leave the home each time you need to.

Out with the old and in with the new.

Each time you bring home a new item, get rid of a similar older one. For example, if you buy a new broom or mop, get rid of the old one instead of throwing it in the garage. Cycling through items reduces clutter created by items you no longer use.

Unsubscribe from mail lists.

Junk mail and catalogs don’t just clutter up our homes, they also use up resources and create unnecessary waste. Retail websites have the same items as the catalogs and more, making catalogs obsolete. For the next six months, vow to call and remove yourself from the mailing list each time you receive a piece of mail you don’t need or want.

Add a mudroom.

More than half the items we take with us each time we leave the home don’t need to come past the front door. Shoes, coats, hats, sports gear, purses, shopping bags, and much more all need a place to live, but it doesn’t have to be your living room floor. Coat closets don’t hold much and have become a thing of the past. A mudroom stops the mess and contains it before it enters the home.

Buy items with multiple functions.

A blender that doubles as a food processor takes up less space than two separate appliances, for example. You don’t need to go out and replace every gadget in your home to create room, but the next time you need an updated item, see if you can make a single purchase that allows you to get rid of two older items instead of one.

Keep lists in a notebook or phone.

Lists help us stay organized, but not when your lists keep piling up until they resemble clutter. The beauty of modern devices is that they contain everything we need in one place. If you like making paper lists, try keeping them all in one notebook. For a family-sized solution, try adding a white or blackboard to your kitchen.

Create built-in storage solutions.

Many remodels and new construction projects are integrating smart storage that’s build right into the wall, much like the cabinets you would normally find in a kitchen. Multiple compartments with doors to hide the contents keep homes looking clean and uncluttered.

Don’t buy things you’ll only use once.

Many items commonly purchased by homeowners can be rented or borrowed if they are only needed temporarily. Items used for household projects take up a lot of room in garages and sheds and aren’t utilized very frequently. If your DIY home project is a one-time shot, consider using your neighbor’s equipment or the local rental shop instead of buying.

Practice quality over quantity when it comes to birthdays and holidays.

And this goes for any occasion where you’ll be receiving gifts. Try providing family members and friends with a list of items you really need, using a registry, or asking people to pool their money toward one big gift. Leaving people to their own devices when it comes to gift giving can often lead to owning a lot of unneeded items that become clutter.

Limit personal artifacts.

We all have memorabilia in our lives that reminds us of good times gone by, but the older you get the more the collection grows and it can begin to become a burden. Create a designated place for personal treasures and try to limit them to one box, tote, or trunk of a reasonable size for your home.

Scan old photos and paperwork.

Boxes of old photographs, important paperwork, and other archives from your life can be scanned, stored digitally, and backed up on an external hard drive. Old photos may actually get more views in a digital album and they can easily be shared with others who may not get to see them otherwise. The same can be done with old awards, certificates, and children’s artwork.

Get rid of old movies and music.

If you have an instant movie streaming account, you can probably watch any movie you also happen to own on DVD or VHS. An iPod or similar device allows you to digitize your entire music collection. Selling off or donating your movies, music, and the machines it takes to play them can cut clutter like no other.

Integrate recessed storage.

Traditional cabinets can make a space feel cramped or look cluttered. Recessed cabinets are set back into the wall to give spaces a more open feeling.

Organize the garage like another room in the home.

Perhaps your home is only organized because you’re using your garage as a dump. The same storage solutions you use inside your home can be integrated into the garage as well: cabinets, shelving, cubbies, totes, and hooks will leave your garage with room to spare. Organizing your garage will help tame the clutter in both the garage and the inside of your home, and you may even be able to park the car in there next winter as a side benefit.

Use vertical storage and design solutions.

Especially if you have a small living space, you will need to create storage the goes up instead of out. Vertical storage takes up less floor space and can help make a home feel less cluttered to boot.

Say goodbye to dust collectors.

Certain items collect more dust than others. Multiple smaller items on display in the home can be tedious to keep clean and are easily damaged. They also create a cluttered or busy look in a room. If you can’t bear to part with these treasures, consider purchasing a display case to help contain and preserve them.

Get rid of swag.

T-shirts, water bottles, and other swag that we bring home from events we participate in really adds up over the years. Before you know it you might have a whole dresser dedicated to t-shirts or an entire kitchen shelf just for free plastic water bottles. Keep a few favorites, donate the rest, and start refusing items at events so you don’t bring them home in the first place.

Hold a yard sale.

If you have a lot of stuff to get rid of it can really pay to have a yard sale. You can make a few bucks to help pay for your home’s new look and it may actually be easier than hauling multiple carloads to your favorite used-goods donation center.

Pump up your closets and cabinets.

Most closets and cabinets come with basic shelving inside, but you can customize the insides of these spaces to further organize your life and create a compartment for everything. Custom shelving helps keep the insides and outsides of your closets clutter free.

Reduce visual clutter.

Using too many items to decorate a room can create visual clutter. Current interior design trends lean toward a minimalist approach to decorating that’s perfect for cutting clutter. Keep only your favorite items and say goodbye to the rest, or start over completely and only add a few decorative pieces to each room or space.

Purchase smart furniture.

Furniture helps with reducing clutter when it gives you a place to hold or organize your stuff. A trunk that doubles as a coffee table, a bench with a seat that opens to reveal storage, and a bed with built-in drawers underneath are all examples. A desk with lots of drawers and compartments may be better than a simple work table. As mentioned before, always try to make purchases that will serve double duty in your home.

Practice regular purging.

Whether it’s spring and fall cleaning, a monthly trip to the donation center, or an annual yard sale, make sure you get rid of things regularly. Preventing build-up is a key component of fighting clutter.

Keep an ongoing donation box.

If you don’t want to hold an annual yard sale and you don’t like throwing items in good condition into the trash, try keeping a donation box in your garage at all times where family members can drop off things they want to get rid of.

Most families have room for this solution and don’t find it too inconvenient to drop the contents at a donation center each time the box is full. Having a means to dispose of unwanted items encourages people to practice regular purging.

If you need assistance with your junk removal, cleaning or pest control give CleanStart Property Services a call, or book a free estimate through our website. 

Our friends at JDog Junk Removal & Hauling wrote an awesome blogpost outlining a spring cleaning clutter checklist, you can find the full article HERE.

Springtime is almost upon us, which means it’s time for spring cleaning! While you’re thinking about washing windows and wiping down walls, don’t forget about the everyday items that clutter your space. Get a start on cleaning with your spring clutter cleaning checklist.

Spring Clutter Cleaning Checklist

• Outgrown winter gear. Before you put your jackets and snow clothes away until next year, evaluate if they are actually clothes you will use again. You’ll save yourself the time and frustration later when you have to lug your tub of clothes out before the next snowfall.
• Outgrown or out-of-style spring and summer clothing. Now that you’re switching out your wardrobe for the new season, consider if you will actually wear the clothes again this year. It will be much easier to pick out clothes in the morning if you aren’t sorting through the things you don’t actually like anymore.
• Broken or unwanted outdoor toys. Did the kiddos outgrow bikes from last year? Or did someone get new gardening supplies as a holiday gift? Sort through the items in your garage and think about what you actually need and will use this year. If you have items that are still in workable condition, consider donating or selling them.
• Paperwork. Have you been stocking up on coupons that you haven’t used yet? Or perhaps you’ve saved the kids’ homework, and it’s now an unorganized puzzle. Go through the papers you have laying around, and see what is actually worth keeping and find out if some of the sales you planned on using have actually expired.
• Entertainment. Did you spend the winter months watching moving and reading books? If you’ve amassed more books and movies than you can manage, consider donating them to your local library to pass along the fun.

Call CleanStart Property Services to Remove Your Clutter

When you call us, you can expect transparent pricing, a uniformed team, and on-time and respectful service. Call us today at 1-855-297-8278 for a free estimate and to schedule a service.

Our friends at Assured Environments wrote an awesome article on a question we get asked very often: “How do I get rid of fruit flies in the office?” You can find the full article HERE.

Fruit flies are notoriously difficult to get rid of. They’re tiny, fast, resilient, and they reproduce like crazy. Unfortunately, even if traps kill every adult fruit fly in the office, chances are eggs will hatch and you’ll have a new generation of fruit fly larvae to deal with.

While you may not be able to totally eradicate the fruit flies at work, there’s plenty you can do to reduce the population in your office. Implement the practices below and see their numbers dwindle. If you’re still wondering how to get rid of fruit flies, give Assured Environments a call. We’re always ready to help New York businesses stay pest-free.

What are fruit flies attracted to?

It’s no surprise that you can find fruit flies swarming around ripe, well, fruit. However, fruit flies aren’t actually attracted to fruit, they’re attracted to sugar; fruit just happens to be a sugar they can lay eggs in.

How do I get rid of fruit flies in the office?

Following these three steps will help prevent any new fruit fly infestation in your office:

Don’t leave food out at the office

Before you go home at the end of the day, scour the office for any uncovered food. This includes fruit, bread, candy, meat, cheese, yogurt…pretty much any office snack.

Either dispose of the food outside of the building or ensure that it is sealed in an airtight container and put it in the fridge. If you want to keep fruit flies out, you can’t provide them with a buffet!

Wash all of the fruit you bring in

There’s a good chance that fruit flies are hitching a ride on fruit that you bring in the office from home. One way to prevent these pesky pests from becoming your new coworker is to wash all the fruit you bring into the office as soon as you get in. Even if you brought your apple that morning, a fruit fly could have found it and snuck aboard at any point during your commute.

Clean counters and desks

Fruit flies don’t need much to survive. A crumb here and a spill there will keep fruit flies content. That’s why it’s important to wipe down surfaces at the end of the work day. While you wipe down your desk, make sure you take out your desk trash as well!

Rinse cups, bottles, and containers

Fruit flies love fruit first, sugary beverages second. Fruit flies will get at the last dregs of coffee, soda, energy drinks, or even water. Before recycling any cans, cups, or bottles, rinse them out thoroughly with water from the sink. Make sure you dry them out, too!

The most helpful tip of all? Get in touch with CleanStart Property Services. If you still have fruit flies in office plants or buzzing around your kitchen, we have 100% confidence that we can completely wipe out your fruit fly infestation. Give our experts a call and we’ll snuff out those pesky pests and keep them out.

Our friends at Lake Norman Pest Control wrote an article explaining how to prevent a Silverfish infestation from happening. You can find the full article HERE.

We know pests come in all types and some are common to everyone. Mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas, cockroaches, ants, spiders, termites, and rodents are the typical pests you will see and you will not be surprised about them. However, there are pests that may not be known to you and silverfishes are among them.

The Facts About Silverfish

A silverfish is not a fish at all. It may have the word “fish” in its name but it doesn’t swim or live in water. Actually, it is a bug that everyone is not familiar because they are not mostly seen. They have a silver color body and the way they move resembles a fish. They crawl like they are swimming so some think they are part of the fish family.

However, even silverfish cause infestations. The pest is known to be found in places where moisture is present. If your home has lots of moist areas, you are helping the pest to thrive and inviting them to infest your home. That’s why when you see them, you must immediately call a pest control company in Denver to help you out.

Silverfish are among the pests which can ruin your clothes so you have to be alarmed when they are inside your closet. If you don’t want to experience a silverfish infestation in your property, then here are the ways you can prevent it from happening. Check these out!

Know Their Hiding Place

Before you jump to the extermination of silverfish, you need to know first where they hide. Since silverfish loves moisture, you have to check the areas in your home where moisture is building. Also, your closet is a perfect place for them to hide and infest as well. Silverfish are nocturnal so it is not possible for you to see them during the daytime. You should not only check damp areas, but you also need to check places where cardboards, fabrics, wallpapers, and boxes are placed. A silverfish exterminator in Denver suggests that you should do a thorough inspection in your home to find the hiding places of silverfish successfully.

Protect Your Food

Silverfish are not only after your belongings, but they can also be looking for food and your cereals are in danger. The pest is known to be fond of cereals and if you leave it inside boxes, it will be easier for the pest to penetrate your food. So, to keep your cereals and other dry goods safe and uncontaminated, a pest exterminator in Denver recommends that you seal them in airtight containers. Other foods that the pest like are sugar, pasta, flour, and rice. If you protect your food properly, you are depriving the pest as well from getting into food sources.

Use Silverfish Traps

If you don’t want an infestation to happen anytime soon, you can use silverfish traps to keep the pest out. There are traps that you can do at home which will not need the help of a professional pest exterminator in Denver. You can use the newspaper as a trap by moistening it and placing it on areas where silverfish are found.

Once the pest has made their way inside the newspaper, immediately seal it using a rubber band to prevent them from coming out and burn them immediately. Another trap is by using a glass jar. Place food inside the jar like bread to tempt the pest to go inside. To make it easier for the silverfish to crawl to the top of the jar, you can wrap the glass jar with masking tape. Once they made their way inside, they can never go out because the glass will not allow them to escape easily.

Apply Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is one of the most used repellents today and it never disappoints. DE is well-known to everyone even to a pest exterminator in Denver due to its effectivity in eliminating pests. The powder is the best natural solution you can use if you don’t want to risk the safety of your property and family. Diatomaceous earth can kill silverfish because the powder is like swords to them piercing their bodies.

The powder will damage their exoskeleton which will dry them up and kill them eventually. Make sure to use the food-grade one because it is non-toxic. You can apply the powder around your house especially on places where silverfish are present like closets, baseboards, and cabinets. When applying diatomaceous earth, you have to wear masks since the powder can affect your lungs.

Repel With Cedar

There are smells that can repel silverfish and cedar can make it happen. The scent of cedar is what the pest hates so using it as a repellent can be effective. The smell can keep the pest away but can be messy especially if use cedar shavings as your repellent. You can do it outdoors or on places where you wouldn’t mind seeing the shavings like basements. After some days, make sure to clean or vacuum the shavings to make your home clean. Or when the repellent doesn’t work, you can let a silverfish control company in Denver do the work.

Eliminate Moisture

Silverfish come because of moisture and if your home is filled with it, you are making the pest cozy. To get rid of them and to stop infestations from happening, you have to eliminate moisture right away. If water leaks are present, fix it quickly to prevent the pest from finding it. Also, ventilate your house especially the bathroom to keep it dry as possible.

Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned so that water won’t be stocked which will help the pest to thrive. According to a pest exterminator in Denver, silverfish are not the only pest which is in need of moisture but there are other pests which are also after humidity like cockroaches, rodents, ants, mosquitoes, and termites. If you keep moisture out, you are not only driving one pest away but several of them and that’s good.

Seal Cracks & Gaps

Silverfish can find their way inside your house and you may never know. The cracks and gaps found in your home can be an entrance to pests like silverfish and they will keep on coming if you don’t close it. To avoid the pest from coming in and out of your home, better seal cracks and gaps found in your home. You need to inspect your house to find entrances where the pest enters and once you see possible entry points, don’t hesitate to block it.

Your walls, floor, and baseboards can be filled with holes or have cracks. If you don’t immediately seal these, you will lot of silverfish crawling into your home. Take note, unsealed cracks and gaps will not only help silverfish to invade your homes, but other pests will also take advantage of it as well. If you want to get rid of the pest, you can let a pest exterminator in Denver do the elimination.

Clean The House

Pests love filth and if you have dirt in your home, you are luring them to come. Like silverfish, the pest will come to your home when it’s dirty because they can easily find sources in the area. To keep them out for good, the one thing you need to consistently do is to clean your home. Maintaining cleanliness is one big step to achieving a pest-free home. Organize your place to remove all possible hiding places of silverfish.

Also, you need to vacuum your home to get rid of the food residues found on the floor. Silverfish will find food wherever and if your floor is filled with it, they will immediately come. When you vacuum, you are not only removing dirt but eggs of silverfish as well. If you suspect that eggs are present in your home, spread baking soda on carpets and it will dry the eggs of silverfish successfully. When the infestation is not solved, a pest control company that can kill bugs is what you need to call.

Reliable Pest Exterminator In the Lower Mainland of BC

Pest infestations can happen anytime and to protect your home from possible pest problems, make sure to call a pest exterminator. CleanStart is the first choice in Lower Mainland because it has been providing exceptional pest services that have been eliminating pests successfully. The company is known for its human and pet-friendly extermination methods that’s why everyone always chooses them as their partner in resolving pest issues.

Not only that, CleanStart Pest Control  performs meticulous inspections and apply effective treatments which will ensure that all pests will be gone for good. With the help of CleanStart Property Services, you can never go wrong. Whenever you need their help, they are just one call away. Get in touch with them  and they will abruptly heed to your needs! Call today!

Our friends at Affordable Junk Removal wrote an article outlining junk removal and how it relates to your health. You can find the full article HERE.

What’s the one thing healthier than eating your greens and exercising every day? You guessed it – getting rid of that pesky junk pile in your house! Not only does removal of unwanted items help declutter your space and promote a calm environment, but it can also have an amazing impact on your health. From improved air quality to fewer distractions, many people don’t realize just how much their old junk can affect them. Today we’re here to dive deep into why junk removal is important not only for household cleanliness, but also for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. So let’s take that first step towards better living with clutter-free surroundings by learning more about these incredible benefits together!

What is Junk Removal and Why Should You Consider It

Sure, you could spend the weekend wading through the debris when your home is overrun with junk. Or, you could take a modern approach to home organization and invest in a junk removal service. After all, don’t we all have better things to do than carting old furniture down three flights of stairs at 2:00 am? Consider it this way – while you’re out enjoying the nice weather, talented junk removal professionals are picking up the pieces and getting your space back to its orderly self. Unsightly piles of stuff won’t know what hit ‘em! Bottom line: if you want to get that clutter-free zone without breaking a sweat, then junk removal is the way to go.

How Does Clutter Affect Your Mental Health

Clutter has a surprising impact on our mental health. Those piles of papers, piles of clothes, and old knick-knacks can create feelings of shame, guilt, and even depression. The constant reminder of unfinished tasks reminds us that we are failing to complete our goals. Furthermore, it can add an overwhelming layer of stress to an already busy life. It’s no wonder why clutter leads us to feel drained and unmotivated! However sometimes the key to breaking through this cycle is as simple as taking time for yourself to tackle the mess head-on. By making room for yourself in your life – literally and figuratively – you can start feeling better about your current condition in no time.

The Benefits of Having a Clean Environment

When it comes to our environment, clean is certainly king. Keeping the environment clean can benefit us in numerous ways, from reducing pollution and making sure our air and water are healthy, to helping protect wildlife and providing a fresher-smelling world. All these improvements result in a better quality of life for everyone. So why not do the world a favor and get your eco-friendly mop ready so you can join in on the green revolution? Your mother Earth will thank you!

Tips for Disposing of Unwanted Items Responsibly

One way to make sure your Big Spring Cleaning is truly a ‘cleaning’, and not just a closet reorganization, is to responsibly dispose of those items you haven’t used in years. Trying to pick the right disposal method can be tricky, so here are some tips that will help you clear out without dirtying up the environment. Start by seeing if any of your items would be useful to someone else – donating clothes and books, for example, not only de-clutters but also gives back to the community. If repurposing isn’t an option, you can always see if your city offers any special waste disposal services or days. Lastly, recycling containers like glass jars are great for small miscellaneous items and even batteries can be recycled correctly too! So don’t trip over all those old passions projects from last year; use these basic tips for proper disposal and breathe in your freshly clean space!

Get Inspiration From Professional Organizers

Looking for a fresh take on organization tips? Consider booking an appointment with a professional organizer! Professional organizers bring that energy and enthusiasm that can revitalize your home or office. In the same way we go to the hairdresser, wardrobe consultant, and yoga instructor to refresh our relationship with ourselves, we should also tap into the services of a professional organizer. Once you open your mind to how they approach and organize tasks and spaces, you’ll find ample new ways to view mundane projects – then you can get creative with how you want them implemented to reflect your personality. Get inspired by unlocking the hidden efficiency potential in clutter-management systems – after all, every expert was once a novice.

Making the Most Of Your Space By Decluttering Regularly

Uncluttering your space has become a growth industry in the US and around the world. It’s not just a growing trend among neat-freaks, either – decluttering can do wonders to improve your physical and mental health by reducing stress levels, improving air quality, and creating positive energy in any environment. Regularly making an effort to rid your living space of excess items can also be a huge incentive to find more creative ways to organize what remains. There’s no one way to go about it; getting organized may mean setting aside time for deep cleaning, purging clothes that don’t fit or never get worn anymore, or simply buying smarter storage solutions. In short, everything you do now will make your house sparkle later – so why wait till next week (or month… or year)? Start decluttering now and reap the rewards!

With all of this information on junk removal, mental health, and decluttering tips, it’s safe to say that clutter can definitely take a toll on your life. So don’t be afraid or embarrassed to manage the mess in your space. After all, it is entirely possible to create a balance between having an enjoyable, comfortable home and also keeping things from getting out of control. Whether it’s through professional organization services, DIY projects, or simply taking regular time to tackle areas in your space one by one – you can get everything back in order with the right mindset and tools. Plus, some may find the process therapeutic! Soon enough you could be looking forward to curating pleasing aesthetics that give off positive vibes each day – whether that be through literally taking out the unwanted items or visually sprucing up any environment around you!

You can book a free estimate for our junk removal services through our website.

Our Friends at Smith Brothers Junk Removal wrote an awesome step-by-step guide on deep cleaning your garage. You can find the full article HERE. 

Your home, business, or apartment’s garage can easily become your main space for storage, causing the garage to fill up quickly. A garage is typically used to store your car, especially during winter, along with tools and lawn equipment. Garages are a primary location for storing clothes, decorations, or miscellaneous items. Some may also store personal belongings such as newborn items, sports equipment, furniture, etc.

If you are ready to take back control of your garage and utilize its space with a cleaner and organized look, these steps will help you achieve this junk removal goal. We have prepared a step-by-step plan to help you remove any junk, clean out the mess, and reorganize your garage, giving you more space and efficiency when taking things in and out of the garage.

Step One: Set a Date

When it comes to cleaning out your garage, it is best to choose a day when the weather is nice and you have no other obligations to attend to. Depending on the amount of clutter in your garage, you want to make sure you have the time to focus on the task ahead. Choosing a day that the weather is nice will allow you to pull things out from your garage onto your driveway or yard. Then you won’t have to worry about creating a mess inside your home or even possibly damaging your walls or belongings.

Step Two: Take Out the Junk

Now that the day has come, you can start pulling out and separating all your belongings. For example, you can place your lawn equipment in one area, tools in another, etc. This way, when you’re reorganizing, you’ll have a better idea of what fits where based off the amount of items you have per section. While you are pulling everything out from your garage, it is also the time to get rid of any junk. You may find lots of old junk that you have not used in a long time, doesn’t work anymore, or that you have borrowed and should probably still return. Removing any junk is a great way to start creating more space within your garage.

Step Three: Standard Cleaning

After everything is pulled out from your garage and separated, it is time to start cleaning. The most efficient way to start is by starting from top to bottom. This way, while cleaning the ceiling, any debris will fall on the ground before being cleaned instead of after. Depending on how your ceiling may look, your best bet would be to use a broom or vacuum for removing any dust and cobwebs. Then, wipe down your walls and any shelves from highest to lowest. When that is done you can sweep, blow, or vacuum your garage floor.

Step Four: Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning is helpful for removing any stains and odors that may cause rodents to visit your garage or bad smells lingering in the air. Gather any cleaning product you will need to tackle every part of your garage like window cleaner, surface cleaners, and bleach. Again, start from high to low so you’ll only have to deep clean the ground once. Spray any windows, wipe down all surfaces, and scrub the ground. Make sure every area is dried off and cleaned before moving on to the next. Combine bleach and warm water to disinfect not only the floor, but also the garage door by scrubbing. Then rinse off the scrubbed bleach areas to wash away all dirt and germs. Use a power washer for tough and moldy areas.

To remove oil stains, which can create a slippery surface that can lead to a slip and fall as well as a discolored floor, pour dry laundry detergent over every oil stain and then scrub into the stains. Run water over the stained surfaces and restart steps until the oil stains are removed. Sawdust and cat litter also work as a scrubbing agent for oil stain removal.

Step Five: Repairs and Improvements

Your garage is now cleaner than it has ever been, right?! It is time to make any repairs and improvements. Fill in cracks and crevices with specially formulated epoxy that you can find at the nearest home improvement store. Applying a concrete sealant protects the garage floor from additional damage. Make sure the sealant dries fully before moving your possessions back into the garage. Put lubricant on the garage door tracks to ensure smooth opening and closing. Replace or add any new screws to loosen shelving, cabinets, or structure of your garage.

Step Six: Pre-Organization

Your garage is now clean and fixed from any further damages, but your garage is still empty. This is when you can now start planning and possibly adding additional features to your garage that will help you keep organized and clean. First, review all the items that will be going back into your garage. Are there any items that could go elsewhere like your shed, basement, or even junk? Separate those additional items or place them in the new area they can call home. Next, think about what items are left and where they will be going in your garage and if additional shelving or cabinets can be useful for storing those items. Shelves can be the most effective way to optimize the space in your garage. If so, now is the time to add those addition features. This will only help you stay organized for years to come. Mounting a pegboard in the garage is another great feature to have in your garage to keep all your tools organized and easy to find.

Step Seven: Final Adjustments

The home stretch. After adding additional features to your garage, you can start bringing back what is left to go in your garage. You want to be sure that your equipment, like your lawn mower, has easy access to go in and out from your garage without moving anything else in between. Place every item in a spot where it best makes sense with the flow of the garage like all tools in close vicinity of each other, or all sporting equipment together, to prevent you from having to walk all over your garage to find what you need. As you are placing your belongings back inside your garage, you may think of new features to add to the layout of your garage. Feel free to place items in a temporary place so when you are ready to add those additional features, you’ll have the time and energy to do so.

We hope this step-by-step garage cleaning plan helps you with your next garage clean-out. For any current and future junk removal, you can book our cleaning and junk removal services through our website or by calling us at 1-855-297-8278.

Our friends at Envirocon Pest Control wrote an awesome article explaining the top 5 reasons you keep having ant problems in your home. You can find the full article HERE.

No matter the season of the year, an ant infestation is never a welcome sight.  Unfortunately for most homeowners, an ant infestation is something you can’t avoid. While it can be hard to seal off your home completely from these tiny insects, knowing why they are entering your home can be a good starting point to keep ant invasions to a minimum. Below, the experts discuss 5 reasons why you’re having ant problems in your home and the best ways to prevent it!

5 Reasons You Keep Having Ant Problems In Your Home

1. You’re Leaving Out Food

• Why it’s bad: Just like any other living species, ants need food and water to survive. They are often looking for easy food sources, which is why infestations are extremely common in kitchens and places where leftover food resides. This is one of the main causes of ant infestations, but luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to remedy!
• What you can do: To avoid ant infestations, regularly clean up kitchen spills, store food in airtight containers, and keep fruits in the fridge when possible. You can also place bay leaves — which have a smell that is repelling to most ants — in dry goods containers to keep these hungry pests from seeking out food in your pantry.

2. You Have Greasy Surfaces

• Why it’s bad: Another less obvious food source in your kitchen that you may not realize is left-behind grease or food-residue. Often hiding on your stove top or on the sides of food storage containers, these subtle leftover food particles are easily attracting ants.
• What you can do: Be sure to wipe off honey bottles, syrup containers, jam jars, and anything else that could leave a sticky residue. Make sure to also regularly wipe down your stove top after cooking, especially when making foods that easily splatter, like bacon and sauces. This will help eliminate another possible food source that could be drawing ants into your home!

3. You Have Sticky Garbage

• Why it’s bad: It’s easy to forget to rinse out your garbage bins regularly, and even soda bottles or canned food jars before tossing them in the garbage. Unfortunately, ants have no problem dumpster diving to get to your leftover food scraps — and they are especially drawn to things that contain sugar!
• What you can do: Try to remember to regularly clean out your garbage bins, particularly the ones in your kitchen. Be sure to also rinse out food storage waste before you toss it in the trash. Even Ziploc baggies used to hold snacks in your child’s lunchbox are better sealed up before you throw them away to keep your trash from becoming an ant’s buffet.

Your Pipes and Faucets are Leaking

• Why it’s bad: In addition to food, some species of ants also need a reliable water source to survive, so it’s important to make sure water and moisture aren’t lingering in common moist areas of your home — particularly your kitchen and bathrooms.
• What you can do: Inspect your toilets and sinks for leaks, make sure windows are well-sealed and closed during wet weather, and seek out other sources of moisture in your home to make sure that pharaoh ants and other water-loving species aren’t mooching off of your water bill.

You Have Decaying Wood Around Your Home

• Why it’s bad: Leaky pipes or a good rainstorm can moisten the wood in and around your home just enough to make it the perfect hideout for a colony of carpenter ants, a species that make their nests in moist or decaying wood.
• What you can do: Replace rotting wood in your home’s structure, and clear out tree stumps and fallen branches from your yard. This can not only help eliminate possible nesting grounds for carpenter ants but for termites as well. It’s also a good idea to store fire food at least 20 feet away from your home!

If Ants Persist, Let the Pros Help!

Pest-proofing your home can be a good starting point to get an infestation under control, but if ants persist you may need to call in the professionals!  If you need some help ridding your home of ants for good, CleanStart can help. We offer fast and effective pest control services to the Lower Mainland of BC, book your inspection through our website.

Our friends at The Abbey Cleaning Service wrote an awesome article on how fogging is the ultimate deep office cleaning method. You can find the full article HERE.

Carrying out a deep office clean with fogging was once seen as a pretty drastic measure, and an obscure cleaning method reserved for extreme cleaning cases, outside of its most common applications.

That was, until the coronavirus pandemic.

All of a sudden, fogging office spaces and shared workspaces was embraced as a brilliant way of tackling the virus; a germ proven to be both airborne and able to survive on surfaces for extended periods of up to three days.

And so fogging – a once obscure cleaning practice among office cleaners – became pretty famous after the events of 2020. Foggers were even a common sight, where cleaners deployed the long-lasting chemical disinfectant from backpacks – sort of like Ghostbusters for COVID times.

Office managers started to take notice, too. And some office cleaners even branched out into offering fogging cleaning services, to fight back against COVID, and keep vital teams healthy and safe at work.

But what exactly is fogging? Is it harmful to people, office furniture, computers – or to office pets? And perhaps most importantly… Do offices still need to take so many precautions now that lockdowns and safety measures are lifted?

What is Fogging?

Fogging is a way of disinfecting an enclosed area with a “fog” of disinfectants. Cleaners in protective clothing, wearing specialized respirators, dispense the fog from spray guns.

The space is filled with a very fine mist of chemical disinfectant, which hangs in the air like a fog. Fogging is used regularly in a number of sectors, including the food industry, as it saturates pre-cleaned environments with disinfectant – destroying airborne microorganisms, and disinfecting hard-to-reach surfaces.

It is highly effective, while being faster than manually disinfecting each surface individually.

How Does Fogging Work?

Fogging is done in a number of ways.

In some buildings (like factories) that require regular deep cleaning, permanently installed systems periodically fog the workfloor when it’s not in use. In facilities which require less frequent disinfecting, or which cannot house permanent equipment, mobile fogging devices are used.

Mobile fogging is done by a trained cleaner – who must wear full PPE, including a sealed mask, breathing apparatus, gloves, and chemical suit.

The fogging process takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. After fogging, it can take 45-60 minutes for the mist to settle on all surfaces. After that, the settled residue may need to be wiped away, depending on the disinfectants used.

Fogging requires the premises to shut down completely during the cleaning process, and depending on the chemical disinfectant used, downtime can be up to six hours. The fog has to fully evaporate before people can re-enter the workplace safely.

Is Fogging Safe?

Fogging had been widely used for decades prior to the COVID pandemic, with little harm done to anyone but the germs. However, there are risks, and fogging must be carried out by trained professionals. All safety measures must be firmly adhered to, even if it means added downtime.

Exposure to the chemicals in airbourne disinfectants can cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation. So, everyone must stay out of the area for the time indicated in the product label, and specified by the fogging device.

Any post-fogging cleaning (like residue removal) specified by the product should be carried out once it’s safe to do so.

Some are more vulnerable to certain chemicals, including children, animals and people with asthma – so the chosen method of fogging needs greater care depending on who’s using the space.

“Wet” foggers can also damage electronics – but there are other methods that are safe to use around office equipment (which we’ll get to). Special care also needs to be taken around food and food prep areas, too, to avoid contamination.

Not all foggers are equal – and there are many different techniques and chemicals specific to each use case.

Alternative Fogging Cleaning Techniques

So, if wet fogging is harmful to electronics, what’s the solution?

Dry fogging, of course!

So-called dry fogging uses a mixture of peroxyacetic acid and hydrogen peroxide (quite the mouthful, that!), which prevents damage caused by the moisture present in regular fogging methods. It’s not technically dry, in that it still uses aerosol mists – it just won’t interfere with electronics.

What about non-chemical alternatives? Well, short wave ultraviolet light can be used to kill microorganisms, but this only really works at surface level, and won’t penetrate into areas the light can’t shine.

UV treatment is highly effective on the surfaces it does reach – but if the environment contains a lot of plastics, extra care needs to be taken; certain plastics break down quickly in the presence of UV light.

For concentrated targeting, there’s Ultra Low Volume – or ULV fogging.

What is Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Fogging?

ULV involves highly-targeting misting with variable droplet sizes. This allows the precise application of a disinfecting mist – so instead of filling an entire room with fog, only key surfaces are treated. The key benefit of ULV fogging is that sensitive electrical equipment can be easily avoided by the process.

The Importance of Pre-Cleaning Before Fogging

Wait – if fogging is the ultimate office deep cleaning technique, why do you have to pre-clean the space first?

Well, if you’ve read up to here, you’ll probably be able to tell that fogging is not a standalone technique, or a “silver bullet”. Instead, it should be used in conjunction with hand-cleaning – particularly around sensitive equipment, people, and animals.

Fogging is a disinfection process, not a cleaning process. Thorough cleaning should be carried out before fogging – to remove dirt, dust and grime. It’s no good applying disinfectant to dirty surfaces, where microbes could find shelter and rise to prominence once again!

Do We Still Need to Worry About Fogging our Workplaces?

You’d think that, with lockdowns lifted and life returning to normal, fogging in your office is a thing of the past. And maybe it should be for most of us – now that hybrid working and WFH have affected office cleaning cycles.

But the coronavirus pandemic hasn’t gone away. The news cycle has certainly shifted – and our attention has been averted by other pressing issues – but COVID is still a thing. Yes, cases are lower; but don’t forget that in Wales alone, 10,789 people to date have tragically been lost to COVID-19.

Do we still need to fog disinfectants over our workspaces? Well, that depends on the nature of your business, the frequency of cleans, how many of your team work from home or on a hybrid basis… it’s entirely down to the company in question.

But what’s not up for debate is the need for regular, through office cleaning, particularly as we approach flu season (and what may now come to be known as “COVID season”).

We absolutely need to take care of our teams and our workspaces. And CleanStart Property Services is committed to upholding that for our own team, and for our customers. To find out more information on our janitorial cleaning and sanitization/fogging services click HERE.

Our friend’s at Jake’s Junk Removal wrote an awesome article on how to find the right company to remove your construction debris. You can find the full article HERE.

Whether you are a homeowner having no clue what to do with the pile of ceramic and tile wastes, or a contractor who’s having a hard time removing debris from the building site, it’s about time you need to hire a junk removal company for help. Here’s what you need to know for finding the right trash removal company.

1. Insured:

Irrespective of the type of junk needed to be removed, an established junk removal service has to be bonded and insured while serving both residential and commercial customers. Should any damage occur to your property in the midst of the work, the company will be held accountable for compensation.

2. Ecofriendly:

Always make sure to hire a junk removal company that adopts ecofriendly disposal of debris. This also includes recycling wastes that shall either be repurposed or donated. Therefore, enquire about the company’s environmental policies of waste disposal before hiring them.

3. Toxic Wastes:

Construction debris will definitely include toxic wastes and will have to be cleaned up as early as possible. Some of them include unused paint, oil, lubricants, paint thinners, solvents and other additional items that are left out after the construction project is done with. Most junk removal companies are familiar with the disposal of hazardous wastes as well as the associated federal and state regulations.

4. Find the Best:

Do your own research and find the best junk removal company by checking the customer reviews, fees and the type of wastes they specialize in.

If you need help with construction debris removal, call us at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website. 

Our friends at Hoarders 911 wrote a comprehensive guide on how to identify and address beg bug infestations in a hoarding situation. You can find the full article HERE.

HOW TO IDENTIFY AND ADDRESS BED BUG INFESTATIONS IN A HOARDING SITUATION

The problem of bed bugs in hoarders’ homes is a serious concern. Hoarding disorder is characterized by an inability to discard or part with possessions, resulting in the accumulation of clutter that can fill living spaces and interfere with everyday activities.

These environments can be difficult to clean and maintain, creating conditions that are ideal for bed bugs to thrive.

Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are often found in bedding, furniture, and other items commonly found in a cluttered house often associated with hoarding disorder.

Bed bugs can be difficult to detect, as they are small and often hide during the day, coming out at night to feed.

When bed bugs infest hoarding environments, they can pose a number of health risks to individuals living in these spaces.

Bed bugs can cause itchy, red bites, which can lead to secondary infections if scratched. In addition, the psychological toll of living in a cluttered environment with a bed bug infestation can be significant, contributing to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Treating bed bug infestations in an individual who hoards can be challenging, as the clutter and obstacles present can make it difficult to access and treat all areas where bed bugs may be hiding.

It is important to identify and address bed bug infestations as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading to neighboring homes and causing further problems.

UNDERSTANDING BED BUGS IN A HOARDING SITUATION

This is an important aspect of addressing the problem. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that are typically about the size of an apple seed. They feed on the blood of humans and animals and can live for several months without a blood meal.

Bed bugs are known for their ability to hide in cracks and crevices, making them difficult to detect and eliminate. They are often found in bedding, furniture, and other items commonly found in a hoarder’s house.

Bed bugs can also be transported on clothing, bags, and other personal belongings, making it easy for them to spread to new locations.

In hoarding environments, the clutter and obstacles present can make it even more difficult to detect and eliminate bed bug infestations.

Bed bugs can hide in piles of clutter and debris, making it challenging to access all areas where they may be present.

Additionally, the presence of bed bugs in a hoarding situation can pose unique challenges for treatment. The clutter and obstacles may make it difficult to move furniture and other items to clean and treat all areas where bed bugs may be present.

Furthermore, individuals with hoarding disorder may have difficulty parting with their possessions, which can complicate the treatment process.

Addressing bed bugs in a hoarding situation requires a thorough understanding of the behavior and biology of these insects, as well as an awareness of the unique challenges posed by cluttered environments.

By working with experienced pest control professionals and mental health experts, it is possible to effectively identify and address bed bug infestations in hoarding environments, improving the health and well-being of those living in these spaces.

HEALTH RISKS AND DANGERS OF HOARDING AND BED BUGS

Hoarding and bed bugs can both pose significant health risks and dangers to individuals living in affected environments.

Hoarding:

• Increased risk of falls and injuries
  The presence of clutter and obstacles can increase the risk of falls and injuries, particularly in elderly or disabled individuals.
• Respiratory problems
  Clutter and debris can contribute to poor indoor air quality, which can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies.
• Fire hazards
  Clutter can increase the risk of fire hazards, particularly if flammable materials are present.
• Social isolation
  Hoarding can lead to social isolation and disconnection from family and friends, which can contribute to poor mental health.

Bed Bugs:

• Itchy, painful bites
  Bed bugs can cause itchy, painful bites, which can lead to secondary infections if scratched.
• Psychological distress
  The presence of bed bugs can contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
• Allergic reactions
  Some individuals may have allergic reactions to bed bug bites, which can range from mild to severe.
• Spread of disease
  While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause secondary infections that may pose a risk to individuals with weakened immune systems.

 

The presence of bed bugs in a hoarding environment can exacerbate the health risks associated with hoarding, particularly if individuals are already struggling with physical or mental health issues.

Addressing both hoarding and bed bugs is critical to improving the health and well-being of those living in affected environments.

HOW HOARDING CAN LEAD TO BED BUG INFESTATIONS

Hoarding can lead to bed bug infestations in several ways:

• Clutter provides hiding places for bed bugs The piles of clutter and debris present in a hoarded place provide numerous hiding places for bed bugs. Bed bugs can easily hide in and around clutter, making them difficult to detect and eliminate.
• Obstacles make it difficult to access and treat infested areas
  The presence of clutter and obstacles can make it difficult for pest control and hoarding cleaning professionals to access and treat all areas where bed bugs may be present. This can make it harder to eliminate the infestation and may require multiple treatments.
• Bed bugs can be transported on personal belongings
  Hoarding environments often contain a large amount of personal belongings, such as clothing, bags, and furniture.Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on these items and be transported to new locations, increasing the risk of infestation in other areas of the house or even in other homes or buildings.
• Hoarding can make it harder to maintain cleanliness and hygiene
  The clutter and debris can make it harder to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, which can attract bed bugs and other pests.Bed bugs are attracted to areas where humans spend a lot of time, so a cluttered and unsanitary environment can make it more likely that they will infest.

 

Hoarding can create an environment that is conducive to bed bug infestations. Addressing hoarding behaviors and decluttering the home can help to reduce the risk of bed bugs and other pest infestations, improving the health and well-being of those living in affected environments.

WHERE DO BED BUGS HIDE IN A HOARDERS HOUSE?

Bed bugs can hide in a variety of places in a heavily-cluttered house due to the presence of clutter and obstacles that create numerous hiding places. Here are some common areas where bed bugs may hide in a hoarder’s house:

1. Mattresses, box springs, and bedding
   Bed bugs are often found in or around the bed, where they can easily access their human hosts.
2. Furniture
   Bed bugs can hide in and around furniture, such as sofas, chairs, and tables, as well as in the upholstery, seams, and crevices.
3. Clothing and personal belongings
   Bed bugs can hitch a ride on clothing and personal belongings, making them difficult to detect and control.
4. Electronics and appliances
   Bed bugs can also hide in and around electronics and appliances, including televisions, computers, and alarm clocks.
5. Wall and floor cracks
   Bed bugs can hide in wall and floor cracks, particularly near the bed or other areas where people spend a lot of time. Read more here: Bed Bugs in Walls: Learn How to Find and Get Rid of Them.
6. Clutter and debris
   Bed bugs can hide in piles of clutter and debris, including stacks of papers, books, and magazines, as well as in cardboard boxes and plastic bags.

 

These are just a few examples of common hiding places for bed bugs in a hoarder’s house. Bed bugs can hide in many other areas as well, and a thorough inspection by a pest control and hoarding cleaning professional is often necessary to identify all areas where bed bugs may be present.

COMMON SIGNS OF BED BUGS IN A HOARDER’S HOUSE

More often than not, and depending on the level of severity, identifying bed bugs in a heavily cluttered space can be challenging due to the clutter and debris.

Fortunately, there are several common signs of bed bugs that may be visible in a hoarded house that could lead to a sign of infestation:

1. Live or dead bed bugs
   Adult bed bugs are about the size and shape of an apple seed, and may be visible crawling around or hiding in cracks and crevices. Bed bug eggs and shed skins may also be visible.
2. Fecal stains
   Bed bugs leave small black or brown fecal stains on bedding, furniture, and other surfaces where they feed.
3. Blood stains
   Bed bugs feed on blood and may leave behind small blood stains on bedding, furniture, or clothing.
4. Musty odor
   Bed bugs release a musty, sweet odor, which may be particularly noticeable in areas where infestations are severe.
5. Bite marks
   Bed bugs feed on human blood and leave behind itchy, red bite marks, often in a cluster or line.
6. Bed bug casings
   Bed bugs shed their skin as they grow, leaving behind brown, shell-like casings that may be visible in the creases of mattresses, behind furniture, or in other hiding places.
7. Presence of bed bug traps
   Bed bug traps, which are designed to capture and trap bed bugs, may be visible in and around the hoarding environment.

ESSENTIAL TOOLS USED IN DETECTING BED BUGS IN A HOARDING SITUATION

• Flashlight
  A flashlight can be used to illuminate dark corners and crevices where bed bugs may be hiding.
• Magnifying glass
  A magnifying glass can help to magnify and clarify the appearance of small insects, making it easier to identify whether they are bed bugs or other pests.
• Sticky traps
  Sticky traps are adhesive-based traps that can be placed in various areas around the house to capture bed bugs. They can be especially effective in areas where bed bugs are likely to travel, such as along baseboards or behind furniture.
• Canine scent detection
  Specially trained dogs can be used to detect the scent of bed bugs in a hoarder’s house. These bed bug sniffing dogs can be particularly effective in large or cluttered areas where it may be difficult for a human to locate bed bugs.

A thorough inspection by a pest control professional is often necessary to ensure that all areas where bed bugs may be present are identified and treated.

STEPS INVOLVED IN ADDRESSING BED BUG INFESTATIONS RELATED TO HOARDING

Treating bed bug infestations in hoarding situations can be challenging due to the clutter and debris present in the environment. Here are the general steps involved in treating bed bug infestations related to hoarding:

• Inspection
  The first step in treating a bed bug infestation in a hoarding situation is to conduct a thorough inspection of the premises. This involves identifying areas where bed bugs are likely to be hiding, such as cracks and crevices in furniture and bedding. For better result, the inspection should be conducted by bed bug extermination professionals.
• Pre-treatment preparation
  Preparation for treatment is crucial to the success of the treatment. This may involve removing clutter and debris, washing and drying all linens, and vacuuming and cleaning all surfaces.
• Treatment optionsDepending on the severity of the infestation, there are several treatment options available. These may include:
  • Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments involve the use of pesticides to kill bed bugs. The most common types of pesticides used for bed bug control are pyrethroids and neonicotinoids.These pesticides can be applied as a liquid or dust and are effective in killing bed bugs and their eggs. However, they may require multiple treatments and should be applied by a licensed pest control professional.
  • Heat treatments: Heat treatments involve using high temperatures to kill bed bugs. This method can be effective in killing bed bugs and their eggs without the use of chemicals.Heat treatments typically involve heating the room to a temperature of 120 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours. However, heat treatments can be expensive and may require specialized equipment.
  • Steam treatments: Steam treatments involve using high-temperature steam to kill bed bugs and their eggs. This method can be effective in treating small areas and is often used in combination with other treatment methods.
  • Vacuuming: Vacuuming can be an effective method for removing bed bugs and their eggs from furniture, carpets, and other surfaces. However, vacuuming alone may not be enough to eliminate a bed bug infestation.
  • Freezing: Freezing involves exposing bed bugs and their eggs to low temperatures to kill them. This method can be effective for treating items such as clothing, bedding, and small items that can be placed in a freezer.
• Post-treatment follow-up
  Once the treatment has been completed, it is important to follow up to ensure that all bed bugs have been eliminated. This may involve additional treatments or monitoring of the premises to detect any signs of bed bugs.
• Preventive measures
  Preventive measures are crucial in preventing future bed bug infestations in hoarding environments. This may involve regular cleaning and vacuuming, maintaining a clutter-free environment, and monitoring for any signs of bed bugs.
• Ongoing support
  It is important to provide ongoing support to the hoarder to address the underlying cause of the hoarding behavior. This may involve seeking the help of a mental health professional or support group.

ARE BED BUG SPRAYS EFFECTIVE WHEN IT COMES TO ADDRESSING A BED BUG INFESTATION?

It will depend on the severity of the situation. But in most cases, bed bug sprays can be effective especially if the level of infestation does not need the help of a pest control professional.

HOW TO PREVENT BED BUG RE-INFESTATIONS IN A HOARDER’S HOUSE AFTER TREATMENT

Preventing bed bug re-infestations after the treatment can be challenging especially if a house has already been infested, but there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of a recurrence.

Here are some tips for preventing bed bugs after treatment:

1. Clear Clutter
   Clearing clutter is an important step in preventing bed bug re-infestations. Clutter can provide hiding places for bed bugs, making it difficult to eliminate them completely. Removing clutter also makes it easier to inspect for bed bugs and to treat the area effectively.
2. Regular Cleaning
   Regular cleaning is essential for preventing bed bug re-infestations. Vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting can help to remove bed bugs, their eggs, and their food sources from the environment. Cleaning should be done regularly, at least once a week, and should include all areas of the home.
3. Sealing Cracks and Crevices
   Bed bugs can enter a home through small cracks and crevices. Sealing these entry points can help to prevent bed bugs from entering and re-infesting the home. Use caulking or sealant to seal up any gaps or cracks in the walls, floors, or ceilings.
4. Encasing Mattresses and Box Springs
   Encasing mattresses and box springs can help to prevent bed bugs from hiding in these areas. Use bed bug-proof encasements to cover the mattress and box spring, which will trap any bed bugs inside and prevent them from spreading.
5. Be Vigilant
   After treatment, it is important to remain vigilant for signs of bed bug activity. Check the home regularly for any signs of bed bugs, including live bugs, shed skins, or fecal matter. Early detection can help to prevent a re-infestation from becoming established.

CONCLUSION

Bed bug infestations in hoarding environments can be particularly challenging to identify and treat due to the cluttered nature of the living space.

However, with the right tools and strategies, it is possible to address the problem effectively. Identifying the signs of bed bug infestation and seeking professional help from a licensed pest control professional are important steps in addressing the problem.

Additionally, clearing clutter, regular cleaning, and sealing entry points can help to prevent a re-infestation from occurring. With persistence and diligence, it is possible to successfully eliminate bed bugs from a hoarding environment and maintain a bed bug-free home. You can book a free estimate for our pest control and hoarding services through our website or by calling CleanStart at 1-855-297-8278.

CleanStart Property Services works with many commercial/retail and construction-industry clients. As it is much easier for our clients to have automatic recurring junk removal, pest control and cleaning service than to rely on scheduling each service on an as-needed basis. Our friends as at The Junkluggers wrote an awesome article on recurring junk removal for retail stores. You can find the full article HERE.

Running a retail store is complicated. Did you ever think you would need a retail junk removal solution? The last thing you need to worry about is dealing with recurring bulk junk or recycling. We provide quick same, or next day cost-effective junk removal.  If you need recurring junk removal services, we would like to be your partner.

If you find your precious back room filled with boxes, fixtures, or used packaging materials, call 1-855-279-8278. We will set up a recurring pick-up to keep your backroom clean and productive! That stack of boxes in the corner is only going to get bigger by the day! If you are performing a small demolition, let us clear out the mess before your store opens!

Retail one time or recurring service

CleanStart works quickly and efficiently so that we don’t interfere with your daily operations. Once you have a corporate account with us, we will set up a recurring service to keep your retail space open and productive.

Perhaps you are downsizing or changing out your fixtures or displays? Why not have our efficient and professional team break down and dispose of your unwanted clutter. We recycle clean cardboard and scrap metal. If you have unwanted merchandise, we can donate it on your behalf.

Recurring Junk Removal for Retail Stores 1-855-297-8278

Are you doing a liquidation sale or an auction at your store? Let us remove unsold merchandise, unwanted displays, broken fixtures, old furniture, and garbage. Your team won’t have to carry all these items to the dumpster. Keep your employees safe and clean and let us do the heavy, dirty lifting. Wouldn’t you rather have your salespeople generating revenue versus hauling the trash. Don’t let junk interrupt your daily operations!

We will work with your facility manager, if needed, to come in during off-hours.  We can also provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI).  Our team works in large shopping centers, multiple-use complexes, and retail companies that share a common dumpster area.  If your retail store or office is in an urban with little storage space, we are your perfect partner.

Pick up the phone and call 1-855-297-8278 or book your free estimate for same-day or next-day service.  We look forward to helping you to make your store more productive. We look forward to being your trusted recurring retail junk removal solution.

Our friends at Discrete Bed Bug Inspections wrote an awesome article listing the top reasons why you can’t keep bed bugs away. You can find the full article HERE.

Bedbugs are tiny, brown parasitic insects that feed on blood. They live near people and can spread diseases as well. The scientific name of a bed bug is Cimex lectularius.

Though there is an ongoing debate on whether bedbugs can transmit diseases to humans, most medical professionals believe that bed bugs inject a small number of their bodily fluids into the skin while they feed on an individual. This process is known as hematophagy, one of the main reasons you can’t eliminate the infestation.

That aside, there are other reasons they keep coming back into your home and bed. Today, let’s explore the top reasons why you can’t keep bed bugs away. Here’s what you need to know:

DIY Is Not Doing the Work It Should

The DIY method of getting rid of bedbugs is quite tricky and challenging to do if you do it yourself. You will require a lot of knowledge and skills to do it, so it is always better to call an expert to check and help you out.

If you have to deal with bedbugs, you must remember that bedbugs are tiny, and their eggs are even tinier. They can hide in places that you won’t even notice. If you do the cleaning yourself, you will never be able to find out if you have killed all of the bugs or not. If you have some extra time, you can hire a professional to do the job for you.

A professional can detect if eggs or larvae are hiding in the mattress or bed frame.

One Little Bug Is All It Takes

Bedbugs are very fast, and they tend to hide in distant corners. They even have a good sense of smell and can smell humans from a far distance.

They tend to hide and lay eggs in far-stretching places. This is why you need to make sure that you are scanning the entire house, as you will never know if there is a single bedbug hiding in a distant corner. Once a single bedbug is found, the whole infestation process can start over again, so you need to be careful with them. Especially if the specimen is an adult female.  Once a female is inseminated, All the eggs she lays for the rest of her life are viable.

The Infestation Is Bigger Than You Know

Bedbugs are not just limited to your room or bed. They are not as easy to spot, and you may not be able to spot them immediately.

They could be hiding in your carpets, in crevices of your bed, and even in electronic devices, which is why it is pretty challenging to get rid of them. Apart from them, their eggs can also get hidden in any strange place, which is why it is tough to get rid of them. If you want to keep them away from your home, you must be very careful with them.

You Haven’t Called the Professionals

To get rid of the infestation, you need to call professionals. They have the knowledge and the tools to detect the infestation correctly. They have the means to see the infestation and check where the bedbugs are hiding. If you have an infestation in your home, you need to call them immediately because they will be able to detect the bedbugs and prevent the further spread of the bugs.

The Bottom Line

The fact is that they are tough to detect, and they even lay eggs on the sides of the bed. You must take immediate action if you have a bedbug infestation in your home. You must call the professionals and get the bedbugs treated as soon as possible.

If you are looking for reliable bed bug detection in the Lower Mainland of BC, we can help you. You can count on us to get the job done! Contact us today to learn more and get started!

Our friends at Junk Out wrote an article on 5 signs that you need a junk removal service. You can find the full article HERE.

If your home or office is cluttered, it can be tough to stay organized and productive. Thankfully, there’s a solution for that: junk removal services. Junk removal companies specialize in decluttering your space quickly and efficiently. Not sure if you need  junk removal? Here are four signs that it might be time to give one a call.

1. You don’t have enough storage space.

If you’re constantly tripping over boxes or bumping into furniture because there’s just nowhere else to put it, it might be time to get rid of some of your stuff. A junk removal service can help you get rid of the items you no longer need, so you can have more room to move around freely.

2. Cleaning is taking too long.

If it’s taking you hours upon hours to clean your home or office, something is definitely wrong. A messy space can be overwhelming, but getting help to haul away your junk can help get your space back under control quickly and efficiently.

3. You’re losing important items.

Losing your keys or misplacing important paperwork is frustrating, and it can happen more often than you think in a cluttered space. If you find yourself constantly searching for things, it might be time to declutter your environment. A junk removal company can help you get rid of the items you don’t need so you can easily find the things you do need.

4. You’re feeling stressed out.

A cluttered environment can be stressful, and it can take a toll on your mental health if not addressed in a timely manner. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your cluttered space, it might be time to reach out to a junk removal company for help. They’ll work with you to declutter your space, so you can feel relaxed and refreshed in your own home or office again. Junk removal prices are also reasonable, and you can get top quality services within your price range.

5. Yard Debris.

Yard debris can start to accumulate quickly and take up valuable space. A junk removal service can help you get rid of branches, leaves, and other yard waste so you can reclaim your outdoor area and enjoy the summer sun.

No matter what signs you’re experiencing, it’s never too late to invest in junk removal in Toronto.

Conclusion:

If you’re dealing with any of the above issues, it might be time to reach out to a junk removal service for help. They’ll quickly and efficiently declutter your space, so you can have the peace of mind and storage space you need to feel productive again. Don’t wait any longer – contact a junk removal company like CleanStart Property Services today!

CleanStart Property Services offers large-scale moving planning and execution services, as well as single residential moves. Our friends at Let’s Get Moving wrote an awesome article detailing 10 Questions to ask before hiring a moving company. You can find the full article HERE.

Moving is a time-consuming and expensive process. It can be difficult to find reliable moving companies that are reasonably priced and offer quality services. In addition, moving often involves packing up all your belongings, which can be an emotionally draining experience. You may also have to deal with additional paperwork related to moving such as changing your address or obtaining new insurance policies.

The stress of moving can be compounded by the need to find a new place to live or the fact that you have to leave familiar places and people. All these things can make moving an incredibly stressful experience. To reduce moving-related stress, it is important to plan ahead, research moving companies thoroughly before hiring one, and give yourself plenty of time to pack and unpack. With the right preparation and resources, moving doesn’t have to be as stressful as it may seem.

If you hire the right moving company, they will take care of all the hard work for you. But how do you know which company is right for you? And more importantly, what questions should you ask before hiring them? In this blog post we will discuss 10 common questions to ask before hiring a moving company:

1. What services are included in your moving package?

Before committing to any moving service, you should understand the package a moving company can offer. This includes asking questions about what type of moving services are included in their moving packages and how much they cost. Many moving companies specialize in certain aspects of the move, such as packing, storage, or transportation. You also want to ask about their common practices and procedures during a move.

Knowing what moving services are included in your moving package can help you to be sure that all of your items will be safely and securely transported from one location to another. Ultimately, this is the reason why asking in advance what services are included in a company’s moving package is essential.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

As moving companies are in the business of moving people’s valued possessions, it is important to make sure that they are adequately insured and licensed. Insurance protects you from any loss or damages to your items when moving, while a license ensures safety standards are met and that the company operates legally. If something goes wrong during the move, you need to make sure that the moving company is insured so that you get the necessary compensation or coverage.

Asking about a moving company’s licensing and insurance status is an essential step toward making your move safe and secure, and it is your responsibility as a consumer to ensure any moving company you hire meets these requirements. By doing so, you can rest assured that your possessions and moving experience will be protected.

3. Are There any Hidden Moving Costs?

Many moving companies may charge additional fees for moving services such as packing, moving supplies, and even labor costs. You should ask the moving company before you sign a contract in order to ensure that all these hidden moving costs are included in the final estimate. Some moving companies may offer special discounts or deals on certain services, so it is always beneficial to ask ahead of time.

It is best to be prepared for the moving process and make sure all of your questions are answered in order to ensure a smooth moving experience. Asking about any hidden moving costs before signing a contract is a great way to save time and money.

4. Do You Offer In-Person Estimates?

An in-person moving estimate provides you with a personalized moving experience, as it allows the moving company to assess your specific moving needs and create an accurate quote tailored to your individual requirements. This kind of estimate can also give you the opportunity to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties that may arise during your moving process.

Additionally, an onsite moving estimate gives you the opportunity to get to know your moving company and build a relationship with them. This can be helpful if any issues arise during the moving process, as it allows for better communication between both parties. With all these benefits, it is easy to understand why asking for an in-person moving estimate can be so beneficial.

5. Do You have a Physical Office/Address?

It is always important to check that any moving company you may be considering has a physical office or address. This will help ensure that the moving company you choose is legitimate and has a reputable track record. Having a physical office means that the moving company is registered with local authorities, thus providing an extra layer of protection for your belongings.

The moving company should also be able to provide information about their identity, insurance, and moving practices. Asking if the moving company has a physical office or address is an important step in ensuring the safety of your valuables during the moving process. Doing so will give you more peace of mind that you are making a wise decision by selecting a trustworthy moving company.

6. Who Will Do the Loading and Unloading?

A moving company should provide clear answers to this question. You should know who will be responsible for loading and unloading your belongings. The moving company must have a term of qualified personnel that can handle the process with care and professionalism. Depending on the moving company, they may have their own staff or hire subcontractors for this job.

They should be able to provide detailed information about its loading and unloading services as part of their moving package. Make sure that you ask this question before signing a moving contract so that you have all the information necessary to ensure a great moving experience.

7. Is There Anything You Will Not Move?

It might seem like a weird question to ask because it is supposed that the moving companies can move everything. But that doesn’t always happen. Before moving day, ask your moving company what items they will and will not transport. Many moving companies have policies that restrict moving certain items such as hazardous materials, valuable antiques, or plants.

Be sure to take into account any restrictions when selecting a moving company and preparing for the move. Furthermore, some moving companies may require that these items be transported separately, so it is important to have this information in advance.

8. Do You Have a Cancellation Policy?

Knowing the details of the moving company’s cancellation policy can help you understand what might happen if something unexpected arises and you need to cancel your move. It’s common for moving companies to charge fees for any cancellations that occur, so knowing the terms of the moving company’s cancellation policy can help you plan for those costs.

And also can help ensure that you are not overcharged or held financially responsible for cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances. In some cases, moving companies may even offer refunds for canceled services. Therefore, it is essential that you ask this question in case you need to cancel your moving services for any reason.

9. What Are Your Payment Options?

By asking to know what payment options are available, you can make an informed decision on which moving company is the best fit for your needs. This way, you will have a better understanding of all costs associated with moving and will be able to plan accordingly. You may also find out about other moving packages or discounts that could help save money in the long run.

Asking what payment options moving companies offer, will also ensure that you have a clear understanding of all costs and policies associated with moving so that there are no surprises or unexpected expenses.

10. Can you provide any references?

When asking for references, you should make sure that you get contacts of past customers who have used the moving company in question. Ask specific questions about their experience with the moving company and verify the references. Doing your due diligence in this way can help you avoid any problems that may arise during your moving process.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to look into reviews from independent moving websites and social media sites. This can provide additional insight into the moving company and allow you to make an informed decision about which moving service to hire.

Conclusion

By taking the time to ask these questions, you can make sure that you are hiring a reputable moving company that will provide the services you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for more information or clarification if necessary, after all, it is your move! They should be able to answer all of these questions confidently and clearly, so if they don’t seem to know what they’re talking about, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Remember that moving is not always easy and requires experienced professionals to get the job done right. Make sure to take your time in researching moving companies and ensure that they fulfill all your requirements.

CleanStart has been moving customer possessions safely and securely for many years and has a proven track record of success. We are fully insured, licensed, and bonded to ensure that your items will be safe throughout the moving process. Our team is made up of experienced professionals who know how to handle each moving situation with care and sensitivity. With our competitive rates, you will be sure to get the best moving experience at an affordable price.

CleanStart Property Services is committed to making your moving day a successful and stress-free experience. Contact us today for more information or to request a quote. You won’t be disappointed!

Our friends at Up Homes wrote a detailed guide for Hoarding, especially helpful for loved ones who are trying to support someone who is struggling with hoarding. You can find the full article HERE.

A Detailed Guide of Hoarding: What is Hoarding Disorder?

Hoarding can be defined as the difficulty of discarding or getting rid of personal possessions and items no matter their actual significance or value. Normally associated with compulsive buying, those who suffer from hoarding disorder can be recognized due to the number of collected items in the home or the continued search for unique items. While the items that most hoarders collect vary, possessions such as newspapers, photographs, food, cardboard boxes, and clothing are among the most common items that are hoarded.

The most common symptoms of hoarding include:

• Not being able to get rid of possessions

• Anxiety regarding discarding possessions

• Indecision about where to store items

• Feeling overwhelmed or embarrassed by possessions

• Obsessive tendencies and thoughts

• Fear of others touching items

• Social isolation

People may choose to hoard for many reasons but most of the time it is due to an attachment of sentimental value or because one believes a certain item will become valuable in the future. While hoarding can be diagnosed on its own, sometimes it can be associated with other disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

What’s the Difference Between Clutter and Hoarding Behaviors?

Even though a person may own a lot of things and may not be particularly organized and clean, this does not automatically mean that they have a hoarding disorder. Most households can be messy so it important to distinguish the difference between normal everyday clutter and common hoarding behaviors.

So what is clutter? Clutter can be defined as a collection of items and mess that is spread out and piled up in a disorganized fashion. Clutter is a common occurrence in busy households and can be easily cleaned up. The home is generally still safe to live in and move around in since most clutter often occurs in storage spaces and some living spaces. There is no set planned acquisition of items and the occurrence of clutter is not a cause of major distress.

Hoarding on the other hand can be recognized when large collections of items without a specific theme take up space in living areas to the extent that they can not be used as designed. The thought of getting rid of said items may cause major distress and uncomfortable feelings as well as financial and relationship problems. If a person finds themselves using a bathtub as a storage unit and can not safely walk up and down the stairs due to large quantities of items, then they most likely have hoarding disorder.

The Five Levels of Hoarding

Hoarding can be separated into five distinct levels which can identify how severe a person’s disorder may be. Varying from mild to extreme levels of hoarding, these five levels are referred to in order to help people dealing with this condition. Created by evaluating certain factors, the level in which a person belongs depends on the accessibility of windows and doors, the level of animal control, the amount of clutter inside and outside of the home, if rooms are usable, and the number of health hazards that are present.

Level One

• Light clutter

• No odors

• Safe conditions

• Easy accessibility to doors, windows, and stairs

Level Two

• Nonfunctioning household appliances

• Evidence of pests

• Animal waste

• Odor

• Mildew

• Congestion in hallways, stairs, entrances, and exits

Level Three

• Clutter outside of the home

• Unusable living spaces

• Lack of sanitation

• Bug infestations

• Heating and air conditioning not working

Level Four

• Mold and mildew are noticeable

• Structural damage to the home

• Rotting food

• Bug infestations in beds and furniture

• Bats and rodents living in the walls

• Water damage

• Broken windows

• Entrances, exits, hallways, and stairs are not accessible

Level Five

• Most severe

• No electricity or running water

• Human feces is noticeable throughout the home

• Animals present and are of poor health

• Broken walls

• Fire hazards

• Severe structural damage

• Major infestations of rodents and bugs

Types of Hoarding

Since hoarders can collect many different items it is important to understand the types of hoarding and how they can appear in a household. While hoarders tend to gain an attachment to certain possessions, the first step to recovery is to identify what is being hoarded and why.

1. Collectors

What started off as a valuable collection can easily turn into a worthless pile of junk without any clear sentimental value or purpose. Collection hoarders have a constant need to obtain new items even though they have no real meaning. While a collection is supposed to bring pride and joy to a collector, this type of hoarding often brings embarrassment and distress instead.

2. Researchers

This type of hoarding includes the collection of books, learning materials, encyclopedias, newspapers, magazines, and any other type of publication. Research hoarders tend to hold on to material for years even if they lack real value.

3. Non-Wasters

Consisting of food hoarding, recycle hoarding, trash hoarding, and shopping hoarding, non-wasters tend to not get rid of anything. Even if the food or item has expired, this type of hoarding stems from the need to always be prepared in case of an emergency or if they think an item might be needed in the future.

4. Animal Hoarders

This type of hoarding stems from the need to love and take care of as many animals as one person can. The health and proper care of animals are often overlooked in this situation and living conditions can decline rapidly.

5. Over-Sentimental Hoarders

Caused by a stressful or traumatic event, this type of hoarding involves the collection of items that may be associated with a specific memory. These behaviors can be brought on by the loss of a loved one, the end of a joyful time in life, or the constant craving for something that does not currently exist.

Who is at Risk of Hoarding?

While there may be no specific cause of hoarding, there are certain types of people that are at a higher risk of developing hoarding tendencies. Whether it’s due to a combination of different factors or a previous traumatic experience, there are many variables that could be the root of this condition.

1. Depression

People with depression are at a high risk of hoarding and are by far the most common to develop this condition. Due to painful feelings and a depressive state of mind, people may start to hoard in order to cope with mental health issues.

2. Trauma and Loss

Past experiences such as abuse, a bad breakup, loss of a loved one, feeling lonely, or dealing with health problems may lead to hoarding

3. Perfectionism

Those that find it hard to make decisions might have a hard time figuring out where to keep things in the house or what to throw away.

4. OCD/ADHD

Other mental health problems may lead to hoarding. Those that have obsessive-compulsive disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder may have a particularly hard time parting with possessions.

5. Heredity

If one grew up in a hoarding household then they are more likely to develop the condition as well.

6. Dementia

A person with dementia may start to hoard in order to gain a sense of control over their lives.

7. Head Trauma

This may include strokes or other types of traumatic brain injuries. Brain lesions or abnormal brain development have been seen to lead to compulsive tendencies and hoarding.

The Dangers of Hoarding

Hoarding disorder can be dangerous to not only your home but to your overall health and wellbeing. Known to cause a multitude of problems that can pose a serious risk to individuals and their families, there are certain complications that need to be brought to light.

The dangers of hoarding may or may not be limited to:

• Increased risk of falls and injury

• Poor air quality

• Health complications

• Plumbing problems

• Mildew and fungus

• Sanitation issues

• Pest infestations

• Loneliness and isolation

• Family conflicts

• Fire hazard

• Financial difficulties

• Legal issues which can lead to eviction

• Homelessness

How Do You Identify Hoarding Behaviors?

Most signs of hoarding are obvious and can be spotted right away. In severe hoarding situations, signs such as rotting food and structural damage are a dead giveaway to how an individual may be suffering. On the other hand, mild cases are not as easy to recognize. Since most if not all hoarding cases start small and gradually increase in severity over the years, it is necessary to understand the early warning signs to help identify even the most simple hoarding behaviors.

Signs of hoarding may include:

• Inability to throw away or sell possessions

• Clutter throughout the home makes it difficult to move around and use living spaces

• Piles of items such as newspapers and mail keep falling over

• Sleeping with clutter on bed

• Having a tough time making decisions

• Parts of the home are closed off from others

• Failure to pay bills or make repairs to the home

• Disorganization

• Collecting free things

• Compulsive buying and shopping

• Problems with attention

• Not allowing others to touch possessions

• Not realizing the severity of the problem

• Moving things from pile to pile without getting rid of things

How Do You Help a Hoarder?

If you know someone with a hoarding disorder then it is common to feel overwhelmed and frustrated trying to change their behavior. Sometimes it is even easy to feel like the hoarder values and cares about their possessions more than their personal relationships. While it may be easy to get upset with their unhealthy lifestyle, it is imperative to remember that hoarding is a serious mental health disorder. By approaching this issue with patience and compassion, you can help guide your loved one to the path of recovery.

Understanding the Challenges of Decluttering for Hoarders

Even the most severe hoarder might not understand that their lifestyle is unhealthy. With that being said, the road to recovery might be a difficult one with many challenges. If someone does not recognize that they have a problem then it might be hard to bring up the subject to your loved one. In this case, effective communication is key. Instead of being judgemental and arguing, start by understanding the situation and offering to help. Start by focusing on the person rather than the possessions by bonding over other interests and addressing any other mental health conditions. Motivate your loved one by setting achievable goals, identifying shopping habits, and celebrating even the smallest victory.

Helping Elderly Hoarders

The appearance of hoarding behaviors can increase rapidly with age. In fact, the largest population of hoarders consists of single and divorced females from the age of 50 to 85 years old. Seniors in particular are at a higher risk of experiencing the dangers that hoarding can bring on. Senior hoarders that choose to age in place, in particular, are known to develop other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or social isolation. Unsanitary conditions, high fall risk, fire hazards, and prevention from emergency care are other hidden dangers that you need to be aware of.

Decluttering and Downsizing Best Practices for Hoarders

Once hoarding tendencies have been recognized and the hoarder is ready to move on, it should be time to clean the home. Start by developing an action plan and strategy for waste removal. If unsanitary conditions persist such as excessive filth, infestations, or buildup of waste, then the landlord or local health department should be contacted.

How to help a hoarder clean:

• Make a schedule to stick to

• Set realistic goals

• Determine criteria to get rid of items

• Start simple with doorways, hallways, and stairways

• Get items out of the house as soon as possible

• Consider securing a storage space for easy removal

  

Decluttering Room by Room

Choosing to focus on one room at a time before moving on to the next space is the most time-effective way to declutter and organize your home. By creating a sorting system, decide which items to donate, throw away, store, recycle, or fix.

1. The Living Room

• Start with bookcases, side tables, and the console

• Decide on permanent storage spaces

• Reduce all paper clutter

2. Kitchen

• Start by emptying each storage space and assessing each item

• Focus on one category at a time

• Only keep what you will use every day on the countertops

3. Bathroom

• Start with the medicine cabinet

• Discard any outdated medicine, makeup, or skincare products

• Keep items that you use the most in top drawers

4. Bedroom

• Make the bed

• Start by removing anything that does not belong on the nightstands

• Throw away or donate anything that is no longer used

5. Closet

• Start by decluttering by clothing type

• Wash any dirty laundry

• Donate clothing that is no longer worn

6. Home Office

• Keep your home office clutter-free by organizing any loose cords

• Put any loose desk items into drawers

• Categorize drawers by similar items

7. Stairways and Hallways

• Gather all items off of the stairs before organizing to avoid tripping hazards

• Buy a coat rack to organize jackets

• Find somewhere to store shoes

8. Garages, Attics, and Basements

• All cleaning does not have to be done in one day

• Put loose items in boxes

• Install shelving units

What To Do With Unwanted Items

Once you and your loved one have gone through each room and determined what to keep, it is time to get rid of all unwanted items. All possessions that will no longer be kept need to be organized into piles depending on their intended final destination. Since there are so many ways to discard unwanted items, it is best to consider the purpose and condition of the item before making a decision. Most people decide to either donate, sell, or gift unwanted items. Recycling is another great option that will also help reduce your carbon footprint.

What Happens if the House is Unlivable?

In the case of severe hoarding situations, sometimes the home is no longer livable due to unsanitary conditions and structural damage. Once items have been cleaned and decluttered, then it is time to evaluate all other options if the home is deemed unlivable.

Legal Aspects of Hoarding

Hoarding dangers that arise which make the house unlivable can lead to legal issues that need to be addressed. Some of the most common instances that would involve the legal system in these situations include the involvement of a landlord. If a tenant or renter is living in unsanitary conditions and violates the lease then they can face eviction.

Other instances involving the legal system during a hoarding case may include:

• Protective services for abuse or neglect involving children, elderly, or disabled adults in the home

• Neglect or abuse of animals in the home

• Violation of health and safety codes on the property

Moving to a New Home

If your loved one’s home is no longer liveable then it is probably time to start looking for a new place to live. For those living on a property that has been impacted by a compulsive hoarder, the impending move might look a little different. The first step is to figure out where you want to move to. If you want to find real estate in Charlotte for instance then you need to decide if you want to rent or are looking for new construction homes for sale. Before selling your home, make sure to fill out a home evaluation. Visit Uphomes.com today and reach out to one of our Realty Specialists to help navigate the home buying process.

Additional Help for Hoarders

• International OCD Foundation: Learn about hoarding disorder, get involved, and find help in your area.

• Clutterers Anonymous: Join this 12-step program and share your experience with others.

• Children of Hoarders: This online support group was created to bring together people who grew up with a hoarder.

• Piece of Mind Foundation: Find resources and treatment options related to hoarding disorder.

• The Clutter Movement Family Support Facebook Group: The support group was created for families with issues related to hoarding and clutter.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness: The largest mental health organization in America.

 

For more information on our hoarding support services click HERE.

Sometimes our customers ask why CleanStart is a Living Wage Employer, so we thought we would a blog post explaining our reasoning behind this choice. CleanStart is a supportive employer, meaning we intentionally hire individuals facing barriers to traditional employment. We provide training and employment for our staff, which currently numbers 32 individuals. 

Why CleanStart Is A Living Wage Employer

We at CleanStart whole-heartedly support the living wage movement. One of the many reasons is that a large number of our staff are the economic provider for their family, and supporting a family in Vancouver is not possible on minimum wage. Providing a living wage can help lift families out of the cycle of poverty. A living wage has provided a real, measurable benefit to our staff, as 54% or our staff have self-reported (in an anonymous survey) that employment with CleanStart at a living wage has greatly improved their housing situation. 

And we didn’t want to stop there. Medical benefits, paid leave, flexible scheduling, and free training  are integral to our business as a supportive employer. These benefits apply to all full and part-time staff members and has greatly improved the mental and physical well-being of our staff, and therefore, has increased the strength of our organization as a whole. 

If organizations are looking into a living wage certification, we would enthusiastically recommend doing so. Not just because of the obvious social benefits related to a living wage, like the well-being of your staff, and  local economic development, but also for the bottom-line of your organization. When your staff feels supported it increases staff retention and saves on re-training , time-theft and hiring costs. And a more engaged staff produces better work, company-wide. 

Furthermore, as the marketplace is increasingly becoming more socially conscious, many businesses and individuals are only looking to work with living wage employers. Many of our largest clients are living wage employers themselves, and therefore cannot work with employers who do not pay a living wage.

In summary, we at CleanStart are very proud to be a living wage employer and believe that supporting our people creates knock-on benefits for our staff, community, local economy, and bottom-line. Our employees are our biggest asset and biggest support, and a living wage is the least we can do to support them in turn.  If you would like to check out some more information on CleanStart’s social impact, click HERE.

For more information on the Living Wage Certification in BC, click HERE.

 

Our friends at Charlie & Sons Hauling wrote an awesome article exploring the question “Do I have to be present for junk removal?” along with other junk removal related questions. You can find the full article HERE. 

If you are like most homeowners, the idea of having someone clean your house usually brings up thoughts about safety. We understand that a part of you probably wonders if your junk removal professional can do the job without your supervision. So, will a junk removal company render its services without you being present on-site?

How Does Junk Removal Work?

Junk removal companies provide property owners with the essential service of eliminating old and damaged items they consider obsolete from their premises. They have special trucks, tools, and equipment for this task. When you contact a junk removal service, they will provide you with junk removal prices based on the amount of stuff that needs to be removed. They will then come and grab your items from anywhere in your home or office, breaking down large pieces if necessary to fit them into their truck. Once everything is loaded onto the vehicle, they will take it away for disposal at a recycling/trash facility. It is important to note that the junk removal professionals will not dispose of all household junk you put out; there are hazardous substances they may not be able to handle.

Can a Junk Removal Service Do Its Work When I’m Not Around?

The short answer is yes. There are no laws that require you to be present when the junk removal companies come over. However, it’s still good practice for them not to have access to certain areas of your home or office without supervision just in case they encounter something unexpected. A waste management service should always clean up after themselves and leave everything better than they found it. If you happen to find a reputable and trustworthy junk removal business, you shouldn’t have to worry about how they do their job unsupervised.

What Can I Do to Ensure Stress-Free Junk Removal?

While you may not always be present to ensure the junk removal process goes smoothly, there are a few things you can do to make the task easier for both you and your service provider. Remember to do the following before contracting junk haulers:

Consider the Type of Junk to be Removed

Your full-service junk removal provider needs to know what they are dealing with before arriving at your property. Understanding the nature of what they are removing will help them develop a strategy to get everything out of your house or office in one go. This will also help them to plan how to dispose of the unwanted stuff safely. For example, are there any recyclables, or will all the waste materials end up in landfills?

Ask About Their Process for Junk Removal

Find out if the junk removal business has any specific rules regarding how items that need to be removed should be packed, stored, or loaded onto their truck. If you need the furniture to be disassembled, make sure they will do that for you or let them know beforehand so it can be taken care of before their arrival. Also, find out if any items require special handling and what kind of equipment is needed for this task (if necessary).

Make Proper Preparations

If you’re expecting a lot of junk to be removed, make sure there is enough room to work and that the area where the local junk removal industry provider will load everything has proper access. It’s also crucial for them to know exactly where they can find the items since you might have several piles or storage spaces in your house/office. You could mark the items that need removal with a specific color of paint or uniquely label them to easily be seen.

Choose Between Truck Hauling and Dumpster Rental

There are pros and cons to both options. If you need a lot of junk removed from your property, it’s going to be more cost-effective if there is enough space on the truck that will come over to haul away all your items rather than renting a dumpster. However, renting a dumpster might be the more reasonable option if the process takes longer than a day (like during home renovations). It will also spare you the hassle of having to keep track of where all your junk is stored while it’s waiting to be removed.

Know What Items They Won’t Take Away

When you hire a junk removal company, there are certain items they won’t be able to take away. For example, carpeting and rugs will need to be disposed of by your local city services. At the same time, hazardous materials like chemicals or gas canisters require special disposal methods that may not always leave everyone involved in the process completely safe. Make sure you find out what items your professional junk removal services provider won’t be able to take away before they arrive at your property.

Can I Remove Junk on My Own?

If you have enough time and physical strength, there is no reason why you can’t complete the task of hauling away junk yourself. However, suppose your trash pile consists primarily of large items like furniture or appliances that are too heavy to move around. In that case, it’s probably best to leave this kind of work for a professional since you could injure yourself in the process. Not to mention that you need special licensing to haul away hazardous waste. Hiring a professional junk removal service will provide convenience and save you time and energy!

Your Local Home Clean Up Professional?

CleanStart Property Services are one of the top professional junk removal companies in your local area. We are fully licensed with all proper certification, insurance, and safety equipment for handling all kinds of junk; you can rest assured our junk hauling team knows what it’s doing. Please book a free estimate through our website or give us a call when you need contractor clean-up services.

Our friends at Go-Forth Pest Control wrote an awesome article on How to clean your house after using pesticides. You can find the full article HERE.

Pest removal is a must today because pests are becoming dangerous, territorial, and invasive. Some pests may keep on hiding when you’re around however when you leave the property, that’s the time they start infesting. When you get back, you’ll never know that your house is already infested by pesky vermin.

Eliminating pests takes a lot of time and effort for it to be successfully done. Spraying pests is one of the common ways of eliminating them and pesticides are generally used by everyone. Whether vermin are infesting in buildings or homes, pesticides will always be the first thing that owners will get because it is easy to apply and can be purchased quickly.

On the other hand, pesticides should not be carelessly applied because they contain chemicals that can be harmful to you, your family, and pet’s health. It can be toxic so inhaling pesticides is not good and it may end you up in hospitals to seek medical attention. When using pesticides, it is best to read instructions first or hire a team of professional exterminators to do the application for you.

After every application of pesticides, you always want to clean your home. If you are someone who isn’t comfortable when your house is too messy, you will typically clean your house after using pesticides. But, you need to know that cleaning like it’s a normal mess will end up ruining the effects of pesticides in your home.

Ways on how you can clean your house after using pesticides:

Always Be Patient

When pests infest, it will take a lot of time for them to be completely out of your property. Exterminators always do their best to eliminate pests in and out of your property. Using pesticides should be done safely so that nobody will be harmed except for the vermin present. When exterminators are doing their jobs, always have patience because it will always pay in the end.

After the treatment, you should as well be patient in cleaning. Sometimes you have to wait for a week before you can clean your home so that pesticides will work on the target pests. Some pests can go out after spraying while others will take time before they come out of their hiding places when sprayed. Also, if pesticides are sprayed, better ask the exterminator the right time to enter to avoid you from dangers.

Prepare Cleaning Tools

After the pesticides are sprayed and the right time for cleaning comes, you should start preparing your cleaning tools. Cloths for wiping are not enough because there are still other things you will need. Aside from the tools, you will need for cleaning, better prepare the things that will protect you from pesticides like rubber gloves and face masks.

The cleaning tools you need to have are water, dishwashing soap, vacuum cleaner, trash bags, sponges or rags, steam cleaner, and laundry baskets. These tools will help in removing the mess in your home since some pesticides can still be found on the surfaces. Make sure that when you are cleaning, change the water when it’s dirty because if you continue to use the same water, you might be bringing the pesticides back and it’s not good for you.

Find A Starting Point

If the entire house was sprayed for pesticides, it will be hard for you to clean since you don’t know where to begin. Before you dive into cleaning, better find a starting point so that you will know where you will begin the cleaning and more. If plenty of rooms are treated, pick first a room and once you’re done, move to the next room. When you know where to begin, you will not have any problem since the work will be continuous. However, if you didn’t create a cleaning plan or did not look for a starting, you will be confused about where to start and might take a long while before you can finish it.

Clean The Floor

When cleaning the house after using pesticides, you should not forget to clean the floor. There are times that chemicals may have cling to the floors so you need to clean it. You should vacuum floors or sweep them. Not only on open spaces but even the ones under the furniture.  When cleaning, apply the dishwashing soap with water solution and mop it so that chemicals will be removed. It is best not to mop or clean near walls where pesticides are sprayed so that pests will not be able to roam around freely even if you have cleaned. If carpets are around, vacuum it so that chemicals and dirt will be absorbed successfully.

Wipe Walls & Windows

When cleaning after using pesticides, you should not only focus on floors but walls and windows as well. These areas can also have pesticides since most pests are found inside walls. When cleaning walls and windows, cloth rags should be used to thoroughly remove pesticides on these areas. You can spray a soap and water solution on the walls but make sure that there are cloths below to avoid the drips from getting into the floor. Wipe these areas so that no chemicals will be left behind.

Steam & Vacuum Furniture

Covering your furniture is a must when spraying pesticides but often; you tend to forget it because you are rushing up to spray pests. When your furniture is uncovered or is treated for pests, make sure to vacuum and steam it so that chemicals will be removed. Of course, you have to clean your furniture when pesticides have already worked.

Also, if your closets are sprayed and clothes are inside, make sure to launder your clothing to get rid of pesticides lingering. Your beds can also be vacuumed and steamed especially if it is treated for bed bugs. You don’t want pesticides to be left behind on your mattress where you rest and sleep. Don’t forget the cracks and corners of the furniture because chemicals can cling hard if not removed thoroughly. You should know that furniture can also get pesticides so you need to clean it carefully if you want your family to be safe.

Keep The House Dry

When pests are sprayed with pesticides, some don’t last long while others can still find a way for them to thrive and that’s by getting into water sources. If your home is treated yet water leaks and sources are available, it is useless because vermin can survive when they water. Make sure that when you clean, seal all leaks and wipe wet areas so that your home will be dry and pest-free.

Throw Away Uncovered Food

Your kitchen will be among the places that will be treated first because it can attract lots of pests like ants, cockroaches, rodents, and flies. There are instances wherein you forget to store food or cover it before using pesticides. With this, foods will be exposed to chemicals and it is not good. When cleaning after using pesticides, you have to throw away foods that have pesticides so that no one in your family can eat it. Ingesting it even if it is sprayed can lead to health issues. Even the unsealed foods like cereals should be thrown because pesticides can saturate into the wrappers so contamination can still occur.

Wash Utensils In The Kitchen

It can’t be avoided that utensils, countertops, dishes, and more will be sprayed since the kitchen is a perfect place to infest. Pots, pans, and more will also get pesticides. During the cleaning process, you have to rewash everything from utensils down to pots so that chemicals will be gone. It is not good to use sprayed utensils for eating or pots for cooking since you can get the toxins from it. Countertops should be scrubbed diligently to remove any residue of pesticides. Make sure that everything in the kitchen is washed, scrubbed, wiped, and mopped for safety purposes.

CleanStart Can Help with Both Cleaning and Pest Control Services!

CleanStart Pest Control is not only well-reviewed but they are also awarded for their highly trained, certified, and expert pest technicians. Whether you have pests at home or in your office, you don’t have to worry because our company delivers residential and commercial services that you can avail anytime.

When you need the expertise of the well-experienced company, CleanStart Property Services will always come to mind. Call us at 1-855-297-8278 and we will be pleased to lend a hand!

Our friends at Pest Control Services wrote an awesome article on why pests are attracted to moisture. You can find the full article HERE.

Like all living things today, pests depend on moisture for multiple reasons.

However, the chief among those reasons is for basic survival.

No matter what type of pest it is, they need moisture, they may not need a lot, but they need some for sure.

That’s why they’re so attracted to any humid environments. It’s also why any slightly leaky pipe or standing water in the backyard can draw them right in. So if you’re wondering why pests are showing up where they previously hadn’t, looking for moisture is a good starting point.

But what pests should you be looking for? Or what pests can you expect to see?

Cockroaches

These pests love any damp or humid environment they can find. Counter to what many people believe, you’re home doesn’t need to messy. If there’s sufficient food and water, it’s more than acceptable for cockroaches.

Ants 

We all know that ants will spring up anywhere that you happen to leave food sitting. But they’ll go just as far for moisture! This means that areas like your bathroom or kitchen are especially in danger!

Mosquitoes 

If you’ve ever been to a lake in the summer, you most likely got attacked by a decent amount of mosquitoes. Why? It’s because they love standing water. For mosquitoes, it’s not just a good water source. It’s also about getting an ideal area to lay eggs.

Unfortunately, that means even more mosquitoes to deal with.

Termites

Termites are associated with dry, brittle wood. But that’s only because of what they do to the wood, not because that’s the type of wood they prefer. Termites love damp or moist wood, it’s easier to chew than dry wood.

That’s another reason that eliminating leaks near wood should be a top priority.

This list doesn’t cover every pest that’s attracted to moisture, but it should give you a good base! If you come across any of these pests, you should start looking for the moisture that attracted them. Then contact help.

A professional exterminator can eliminate the pests and find their entrances simultaneously!

Ready for an end to your pest problem? Call us at 1-855-297-8278 or book an inspection through our website.

Our friends at Junk-A-Haulics wrote an awesome article on the top 7 items taken by junk removal companies, did the list surprise you? You can find the full article HERE.

Calling a junk removal company in can be the best decision you will make when trying to clear the clutter and make your home feel welcoming and clean again. It takes a lot of work to haul things out of your living space, especially when you need to get rid of bulky items like appliances, furniture, and construction debris.

Junk haulers handle the heavy lifting through a full-service approach. First, you decide which junk items you want to get out of the house, then the full-service junk removal companies offer the strength and planning to move these things out. Customer service is our highest priority, so we work hard to handle every detail relating to your junk removal project.

Not only are you getting these items out of your living space, but by calling a junk removal company, homeowners are also finding an eco-friendly way to dispose of these items. Some items can be hauled away to the dump if there is no value in the things you are clearing out of the house. But there are times when recycling or donating is an option, making it possible to reuse these items. Our team can help you explore the possibilities if you are worried about the waste ending up in the junkyard.

Here is an overview of some of the most popular items that a junk removal company can haul away for homeowners.

1. Mattresses

Getting a new bed is an exciting investment, especially if you have been sleeping on an old mattress for a long time. You need to clear away the old mattress, so you have space for the new one coming in. In hiring a junk removal company, homeowners get cost-effective disposal of the old mattress without renting a truck or large vehicle to get the mattress out of the house.

2. Refrigerators

Large appliances can be tricky to get rid of; they will just take up space if they no longer work and are still kept in the home. A junk removal company can assist with refrigerator removal, as well as services for other bulky appliances such as washers and dryers, broken dishwashers, and more.

Not only do you need to get these things out of the house, but it’s also important to consider how to properly dispose of them. For example, there are parts and chemicals within the internal systems of the appliances that could potentially be toxic to the environment. Because of this, careful disposal practices are critical.

3. Pianos

These beautiful instruments are nice to have in the home, but they do take up a lot of space. Pianos can also be extremely heavy, which poses a challenge when trying to get them out of your home. Additionally, pianos can’t be dumped in the landfill because they are too big and often contain materials that won’t break down naturally.

One option for piano removal is to send it to a local nonprofit in the area. A junk removal company can provide suggestions to find an organization that will accept the donation. Many charities can coordinate a piano donation, ensuring it goes to good use. Otherwise, we can assist with the proper methods for disposal if needed.

4. Televisions

Is your TV broken? Or, maybe you are ready to upgrade to a bigger screen. It’s important to use proper methods for TV disposal since hazardous materials are inside (such as mercury and lead). As a matter of fact, some junk removal companies don’t offer services for TV pickup because of these dangerous materials.

If you want to get rid of your TV, talk to our team about your options. Some solutions include hauling the TV away to a local recycling center to ensure proper and safe disposal.

5. Sheds

Clearing out the shed can be quite the process, especially since they are often the place where bulky storage is kept. A junk removal company can assist with the responsible disposal of landscaping chemicals, gas cans, yard waste, broken lawn mowers, and more.

When researching junk removal companies in the area, make sure to share details about the items they will remove from the shed or other parts of the home. The disposal process is different, depending on what you need to get rid of.

6. Hot Tubs

Having a place to soak and relax in the backyard is a luxurious feeling. But when the hot tub breaks down or you are no longer using it, it can be a hassle to get off your property. Call a junk removal company in for help with removing oversized, unwanted items such as hot tubs and other things you are no longer using.

Before the hot tub can be moved, a few preparatory steps need to happen. For example, it’s necessary to drain out the water. If possible, drain it in advance, so everything has time to dry out before the hot tub is moved. Then, it’s as simple as calling a junk removal company and pulling out the credit card to pay for this service. After that, you’ll have a hands-off method for getting rid of the hot tub.

7. Pool Tables

Bulky household items, such as pool tables and furniture removal, are another option to discuss when contacting a junk removal company. Homeowners will find that if big pieces of furniture aren’t being used and just taking up space, then it’s time to get them out of their homes.

If the furniture is still in decent condition, you might consider donating to a local nonprofit. Even when the furniture is broken or needs restoration, there are still people willing to accept the donations. Otherwise, pool tables and other furniture items might need to go to the junkyard.

Need Any Of The Above Items Removed From Your Home?

Do you have any oversized, bulky items that you are ready to get out of the house? We can help with large junk removal, hazardous materials, and more. CleanStart Property Services offers full-service solutions to clean up your home by removing the items you are no longer using. For more information, contact us to learn more about the items we take. We are here to help!

Our friends at Redbins wrote an awesome article on why professional junk removal is important, you can find the full article HERE.

Junk removal can be a real hassle. Not only can it take a lot of time, but the process of sorting items and dealing with moving the materials can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be a hassle.

When you hire a reputable junk removal company, you can be sure that the job will be done, and done right. From sorting out your recyclable items to cleaning up before they leave, junk removalists have the training and tools to do it all.

After your junk has been removed professionally, you will feel good that you have more space, a better-looking home or office and that you were able to help the environment.

What is ‘junk’?

Many people are hesitant to call in a junk removal company because they are not sure what is classified as ‘junk.’ Essentially, anything you don’t want or use anymore could be considered as junk. Even if the item still works or if it is taking up space in your home or office and you don’t need it, consider having it collected.

Far too often, you may find yourself hanging on to things that you should not. Here are some items that you can leave in the hands of a junk removal company:

• Furniture
• Appliances
• Household items
• Construction materials
• Wood items
• Yard waste
• Concrete

Reasons to Hire Professional Junk Removalists

There are several good reasons to hire a professional to help you with the junk removal process. These include:

1. Save time

Properly disposing of your junk can be a time-consuming process. Each piece that you are throwing out will need to be examined and put into a special pile. Sorting out the items to determine where everything goes can take up too much valuable time. Often people are too busy to get the job done right. Plus, no one wants to spend their extra time sorting through the junk.

Although there is some cost involved with hiring a professional to do the work, it is worth it. Consider the cost in time and money if you were to do it yourself. If you want to save time but still know that your items are being disposed of or recycled properly, you will need a professional junk removal company.

2. Minimize waste

With a professional junk removalist, your items will get sorted into different piles depending on their destination. From these piles, the professionals can identify the items that need to be recycled appropriately. This helps prevent too much garbage from collecting in landfills. So, not only can you clean up your home, but you are also helping keep the environment safe.

3. Safety

Dealing with old items, particularly heavy ones, can put you at risk for injury. Lifting and carrying heavy items can cause you physical harm. While sorting through debris can put you into contact with hazardous material like asbestos. Hiring a junk removal company to do it for you can help you avoid this danger and prevent a trip to the emergency room.

Professional junk removalists have the right training and equipment to handle all your items safely. They know what to look out for and how to protect themselves and others. When it comes to your junk removal job, it is important to have the right tools for the job.

4. Declutter

If you have many items accumulating on your property, having them removed professionally can help you enjoy your space more. Too often, we keep things that we know we should toss out because it is too much of a hassle to put them in our vehicle and take these items where they need to go.

By hiring a professional junk removalist, you will take back your space without having to deal with the stress of removing the items yourself. Many people find they like their home and feel freer without all the clutter.

Junk removal specialists have just the right vehicle for the job. If you have a home or business decluttering project, you will appreciate the help of a reputable junk removal company.

5. Donations

When you hire a professional junk removal company, any usable items that you don’t want are more likely to find their way to someone who can use them. Even if you don’t have the time or energy to collect and drop off donatable items, a professional company does. Things like old computers, phones, and more can go to good use in a new home.

If there are items in your home or office that you no longer need or want, a professional junk removal company can help. They understand that dealing with these items can be a hassle. Professionals have the training, tools and expertise to sort and move your materials to the right location.

Many items can be recycled or even donated, which is a win-win for everyone. This reduces the stress on your, frees up your space and is the best solution for the environment. With a professional junk removalist company, you can have the peace of mind knowing that your clutter is gone and that it was handled in the best possible way.

For more information about professional junk removal services, call CleanStart Property Services at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website. 

Most people don’t know the differences between trash/recycling service and junk removal, good thing our friends at College Hunks Hauling wrote an awesome article on the differences between trash service and junk removal, and you can find the full article HERE.

When planning for a cleanout project, something that comes to your mind is what you are going to do with the stuff you don’t want to keep? Should you just throw it away? Can you throw it away? Will this all fit in your trash bin?

Most weekly trash removal services have lists of items you can’t toss into your bin. Furthermore, your trash removal service may not accept overflow or bulk trash. So, do you need a trash removal service or a junk removal company? While both services aim to get rid of unwanted things in your household, knowing their differences can help you make a well-informed decision on the best service that suits your needs.

Here are three key differences between a trash removal service and a junk removal company.

1. Bulk Pickup

Local sanitation departments offer multiple programs to help you get rid of garbage at a low cost. Such as a designated bulk trash pickup day or community collection event for larger items like old appliances and lawn debris. However, these don’t happen often and some of your items will need special handling.

This is where a junk removal company comes in handy. Most junk removal companies can collect large items or bulk waste in a day. Items that require special handling like appliances, mattresses, or scrap metal can only be handled by a junk removal specialist. Additionally, many junk removal companies will sort and handle items that can be recycled or donated, keeping what you throw away out of the landfill.

2. Large-scale Jobs

Garbage collection companies focus on hauling away everyday household garbage. But at times, household trash can build up from annual cleaning or moving and can be too much for a local sanitation company. In this case, a junk removal company is better suited to handle the job of removing waste from your home.

Most local garbage collection services set limits on weekly trash collection, and you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t fit everything into your designated trash can. This is where junk removal companies come in to save the day. Apart from junk removal companies handling waste like electronics and furniture, they also offer large pickups for household trash.

3. Repurposing and Recycling

When removing unwanted items using your normal trash collection, recycling are limited to things like paper, plastics, glass and aluminum cans. Some things like old furniture or mattresses will end up in landfills as there are few recycling programs for these types of things that a garbage collection service will work with.

Working with a junk removal company helps ensure a reliable and eco-friendly solution for those less-common recyclables. We partner with local recyclers and donation partners to ensure that most of your junk stays out of the landfill. In fact, we donate or recycle nearly 70% of the household items we collect!

Items Not Accepted by a Garbage Collection Service

A trash collection service is responsible for collecting household trash but has limits. Some of the items not accepted by the general trash service include:

• Ammunition & Firearms
• Logs, brush, and stumps
• Hazardous waste like insecticides and paints
• Bulky items like furniture, appliances, and mattresses
• Medical Waste
• Building materials like concrete, gravel, drywall, or metal
• Excess lawn clippings and yard waste

What Can Be Handled by a Junk Removal Service?

If you are undergoing a remodel, rental cleanout, a big move, or just doing some spring cleaning, a junk removal company is here for you. We will give you a stress-free experience by hauling bulky and heavy items that you can’t dispose of with the regular trash removal service.

Items that a junk removal service can handle include:

• Appliances
• Furniture
• Mattresses
• Yard waste
• Clothes
• Hot tubs
• Electronics like TVs and Computers
• Renovation Debris

Choose a Junk Removal Company for the Things Your Trash Service Won’t Take

When is comes to excess waste, choosing a junk removal company can save you time and a lot of headache. Don’t be the person rationing space in the weekly collection bin for all of those bags of fall leaves and lawn clippings. Get rid of those old tires once and for all by working with CleanStart Property Services for your junk removal needs

If you need junk removal, pest control, cleaning and/or moving services, and you are based in the Lower Mainland of BC. Give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website. 

Our friends at Planet Aid wrote an article on 10 tips fro an extreme clean, you can find the full article HERE.

Are you the kind of person who shudders at the thought of dirt? Do you find yourself crawling around the floor of your house on your hands and knees, making sure you’ve picked up every last crumb? Have you ever used a dust-buster to vacuum your vacuum cleaner? If so, this blog is for you!

 We’ve rounded up 10 tips for an extreme clean for every neat freak who demands a top-to-bottom clean:

Kitchen Cabinets

Over time, cabinets can collect a layer of grime on the surface from dust, dirt, and grease. You can make them look shiny and new by making a mixture of one part vegetable oil and two parts baking soda and then scrubbing with a cloth or sponge.

Washing Machine

The washing machine is one of those places you just don’t think to clean because it seems like it would wash itself, right? In fact, a surprising amount of dirt and product can build up inside the machine. To clean, rinse with vinegar and bleach and use Q-tips to get into the nooks and crannies. Many washers have a self-clean cycle that should be run regularly.

Showerhead

If you were to take a look at your showerhead right now, chances are you’d be shocked by how dirty it actually is. The good news is it’s super easy to clean. Just pour some vinegar into a sandwich baggie, tie it around the showerhead with a rubber band, and let soak for an hour. Wipe clean and your showerhead will be sparkling.

Toaster

Getting the gunk off your toaster, and really any other stainless steel appliances, is quick and makes a big difference. Mix 1 tablespoon of cream of tartar with a few drops of water, scrub with a sponge, and then wipe clean with a damp towel.

Oven Glass

Have you ever been frustrated that no matter how hard you scrub it seems the oven glass doesn’t get clean? It turns out you also have to clean between the glass! You can use a wire hanger and a cleaning cloth to get into this hard-to-reach spot.

Sink Drain

The kitchen sink is one of the germiest places in the house and, after a while, the garbage disposal can even start to smell. Yuck! Follow these instructions to get your sink top-to-bottom clean.

Burners

It’s usually pretty easy to see the grime that builds up on stove burners, but finding a way to get it off is a different story! Stop scrubbing until your hands hurt; instead, soak burners in ammonia and wipe the grime right off.

Iron

Clean the bottom of your iron with salt! First, sprinkle salt over an ironing board liberally. Then turn the steam option on the iron OFF, heat to the highest setting, and iron over the salt. The grime will stick to the salt and leave you with a perfectly shiny iron.

Window Tracks

When you’ve finished cleaning the glass, don’t forget the tracks! Window tracks are hard to clean unless you’re using the right tools. Q-tips dipped in vinegar are perfect for getting into the small crevices of window tracks; just drag the Q-tip along the tracks and then wipe clean with a damp towel. You can use the same method to clean the tracks for sliding glass doors.

Mattress

If you don’t use a mattress protector, your mattress could probably stand to be freshened up a bit. A good mattress cleaning is especially important for people with dust allergies, since a lot of dust can collect over time. All it takes is baking soda and vacuum cleaner! Sprinkle baking soda over the bare mattress, let sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum up with an upholstery attachment.

If you need help with extreme cleaning give us a call as 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website.

Our friends at Plunkett’s Pest Control wrote an article on the dangers of having mice in your home, you can find the full article HERE.

Rodent infestations are extremely common, especially in the fall and winter . Not only are rodents common, but they are some of the most damaging and dangerous pests you can have in your home.

Rodents constantly gnaw on soft objects, chew through electrical wires, damage furniture, and leave behind feces and urine. If these things haven’t convinced you of the dangers of having a rodent infestation, we put together some more dangerous and damaging things rodents do to homes and why they do them:

Why are Rodents so Problematic?

Rodents’ frontmost teeth (incisors) never stop growing, and to keep them sharp and useful they have to gnaw on soft objects constantly. They chew through electrical wire, damage furniture, ruin storage material, and rip up insulation. The pests also leave behind feces and urine, which soils food and often becomes a serious health hazard.

Dangers of Having Rodents in Your Home

1. Mice and Rats are a Fire Hazard

You may be wondering, do mice cause house fires!? The short and simple answer: they can. In fact, approximately 25% of house fires from “unknown causes” aren’t so unknown; Mice or rats actually cause them!

As rats and mice chew on electrical wiring, they damage it; damaged wiring sparks and overheats, which frequently starts electrical fires. Because of this, rodent infestations should be considered a real and significant fire hazard.

2. Rodents Can Be a Health Hazard

Health Hazards that Come Directly from Rodents:

Rodents are infamous for carrying diseases. Rodent feces, urine, saliva, and blood can directly transmit a wide variety of diseases, including Hantavirus and Tularemia.

Health Hazards that Come Indirectly from Rodents:

Additionally, rodents can also carry ticks, lice, and other pests into your home, which means they can indirectly spread even more diseases.

Health Hazards from Rodent Bi-Products:

Although people rarely transmit diseases by coming into direct contact with the rodents in their homes, they are afflicted with diseases after contacting rodent biproducts byproducts (such as waste or fur). Rodents are notoriously unsanitary pests. They leave behind feces, urine, fur, and other remains wherever they live (and especially where they eat).

The most common way people get sick from rodent contact is by eating food contaminated with rat droppings. Rats usually feed on dry pantry goods, but they aren’t picky and will take just about anything they can find.

3. Mice and Rats Contaminate and Waste Food

In order to contaminate your food, rodents have to get into it first. Unfortunately, rats and mice are notorious for their ability to make their way into stored foods. Both rodents have an amazingly potent sense of smell. They can sniff out the specific location of food through doors, containers, and even walls. In fact, rodents often enter your home in the first place by following the smell of food.

Once rodents locate a food source, they rarely have trouble accessing it. Rats can squeeze through an opening the size of a quarter. Their gnawing front teeth help them tear through boxes and bags. If rodents are left unchecked, they eat and spread continuously. Plus, rats and mice taking up space in your food isn’t just a health risk… wasting food is also a significant expense!

4. Rodents Cause Structural Damage

Rodent pastimes like eating, gnawing, nest building, and reproducing end up hurting your home. Rodents work their way through walls and nooks and crannies to get food—they end up dislodging insulation and harming weather-proofing products in the process. Rodents gnaw on plastic, fabric, and paper and will wear down furniture and ruin paper products.

To make their nests, rats and mice drag insulation, paper, packing materials, and various garbage into corners and crannies. They often pull this material off furniture or boxes. Worst of all, while they’re doing all the gnawing, ripping, and tearing, they’re also having babies! These babies grow quickly and start doing some gnawing, ripping, and tearing off their own. Rodent damage tends to get exponentially worse as time goes on.

Avoid the Damage, Get Help from a Professional Rodent Control Company

The best way to avoid the damage and dangers listed above is to keep rats out of your home… and the best way to keep rodents out of your home is by getting help from a professional rodent control company, like CleanStart Property Services Pest Control. We can get and keep mice and rats out of your home or business… For good! Contact us today!

Our friends at Xtreme Cleaners wrote an article on what hoarding is & what to do when you know a hoarder, you can find the full article HERE.

Hoarding has been in the spotlight for the last decade, thanks to TV shows like Hoarders and Hoarding: Buried Alive. Viewers tune in to see how people feel when trapped in their own homes, surrounded by seemingly endless piles of clothing, papers, household items, and sometimes… not-so-household items. Hoarders will often go dumpster diving, thrifting, or “picking” at flea markets and yard sales to accumulate a repertoire of unnecessary, miscellaneous goods. While shows that portray these behaviors may be entertaining to some, real hoarders feel helpless and paralyzed by the towers of junk.

Hoarding disorder is defined as an enduring difficulty parting with possessions due to a perceived need to keep them. The exact causes of hoarding disorder are unknown, but are linked to other psychological and personality disorders, genetics, brain chemistry, and stressful life experiences. 

At a first glance, many family members of hoarders see dealing with a hoarder and their home as the simple task of tossing out the trash. But the piles are only the first phase of cleaning up. Beneath the stacks of garbage and clutter lies mold, diseases, toxins, rodents, and a series of other unfortunate substances.

If your friend or family member has a hoarding issue, where do you begin? How do you help a hoarder?

1. Research Hoarding Disorder

Hoarding is a serious condition, and can often have detrimental physical, emotional, and financial effects on an affected person. According to the Mayo Clinic, people who experience hoarding disorder also have other mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, or anxiety. Researching the condition will help you acquire the appropriate knowledge to aid you in your search for the right professional to assist your loved one.

2. Talk to the Hoarder About Cleaning Up

It’s important not to blame the hoarder as you approach the discussion of clean-up. Be open and honest about your concerns for their safety. Reassure them with confidence that you will help handle the clean-up and that you’re there to support them. This will give them a sense of control and security, allowing them to feel that they have a degree of autonomy over the process.

3. Get Professional Cleaning Help

Debris removal from a hoarder’s home requires detailed planning and execution. Hiring a hoarding remediation service to lighten the load is your best bet for a clean house free of toxins and particulates. The trash will be removed, important family memorabilia and keepsakes will be saved, biohazardous materials will be disposed of, and the affected areas will be sanitized and deodorized. Some professional cleaning services will even help the homeowner label their items and teach them how to maintain an organized space moving forward.

Dealing with hoarding issues is never an easy matter. The individual with the disorder is likely already overwhelmed, and intervening may evoke strong emotions during sensitive times. By following these three steps, you can prepare yourself to handle the situation and support those affected, facilitating their progression into a safer, happier, clutter-free life. Call your hoarding remediation service and health care professional today to help your loved one regain control over their life.

If you need help with hoarding clean up you can give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website. 

CleanStart Property Services offers pest control preparation and pest control treatment services for our customers across the Lower Mainland of BC. We often share information and resources on on how to avoid bug infestations with our customers, and so we thought we would share some info on the blog also. Our friends at Kapture Pest Control wrote an article outlining 13 tips to bug-proof your home. You can find the full article HERE

In all my years of providing pest-control services, one question I receive more often than anything else is: what can I do in between treatments?

While I’d love to tell you that keeping a pest-free home is something only a trained professional can do, the truth is, there are many different steps you can take in between regular treatments that will help.

Below are 13 tips to bug-proof your home that customers have found helpful.

1. Doors and Windows

One of the most overlooked areas of your house can also be the number one cause of flying and crawling pest invasion.

Check to make sure your doors are actually closing all the way; if not, get that fixed ASAP.

If the doors are mostly there, but still not closing completely, buy some weather stripping to seal up that extra 1/2″ of space that can let all the critters come in.

Bottom door seals are cheap and not only help with keeping bugs out but also eliminate drafts in the home.

Check your windows for the same weaknesses, but pay special attention to the screens.

Unbeknownst to many homeowners, the screen facing inside of windows can have tiny holes in between the gaps that are just large enough for a mosquito to come in through.

A replacement screen is not very expensive and easy to install, so run your fingers over the screen to get a great idea of the structural integrity of your window.

2. Holes in the Wall

Even if your home is not very old, holes in the wall can form as the foundation begins to settle, creating cracks in the brick and sheetrock that are large enough for an entire family of birds to nest in.

Look in the corners of the closets and laundry room for cracks, and perform a visual inspection on the outside of the house for any faults in the brick.

One of the most vulnerable areas is the holes where appliances are plugged in, especially in water lines behind the refrigerator and washing machine.

Pull those units out a foot to get a good view of the wall, and, if necessary, patch it up with a little bit of steel wool, caulk, and gauze material that you can lay over the top.

It might be frustrating to see where your builder was lazy in finishing up their job, but it will do wonders for your heating and cooling bill, in addition to keeping pests out.

3. Water Works

Bugs love water more than just about any other area in the house (a close second would be the pantry), so make sure you check your pipes that are running inside and out of the house for any vulnerabilities.

Rather than just monitoring the appliances, however, look underneath the sinks in your kitchen and bathrooms to see if there are any gaps next to the piping.

If so, get some expanding foam and fill in the area directly next to the pipe. It won’t take long, and even a novice DIY’er will be able to fix it up in no time.

4. Store Firewood Away From the House

Don’t store firewood close to your house. Even though it’s outdoors, a firewood stack is a haven for every sort of crawler and otherwise-stagnant bug on the planet.

If you don’t believe me, lift up a piece of wood that’s been in the ground for any length of time and you’ll see a cornucopia of insect life living on the underground.

The worst place for those little guys to be in is living up against your home, eating away at the lining of your house and crawling through the foundation while you sleep.

The most effective prevention technique might be the simplest one on this list: move the firewood pile.

Stack it up against the fence on the other side of the yard, invest in a firewood holder that you can place somewhere else, or, at the very least, get a bag to completely enclose it while it’s sitting in the yard.

A good rule of thumb is to keep the firewood at least five feet away from the house, and off the ground if possible.

5. Clean Up the Yard

The best way to protect your home against invaders is to use minimize the number of bugs that take up residence in your yard, which means making the whole area as inhospitable as possible.

While there’s no way to completely remove bugs or insects from your yard (nor should you, for ecological reasons), you can limit their stay by removing the tree limbs, grass clippings, shrubs, and other paraphernalia from your space.

Though they might seem innocent, these spots are a perfect home for bugs looking to stay for a few seasons.

6. Vacuum

While you most likely have some sort of regular cleaning ritual, make sure that you vacuum your floors at least once a week to get rid of the insects that have invaded your home without you knowing about.

Cobwebs in the corners, bug droppings, and food crumbs that have been left out attract bugs like, well…bugs, so eliminate their attraction to your home by keeping it neat and tidy.

7. Give Your Pets a Dining Space

Dogs and cats are fantastic to have around the home, not just for companionship, but also to keep bugs and insects at bay.

Cats, for example, will have a field day chasing around cockroaches and mosquitos, but while that may be fun to watch, there’s no way for them to get every last bug that comes into your house.

If you have a pet, remember to put their food in a bowl or on a rubber mat, at the very least, and never put it on the floor.

I have walked into many customer’s homes that have complained about an ant problem for weeks, only to find dog food sprinkled all over the house from Fido eating it in different locations.

They had a bowl, but crumbs were left everywhere, which made the house appealing to critters of all stripes. In addition to vacuuming, use a food bowl for your pets, and teach them to only eat there.

8. Fix Leaky Faucets

As mentioned before, nearly every type of bug is attracted to water, and if you have a leaky faucet, chances are you’ve noticed them congregating around the source.

But before you call a plumber to come in and fix the issue, head down to your local hardware store and grab a few tools: namely, a wrench and some vinegar.

First, turn off the water to the pipe itself and unscrew the line to the faucet. Then, remove all the parts – washer, seal, moveable parts, etc – and soak them in a bath of vinegar for a few hours.

Dry them all thoroughly, put them back on the pipe, turn on the water, and there’ll be one less problem area to contend with.

9. Keep a Dry Home

Water damage is an expensive and frustrating issue to deal with, excluding the pest problem that can come with it, so examine every inch of your house where pipes are installed to make sure none of them are leaking.

While they can crack from extreme differences in temperature, age can also be a factor, so if you have an older home, be especially vigilant.

Leaking water can cause mold damage which can be damaging to your health, and can be caused by a hole in the roof, allowing bugs and other things to fly in unnoticed.

Check the caulk around tubs and the shower to make sure everything is draining properly; if not, take the necessary steps to fix it. Even if your house doesn’t even have any standing water, bugs and insects love a moist environment.

10. Set Out Sticky Traps

Though they’re not the most attractive things to have displayed in your home, I have recommended to my customers throughout the years to use good, old-fashioned sticky traps.

The large flat ones can slide underneath your couch or bed and can do wonders in trapping every different type of pest that comes through, especially spiders and scorpions.

Sticky traps are relatively inexpensive, come in different shapes and sizes, and are perfect for placing in areas where chemical insecticides can do damage to plants.

If you’re really ambitious, you can make your own with a piece of cardstock cut to the exact dimensions you want, and coated with motor oil, petroleum jelly, or commercial-grade pest killer.

11. Keep a Clean Kitchen

There is not a quicker way to lose your appetite than to walk into your kitchen and see a line of ants (or worse!) marching across your countertops.

While sealing the hole that they came in from can be the best way to ensure they don’t find their way into your home, you can also keep them from wanting to come in by ensuring that your kitchen is clean.

That doesn’t mean you have to do a deep-clean of your kitchen every day; the simplest way is just to make sure there’s no food left out for them to be attracted to.

Cover all of your foodstuffs with closeable containers, look for spills, rinse off the dishes in the sink, and check for food that sits out that may have spoiled, like fruit and vegetables. A tiny dose of prevention can go a long way in keeping a bug-free kitchen.

12. Make a Homemade Flytrap

Similar to creating your own sticky traps, a flytrap can be placed on your countertop and attract fruit flies directly into the snare.

Not only are homemade fly traps extremely inexpensive, they are also very efficient and don’t require a ton of maintenance. Put a half-cup of apple cider vinegar into a small bowl and add a squirt of dish soap to the mixture. Stir it up, and leave it out in the open.

Just like a bug zapper, the flies will be attracted to the scent and get trapped in the concoction.

13. Practice Mosquito Management

Mosquitos are some of the most annoying pests on the planet, but they also are some of the most dangerous as well. They can transfer viruses like Zika, and since they’re so tiny, they are almost impossible to see until they’ve already bit you.

As a pest control management specialist, these are some of my most common complaints.

Unfortunately, there’s no single sure-fire way to rid your life of mosquitos, but there are a lot of smaller things you can do that will add up over time.

For instance, get rid of all the standing water that you find in your home and yard. Mosquitos, like most bugs, love the moist environment that standing water provides, so make sure you eliminate as much as you can.

Use citronella candles and dump some citronella into your sunscreen to prevent mosquito bites when working outside.

Another enemy of mosquitos is garlic, so place as much of that as you can around the house to deter pests, and use fans as well.

The one thing mosquitos can’t stand is air forcibly moved around the room, so the more fans you have operating – even out on the porch – the better.

If you can apply these 13 tips to bug-proof your home, you may avoid the need for a professional service to treat your space. However, if you find signs of pest infestations, give us a call and we will provide an inspection to identify the root cause, as well as treat the infestation. You can find more information on our pest control services HERE.

CleanStart Property Services offers large-scale moving coordination and execution services as well as single residential moves, it is easier to declutter before a move, as this way you will only bring the belongings you need to the new space. Our friends at Moving.com wrote an article on how to declutter before moving. You can find the full article here: https://www.moving.com/tips/how-to-de-clutter-before-moving-day/

Moving an overstuffed junk drawer or closets full of stuff you didn’t even know you owned doesn’t make sense. If you move yourself, you’ll have to pack and schlep all those extra things; and if you hire a moving company, you’ll pay more to move junk you won’t want in your new place.

To keep moving day as inexpensive and stress-free as possible, declutter your life before you start packing.

Give Yourself Time

Don’t wait until the day before the movers arrive to decide what to pack and what to get rid of. Instead, plan at least two weeks in advance. Mark out a few hours a day to tackle a different room or closet in your home. By working in smaller chunks, you won’t be tempted to just throw it all in boxes and be done with it.

Use Extras

If you stockpile household goods and toiletries such as toilet paper or shampoo, start using up the excess now so you’ll have less to bring with you. If you run out, buy a smaller size to get you through the move.

Start a Necessities Box

An essentials box includes everything you’ll need the day you move in, such as a roll of toilet paper, a box cutter, a hammer and nails. Mark the box and keep it with you while you move so you can dive right in without digging through all your boxes looking for a necessity.

Leave the Mementos for Last

It’s easier to get rid of a set of sheets you never liked than something with sentimental value. Leave the harder decisions for last, such as what to do with unused but sentimental gifts, so you don’t get frustrated with de-cluttering.

Use Three Boxes

For every room you tackle, bring three boxes – one for stuff you’ll keep, one for stuff to throw away, and one for stuff to donate or sell. As you go through closets and drawers, drop each item into one of the three boxes.

Employ the Practicality Test

If you’re not sure you should keep or donate something, ask yourself – honestly! – if you’ll use it. For example, set a time limit for clothes. If you haven’t worn something in a year, you probably won’t wear it again, so put it in the donate box. With sheets, towels or kitchen utensils, check for duplicates. While it might be nice to have three sets of sheets, one or two will do. Same goes for hand towels and spatulas.

Check Expiration Dates

Odds are good your bathroom or pantry contains a few items past their prime. Before you pack anything, check for an expiration date or think back to when you bought it. Spices can last for years but lose potency after six months or so. If you’ve have had that spice jar for a while, open it and smell the contents. If you don’t get a strong whiff of the spice, the jar can be tossed. In the bathroom, many makeup products such as mascara and concealer expire after a year. While it won’t harm you to use old makeup, this is a good time to toss products you haven’t worn in years.

Donate or Sell

Once you’ve finished digging through every room in your home, either sell what you don’t want or donate it to charity. You’ll finally be rid of that clutter and you’ll make a little bit of cash (or a tax deduction) to help offset your moving costs.

If you need help with junk removal, pest control, cleaning and/or moving services, give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or you can book your free estimate through our website. 

CleanStart Property Services has served the Lower Mainland of BC for over ten years providing junk removal, hoarding cleanup, pest control, cleaning and moving services. We often remind our customers of the potential risks of junk around the home, and our friends at Nova Junk wrote an article on this exact topic, you can find the full article here: https://www.novajunk.com/04/the-potential-risks-of-junk-around-your-home/

It’s a scene made popular in many movies and TV shows. Homeowners have a closet that is so full of stuff that every time someone opens it, that person is engulfed by all the items that fall out. While this can be a funny moment, even in real life, there are risks to people when junk has begun to overwhelm a house. It doesn’t mean that person is a hoarder, but even a small amount of junk can create risks.

Look around your home and decide if some of these items you no longer use are not just in the way, but potential health risks. Here are some common issues we’ve come across.

OBSTACLE COURSES AROUND THE HOME

If you’re like many homeowners, it’s easy once something breaks down or is no longer used to either haul it to the attic, take it downstairs or haul it out into the garage. This is fine if you have just a few things, but over time these items can build up. Then when you need something from the attic, such as your Christmas decorations, you have to work through all this junk to get to them. It doesn’t take much for someone to trip over these items and end up celebrating the holidays with a twisted ankle or bruised knees or possibly something worse.

Old appliances have their own risks. Most people know the dangers of having an old refrigerator around, particularly when young children are present. But what about that appliance with the frayed cord. What if someone isn’t aware of this and plugs it in.

Over time a homeowner may have painted a number of their rooms over the years and all these paint cans have accumulated. While it makes sense to keep the current color of paint for a room, the paint that isn’t used anymore should be properly disposed. Same for any chemicals around the house. Don’t just toss them into the trash can or set them out thinking the trash man will pick them up. You need to know what your city requires for old paint and chemicals to be properly disposed of.

CLEANING UP THE YARD

Is there an old swing set that no longer is used, but has become rusted and broken down? It only takes once for someone to scratch themselves on rusted metal for them to get an infected cut. Or that old hot tub that now lies neglected and full of rain water. This could be a health hazard in a number of ways. Like a broken swing set, a metal shed that barely stands could either fall on someone or cut them. Old grills, broken lawn chairs, and rusted bikes can also be potential hazards.

Another problem with simply piling up the junk outside is that it can become home for rodents. They’re looking for places in which to take shelter. Then when someone goes near the junk, the animal can become defensive and attack.

GET RID OF YOUR JUNK ALL AT ONCE AND AVOID BACK PAIN

Now that you understand the risks of your junk, it’s time to do something about it. You can haul it out to the curb and schedule a time with the sanitation department to have it removed. Or you load up a vehicle and haul it yourself, although this can take several trucks and leave your vehicle looking dirty. And be careful that you don’t hurt your back as you carry the heavy items. The easiest way is to have a junk removal company come and haul it away at your convenience. You don’t even have to haul it out to the curb, but simply point out where it is and they can do all the heavy lifting.

If you need help with your junk removal needs book an estimate through our website or give us a call at 1-855-297-8278.

What is Hoarding?

It’s estimated that between 1.5-6% of the Canadian population has a hoarding problem. It is important to note that there are many reasons that an individual might exhibit hoarding behaviors, whether it be the result of mental illness or comorbidity, or the result of Hoarding Disorder. Hoarding Disorder is defined as “persistent difficulty with letting go of possessions, even those without value to an outside observer” (Toronto Hoarding Support Services Network). This blog while attempt to explain why we need the Clutter Image Rating Scale, and what the Clutter Image Rating Scale is, as it relates to hoarding. 

What is the Clutter Image Rating Scale And How To Use It

In our experience providing junk removal and hoarding support services, everyone has a different definition of a cluttered home or space. Some may think a couple piles of clothes in a bedroom is a cluttered space, while others may not be able to move around their apartment freely due to piles of belongings 6 feet high. For this reason, it is important to have universally recognized definitions of the level of clutter in a space, as severe hoarding can endanger the tenant and the building at large. There are tools available to assess the severity of hoarding, and the Clutter Image Scale is a commonly used tool to determine and communicate a universally understood level of clutter. 

The Clutter Image Rating Scale (see above) is a series of photographs in a grid pattern 3 images wide and 3 images deep (totaling 9 images) showing different rooms in a home. The first image is a perfectly tidy space, and each image after has more clutter than the prior. Each photo has a number attached. A clutter image scale 1 means perfectly tidy, and a clutter image scale 9 means severely hoarded to a very dangerous level. When a homeowner, tenant, support worker or building manager is assessing the level of clutter, they will attempt to match the space to the photo that is the most similar. This requires a bit of discretion, however serves as a great starting point. 

In general, any space that is a #4 or higher, begins to degrade the quality of life and safety of the tenant and it is recommended that they seek help for their hoarding behaviors. When communicating with mental health professionals, the fire department and/or hoarding support services, it is helpful to give the level of clutter determined through this scale to communicate the severity. This is a helpful starting point to assess how best to help the individual reduce the level of clutter in their space.  

Difficult Done Right: CleanStart Offers Compassionate and Discrete Hoarding Support Services

If you or someone you know is struggling with hoarding and/or large amounts of clutter in their space, give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or book a free estimate through our website. We can help you determine the correct course of action, and provide a free estimate for our junk removal, pest control, and/or extreme cleaning services. 

More Resources:

http://www.philadelphiahoarding.org/resources/Clutter%20Image%20Rating%20Scale.pdf

https://www.torontohoardingnetwork.ca/what-is-hoarding/#:~:text=It’s%20estimated%20that%20between%20one,population%20has%20a%20hoarding%20problem.

https://www.hoardingconnectioncc.org/Hoarding_cir.pdf

CleanStart Property Services offer hoarding cleanup, pest control, sanitization and extreme cleaning services, as there are often multiple stages to a hoarding clean-out. We are often asked if hoarding leads to an insect invasion, and our friends at Exterminateur wrote a great article on this exact question, you can find the full article here: https://eexterminateur.ca/en/blog/can-compulsive-hoarding-lead-to-insect-invasion/

Compulsive hoarding is a relatively unknown and uncommon disease with real implications. Only 2 to 6% of the population is reported to be affected. While some compulsive hoarders live in a somewhat orderly chaos, others live in an environment where the clutter would make most people unwell. Beyond the “simple” hoarding of items, what other consequences can this compulsion have? More specifically, does it promote insect infestation?

How Does Compulsive Hoarding Develop?

A person suffering from this compulsion is incapable of throwing away the items he or she accumulates. Belongings are collected to the point that a living space can no longer fulfill its basic function. As a result, the person’s apartment or house is no longer used for daily living but rather to store the things he or she collects. As things pile up, the person’s life deteriorates to the point where they can no longer function.

The Consequences of Collecting Emerge

Serious problems occur as soon as the clutter becomes excessive. Soon, the hoarder piles up so many items that it becomes impossible to move them. In doing so, they can no longer clean the place they inhabit. Mould starts to appear, as well as the risks of falling and fire, which increase considerably. But, above all, the problem is as follows: pest infestations appear because liquids, food and waste that pile up and accumulate on the ground can no longer be cleaned.

Insect Invasion can be a Consequence of Compulsive Hoarding

Deteriorating hygienic conditions greatly encourage insects to invade. A bug infestation caused by compulsive hoarding can therefore quickly become a health hazard. Some pests carry dangerous diseases, such as West Nile virus or Lyme disease. The increased presence of these pests therefore increases the risk of contamination. Similarly, other insects, such as cockroaches, can contribute to the development of asthma and allergies in children.

Easy to Hoard, Hard to Clear

The unhealthy conditions that result from compulsive hoarding therefore pose a threat to the health of the hoarder and his or her family and friends, since the risks of contagion associated with insect infestations are very real. Effective planning of the cleaning process should be undertaken quickly when such a problem arises. However, this decontamination must not be treated like a routine clean-up. Insects can disperse if their habitat is disturbed and they may bite the person in charge of cleaning. These potential bites and stings can contain venom or other bacteria.

A Pest Decontamination Expert to your Rescue

Compulsive hoarding is a disease that leads to highly unhealthy conditions. As a result, insects will quickly settle in this type of area and colonize it in large numbers. Soon, the area will be overrun and it will become their territory. Since a basic cleaning of the cluttered space is far from enough, hiring a decontamination/sanitization and/or extreme cleaning service is essential. Only an expert can eliminate any potential danger. For more information on our hoarding cleanup and pest control services see here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/junk-removal/hoarding-cleanup

CleanStart Property Services provides discrete and compassionate hoarding support services. We often get questions on hoarding, and our friends at Clutter Trucker wrote an awesome article on the 5 stages of hoarding. You can find the full article here: https://cluttertrucker.com/5-stages-of-hoarding/

Some psychological disorders are very difficult for the average individual to understand. If someone isn’t being victimized by one of these disorders, it’s hard for them to understand how certain disorders lead to certain behaviors like hoarding.

The act of hoarding is sometimes troubling to witness. It begs a couple of questions, why would anyone have so much difficulty discarding things that would be considered garbage in the eyes of others? Why do some people feel the need to accumulate large amounts of food and merchandise when using it all would be a hard thing for anyone to do?

The best way to explain a hoarding disorder is to simply provide information about the disorder. In that spirit, the following information is going to focus on the 5 stages of hoarding disorders. Hopefully, this will answer questions you might have about the progression of hoarding disorders.

What are the 5 Levels of Hoarding?

Through research, the mental health community has identified 5 levels of hoarding that seem to offer support for a full hoarding disorder diagnosis. Here are those 5 levels of hoarding:

Stage 1: Onset of Obsession to Not Dispose of Certain Items

Regarding the 5 stages of hoarding, the first level of a hoarding disorder can be rather subtle. It’s characterized by the individual starting to show signs of having a reluctance to discard things that need discarding or the desire to start accumulating merchandise for their future use. In the case of pet hoarding, the hoarder will be actively seeking more pets to bring into the home.

The effects on the home environment of the hoarding sufferer will also be subtle. It might start with a few cabinets that are filled to capacity or a stack of stuff in a corner of a room. The only ones who would notice these kinds of signs are people who are acutely familiar with the hoarder’s home environment and take notice of things starting to accumulate. It’s a warning sign that loved ones and friends should take to heart.

Stage 2: The Residence Starts to Show Signs of the Hoarding

By the time a hoarding sufferer hits the second stage, the home will start to really show signs of the individual’s hoarding. The stacks of trash and merchandise will start to spill over into entryways and walkways throughout the home. There will be no sense of organization as things are likely to be strewn all over the home.

As the trash and or merchandise accumulates at this level, the hoarding sufferer will typically stop any efforts to clean or straighten up the home. Odors will set in, especially if garbage and animal excretions start to accumulate. The dirt and filth will be palpable enough that the hoarder will reject the idea of visitors coming to visit. Should visitors enter many of these homes, the signs of the hoarding will serve to alarm most reasonable individuals.

Stage 3: Clutter Spreads Outside the House as Items/Trash Accumulate

At some point, the hoarding will start to spill over to the outside of the home. This is effectively the third stage of hoarding. It also provides public notice that something is not right in the home where trash is accumulating in sheds, garages, and around the yard.

Inside the home, home spaces will typically become unusable or inhabitable. Appliances in the kitchen could be broken and unusable. That could include major appliances like refrigerators, and heating and air conditioning systems. The odor around the home will become noticeable outside the home. Trash will start accumulating inside and outside the home to the point that rodents and insects come calling, often resulting in infestations.

Stage 4: Residence Starts to Show Signs of Structural Damage

After six months to a year of hoarding behavior, the hoarder’s home often becomes subject to structural damage issues. That could include repulsive odors, mildew, broken windows and doors, water damage along the baseboards and into the walls, exposed electrical wiring that creates a fire hazard, and much more. Outside the home, the accumulation of garbage and sewage could lead to problems with the neighbors.

At this level of a hoarding disorder, the hoarding sufferer might also start showing the personal effects of their behavior. Their hygiene will suffer from unkempt clothing and body odor. This often results in the hoarding sufferer avoiding leaving the home as a means of avoiding public scrutiny. Also, there could be a noticeable change in their mental and physical health.

Stage 5: Structural Damage Becomes Severe

By far, level 5 is the most severe level. The effects of the hoarding will typically create major issues for the individual and in and around the home.

The structural damage in and around the home will typically progress to the point that the home presents environmental hazards. The rodent and insect infestation could jeopardize the entire neighborhood. Faulty wiring and clogged sewer systems could result in fires and floods. Finally, there could come a point when the home becomes uninhabitable to the point that living there could threaten the health of the people who take up residence in the home.

If you or a loved one are starting to show these 5 stages of hoarding, there are treatments available to deal with a hoarding disorder.

For more information on CleanStart’s hoarding cleanup services click here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/junk-removal/hoarding-cleanup

 

CleanStart Property Services serves everywhere from Squamish to Hope – we help our clients with single-item removals, to multiple day hoarding cleanouts. Our clients often wonder when junk removal becomes a hoarding cleanout. Our friends at Junk Kings wrote an awesome article on this exact topic. You can find the full article here: https://info.junk-king.com/when-junk-removal-becomes-a-hoarder-cleanout

Most everyone loves to fill their homes with things. And when it gets to be too much, junk removal is needed. But sometimes, it may be a sign of hoarding.

Hoarding disorder is a real and serious condition that afflicts close to six percent of Americans. And it is more destructive than most people realize.

Hoarding Disorder: Far More Than Being Disorganized and Cluttered

Many of us can recall seeing stories in the media about an unfortunate person, living alone, who was found deceased in their home under piles of newspapers or boxes. While this may strike some as the stuff of gossip tabloids that specialize in outrageous headlines, it is a tragic reality for many people.

An article from the Washington Post relates,

“Studies show that compulsive hoarding affects up to 6 percent of the population, or 19 million Americans, and it has been found to run in families. The rate is twice that of obsessive-compulsive disorder, the condition under which hoarding was listed until 2013 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the bible of the American Psychiatric Association.”

Today the Association’s latest version now categorizes hoarding disorder as a separate mental illness.

While the tendency to accumulate stuff is often rooted in our culture of over consumption and buying things, it’s not the cause of hoarding. And, more recently, it has become a growing concern among social workers, psychologists, fire marshals and public-health officials.

Also, keep in mind that hoarding is quite different from merely living amid clutter, according to mental health experts. The good news for many of us is that you can have a messy house and even be a “pack rat” and not suffer from compulsive hoarding behavior.

The difference is one of degree and compulsion. Hoarding disorder causes issues and problems for the individual and can disrupt their emotional, physical, social, financial or legal well-being.

That being said, it is still possible for otherwise mentally and emotionally healthy individuals to let themselves get caught up in collecting, storing, and keeping far more things than they need or have room for.

The result can be a home that is now unsafe, difficult to keep clean, and that contributes to a long list of issues that come with overwhelming clutter and crowded living space.

For those folks, what might seem to them to be simply a matter of “getting rid of some stuff” can really be akin to a full house cleanout or, as we sometimes refer to it, a hoarder cleanout.

Got Junk? No Worries! One Call to Make It Disappear

One of the major distinctions between being simply overwhelmed with too much junk and clutter, and suffering from an actual mental condition of compulsive hoarding, is the ability to make the call to get rid of the junk.

The Washington Post story we referred to previously goes on to quote Michael Tompkins, a San Francisco psychologist and the author of “Digging Out: Helping Your Loved One Manage Clutter, Hoarding and Compulsive Acquiring.”

“Unlike some other mental-health disorders, many people with hoarding do not seek treatment. They don’t recognize the consequences of their condition or the fact that it affects other people in their apartment building and community.”

The rest of us look around and realize we’ve got to get a handle on the clutter and get rid of the junk that’s taking up so much space in our homes. In other words, we know when we need junk removal service.

Decluttering, of course, requires a bit more than simply calling in a junk hauling crew. 

Not everything is junk and not everything needs to go. So, a large amount of unstacking, sorting, separating, and categorizing needs to take place first. Some often difficult decisions must be made regarding what is going to stay and what needs to go. 

And with those things that are designated as “needs to go” items, a further decision should be made as to what can be gifted or donated, and what is truly only fit for the junk removal team. 

Not everyone is fully capable of making these decision or distinctions, no matter how mentally or emotionally healthy they are. Some folks are often gripped with a mild yet debilitating inability to “let go” of things or they are just deeply resistant to giving up any of their belongings.

But go it must and having a trusted friend or family member coming in to assist with the decluttering phase of the cleaning project can be incredibly helpful and liberating.

And because not everyone has a truck, or easy access to one, trying to take care of large amounts of junk removal can be a problem. When it’s far too much stuff to go into the garbage bin then  you’re going to need a better solution.

Or, as the man said in the famous movie, “You’re gonna to need a bigger boat!”

The Thrill is Gone – When Too Much Stuff is Just Too Much

The truth is, if your piles of junk are too much for you to deal with then it’s time to get rid of them. But no one needs to hurt themselves moving and lifting old, unwanted furniture, used mattresses, or large bags of unwanted household items.

And, depending on where you live and the time of year, trying to fulfill the role of a professional junk hauler can be quite difficult and problematic. 

Inclement weather and shorter days can make any kind of junk removal tasks miserable and even dangerous. If you live out in a somewhat remote rural area, getting to a waste transfer station – assuming you’re even near any – or a local landfill can be a challenge. 

And as we already noted here, without a truck to load and transport your piles of junk items, the whole enterprise can become little more than just moving your clutter and junk from one space in your home to another. 

Whether you are decluttering your home, or maybe you’re relocating your business, or even renovating a new home before you move in, junk removal services can help complete the cleaning phase of your project.

Many times, the biggest obstacle when trying to clear out space in your existing home (or office!) is figuring our how you’re going to get rid of all the junk. You know – all the excess stuff that you neither want nor need, but also items that you don’t know how to dispose of yourself.

Which is why we specialize in providing junk removal solutions.

After a simple call, our expert junk removal team will come to your home and pick up/haul off anything and everything you need removed.

The process is easy and our pricing is transparent and fair. Unlike many other junk removal companies, we charge by the amount of space your junk takes up in our truck, not by weight.

If you have questions about what we can do for you, give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or you can book a free estimate here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/book-now

CleanStart Property Services offers single-item removals, like for situations when you need to get rid of your big screen T.V. Our friends at Junk Kings wrote a great article on the best approach for responsible T.V. disposal. You can find the full article here: https://www.junk-king.com/locations/indianapolis/2022/11/17/the-best-approach-for-responsible-tv-disposal/

Are you replacing your old TV? This is the time of year when you can always find a great deal on a new TV. Maybe you want to go with a bigger screen? Perhaps you want a smart TV? Whatever the choice, the minute you bring that new TV into the home, the old TV becomes obsolete. That is not something you can sell. If you can’t use it in another room, then there is no reason to hold onto that old TV. Thankfully, there is an easy way to dispose of that old TV. That would be to hire the junk hauling professionals who know exactly how to dispose of an old TV the responsible way.

Recycling Drop-Off

An old TV is considered e-waste. That means it cannot be tossed out into the trash. Instead, it must be dropped off at a recycling center that can take it apart and recycle each component. That is the kind of drop-off that CleanStart can help with. Since CleanStart began collecting rubbish, they have been dedicated to an eco-friendly approach for disposal. That is especially important with e-waste.

If all you wanted to get rid of were that old TV, then the CleanStart session would be over in a matter of minutes. You would also find yourself paying the low end of the price still. That is because CleanStart charges a flat rate, our single-item removal charge. One TV is not going to take up a lot of space! However, if you want to add items to the truck, that will not be a problem for our crews. This is your chance to get rid of all your unwanted stuff.

The responsible way to dispose of your old TV is to turn it over to CleanStart Property Services. Book your removal session today: https://cleanstartbc.ca/book-now

 

An important aspect of our junk removal services here at CleanStart is recycling and/or donating items whenever possible. Our friends at Conserve Energy Future wrote a fantastic article outlining 30 items you didn’t know you could recycle. Find the full article here: https://www.conserve-energy-future.com/30-amazing-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-recycle.php

Recycling is an important practice for the environment. At the same time, this is an activity that protects the future. Finding the things that are recyclable is important for daily life. Residents can utilize this information in order to clean and organized their homes. This is also good information for business owners, as well. Recycling keeps the community clean and makes way for the production of a vast array of other materials.

1. Carpet.

If you’re planning to buy new carpet for your home, just don’t throw away the old carpet. Instead, find a carpet reclamation facility to take it away for recycling. Their mission is to advance market-based solutions that increase landfill diversion and recycling of post-consumer carpet, encourage design for recyclability and meet meaningful goals. Alternatively, if you know the name of your company that manufactured your carpet, you can check if they offer any recycling programs.

2. Batteries.

Not all batteries may fit into this category. Rechargeable batteries can be recycled, along with single-use versions. You can contact your recycling center to find out the parameters for batteries. This is a good option for businesses, as well.

3. Cardboard Boxes.

These items officially fit into the paper category, but can be recycled in creative ways. Moving companies and businesses sometimes reuse these boxes. Other companies shred them and utilize them for shipping protection.

4. CD’s.

Many people still own a large number of CD’s. When these discs become scratched or chipped they are usually thrown away. It is not necessary to discard of them though. They can be recycled and repurposed into other materials.

5. Clothing.

Some recycling companies focus on clothing instead of other materials. These types of items can be reused in creative ways. They may also be recycled for other purposes. There are various components included in the average top, pants and other pieces of apparel.

6. Clothing Dryers.

Clothing dryers are another big appliance that can be recycled. There are materials used to produce these machines that are recyclable. Many of the components that make dryers operate can be repurposed, as well.

7. Fluorescent Light Bulbs.

One of the surprising items included in the recycling category are fluorescent light bulbs. Many recycling companies prefer the compact version of these items. IKEA is one popular company that actively collects these bulbs for recycling purposes.

8. Bio-Plastics.

There are bio-plastics that are also considered to be good for composting. It is possible to use these in household composts. Contacting your individual city is a great way to find out how these materials are to be recycled. You may even discover a community need for them.

9. DVD’s.

Old DVD’s don’t have to be thrown into your regular household garbage. These are discs that can also be recycled. There are a variety of manufacturers that utilize these materials. They can be used in combination with other components to make a lot of items.

10. Ink Cartridges.

You may purchase ink cartridges for your home or business office. These are components that are used for copying and printing activities. The cartridges can be recycled. Many office supply companies around the country provide customers with benefits for recycling their ink cartridges.

11. Computers.

You may never have considered all of the parts that go into manufacturing a computer. There are many different components that can easily be recycled. Contacting your city’s recycling program is a good first step. They will inform you of the best way to recycle your home computer or personal laptop.

12. Eyeglasses.

Once you’ve broken a pair of glasses, what can you do? You can recycle these items. The different parts of the glasses can be repurposed. The lenses, plastic frames and nose protectors fit into this recycling category. A local optometrist will be able to inform you about good ways to recycle eyeglasses.

13. Shredded Paper.

Many offices regularly shred important documents and materials. Since this is a paper product it can be included with your household or office recycling. There are many unique uses for this paper. Some companies’ process shredded paper into other paper products offered on green markets.

14. Game Discs.

Game discs often break and are scratched. This causes them to not function properly. Instead of putting them into the garbage, you can recycle them. These discs are made from materials that can be utilized for electronics manufacturing. City recycling offices typically have information about disposal of these.

15. Motor Oil.

When you take your vehicle for a motor oil change, what happens to the oil? In most instances, it is stored and processed for recycling. Individuals, who change their own vehicle’s oil, can recycle too. Most cities and towns have guidelines related to how to collect and recycle motor oil products.

16. Home Electronics.

Looking around the average home, you will discover a vast array of electronics. These are items that can be reused in many ways. There are various industries that function by repurposing electronics. It is important to recycle these properly. Calling local recycling companies for information is important.

17. Cell Phones.

Most people have a collection of dated cell phones in a closet. In some cases, these are phones that are several years old. Surprisingly, each of these has value in particular manufacturing markets. These are items, however, that must be recycled in a specific way. Find out local details and guidelines.

18. Packing Materials.

Whenever you receive a shipped product, you see various types of packing materials. Plastic bubbles, Styrofoam bits and paper are included in this process. Each of these packing materials can be repurposed in a different way. You’ll be environmentally friendly by recycling them when possible.

19. Sports Equipment.

You may have a variety of sport equipment items in your home. Plastic mats, yoga balls and metal weights are just a few of these. It is possible to recycle all of these items. There are sports industry companies that actively participate in these recycling programs.

20. Toothbrushes.

Toothbrushes are some of the most common daily-use items in the home. Instead of throwing these away when you buy a new one, consider recycling. There are different components of these products that can be recycled. The plastic holder and bristles have a variety of other uses when repurposed.

21. Athletic Shoes.

Would be amazed to find out exactly what goes into the product of athletic shoes. Some of these have most plastic components. Others include nylon, cotton, metal and other items. No matter what the style or shape, men’s and women’s athletic shoes can be recycled.

22. Shaving Razors.

Replacing shaving razors is simply a habit in most households. Recycling these items, however, is not always a habit. Their metal composition makes them valuable for any number of industries. In most instances, they can be recycled along with regular home items.

23. Commercial Cooking Oil.

Many restaurants regularly recycle their commercial cooking oil. Fast food restaurants use the most of these oils. There are entire industries built upon research utilizing these diverse oils. Companies in this field welcome getting access to this oil for development processes.

24. Construction Wood.

There are many different types of wood that is used in construction. These are utilized in both residential and commercial processes. Old wood in this category can be recycled. There are various purposes for wood products and items.

25. Fertilizers.

Fertilizers used in the garden go a long way for producing flowers and vegetables. These products can also be recycled. This is a good idea for homeowners who use these fertilizers. Farms and other large operations can also recycle their bulk fertilizer products.

26. Bicycles.

Americans send millions of bicycles to trash every year. With organizations such as Bikes of the World available, there is no reason why you should discard your old bicycle. The mission of Bikes of the World is to make quality used bicycles and parts affordable and available to lower income people and select institutions in developing countries, to enhance their lives and livelihoods through better transport.

27. Crayons.

Crayola  alone produces millions of crayons per year.  The National Crayon Recycling Program has made it possible to stop more than 105,000 pounds of unwanted crayons from going into landfills with the help from schools, organization educators and kids across this country.  It takes your unwanted, rejected, broken crayons to a better place, where they will be recycled into new crayons!

28. Wine Corks.

Corks can be used for decorations in your home but then there are organizations like ReCORK  that collects post-industrial and post-consumer natural corks and recycles them. These waste corks can be used to create more sustainable products.

29. Holiday Lights.

We all use holiday lights to decorate our homes and in the end they find their way to the landfills when they no longer work. Instead of sending them to garbage, recycle them. HolidayLeds is one such company that will take away your dead, non-working lights. The lights will be processed and any material that cannot be recycled (i.e. loose bulbs)is discarded.  Once substantial number of sets are collected, they are taken to a 3rd party recycling facility.

30. Christmas Tree.

Old Christmas trees are becoming another item that find their place in the trash once the festival gets over. Tree recycling programs are becoming more common throughout the U.S. and old trees are being used for bird feeders to soil erosion barriers.

If you want to review our environmental practices at CleanStart, you can find more information HERE and to book any of our services (junk removal, pest control, cleaning or moving click HERE.

CleanStart Property Services specializes in compassionate and discrete hoarding support services. We often get questions from residential tenants, family members and support workers on how to prepare for a hoarding cleanout. Our friends at Flannery’s Handyman wrote a great article about this very topic. You can find the full article here: https://www.flanneryhandymen.com/preparing-for-a-hoarding-cleanout/

Preparing for a hoarding cleanout is an emotional experience. It is difficult to watch your loved one suffer from an anxiety disorder. Furthermore, its effect can make the process of sorting through belongings nearly impossible. As you prepare to clean out the home, make sure you are following the three steps.

1. Talk to the Hoarder

Regardless of the level of clutter in a room, you will need to take some time to address the individual with a hoarding problem. Explain how cleaning will improve their quality of life and reduce their level of anxiety. This will require a certain level of trust to be built between you and the hoarder. They will need to be sure that you have their best interests at heart and will not dispose of anything containing true sentimental value. You will need to discuss the importance of getting professional help to treat their disorder.

2. Strategize Cleaning

Before beginning the home cleanout, hire a company specializing in hoarding cleanouts. They will be trained in the proper cleaning and safety protocol. The team will be able to help determine what items are salvageable and if items of great value can be thoroughly disinfected. Professionals will also be able to properly clean sharp shards of glass and animal waste that has accumulated over time. They will bring the necessary safety equipment and cleaning supplies to the scene.

3. Sort Belongings & Disinfect the Property

After everyone is assembled, it will be time to begin sorting items into distinct piles. Items with emotional value to keep, gently-used items to donate, and items to throw away. It will be easier to go room-by-room, starting with smaller areas. As you go through, make sure you have designated areas for clean items to keep, as well as a dumpster for trash. Once each room is completely clear of its contents, the team can begin cleaning the floors, walls, and windows and disinfecting each surface. This will improve the air quality in the home and remove all dirt and accumulated grime.

If you or someone you know is struggling with clutter or hoarding, book a free estimate through our website at https://cleanstartbc.ca/book-now or give us a call at 1-855-297-8278. You can find additional information about our hoarding services here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/junk-removal/hoarding-cleanup

Feeling overwhelmed in your home after the busy holiday season? CleanStart offers a wide range of cleaning services in the Lower Mainland. We help our clients with junk removal, cleaning and pest control services. Our friends at Bliss Maid Service wrote an awesome article explaining why winter is the best time to clean out your home. You can find the full article here: https://blissmaidservices.com/6-reasons-why-winter-is-the-best-time-to-clean-your-house/

Cold weather usually means people spend more time indoors than ever. It’s important that your home is clean, well maintained, and decluttered in order to keep it attractive and inviting. Rather than waiting until spring to deep clean and declutter your home, consider the benefits of a deep cleaning during the winter each year. Why? Because first of all you have more time indoors, so why not make it productive and create a pleasant atmosphere to come home to. Next, you’ll be ready for holiday party hosting with minimal cleaning effort if you’ll tackle the big jobs in early winter. And finally, you’ll have better peace of mind and emotional balance when your home is decluttered, cleaned, and organized.

We understand how busy people can sometimes bump a deep cleaning down their “to do” list. Everyone knows that the less clutter you have sitting around in your home, the less objects there are to collect dust. But not many people are huge fans of taking the time to organize and declutter their space, or clean things like their refrigerator coils.

Exchange spring cleaning for winter or holiday cleaning, and enjoy the time indoors during the winter months. Here are some reasons why winter is the best time to clean your home:

1. It provides a healthy living space for you and your family.

When winter calls for our windows to stay closed and heaters to run regularly, indoor air quality decreases. When you deep clean your home in the winter, less dust accumulates, and you have a healthier home in which to live. Simply changing your furnace filter on a scheduled basis will also decrease the dust in your home, improve the air quality, and provide healthier indoor living. And your furnace will thank you, because keeping up with the filter changes will help your furnace run more efficiently.

2. Boost your mood even during dreary winter days.

An organized, clean home promotes an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. It lifts the emotional state of most people to simply come home to a clean, clutter-free space.

3. Decrease the germs and bacteria in your home.

When you deep clean and declutter in the winter, you will decrease the possibility of multiplying germs and bacteria in your home. Are there things left out throughout your house? Find a space for everything, and then put it in its space. If you need to declutter, simply take one area of your house at a time and make piles of items to throw away, give away, and put away. You’ll be surprised at how many things you have that you don’t need. And your home will be less likely to cultivate unhealthy germs and bacteria growth.

4. Your indoor air will be cleaner.

When you deep clean in the winter, it pays off. Here are some items to clean in order to improve your overall indoor air quality:

• Dust all ceiling fans, artwork, and doors.
• Replace toilet bowl brushes.
• Disinfect all garbage cans.
• Sweep under your stove and refrigerator.
• Clean all windows.
• Clean window blinds.
• Dry clean window treatments.
• Clean all window sills.
• Vacuum under the beds.
• Replace shower curtain.

 

5. Protect your flooring.

As you clean your home this winter, create adequate space for your family to remove their shoes on the way into the house. An area just inside the door to your home that is most used will serve well for a de-mud zone. Small stones in your shoes can mar your flooring, but an indoor mat just inside the door can create a place to further remove debris from footwear. Install a boot scraper outside your door and ask everyone to use it on their way into the house.

6. Decrease the possibility of rodents and bugs in your home.

Regular cleaning of your home and periodic deep cleaning will deter bugs and rodents from coming into your home. Avoid the nuisance of bug and rodent infestation by keeping your floors clean and crumb-free. Winter is the best time to clean your house, as it is important to remember that cold weather causes pests to move indoors. 

Areas of the home to organize this winter:

Garage—Guests may not see it, but you see the clutter that’s accumulated in your garage every day. It will refresh your morning to walk through an organized garage on your way to your car.

Your closets—How much time is wasted looking for things because there is so much clutter in your closets? Take it one step at a time, and one closet at a time, but get through your home’s closets and enjoy a clutter-free life.

Kitchen—Clean out your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry. Dispose of outdated canned goods and outdated food from the refrigerator. Wipe down its interior and exterior, including the top of the fridge. Clean refrigerator coils, and save on your utility bill. (Simply unplug your refrigerator, vacuum behind it, and use a condenser coil brush or a vacuum attachment to get rid of dirt and dust.)

Clean dryer vents—Avoid the fire hazard that dirty dryer vents can cause by cleaning them out. A lint-free dryer vent diminishes the possibility of a fire hazard.

Flush sink drains—It’s refreshing to use some vinegar or baking soda with a hint of lemon juice in your drains to flush them clean. Other home remedies for a disposal include grinding ice chips in it.

 

Winter is the best time to clean your house, as it is the time of year in which you spend the most amount of time in your home. House cleaning services can simplify your life so you can live out your priorities the way you desire. If you’re unsure if regular cleanings are right for you, simply book a one-time cleaning or a deep cleaning service. For more information on our cleaning services click HERE.

Our clients are often wondering what the difference between janitorial cleaning, deep cleaning and extreme cleaning is. Our friends at New Valley News wrote a terrific article on this exact subject. You can find the full article here.

Put simply, extreme cleaning is the professional cleaning of a home or a business that requires specialist equipment, tools, and products. It typically involves high-level clean-up, decontamination, and waste removal.

Unlike ‘deep cleaning’, which is just the removal of tough-to-remove dirt and grime, extreme cleaning requires specific training and skills. It often needs an urgent response, too.

In this article, the experts break down the definitions of extreme cleaning and when it is necessary.

What Are the Different Types?

There are many situations that require an extreme clean. Here are some of the most common extreme cleaning services:

– Trauma cleaning: includes the cleaning of crime scenes, undiscovered deaths, and suicides.

– Biohazard cleaning: comprises the clean-up of biological hazards, like chemicals or bodily fluids.

– Hoarding clean-up: involves the removal of clutter from a hoarded home, as well as decontamination and sanitization.

– Drug and meth lab cleaning: covers the disposal of hazardous waste such as hypodermic needles and methamphetamine. Industry-grade equipment is also used to return the site to a safe condition.

– Sewage cleaning: this is the treatment of sewage spills. It incorporates decontamination and sanitization of the affected property.

Why You Should Never Undertake Extreme Cleaning by Yourself

Without the right gear and knowledge, you are at risk of encountering hazardous materials, diseases, and pathogens. Professionals have extensive experience and can effectively clean up the problem at hand. This should not be attempted yourself, as you could mishandle dangerous chemicals and waste, such as used needles.

This type of cleaning also involves more than just removing clutter or disposing of waste. The whole area needs to be decontaminated and sanitized to remove all traces of the problem.

How to the Find the Right Professional Cleaners

When you call in professionals, you can be sure they have the right training, gear, equipment, and experience to effectively tackle the issue.

When hiring specialists, make sure they have the services you’re seeking and the relevant qualifications in that type of cleaning.

If you would like to book an estimate for any of our cleaning services give us a call at 1-855-297-9278 or learn more about what was discussed in this article here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/cleaning/extreme-cleaning

CleanStart Property Services is the go-to property service provider for the most difficult jobs across the Lower Mainland. That means we are often helping our clients with bed bug treatment and prevention services. We often get questions on how to identify signs of bed bugs. Our friends at M&M Pest Control wrote an informative article on this topic, you can find the full article here:

https://mandmpestcontrol.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-bed-bugs/

Bed bugs are notoriously hard to identify and even harder to get rid of, especially if you live in densely populated places like Vancouver. But despite their sneakiness, it isn’t impossible for a vigilant homeowner or apartment renter to recognize the early signs of a bed bug infestation. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from these tiny, blood-sucking pests is to find and exterminate them early on — before they can reproduce and spread. This article will explain the 7 early signs of bed bugs, as well as where bed bugs hide and how to perform a simple visual inspection of your home.

7 Early Signs of Bed Bugs

These signs of bed bugs are ranked in order of how much certainty each warning sign can provide when it comes to confirming the presence of bed bugs, especially at the beginning of an infestation.

We’ll start with the least reliable sign (odors) and work our way to the most reliable sign (live bed bugs), explaining what each one means and where to look.

If you suspect that bed bugs have invaded your home, it’s well worth your time to understand and familiarize yourself with these early warning signs.

In general, these signs of bed bugs may require professional confirmation to be certain of bed bugs, but this article will give you an idea of when to seek out that professional confirmation.

#7: Odors

– An unusual, musty odor with no apparent cause

– Bed bug pheromones are often compared to the scent of raspberries, coriander, cilantro, or almonds

– A severe bed bug infestation may smell like rust, wet towels, and moldy laundry

Sometimes, the first hint that something is amiss comes from our sense of smell. If you notice an unusual, musty odor in your bedroom that doesn’t seem to originate from an obvious source — like a pile of dirty laundry — it might be an early sign of bed bugs.

Bed bugs emit “alarm” pheromones in response to being bothered or threatened. These pheromones produce certain odors that may smell slightly sweet or musty. People who have experienced it firsthand describe the smell as somewhat similar to raspberries, coriander, cilantro, or almonds.

Normally, the smell of pheromones is very faint — practically imperceptible to the human nose. Unless you’re a trained bed bug-detecting canine, your chances of noticing the raspberry-like pheromone smell from bed bugs are very low.

When you have a large number of bed bugs living together, the smell of their pheromones gets mixed together with the odor of dead bed bugs, shed shell casings, and bed bug excrement. The result is an unpleasant, rusty smell that gets worse as the infestation grows more severe.

Compared to other early signs of bed bugs, odor is typically the least reliable. That’s simply because when there are only a few bed bugs around, their odor is too faint for humans to notice. Furthermore, most people aren’t familiar with the scent of bed bugs — or a bed bug infestation — so even if you sense something, you’re likely to mistake the smell for something else.

#6: Bites

– Small, red, itchy bumps that mysteriously appear at night

– The most common places for bites are the arms, hands, and legs

– Sometimes appears as clusters of 3 or 4 bites in a line (the so-called “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” pattern)

Many people consider waking up to find mysterious insect bites as the first sign of bed bugs.

Bed bugs are considered nocturnal insects that prefer to feed on our blood while we sleep. Therefore, their bites typically appear on skin that is exposed during the night. The most common places where people get bitten are the arms, hands, and legs.

However, pest control professionals agree that bites alone are not enough to diagnose a bed bug problem. That’s because different people can react very differently to bed bug bites, so there’s no definitive way to distinguish them from other insect bites. In fact, a whopping 30% of people don’t exhibit any skin reactions at all to bed bug bites.

While everyone reacts differently, the most common symptom of bed bug bites is red, itchy bumps appearing in small clusters. Some people refer to this as the “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” pattern, which describes bed bug bites as appearing in small clusters or lines of 3 bites. But in reality, bed bug bites can also appear as single bites or in random patterns.

As a side note, bed bug bites are usually not dangerous and do not transmit any known diseases. However, some people may experience allergic reactions to certain chemicals in bed bugs’ saliva. If you’re experiencing severe itchiness, painful swelling, blisters, fever, or flu-like symptoms after being bitten, you should seek professional medical attention.

#5: Bloodstains

– Unexplained red or rust-colored bloodstains

– May appear as small splotches or smears on bedsheets, clothing, or pillows

– Double check first for other probable causes

Even though we don’t notice bed bugs when they’re feeding on us, they don’t always get away unscathed.

After a bed bug becomes engorged with blood, its original flat, seed-like appearance changes into a round, bloated form resembling a tiny football. If you suddenly move or shift your body in your sleep, you might inadvertently crush or squeeze a bed bug that just finished feeding.

While it doesn’t usually kill them, it can cause some of the blood they just fed on to leak out and create a noticeable red or rust-colored stain.

If you see something that appears to be a bloodstain on your sheets, clothes, or pillow, check your body first to see if you can find a cut or scab that might be the cause. If there’s no other explanation for the bloodstain, then it might have been left behind by an unlucky bed bug.

Sometimes, bloodstains might also come directly from bed bug bites. Bed bug saliva contains an anticoagulant that prevents blood from clotting while they feed. After they finish their meal, the bitten areas may continue to bleed for a short while.

#4: Fecal Marks

– Tiny, dark brown or black spots around the size of a pen tip

– Usually clustered around harborage areas, but can also be found on sheets and clothing.

– Dark smears on fabric resembling magic marker stains after being washed

Compared to the bloodstains that we described above, bed bug fecal marks (also called “fecal spotting”) are much smaller and darker.

These small, dark spots resemble an ink dot from the tip of a pen or marker. Their average size is about 2 to 4 times larger than a period at the end of this sentence.

Fecal marks come from bed bug droppings, which consist of digested human blood. The digested blood appears dark brown or black in color and, because it contains iron, will give off a faint, rusty smell that contributes to the overall unpleasant odor of a bed bug infestation.

Bed bug fecal spotting can occur anywhere — on sheets, pajamas, mattresses, headboards, box springs, walls, curtains, and other types of surfaces. You can usually find them in large numbers around bed bug hiding places and harborage areas.

On fabric, bed bug fecal marks can be quite difficult to wash out. Water causes them to smear in a distinctive fashion, resembling magic marker stains.  

#3: Eggs

– Pinhead-sized, pearly white ovals around 1 mm in length

– Loosely stuck to various types of surfaces

– Usually found near bed bug harborage areas

Pregnant female bed bugs lay between 1-7 eggs per day, which typically hatch in the next 7-10 days.

In terms of appearance, bed bug eggs are about 1 millimeter long, pearly white in color, and ovular in shape. They resemble tiny grains of rice that are miniaturized to the size of a pinhead.

Eggs are visible to the naked eye, but they can be difficult to recognize unless you know what you’re looking for. At the end of each egg is a hinged cap, which is where the newly hatched beg bug emerges from. Bed bug eggs that are more than 5 days old have a darkened eye spot — however, this can only be seen under a microscope.

Similar to fecal spotting, bed bug eggs are also more common around harborage areas. However, female bed bugs tend to wander around when they’re pregnant, potentially spreading the infestation to other areas as well as neighboring apartments.

When depositing their eggs, they use a glue-like material to adhere them to surfaces. As a result, you’ll most likely find these tiny, white eggs loosely stuck to crevices between fabrics or wooden surfaces — although they could really be anywhere.

#2: Shell Casings

– Yellowish-brown, translucent exoskeletons of juvenile bed bugs

– Comes in various sizes throughout the bed bug’s molting cycle

– Reliable indicators of a bed bug infestation

If you find bed bug shell casings, also known as husks or shed skins, there’s a very high probability that you have bed bugs. Abandoned shell casings are a reliable early sign of a growing bed bug infestation.

Shell casings are translucent, hollow outlines of juvenile bed bugs, and they’re often easier to find than the bed bugs themselves. They can be found anywhere that bed bugs hatch and breed — check mattress seams, upholstered furniture, and in holes, cracks, and crevices within wooden furniture.

As bed bugs go through 5 lifecycle stages before reaching adulthood, they’ll shed their exoskeleton several times. Molting is done at each step of the lifecycle, from the 1st instar nymph to the 2nd instar to the 3rd instar to the 4th instar to the 5th instar and finally to the final adult form.

The result of this process is what we call “shell casings” or “shed skins” in various sizes. This makes identifying shell casings a bit tricky because most people aren’t familiar with the sizes and shapes of bed bug nymphs.

However, if you already suspect bed bugs and you discover yellowish, translucent shells in common bed bug hiding places, then you should consider contacting your local pest control professional for an inspection.

#1: Live Bed Bugs

– Small, reddish-brown insects around the size of flaxseeds

– Prefers to hide in tight cracks and crevices

– Often confused with spider beetles, carpet beetles, and other small insects

Finally, the most obvious sign when trying to identify bed bugs: finding live bed bugs.

Normally, bed bugs don’t like to wander around unless they need to feed or unless they’re pregnant females avoiding overzealous males. Bed bugs typically tend to find a hiding place and stick to it.

For this reason, many people never see live bed bugs until the infestation becomes severe. Only when their hiding places are disturbed, like when you’re packing for a move, will live bed bugs be easily discovered.

You’d think finding a live bed bug in your home would be a smoking gun, but it’s not always that simple.

Many insects are often confused with bed bugs and vice versa. In our experience, the most common insects that people mistake for bed bugs are spider beetles, carpet beetles, and cockroach nymphs.

Another common misconception is that people think of bed bugs as being the size of apple seeds. This isn’t exactly true — bed bugs are actually quite a bit smaller than apple seeds.

An average apple seed is about 8 mm in length, while adult bed bugs are usually only 4-5 mm long (although after becoming engorged with blood, they can temporarily reach up to 7 mm). Bed bug nymphs are even smaller, starting at around 1 mm in length.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?

With their tiny, flat bodies, bed bugs can squeeze themselves into just about any crack or crevice that’s bigger than 2 millimeters. This makes it hard to identify bed bugs without a licensed professional. 

They tend to hide in the seams of mattresses, in the joints of furniture, inside cracks and crevices within walls and baseboards, and even inside electrical outlets or along the folds of curtains. These are all areas that you’ll want to thoroughly check for the early signs of bed bugs mentioned above.

From our experience as professional bed bug exterminators, here are some very common examples of bed bug harborage areas:

• Your Bed — pillows, bedsheets, mattress seams, headboards, bed frames, and box springs
• Next to the Bed — nightstands, dressers, rugs, and storage boxes
• Furniture — couches and cushions, bookshelves, tables, desks, chairs, rugs, and pet beds
• Walls — wallpaper, baseboards, window and door frames, curtains, pictures and posters, electrical outlets, and smoke alarms

 

How to Perform a Visual Inspection to Identify Bed Bugs:

To perform a simple visual inspection for bed bugs at home, you’ll need a flashlight and a thin card (could be an extra business card, playing cards, or an old credit card).

1. Examine pillows and bed sheets for fecal marks and bloodstains.
2. Remove bed sheets and check around the edges and seams of your mattress for bed bugs, shell casings, and eggs.
3. Remove the mattress and use your flashlight to search the crevices, corners, nooks, and crannies around your bedframe and headboard.
4. For any cracks that are too small to see into, slide your card inside and use the thin, rigid edge to extract any bed bugs or debris hidden inside.
5. Do the same thing to inspect nearby dressers, nightstands, and other wooden furniture. Pay attention to screw holes, which is another common hiding spot for bed bugs.
6. Pull furniture away from the walls to check the backs and baseboards.
7. Inspect couches and upholstered furniture by removing cushion covers and using your card to get into gaps and crevices.

 

Tips for How to Identify Bed Bugs

We wrote a whole article about what bed bugs look like. Here are some additional tips for how to identify bed bugs:

-Bed bugs have a narrow head and thorax with a flat, oval-shaped abdomen.

-They have 2 beady, black eyes that protrude out from the sides of their heads.

-They have 6 legs and 2 antennae. Their antennae have 4 segments and stick out from the front of their heads.

-Bed bugs have small, vestigial wing pads but they can’t fly. If it flies, it’s definitely not a bed bug.

-Adults are flat and brown/rusty colored, while nymphs are pale. Once fed, they elongate slightly and turn reddish.

-Bed bug interceptors (also called monitors or indicators) are a great tool to help catch and identify bed bugs.

Still Not Sure if You Have Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are a heavy burden to bear, and getting rid of them is a team effort. Hopefully, you now have a better idea of when to call in that team.

If you have identified bed bugs in your home or space, or if you suspect bed bugs and need confirmation/treatment, give us a call at 1-855-297-8278 or book an inspection with our licensed pest control technicians here: https://cleanstartbc.ca/book-now

After assisting tenants, social workers, fire departments and building managers with hoarded suites for over 10 years in the Lower Mainland, we at CleanStart understand that hoarding can effect more than just the individual living in the space. We often get questions on how to support friends and/or family members who struggle with hoarding. Our friends at Aftermath wrote a fantastic article outlining how to help a hoarder in denial. You can find the full article here: https://www.aftermath.com/blog/hoarding-cleanup-help-a-hoarder-in-denial/

Hoarding is a serious problem that can be hard for outsiders to understand. Many people have a hard time fathoming how their loved ones can live in such conditions—but the truth is, many hoarders don’t even realize they have a problem. Do you know how to help a hoarder in denial?

Use Love

First of all, let them know that you care about them. Because hoarding is a way of life, it can be very easy for them to interpret your help as an attack. Hoarding might be considered an integral part of who the person is; often, the cause can be traced to mental illness. Although they might still deny there’s a problem, letting them know how much you love them can help keep the issue from destroying your relationship. Start by building love and trust.

Listen

Don’t start an argument or become confrontational. A shouting match won’t change anybody’s mind. Instead, start a discussion and listen to them without interrupting. This might help you understand their mindset and the logic behind the behavior. It can also enable you to better seek outside help or therapy.

Ask Questions

During this conversation, don’t tell the hoarder what the problem is with their behavior. Instead, ask questions—the process of answering can help the hoarder analyze their own behavior and see the potential issues with it. Instead of force-feeding them the hard truth about their flaws, you help them draw their own conclusions. Questions you might ask include:

How do you feel about your house?

How do you feel when other people see your house?

Do you think the clutter hurts your family?

Would you like to be able to use the kitchen/garage/bathroom again?

Get Help

In some stubborn cases of denial, you might want to turn to professional help, even if your loved one is unwilling to seek help for themselves. This can range from simply showing them literature about hoarding, to contacting a therapist to help convince them they have a problem. Even if they are aware that the hoarding is an issue and take action on their own, professional assistance might be needed to help them navigate feelings of anxiety or depression that can emerge during the cleaning process.

Don’t Force Them

Although it may seem tempting, do not clean the house without their knowledge or permission. To a hoarder, all of their possessions—even junk—are valuable. If someone invades their house and just begins throwing those treasures away then it can lead to feelings of betrayal, depression, or anger. In many cases, they will simply begin hoarding again as a coping mechanism. It is also recommended that the house undergo a serious professional cleaning, but not until the hoarder has decided that they want to change.

CleanStart Property Services is a Buy Social Canada certified social enterprise that operates in the Lower Mainland of B.C.

There is often some confusion regarding the differences between a non-profit organization, a social enterprise and a for-profit business. Our friends at Corporate Finance Institute wrote an awesome article outlining exactly what a social enterprise is and does, you can find the full article here: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/esg/social-enterprise/

A social enterprise refers to a business with certain social objectives as its primary goal while using a commercial structure to run the organization. Social enterprises usually attempt to make a strong societal impact while maximizing their profit as well, which is then used to fund their social programs.

Summary

• A social enterprise refers to a business with certain social objectives as its primary goal while using a commercial structure to run the organization.
• All social enterprises usually adopt two main goals – the first is to generate profits, while the second is to reach its social, cultural, economic, or environmental outcomes outlined in the company’s mission.
• Some categories of social enterprises include trading enterprises, financial institutions, community organizations, and NGOs and charities.

Understanding Social Enterprises

Social enterprises can be both non-profit or for-profit organizations and may take the forms of many different types of organizations. What is common in all social enterprises is the fact that they usually adopt two main goals – the first is to generate profits, while the second is to reach its social, cultural, economic, or environmental outcomes outlined in the company’s mission.

It is important to note that social enterprises operate under the structure of a traditional business, and on the surface, they may seem to look, feel, and operate like any other traditional business. However, the key to understanding a social enterprise is to understand its mission, which outlines its key social objectives.

Profit generation is still extremely important to social enterprises, as earnings are important to sustain the livelihood of the venture but the important difference is that instead of using its profit to distribute among shareholders, the profits are used to reinvest in the enterprise to help it achieve its social mission.

We should note that social enterprises usually offer some sort of good or service to consumers at a price, it is not considered a social enterprise if it does not sell anything; instead, it instead is considered to be a social program.

Social enterprises will often have strong links to a registered charity or non-profit organization – sometimes a parent company –which feeds its profits to help better support its social mission.

Social Enterprise and Employment

An important differentiator of social enterprises is the fact that they often employ individuals coming from at-risk backgrounds and those from disadvantaged communities, such as visible minorities or indigenous groups. Often, such groups face discrimination and prejudice in society historically.

The goal of training and employing such individuals is to allow them to earn a living wage while enabling them to create self-sufficiency and rely less on government payouts and the social safety net. Sometimes, creating employment for disadvantaged individuals form the central mission of some social enterprises.

Types of Social Enterprises

Social enterprises are usually categorized into four main categories, although they are constantly evolving and may change over time as new areas are created. Despite their individual differences, all types of social enterprises attempt to operate while balancing both profit generation and the achievement of its social objectives.

1. Trading Enterprises

Trading enterprises refer to cooperatives, collectives, and other organizations that are worker- or employee-owned. They vary significantly in terms of size and organizational structure, but their joint ownership structure allows a higher degree of economic resiliency in comparison with other forms of enterprises.

2. Financial Institutions

Some types of financial institutions also fall into the social enterprise category, including organizations such as credit unions, cooperative banks, and revolving loan funds, which are membership-owned. Credit unions, for example, are structured so that members automatically become owners when they deposit money into the union as a customer and the credit union uses the deposited money to help other members.

Credit unions offer higher savings rates, low interest rates, and focus less on making profits and more on helping its respective members. Cooperative banks are another institution – which, similar to traditional banks – takes deposits and provides loans to its customers but operates on a cooperative basis meaning that they are owned by their customers.

Cooperative banks are criticized for diluting their principles, as they sometimes offer an opportunity for non-members to use their services, as many are traded on public stock exchanges. They also raise money in public stock markets, which gives rise to the issue of a separate class of shareholders who compete with cooperative members for control of the bank.

3. Community Organizations

Community organizations refer to registered social enterprises, which may include community enterprises, community centers, housing cooperatives, community interest organizations, certain smaller shops, and sports clubs.

They are typically membership organizations that exist for a particular purpose and trade commercially with the goal of operating to reinvest profits into the community. Often, the membership is quite large, and the members are supporters of the organization’s mission.

4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Charities

NGOs and charities operate on both a large and small scales and are usually established to support a specific social, environmental, or political goal. The profits are used to further the social or environmental aims of the organization or to provide salaries for people who provide free services to specific groups of people.

CleanStart Property Services offers a variety of services for very difficult spaces and situations. We often find traces of pests present while clearing out a space. It is for this reason that we offer pest control and cleaning services, along with our junk removal department. One call for all of your property clean out needs. 

If you are only interested in our pest control services (without junk removal and cleaning) it is important to prep your space so that the pest control treatment is as efficient as possible. Our friends at Ortex wrote a fantastic article outlining how to prepare your space for pest control. You can find the full article here: https://ortexpest.com/pest-control-tips/things-you-should-do-before-your-next-pest-control-treatment/

Getting pest control treatment isn’t as simple as calling your local pest control specialist and standing back to let them solve your problem. Preparing for a pest control treatment is necessary to ensure that your pest control professional can treat every area affected by the infestation. Whether you’re dealing with a severe case of bed bugs in your bedroom or a few ants in your kitchen, you need to be ready.

While a specialist will help you with pests, you’ll also need to do your part. There are several things you should do before your next pest control treatment. Here are the steps we recommend our customers take:

1. Keep Your Home and Yard Clean and Neat

When your pest control specialist comes to your house, they need to access every area of the home where pests may be hiding. Dusting, vacuuming, and keeping your home tidy will make it significantly easier for your pest specialist to move around and perform the necessary treatments. Picking up children’s and pet’s toys and removing debris will prevent pest control specialists from missing any hiding insects, as well.

Ensuring your yard is well maintained is important, too. Ensure your grass is mowed and trim any shrubs and hedges to allow access close to your house. Be sure to leave clean openings at entryways to the underside of your porch or around exterior basement doors.

Cleaning your home and yard well before your pest control treatment will also prevent the infestation from getting out of control while you wait for your specialist to arrive.

2. Take Care of Specific Preventative Cleaning and Maintenance Issues

In addition to completing general cleaning tasks around your home and yard, you’ll benefit from deeper cleaning and general maintenance to ensure bugs are reached and killed during the treatment process.

Preventative cleaning is especially useful in helping facilitate indoor pest control in bedrooms and other living areas in the home. The tasks this deep cleaning should include depend on the type of infestation. For example, if you have bed bugs or fleas, you should wash bedding and other linens in extremely hot water before receiving your pest control treatment.

With destructive pests like termites, rodents, and beetles, you’ll need to find damaged areas in and around the home and seal off holes where they can squeeze through to begin preventing any further infestations while you wait for your pest control service.

Sealing off holes prevents pests from fleeing during the treatment process and prevents others from coming back later. Repairing these areas also gives your specialist a good idea of where to leave bait or apply treatment to be most effective. Pests will return to the previous entry point and eat any food left there.

3. Remove Paper Goods and Other Attractors

Bugs love hiding in paper and cardboard. Boxes are an easy place to miss insects that are hiding. Disposing of indoor trash and all household paper goods increases the likelihood that your pest control treatment will kill hidden insects the first time around.

Food is also a significant reason why insects and other pests stay inside your home. If you are receiving fumigation treatment, you’ll need to remove food from the house if you don’t plan to store it in protective bags. You should also remove any food sitting out exposed to air and store food in cupboards and your refrigerator properly.

4. Remove Yourself, Pets, and Loved Ones From the Premises If Necessary

Depending on the type of pest treatment you are getting, you may need to remove your pets, yourself, and your family from your home. While this is always the case when it comes to termite tenting, this rule applies to pets more frequently than humans. If your pest treatment professional is treating the home’s exterior, you should keep your pet indoors and vice versa to prevent accidental poisoning.

Humans will more often than not be safe to stay during treatments such as outdoor spraying or pest trapping. All the same, you should exercise caution and give your home time to air out properly, as advised by your pest control professional. If you have pre-existing respiratory issues, it may be wise to vacate the premises during liquid or aerosol-based pest treatment for your safety.

Have you ever wondered if you or someone you love is hoarding items? Where is the line in which a cluttered space becomes a hoarded space? Furthermore, where is the line in which a hoarded space becomes dangerous to the tenant and/or their neighbors? CleanStart has been providing hoarding support in the Lower Mainland for over 10 years, and we often get these types of questions from our clients.

Our friends at Valour Technical Cleaning wrote an awesome article on this exact topic, you can find the full article here: https://valortechnicalcleaning.com/blog/clutter-vs-hoarding/

Did you know that roughly two to six percent of the population has a hoarding disorder? And yet despite hoarding being a common condition, very few people know exactly how to define it. For instance, what’s the difference between being a hoarder versus having a cluttered space?

The first step to correctly diagnosing hoarding and to start on the path to recovery is to understand the nuances that separate it from simply being disorganized. With that in mind, we’ve put together this quick guide to clutter vs hoarding, so you can identify signs early on and take action to protect the people at risk.

What is Clutter?

When a space is cluttered, it’s generally untidy, with several of the same items filling the areas. Alternatively, a cluttered space can be one that simply hasn’t been organized yet—for instance, think of when you’ve just moved into a house and need to unpack or put things away.

Examples of clutter could be a pile of clothes, unfinished artwork, open books, and or boxes that haven’t been unpacked like in the above example. In a cluttered space, it can be harder to find items but there is typically still room to move around easily. Interestingly, according to studies, removing clutter could get rid of up to 40% of housework.

In short, clutter is a nuisance but it isn’t considered harmful.

What is Hoarding?

Hoarding is a consistent inability to discard or part with belongings, whatever their value. Compared to clutter, hoarding is more extreme, with sufferers holding on to excessive amounts of items.

Hoarding behavior can develop because of a mental illness such as depression or anxiety,  or it can be triggered by a traumatic event. People who struggle to control how much they buy are already prone to hoarding, as the more they accumulate, the more they may believe that things have a sentimental value. Likewise, people who have grown up in hoarding environments, or who live with hoarders, are more likely to become hoarders themselves.

Some of the most commonly hoarded items are newspapers, junk mail, bills, household supplies, and containers. Food waste can also be hoarded. Unlike clutter, hoarding can be dangerous, as items can become hazards, and mold or bacteria can grow in unhygienic conditions.

Impact on Mental and Physical Health

Both clutter and hoarding affect how individuals think and feel. That said, hoarding is a compulsive disorder and requires medical attention.

People who hoard often report feeling stressed and anxious, and sometimes physically limited because of the lack of space. The severity of hoarding can range, but it’s worthwhile to contact a medical professional to intervene if you suspect someone of hoarding.

A mental health specialist can support people who hoard, or in extreme cases, housing agencies, protective services, elder services, and animal control may need to get involved to protect the individual.

Clutter, although not as serious as hoarding, takes a toll in different ways. One study found that too much visual stimulation alters concentration and how your brain processes information. Clutter has equally been linked to unhealthy habits, with another experiment discovering that people overeat snacks due to stress in disorganized environments.

Every person, at some point in their life, will likely make clutter or deal with clutter. But clutter is a temporary situation that can be restored in a small amount of time. Hoarding, on the other hand, is more complex and time-consuming to address. Beyond having help to tidy the physical space, people who hoard should seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening.

CleanStart Property Service offers some biohazard clean-up services, extreme cleaning services, as well as junk removal and hoarding support in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. We are often asked how to dispose of hazardous waste products, and our friends at Junk Ninja wrote this great article that answer a lot of those questions, you can find the full article here: https://junkninja.ca/how-to-dispose-of-hazardous-waste-in-ottawa/

When we hear the term “hazardous waste,” the image of large containers with big, yellow caution signs appears in our minds. Many people have the misconception that  hazardous waste can only be found in factories or specialized facilities, and that’s all thanks to the entertainment industry. Although hazardous waste can indeed be found in those large containers, you can surely find hazardous material in your own home. All homes have at least one item that can be considered dangerous, which leads us to the question of the day “ What is considered hazardous and how can we dispose of it safely?”

What Qualifies as Hazardous Waste?

Before getting into what qualifies as hazardous waste, you must understand what hazardous waste is. In the simplest terms, hazardous waste is waste with properties that make it dangerous and is capable of having a harmful effect on human health and the environment. Such waste is created from many sources and can come in liquid, solid, or gas forms. Hazardous waste is identified based on its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Using these properties, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) came up with four characteristics that can help you identify hazardous waste: ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity.

Ignitable waste burns at low temperatures, causing an immediate fire hazard. This type of waste comes in three forms: materials that burn at a low temperature, solids that spontaneously combust, and oxidizers and compressed gas. Some examples include alcohol, gasoline, and aerosol cans.

Corrosive wastes include strong acidic or alkaline substances. Any liquid that has a pH of under 2 is considered corrosive and can eat through containers, causing leakage of harmful matter. Battery acid, which is found in every household, is considered corrosive, which is why dead batteries should be disposed of safely.

Reactive waste is waste that is chemically unstable and reacts violently with air or water, causing explosions or the formation of toxic vapors. Any waste containing sulfide is considered hazardous because of how violently it reacts with oxygen. Toxic waste is poisonous and can cause severe illness, even if a person is exposed to trace amounts. This is the most common form of hazardous material that can be found in your home, some examples being solvent-based paints, cleaning chemicals, and garden pesticides.

There are symbols placed on hazardous materials that indicate whether they are reactive, corrosive, flammable, or toxic.

How to Dispose of Hazardous Waste

After living in a home for a few years, people are bound to collect a variety of materials that you don’t necessarily need anymore, some of those materials being hazardous.

Unlike the things you can simply put in a trash bin, hazardous waste disposal is slightly more complicated. If not disposed of properly, hazardous waste can be a great danger to people, animals, and the environment. Read the labels of the hazardous products. Along with the appropriate danger symbol, there may be instructions on how to dispose of the item, or at least what they can and cannot come in contact with.

After determining what you can and cannot dispose of yourself, contact your local waste management company and schedule a pickup for your hazardous material.

You will be provided with instructions on how to sort and store the items until the date of the pickup.

If at-home pick-up is not possible for you, then hazardous waste drop-off sites are also available. There is a set schedule that outlines certain days and times of the month you can come and drop off your waste.

Be sure to call ahead of time to learn the specifics and if there is certain material that is not allowed to be dropped off.

Some materials, like paint, can be donated to someone who needs them. Charities and organizations like Habitat for Humanity accept these materials and use them in their remodeling projects. Other items like fertilizer and motor oil can also be donated.

CleanStart Property Services has over 10 years of experience in junk removal and hoarding support in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. We often receive inquiries for tips on de-cluttering extreme spaces. Our friends at Aspen Clean offer some great tips! You can find the full article here: https://www.aspenclean.com/en-ca/blogs/cleaning-tips/how-to-declutter-your-home-and-stop-hoarding

Hoarding is a compulsive mental disorder associated with a pattern of behavior that makes it extremely difficult for an individual to discard their possessions. It’s often emphasized by the excessive gathering of things, and a strong unwillingness to give them up, even when living spaces are filled to the brim. This commonly results in stress, impairment, and even personal safety can become a real issue. Compulsive hoarding is also considered a feature of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD).

A good example of this habit is the popular television program Hoarders, wherein we’re continually shown the negative effects of the disorder on people’s lives, including how it contributes to family strife and tension, and the development of isolation and hermit-like qualities. Believe it or not, people can become prisoners in their own homes as a result of hoarding. While hoarding may stem from a number of psychological conditions and other societal and familial factors, the condition can be combated with the love and support of one’s family unit, as well as friends and support groups. Continue reading “5 De-Cluttering Tips for Hoarders”