Tag Archive for: Home Cleaner

How does a clean home affect your mood?

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A clean home reduces visual noise. When surfaces stay clear, and rooms feel ordered, your mind has less to process. As a result, you feel calmer and more in control.

Simple actions such as making the bed, clearing the table, or wiping kitchen surfaces can quickly improve your mood. These small accomplishments create a sense of progress, fostering positive feelings throughout the day.

Why clutter increases stress

Clutter can serve as a constant reminder of unfinished tasks, raising stress levels without you even realising it. Piles of paperwork, laundry, or overcrowded surfaces can make it difficult to relax, even when you take the time to sit down and rest.

By reducing clutter, you eliminate mental triggers. As a result, your home feels more supportive instead of demanding your attention.

Clean spaces support clearer thinking

A clean environment enhances focus and decision-making abilities. When spaces are organised, mental fatigue decreases. This is particularly beneficial for those working from home or managing a busy household.

For example, a clean kitchen streamlines daily routines, while an organised living space creates a calmer, more settled atmosphere in the evenings.

The link between cleaning and stress reduction

Cleaning provides structure. Even simple routines help shape the day, which can reduce anxiety. Knowing your home is organised allows you to relax more easily in the evening.

Consistent, gentle habits are more effective than exhaustive cleaning sessions.

Simple habits that support mental wellbeing

You don’t have to change everything at once. Instead, focus on small, manageable habits.

  • Clear one surface each day
  • Reset the living area each evening
  • Keep floors clean in high-use rooms
  • Wash bedding regularly
  • Open windows briefly for fresh air

Over time, these habits create a calmer, more supportive home.

How professional cleaning can help

When life feels busy or overwhelming, managing cleaning can be stressful. Professional cleaning support alleviates that burden, allowing your home to remain clean without draining energy from what matters most.

Merry Maids home cleaning services help maintain clean, comfortable spaces that support mental well-being. We handle the cleaning so you can enjoy a calmer home and a clearer headspace.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business, book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.

Security & Integrity at Merry Maids of Stoke on Trent

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Security & Integrity at Merry Maids of Stoke on Trent

At Merry Maids of Stoke-on-Trent, we understand that our customers trust us not just to clean their homes, but to care for them too. That’s why our team always goes the extra mile when it matters most.

During a regular morning visit, our team arrived to find that a customer’s carers hadn’t yet turned up and the key had been left in an open key box. This created two concerns: first, the potential security risk of the unattended open key-box; second, the wellbeing of the customer who relied on carers but who had not yet arrived. Straight away, our staff made sure everything was safe and that the customer was comfortable.

Before starting their usual clean, they made the customer a cup of tea and some toast — a small gesture that made a big difference!

Our office team also reached out to the customer’s family to explain what had happened and to ensure the situation was followed up with the carers. The family were so appreciative of the care, calmness and professionalism shown by our staff.

For over 25 years, Merry Maids of Stoke-on-Trent has built its reputation on trust, reliability and compassion. Our fully trained, insured and DBS-checked teams take pride in treating every home as if it were their own — and every customer as part of the Merry Maids family.

Because with us, it’s never just about cleaning — it’s about care, comfort and peace of mind. Our cleaning staff are uniformed, insured, reference-checked and trained to use approved cleaning products and equipment.

If you or someone you know is looking for a reputable cleaner in the Sheffield, South Yorkshire area, visit our website www.merrymaids.co.uk/stoke-on-trent or call our team directly 01782 412500

Going the Extra Mile – When Cleaning Becomes Caring!

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Going the Extra Mile in South Yorkshire – When Cleaning Becomes Caring!

Merry Maids South Yorkshire has been proudly serving homes across Sheffield and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. As part of a trusted national brand, the team provides professional, reliable, and fully insured domestic cleaning services tailored to each client’s individual needs. Using specialist equipment and products, every clean is carried out by friendly staff who take pride in delivering more than just a spotless home — they bring reassurance, consistency, and care to every visit.

Whether client’s need a regular cleaning service, a one-off deep clean, or end-of-tenancy support, Merry Maids South Yorkshire ensures homes are not only clean but cared for.

The Situation

When a new client reached out for a one-off deep clean, they simply hoped for a tidy, refreshed home ahead of family visiting. During the visit, however, our team noticed that the client’s shower had been out of action for some time — an issue that was causing ongoing stress and making daily routines difficult.

What We Did

While cleaning was the original focus, the Merry Maids South Yorkshire team saw an opportunity to help beyond the mop and bucket. After completing the deep clean with our usual thoroughness and attention to detail, the team took the initiative to call our office who contacted a trusted local tradesperson to inspect and repair the shower. We kept in touch with the client throughout the process, ensuring they were comfortable, informed, and supported every step of the way.

The Result

By the time her family had come to visit, the client not only had a sparkling clean home but also a fully working shower — something that had been a real source of frustration. They were delighted by the care and initiative shown by the team, expressing gratitude for the extra effort taken to make their life easier. What began as a one-off clean quickly developed into a regular arrangement, with the client now booking Merry Maids South Yorkshire for ongoing cleans and happily recommending us to others.

Why This Matters

At Merry Maids South Yorkshire, we believe our work goes beyond cleaning. It’s about helping people feel comfortable, supported, and cared for in their homes. By taking the time to listen and go the extra mile, we demonstrate that our service is rooted in compassion, trust, and community — ensuring that every client feels valued long after the clean is complete.

If you or someone you know is looking for a reputable cleaner in the Sheffield, South Yorkshire area, visit our website www.merrymaids.co.uk/south-yorkshire or call our team directly 0114 272 2655.

How Merry Maids of Croydon Supports Customers Living with a Cancer Diagnosis

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Merry Maids business owner Debbie Walker shares how her business supports members of the local community with cancer through compassionate cleaning services.

At Merry Maids, we know that cleaning gets personal. Inviting us into your home is a big deal, no matter what, as it also means providing a window into your life.

So, for many of our customers, especially those whom we see regularly, we’re there through the good and the bad times.

In this blog post, Debbie Walker from Merry Maids of Croydon shares how they provide support for customers across their community living with a cancer diagnosis in the family and in the home through compassionate cleaning services.

Cleaning in Hospital Flats

For many years, the team have been cleaning for a local hospital, who offer charity flats for children and young people with cancer for families to stay with them at the hospital or during treatments. Our teams have been working hard for a number of years to clean between residents and visitors to ensure these spaces are kept clean and hygienic for patients and families alike.

In-home support

For the majority of our customers, the support we provide is in their own homes. Over the years, Merry Maids of Croydon has provided in-home support to customers with cancer in various ways. No situation is ever the same, and some customers may choose to book in with us for help with their cleaning after they receive their diagnosis, while in some cases, we may have been cleaning for someone for a long time, and we adapt our services to support them when they are diagnosed.

We have adapted our services to meet the specific needs of our customers by offering a tailored approach to cleaning specifications and frequency. We place particular emphasis on maintaining enhanced hygiene in high-touch and high-traffic areas, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Furthermore, our team offer additional protection to our customers by wearing appropriate PPE such as disposable face masks or gloves where requested.

We aim to provide our cleaning services as flexibly as possible around the timings of your appointments, so whether you want us to clean while you’re out, at the hospital or when you’re at home, we’ll work around what suits you best.

No matter your or your loved ones’ situation, one thing is consistent: the care we provide. We know that when you’re living with cancer, the last thing you want to worry about is the cleaning. We aim to alleviate that worry while continuously providing a clean and hygienic environment for you to come home to after treatments.

See the value of compassionate cleaning services

Find out how Debbie and the team at Merry Maids of Croydon can help you with professional and compassionate cleaning services by calling 0208 663 3268 to arrange a free, no-obligation quotation.

Or, nationwide, book online or find your nearest Merry Maids business today to connect with your local cleaning experts.

Case Study: Supporting life after a hospital stay

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How Merry Maids Northampton helped a customer’s home recover after time in the hospital.

At Merry Maids, our regular and one-off cleaning services help people stay on top of the cleaning and give them the time back to focus on the things that matter most to them.

Often, this is just helping stay on top of the clutter or day-to-day messes or get the home ready for hosting. But sometimes, it means the world of difference for people in need.

In this blog post, we see how Merry Maids Northampton helped a customer get back to life after a stay in the hospital.

The Problem

The customer booked the cleaning through our online shop for a one-off cleaning after a stay in hospital had left her family at home unable to keep up with the regular maintenance of the household to the standard they’re used to.

The Solution

The team at Merry Maids Northampton sent two cleaners to the home on the day of the cleaning and cleaned the agreed areas of the home (including the oven) until spotless, leaving the customer delighted with the results.

The Result

After the cleaning, the customer was so happy with the standard of service delivered by our team, that they have booked in for multiple one-off cleanings since!

Want help with your cleaning?

A clean and happy home is essential for a healthy life. At Merry Maids, we’re on hand to ensure you get just that.

Whatever the needs of you or your home, our teams offer bespoke cleaning services tailored to suit you. So, whether there’s a room you can’t seem to stay on top of, are or you have a loved one living with dementia or other illnesses, or you need to schedule regular cleaning around a busy home life, we have you covered.

If you’re in Northampton and the surrounding areas and would benefit from professional and expert domestic cleaning services backed by over 30 years as part of a beloved worldwide brand, contact Becky and the team at Merry Maids Northampton on 0800 035 1015.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online to see how they can help you today.

Merry Maids Stafford Manager raises over £400 for Alzheimer’s Society through charity boxing event

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Ashley Weston from Merry Maids Stafford has raised over £400 for Alzheimer’s Society through a charity white collar boxing match.

There are many ways to raise money for charity. And though it may seem unorthodox to do so by stepping into the boxing ring, Ashley Weston from Merry Maids Stafford, Dudley, and Wolverhampton has joined Merry Maids Inverness’  Matt Cooper in taking part in one of Ultra White Collar Boxing’s charity boxing events.

These black-tie events are held in over a hundred cities across the UK, where volunteers like Ashley train for eight weeks to step into the ring and raise money for charity.

Ashley’s efforts contribute to fundraising for our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society, which we have fundraised for over the last two years through our annual Forget Me Knot challenge.

After eight weeks of training and a team evening out to cheer him on, Ashley had a great fight and raised £470 for the dementia charity, which will help them in their mission to provide help and hope for those living with dementia across the UK.

“All the donations, big or small, were so appreciated. A lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into these eight weeks of solid training to raise money for such a great charity,” said Ashley after his match.

Discover the value of a cleaner who cares

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the local experts at Merry Maids, contact Merry Maids Stafford on 01785 255299 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

Meet the new owners of Merry Maids Inverness

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Say hello to the father-daughter duo taking the reins at Merry Maids Inverness.

Siva and Ayranna Kugathas are no strangers to the technicalities of operating a successful cleaning business.

Siva is the owner of ServiceMaster Clean AAA, one of the largest ServiceMaster Clean Contract Services franchise operations in the UK, which covers 19 territories spanning from Inverness to Dover. Having grown from just a single territory in Guildford, which he purchased in 2017, Siva is turning his hand to home cleaning by heading up an existing Merry Maids business in Inverness.

He is joined on his new venture by his daughter Ayranna, who has been working in AAA, specialising in HR, and is now taking charge of Merry Maids.

In this blog post, we sat down with them to delve into their plans for the business and the value they will deliver to new and existing customers and staff.

Meet Siva and Ayranna

As an astute businessman with 20 years of experience in franchising for brands like KFC and Pizza Hut before buying his ServiceMaster Clean franchise, Siva knew the success that could be achieved through investing in a successful franchise.

Initially doubling the size of his operation in just 18 months, he has also acquired 18 further territories in seven years. As a top-performing franchisee,  he is committed to exceeding client expectations and driving the business.

Ayranna recently completed a degree in Information Technology for Business, all while working as a Human Resources Manager at ServiceMaster Clean AAA, where she’s not only overseen HR responsibilities like recruitment, training, and employee relations, but also supported many other areas of the business.

“Because it’s a multi-territory franchise, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in day-to-day operations, client management, and strategic planning. That experience gave me a strong understanding of how a service-based business runs, from both a people and performance perspective,” she says.

“This has been a huge advantage in preparing me for business ownership. As the HR Manager, I’ve developed strong people management skills, dealt with a variety of staffing challenges, and ensured compliance with employment law and best practice—all of which are crucial for running a successful team.”

Beyond HR, Ayranna has also been involved in many other aspects of the business, such as supporting operational decisions, helping with client relationships, and contributing to strategy discussions. This hands-on experience has given her a real understanding of what it takes to run and grow a business. Ayranna, having already had experience at a ServiceMaster Clean franchise, also understands the systems, values, and support structure that come with being part of the ServiceMaster brand.

“While Merry Maids is a different type of service, the core principles of delivering high-quality, reliable cleaning and managing a team are very similar,” she says.

“From contract cleaning, I’ve learned how to manage teams, handle feedback, and assist in delivering high standards—all of which can be applied to home cleaning. And stepping into a bigger role in the business is both exciting and meaningful,” she adds.

“It’s an opportunity to build something alongside my dad, who has years of experience and a strong track record in the industry. I’m grateful to be learning directly from him while also bringing in my own perspective.”

For Siva, working alongside Ayranna is also a huge achievement:

“In my view, parents enjoy their children’s success more than their own success. So, to have my daughter leading a brand for us is a proud moment for me. And she’s the right person to do that.”

Integrating in Inverness

Customers of Merry Maids Inverness will know of the business’s long history and established presence within the local area. While under new ownership, the business retains the same staff and office managers of Andrea and Kelly, who ensure the business’s smooth day-to-day operations.

Having spent time in Inverness, getting to know the business’s staff and existing structure, Siva and Ayranna have integrated themselves into the business and, galvanising the team behind them, are excited to drive it to new heights.

“It’s been a smooth and insightful process, Ayranna says.

“I’ve been learning how things operate while thinking of ideas to improve and grow the business. I’m excited to get started, learn new things, and play an active role in helping the business grow. It’s a great opportunity to take on new challenges and apply what I’ve learned so far.”

Siva, in turn, is excited to bring the same energy and growth that he has instilled across his other businesses.

“ I’m really excited because it’s a new journey for me as well. I’m in my fifties, and I have done a few of these in the past. But this is something new.  I’m really excited to go and do the same again and be successful.”

Working in the Community

For Siva, this includes working closely within the local community to support local initiatives and people to thrive.

In the past seven years at ServiceMaster Clean, Siva has worked hard to make a difference and give back to the communities he serves, whether through multiple fundraising initiatives, providing cleaning and sponsorship for the local YMCA in Guildford to allow them to provide stable dwellings for homeless people in the area, or working with a local charity to help vulnerable children learn about the dangers of drugs and knife crime.

The business already has big plans to contribute to Merry Maids and ServiceMaster Clean’s charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society, by participating in this year’s Forget Me Knot Challenge, which has, over the last two years, raised over £14,000 for Alzheimer’s Society.

“Giving back to the community is something very close to my heart. I do it passionately. And we want to start with a bang as the Forget Me Knot challenge is starting on the 7th of July, which is seven days after we take over, and we want to do 10,000 miles by ourselves, including me leading the way with 500 miles minimum myself. And I know two other members of our staff have already signed up to beat me. We have committed to big numbers, and we are passionate about it, and we will continue to show our commitment to looking after the people in need across Merry Maids, too.”

Customer Guarantee

Siva and Ayranna want to assure Merry Maids Inverness customers, new and old, of the high-quality cleaning they can expect from the business and the expertly trained staff.

“ Merry Maids is a trusted brand, has been there for long enough, and we do a very good job. We don’t let people down,” says Siva

“The cleaners are well trained, and you know what to expect each time: good quality and consistency,” Ayranna agrees.

Furthermore, not only will this expansion within the area support the local economy, but it will also provide jobs for local people through the recruitment of new staff as the business grows.

Merry Maids Brand Leader Vikki Donnachie says she is ecstatic to welcome Siva and Ayranna to the brand:

“I am very much looking forward to welcoming Siva and Ayranna to the Merry Maids network and building on their existing success within ServiceMaster, which I am certain they will do through their commitment to their community, staff and service standards.”

Need a new cleaner?

So, if you’re in Inverness and the surrounding areas and would benefit from an expert cleaning from local professionals, call the team on 01463 250229 to learn more.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

Merry Maids Manchester’s Life-Saving Cleaners

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Two cleaners from Merry Maids Manchester have been thanked by a customer whose life they saved when attending a regular cleaning at his house.

Danielle Holain and Leah Taylor, two domestic cleaners from Merry Maids North and Central Manchester, have received thanks from a regular customer and his family for saving his life while cleaning.

The Incident

Danielle Holian and Leah Taylor attended a cleaning for a regular 74-year-old epileptic customer, only to find him lying on the floor of his kitchen, where they later were told by paramedics he had been for several days.

The customer, who lives alone, receives a cleaning service from Merry Maids every four weeks and was not due to be seen at the time. But unusually, and luckily, the cleaning had been moved to earlier than usual due to a bank holiday weekend.

Danielle says she knew something wasn’t right when they first arrived, as the flat was incredibly warm, which they later realised was due to the heating being left on for days.

“Leah and I had obtained the customers’ key from the key box outside, as we always let ourselves inside,” she says.

“He usually meets us at the top of the stairs, so we instantly thought it was strange that he didn’t.”

“We walked up the stairs, and I immediately saw [the customer] lying on the kitchen floor face-first, looking at me. I made sure he was breathing and called emergency services straight away, requesting an ambulance.”

While waiting with the customer for the ambulance, Danielle and Leah found his phone to notify his family, packed a bag of essentials for him to take to the hospital and later showed the ambulance crew how to access the property when they arrived.

“It was a real shock to see him like that, as it was so unexpected. I have met him a few times, so I know what he’s like. I was aware that he is epileptic as he has told me in previous conversations while cleaning his flat, but this day was the first time Leah had been to the property,” Danielle says.

“We were just glad to get him the help he needed as quickly as possible and make sure he was okay.”

The Aftermath

Now recovering in the hospital, the customer is in good health and was incredibly grateful to Danielle and Leah for their quick thinking and help, sending them flowers to say thank you.

Back at the office, Leah and Danielle have been supported and commended by their fellow maids and business owner Theresa, who all continue to offer their time if any of them needed to talk.

Danielle says the experience has been eye-opening for her as she has been made more aware of how much their presence can mean in the lives of their customers, brought into sharp focus by how the day started as normally as one would expect.

“[Before the incident,] it was just a pretty normal day,” she says.

“We now see it fortunate that our first clean was cancelled that day because we got to him around 50 minutes earlier than we normally would. We are more aware of how important it is for our vulnerable customers who can count on us for more than just doing their cleaning, we’re always there for them. We are not just cleaners.”

Discover the value of a cleaner who cares

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the local experts at Merry Maids, contact Merry Maids Manchester on 0161 864 4480 for a free, no-obligation quote.

Or nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

Understanding the Risk Factors for Dementia

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What are the main risk factors for dementia?

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. Affecting around 982,000 people in the UK, with numbers expected to rise to 1.4 million by 2040, 1 in 3 of us born today will be diagnosed in their lifetime.

But what are the biggest risk factors for dementia, and what are some misconceptions around the disease?

  1. Age

The biggest risk factor for dementia is ageing.

While it’s important to note that dementia is a disease, and not, as many believe, a natural symptom of ageing, your risk of being diagnosed with dementia increases as you get older.

For people aged between 65 and 69, around 2 in every 100 people have dementia. A person’s risk increases as they age, roughly doubling every five years. This means that, of those aged over 90, around 33 in every 100 people have dementia.

  1. Genes

Certain genes can affect a person’s chances of getting dementia. These may be passed down (inherited) from a parent. There are two types of these genes: ‘familial’ genes and ‘risk’ genes.

  1. Long-Term Health Conditions

Diagnosing certain long-term health conditions earlier may reduce their damaging effects on brain health as people get older.

These include:

  • Diabetes
  • Hearing and vision loss
  • Head injuries
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Depression

  1. Lifestyle

There is a lot of evidence that our lifestyle choices can affect our risk of developing dementia. These behaviours and health conditions include:

  • Physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol
  • Social isolation

Dementia risk is lowest in people who have healthy behaviours in mid-life (aged 40-65).

  1. Biological Sex

Overall, there are more women than men living with dementia. This is mostly because women tend to live longer than men.

The risk of getting dementia is about the same for men and women. However, women who are currently over 80 have a slightly higher risk of getting dementia than men their age.

  1. Lower Cognitive Reserve

Cognitive reserve is when a person has a disease in their brain, but it takes longer for them to start showing symptoms. It is built up by keeping the brain active over a person’s lifetime.

The more cognitive reserve a person has, the longer it takes for diseases in their brain to cause problems with everyday tasks. This means people with a larger cognitive reserve can delay getting dementia symptoms. People with a smaller cognitive reserve are at a higher risk of getting dementia in their lifetime.

  1. Race and Ethnicity

It’s possible that race and ethnicity could also be risk factors for dementia.

It’s still not clear if people from different ethnic groups in the UK have a higher chance of getting dementia.

Some studies have found differences in certain locations worldwide, though it’s hard to know if they reflect the situation in the UK population.

A few studies have suggested that people from Black African, Black Caribbean and South Asian ethnic groups are more likely to get dementia than people from White ethnic groups due to socioeconomic disparities, access to healthcare, and genetic predispositions like high blood pressure.

  1. Socioeconomic Factors

People who live in deprived areas without suitable housing, education and work opportunities are at a higher risk of getting dementia.

This may be because the lack of opportunities in these areas makes it harder for a person to get further education and to access jobs that keep a person mentally active throughout their life.

Want to act against dementia?

At Merry Maids, the Alzheimer’s Society is our charity of the year, and after working to support their mission for multiple years, we are committed to assisting our staff and customers to have a better cleaning experience.

The Dementia Awareness training our staff have undertaken has given our team additional knowledge and understanding of dementia. We are thrilled to be continuing this initiative to continuing to have staff trained by Alzheimer’s Society.

If you want to make a difference in the fight against dementia, you can do so directly now by donating to our annual fundraiser to raise £10,000 for Alzheimer’s Society.

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the dementia friends at Merry Maids UK, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

How do I improve ventilation in my home?

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Top tips on keeping your home properly ventilated.

While in the UK, we often try desperately to keep warmth in and drafts out, there are many benefits to having a properly ventilated home. Keeping the air flowing throughout your property can have numerous health benefits and put a stop to some pretty nasty issues.

“But how do I improve ventilation in my home?” You ask.

In this blog post, the experts at Merry Maids UK have devised a guide to keeping your home properly ventilated.

Why is it important to keep your home well ventilated?

Ventilation (or the exchange of fresh air outside and stagnant air and moisture inside) can prevent harmful pollutants and moisture from being trapped in your home.

The average person breathes in 11,000 litres of air daily – that’s about the size of a cement mixer truck! Ensuring your home is well ventilated means this gigantic amount of air you’re breathing day in and day out contains lots of vital oxygen and removes air pollutants from inside the home, like smoke, carbon dioxide and cooking smells.

Speaking of cooking smells, ventilation is of particular significance in the kitchen and bathroom. Any room containing a gas appliance must be properly ventilated to provide enough oxygen to burn and prevent the appliance from producing dangerous carbon monoxide.

The high air moisture levels in these rooms also cause condensation, the precursor to damp and mould. The average UK family produces 20 litres of moisture daily from breathing and everyday activities, so properly ventilating your property helps you avoid costly repairs.

What are the Building Regulations for ventilation?

In the UK, Building Regulations require that the ventilation in your home is not worsened by the installation of energy efficiency measures.

When work is done on homes, gaps and cracks previously providing useful ventilation are often sealed. In older homes, these may have been the only source of ventilation. Thus, when windows are replaced, a background ventilator (trickle vent) should be installed to replace any lost ventilation. If, however, it can be proven that replacing your window did not reduce the amount of useful ventilation, more ventilation is unnecessary.

How to improve ventilation in your home

To ensure that your home is properly ventilated, you must allow for natural air flow and filtration throughout the property.

  • Always leave trickle vents open, even in winter. This won’t significantly affect your heating costs, but will ensure a fresh flow of clean air.
  • Leave internal doors between rooms open to allow for a natural flow of air and stop lingering smells.
  • Ensure you have and regularly clean any extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • If you have any whole-house mechanical ventilation systems, check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the filters are replaced as stated (typically annually).
  • Air out the home as often as possible – even in winter. In colder months, turn off your central heating and air out the home three times a day if possible.
  • Invest in ceiling fans to stop hot air from becoming trapped near the ceiling.
  • Reduce dust and allergens through regular cleaning to improve air quality

Want to breathe easier?

This spring and summer, let out the deep breath you didn’t know you were holding by leaving your home cleaning to the professionals at your nearest Merry Maids business.

Our experts are on hand to give you the time back to focus on what matters most to you, not the cleaning.

With regular services, we’ll thoroughly clean kitchens and bathrooms, including extractor fans, to ensure the air quality in your home helps you breathe easier.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote on our range of professional and bespoke cleaning services or book online in select locations.

4 Ways to Support Someone with Dementia When the Clocks Change

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How you can help someone with dementia feel at ease when the clocks change.

REJOICE, British Summer Time starts this Sunday!

While losing an hour’s sleep is nobody’s favourite thing, most of us are likely looking forward to the extra daylight and the start of spring.

Changing the clocks can be confusing, and most people have probably fallen victim to some daylight-saving-related scheduling confusion at one time or another.

But, it can be especially disorientating for people living with dementia, who may struggle with awareness of time.

At Merry Maids UK, we’ve spent the last year working closely with our charity of the year, Alzheimer’s Society to attend dementia training workshops so that all of our cleaners nationwide are equipped and specially trained to support our customers across the UK living with dementia.

In this blog post, we’re sharing their expertise on ways to support someone with dementia when the clocks change.

How the clocks changing can affect people with dementia

As our days get longer and brighter, people with dementia may find it harder to differentiate between 6 PM and 6 PM.

This disrupts their circadian rhythm and makes it hard for them, and those who care for them to ensure they get enough sleep.

Losing sleep can lead to irritability, tiredness, and sometimes even distress, which can be exacerbated if their routines are impacted.

They may forget when to eat, or take their medication or not know when their favourite TV show is on.

But the good news is, there are simple things you can do to help people living with dementia through these changes, to ensure minimal disruption and distress.

  1. Start their evening routine an hour earlier

Consider starting your evening earlier on Saturday, including having dinner and going to bed an hour earlier.

This will ensure that the person you’re caring for still gets enough sleep and can wake up at their usual time on Sunday and that their routine will only be different for an evening rather than the whole day.

  1. Keep to a routine

Keeping to a regular routine during the day and at bedtime can help to regulate a disrupted body clock.

It helps if these are associated with other everyday tasks such as going for a walk after breakfast.

Doing this consistently will help a person with dementia to make sense of the time.

  1. Keep Active

Gentle exercise during the day can help the person feel sleepier during the evening, meaning they’ll go to bed at their usual time.

If this isn’t an option, keeping them active during the day can have a similar effect and using blackout curtains to reduce sunlight in the evenings can help with body clock regulation, too.

  1. Look into auto-setting clocks

You may want to invest in an auto-setting clock for them.

Deciphering a clock face can be tricky for some people with dementia, so often digital clocks are easier.

You can also get clocks that show the day of the week, date and time, and for some people, a day/night clock can help them distinguish what time of day it is.

See the value of a cleaner who cares

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate, regular or one-off, home cleaning service from the dementia friends at Merry Maids UK, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online today.

Why should I get my home professionally spring-cleaned?

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The benefits of a professional spring-cleaning service.

We don’t know about you, but we’re ready for spring.

It’s when nature washes away the cold of winter and freshens up for a brighter year ahead.

The flowers start to bloom, and the temperatures begin to rise. What’s not to love?

Preparing for spring also means it’s time to start thinking about your spring cleaning.

It may not always be pleasant, but the practice of getting down and dirty to clear out the clutter and the cobwebs of the past year is a vital part of the springtime.

Though the adage often cited is ‘if you want a job done properly, do it yourself,’ we’re here to tell you there is another way.

In this blog post, our cleaning experts walk you through the benefits of hiring a professional cleaning service for your spring cleaning.

What’s involved in spring cleaning?

Spring cleans are a deeper and more comprehensive cleaning than a regular maintenance clean and are all about clearing out the house at a deeper level to prepare for the year ahead.

Regular cleaning keeps your home in top condition, while deep cleaning gives that extra oomph and sparkle to make your home truly SHINE.

Our expert deep and spring cleans are ideal when moving in or out of a property, preparing your home to sell, having the in-laws visiting, in the aftermath of building or renovation works or needing a complete freshen-up.

They can include:
  • Cleaning out kitchen cupboards
  • Vacuuming curtains
  • Cleaning inside windows
  • Cleaning inside and or defrosting fridges and freezers
  • Washing internal doors and window frames
  • Moving heavier furniture to clean behind (where possible)

How do the professionals spring clean your home?

Professional cleaning services like those at Merry Maids use experienced professionals trained to deliver excellent-value home cleaning with a tried and tested methodology and products to produce the best results.

On every visit, your Merry Maids team will dust, wash, sanitise and vacuum your home using our equipment and specially formulated products.

We operate a strict cleaning process that utilises coloured cloths for different areas of the home to avoid cross-contamination.

All our maids are trained in Health and Safety regulations and procedures* to use our products and equipment

*Practices may vary by area due to area-specific considerations.

How much does it cost to have my home professionally cleaned?

There is no standard pricing index used to determine domestic cleaning service fees.

Some businesses charge by the hour, while others will charge for the scope of the cleaning involved.

Either way, professional cleaning services will determine their prices based on the following factors:

  1. Size
  2. Layout and number of rooms
  3. Style of home
  4. Number of residents
  5. Factoring of children and pets
  6. Frequency of cleaning
  7. Location and travel distance from business location

To see the value of professional spring-cleaning services in your area, contact your nearest Merry Maids business for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Why pay when you can do it yourself, you ask.

We’ll tell you…

  1. Professional spring cleaning saves you time and effort

There’s no doubt about it… spring cleaning is a massive undertaking.

Especially if you’re already juggling family and childcare responsibilities, work, and the basics like socialisation and a good amount of rest.

Whatever your idea is of time well spent, we know it doesn’t involve doing the cleaning.

Entrusting your spring cleaning to professionals can save you hours of effort and give you time to focus on what matters most.

  1. The bespoke and professional touch

At Merry Maids, we love to clean. It’s what we do.

Over our 30 years of delivering home cleaning expertise, we have refined the experience had by our customers to a fine art.

We know that each home and each individual we clean for is unique.

So, we go above and beyond to ensure you get the clean you deserve, not just the clean you expect, and work with you to understand the specific needs of you and your home and work tirelessly to ensure that you’re more than happy with gleaming results – at a time that suits you.

Professional cleaning staff like ours are trained with the latest (and often exclusive) products, tools, and best practices to make every room in the house sparkle.

  1. Professional spring cleaning is good for your health

Aside from the obvious aesthetic benefit, a good spring cleaning is also good for your health!

According to Verywell Mind, a cluttered and dirty environment can be harmful to your mental health, as it has been scientifically linked to higher rates of stress, depression and anxiety, as well as decreased rates of focus.

In addition, studies have shown that having a clean home typically is the mark of healthier inhabitants.

Cleanliness in the home has even been found to be a better predictor of good health for the residents than the walkability of its neighbourhood!

Cleaning can also improve the air quality of your home.

This is extra vital in the spring as the winter often involves more time spent inside with less fresh air in the home – causing more dust on the property.

The equipment used by professional cleaners is designed to eliminate harmful dust in the home and can benefit your health and air quality.

  1. Professional support with additional health requirements

We know that people aren’t always able to clean for themselves.

Following our successful Forget Me Knot Challenge last year – where our businesses across the UK raised over £4000 for the Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia Friends in a matter of weeks – Merry Maids UK have this year become an official partner in aid of Alzheimer’s Society.

At Merry Maids, our staff understand the specific requirements of the over 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK and ensure their homes are clean, healthy places for them to live, maintained by friendly, local people who support them with any additional requirements that come with dementia and other conditions – even if that means being someone to make a cup of tea and have a chat with.

Why hire Merry Maids to spring clean your home?

Put the spring back in your cleaning with Merry Maids.

The springtime is for enjoying, not cleaning.

Get a cleaner, fresher home faster and reclaim your free time with the expert help of your local cleaning professionals.

Are you tired of spending your free time hunched over to clean cobwebbed corners rather than enjoying the sunshine?

Your springtime is sacred.

Booking your spring cleaning with your local professionals now could be the saving grace you’ve been waiting for.

At Merry Maids, we’ve been experts in home cleaning for over 30 years, providing professional and bespoke services as one-off, regular or deep cleans and taking the hassle out of your spring cleaning.

Naturally, you might not love cleaning, but we do. It’s what we do best!

Contact Us

To start saving time and energy on your spring cleaning, book your spring cleaning with the experts at Merry Maids now by finding your nearest business or booking online today.

The Best Green Cleaning Uses for Castile Soap

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What is castile soap and what does it do for your environment?

Castile soap has been touted as a near-miracle product: non-toxic, vegan, biodegradable, and cruelty-free, with a long list of household uses.

With increased interest in eco-friendly housekeeping solutions, it’s easy to understand why those benefits would draw attention.

But what is castile soap, and what can you do with this modern marvel?

Our cleaning experts at Merry Maids have put together a deep dive into cleaning with castile soap, including suggestions for the best household uses — and a few things to avoid.

What is Castile Soap?

First of all, it turns out castile soap isn’t exactly modern.

Named for the Castile region of Spain, where the style of olive oil-based soap originated, castile soap was referenced in the Oxford English Dictionary as early as 1616.

Its olive oil base differentiated it from tallow-based soaps, which are more common in various parts of the world.

In 1948, a soap maker named Dr Bronner began selling a liquid version most people know today, though it was mostly found in health food stores before the green cleaning movement went mainstream.

Castile soap is much more readily available today, making it a growingly common tool for cleaning.

Speaking of…

Cleaning with Castile Soap

There’s seemingly no end to what you can clean with castile soap.

Depending on how you dilute and apply it, castile soap can provide an eco-friendly replacement for dish soap, all-purpose cleaning spray, mopping solution, laundry detergent, tub and surface scrub, cleaning wipes, and more.

Here are our suggestions for replacing your existing household cleaners:

  • Dish soap – When handwashing dishes, fill your sink with warm water and add castile soap at a ratio of 10:1. Wash as usual. Rinse with a vinegar solution if you have hard water.
  • All-purpose cleaning spray – Mix ¼ cup of castile soap with one quart of water in a spray bottle. Use on virtually any nonporous surface, though if you’re unsure, you may want to test a small, inconspicuous area first.
  • Mopping solution – Add ½ cup of castile soap with three gallons of hot water in a bucket for an effective mopping solution.
  • Laundry detergent – For a large load in a normal washer, use ⅓ to ½ cup of castile soap instead of detergent. Add ½ cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle, especially if you have hard water. High-efficiency (HE) machines will use half of these measurements.
  • Tub and surface scrub – Combine ¼ cup of baking soda with 2-3 tablespoons of castile soap for a scrubbing paste with soft abrasion, which is great for tubs, tile, stovetops, sinks, and other hard, grimy surfaces.
  • Cleaning wipes – Mix one cup of warm water and one ounce of castile soap in a large glass jar. Add soft cleaning rags (pro tip: cut up an old t-shirt!) to the jar and let them soak for reusable cleaning wipes that can be laundered and reused repeatedly.

Castile Soap & Vinegar: Keep Them Separated

Like castile soap, vinegar is a miracle cleaner that can be used throughout the home.

Many blogs feature DIY recipes that call for both grime-busting dynamos in the same mixture.

It’s simple maths: one good thing plus another good thing surely equals an even better thing.

But it’s not maths but chemistry that comes into play when mixing homemade cleaners.

Castile soap is a base.

Vinegar is an acid, and the two cancel each other out.

Acidic vinegar breaks down the bonds in the soap, separating the oils and creating a mess.

This is true when mixing castile soap with any acid, including lemon juice—another popular DIY cleaning ingredient.

Vinegar and castile soap play well together when used as separate steps.

For instance, castile soap makes an excellent laundry detergent but may leave a white film on clothing when used with hard water.

Adding vinegar to the rinse cycle counteracts the residue left behind without cancelling the cleaning properties.

Other Considerations & Warnings When Using Castile Soap

Generally speaking, castile soap is very safe. It can be used on many surfaces and materials, from porcelain bathroom fixtures to hand-wash-only delicates.

However, there are a few caveats to keep in mind.

As mentioned, castile soap reacts with vinegar, lemon juice, and other acids and loses its structure.

This isn’t harmful per se, but it can create more mess than it cleans. Stick to using these ingredients separately.

Castile soap can leave white residue on items when mixed with or used in hard water.

Follow up with a vinegar-solution rinse to remove this residue, or, if mixing cleaning sprays or solutions, use distilled water rather than tap.

Green Cleaning Benefits

When it comes to daily household cleaning, the green benefits of castile soap are plentiful.

It’s a convenient, multi-use, vegan product that is completely biodegradable and safe enough to use on a baby, making it a great choice for the health and safety of your whole family.

Need a new cleaner?

One alternative to DIY cleaning solutions is to let the professionals handle it.

Our teams use a range of bespoke and specialist products that are tried and tested for the safety of your family and environment whilst also delivering a premium standard of cleaning.

Contact your local experts by finding your nearest Merry Maids business today for a free, no-obligation quotation on our range of services, or book online now.

Merry Maids’ Pre-Christmas Cleaning Checklist

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Our guide to getting all your pre-Christmas cleaning done. 

Christmas is on its way!

Are you planning to host a Christmas party or spend Christmas Day with the whole family?

If you are, you may want to tidy up before the guests arrive.

But with so much to do, Christmas cleaning can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve made a list (and we’ve checked it twice) of handy pre-Christmas cleaning tasks to ensure your cleaning and home can stay in order this festive season.

Guest Bedroom Pre-Christmas Cleaning

If you have a spare or guest room, the temptation may be to use it for… “storage”.

However, around this time of year, ensure your spare bedroom(s) are cleaned for any unexpected overnight guests.

Just in case a white Christmas or extra glass of sherry mean that driving home for Christmas home becomes inadvisable.

When cleaning your spare bedroom, remember to:

  • Change the sheets/bedding & duvets so they are clean and fresh for your guests. A quick tip to make them even fresher smelling is to wash them separately from any clothes
  • Vacuum and polish the guest room to ensure the room has a welcoming scent

If your guest room isn’t used that often, it may not be as welcoming as other rooms.

  • You can potentially get a few paintings or photos up in the room, maybe a houseplant or anything else you may feel is welcoming

Your guests are likely to be staying more than one night. Therefore, they’ll need space for their clothes and other belongings. So:

  • Empty the wardrobe and drawers of usually all of your summer clothes or the: “I’ll take these to a charity shop one-day” clothes. This will ensure your guest has sufficient space and will feel more at home instead of living out of their suitcase

Kitchen Pre-Christmas Cleaning

The kitchen is usually the centre of the action at Christmas.

Especially with the mulled wine brewing on the stove, it makes it feel warm and festive!

First, your oven should be clean to ensure it’s ready for the juicy turkey or tasty nut roast!

  • Buy an oven cleaning product and follow the instructions on the label, as there are lots of different products you can use
  • A clean oven will make your food taste better and won’t produce smoke that would float around the house and make it smell unpleasant.

You’ll probably have to put LOADS of food in your fridge and freezer, so it’s time for a clear-out.

A clean and less cluttered fridge will allow space for all pigs in blankets, wine and pudding!

  • Have a clean fridge for all of your Christmas food
    – Remove all food, drawers and shelves
    – Soak drawers and shelves in washing up liquid
    – Use warm water and washing-up liquid to wipe the interior
    – Wipe outer surfaces and dry inside with kitchen roll
    – Dry and return the drawers/shelves
    – Wait until the temperature has returned to 5°C

Bathroom Pre-Christmas Cleaning

The wintertime is the time of year when people get horrid colds that they can’t shake.

That’s why pre-cleaning the bathroom and maintaining the cleanliness throughout the time your guests are here is vital.

  • Clean the bathroom from top to bottom, including the bath, shower, sink, toilet, carpet, cupboards and anything else you may have in there.
  • Tidy up your bathroom to leave space for your guest’s toiletries, or if you have two washrooms, move all your toiletries to the bathroom your guests won’t be using. This will again make them feel at home.

Living Room Pre-Christmas Cleaning

Your living room is the social and board gaming hub, with the fire roaring in the background and the smell of Christmas all around. Lovely!

  • Vacuum your living room carpet before your guests arrive and during their stay, depending on how long they’re there for
  • Vacuum all of your upholstery and cushions before guests arrive
  • Have a general tidy-up and, if you have time, a bit of a declutter of things you don’t need during the winter period

Home Exterior Pre-Christmas Cleaning

Ensure the outside of your house looks welcoming for your guests and any neighbours that might pop around to wish you a Merry Christmas.

  • Clean your outside decorations just by wiping them with a dry cloth
  • Clean your windows on the inside and outside
  • Ensure, if you have a drive, you’ve left enough space for your guest’s car/s or, if it’s on-street parking, there is enough space for them. If necessary, remember to sort out their on-street parking permits.

A bit much?

All this cleaning might seem like a bit much, especially with all the extra Christmas prep.

If you don’t feel like you have time to clean your home, find your nearest Merry Maids business to do it all for you!

We carry out all the services listed above and more, so you can focus on the stuff that matters at Christmas and not do the cleaning.

To learn more about our services and how we can help you, call 0800 021 3072 today.

Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield is celebrating a quarter of a century of exceptional cleaning as a community-conscious family business.

For a quarter of a century, Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield has been at the forefront of the cleaning industry, bringing joy and cleanliness to homes across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield, Tamworth, Walsall, North Birmingham, and beyond.

What began as a vision to provide exceptional cleaning services with a personal touch has blossomed into a legacy of trust, dedication, and excellence.

Led by co-owners Helen Bielby and Becky Hewitt, the business’s team of skilled professionals work tirelessly to ensure that every home they touch shines.

The History of Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield

The business is a family affair for Helen and Becky.

Helen’s parents purchased the business in 1999 after her parents had owned a ServiceMaster Clean business under the same franchisor for nearly 2 decades.

At the time, Helen was at university and would support the cleaning and running of the business on her break days.

When Helen’s mum passed away suddenly in 2010, Helen had to take on responsibility for Merry Maids. She also needed help to run the ServiceMaster Clean business with her father.

But Helen knew she couldn’t sustain and grow both businesses, quickly realising that she and her dad needed a secretary to help with the administration of the businesses.

Luckily, she learned from a friend that Becky was looking for a new challenge and wanted to join the team to help run the businesses.

So, when it came time for Helen’s father to sell the business, he suggested that Helen and Becky take it over together.

And the rest, as they say, is history!

Family Matters

Since 1999, the team have remained steadfast in their commitment to delivering high standards and customer satisfaction.

As Helen says:

“At Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield, we are more than just a cleaning service – we are a family.

Our journey over the past 25 years has been marked by the strong bonds we’ve formed with our team members and customers.

Throughout our 25 years of service, our customers have always been at the heart of everything we do.

We are deeply grateful for the trust and loyalty they have shown us over the years.

Whether it’s a regular cleaning service, a one-off deep clean, or a special occasion clean, we strive to exceed our customers’ expectations at every step.”

For the community, for the future

As a locally owned and operated business, the team are deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Over the years, they have had the privilege of giving back to our community through various initiatives and sponsorships.

“We believe in the power of community and are committed to making a positive difference wherever we can,” says Helen.

“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we are excited about the future of Merry Maids of Sutton Coldfield.

With 25 years of experience behind us, we are poised to continue setting new standards of excellence in the cleaning industry.

We remain dedicated to providing top-notch cleaning services while upholding the values that have guided us since day one.

To our incredible team, loyal customers, and supportive community – thank you for 25 amazing years!

Your trust and support mean the world to us, and we look forward to many more years of serving you with excellence.

Here’s to another 25 years of making homes sparkle and spreading joy through cleanliness!”

Need a new cleaner?

If you’re in Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding areas and would benefit from professional domestic cleaning services from an award-winning family business, contact the team on 0121 313 1005 or find your nearest Merry Maids business to see how we can help you today.

Or book your clean online in a few clicks at shop.merrymaids.co.uk.

Cleaning in the new year

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Is your New Year’s resolution a clean home?

Happy New Year!

It’s on occasions like the new year when it becomes clear how much time flies.

But often, this means that the time for cleaning flies away with the fairies.

However, now many of us may find ourselves coming out of a mince-pie-induced haze and realising the house looked cleaner before Santa came crashing down the chimney!

It’s in times like this that a little extra guidance can help.

Our cleaning experts at Merry Maids UK have put together some pointers to revitalise your home this new year.

Wash Your Windows

Windows are a component of your home that probably doesn’t get much TLC. But we’re not passing judgment.

Window washing only needs to be completed once a year at least.

However, we recommend a window cleaning schedule of every six months as this will ensure the glass panes are cleaned.

This will be doing you favours for the rest of the winter months, as it improves the insulation of your windows by ensuring the seals are intact.

Clean Behind Appliances

We’re all guilty of letting crumbs and other food particles fall between or behind appliances and counters.

What’s worse is that these areas barely see the light of day once everything is in place.

So, a new year cleaning routine wouldn’t be complete without cleaning behind appliances and bulky electronics.

This is a big one of those forgotten tasks that have an impact, and by resolving it this year, you can begin to make it a part of your annual cleaning regimen.

Tackle Elevated Areas

When did you last clean the ceiling or the tops of your upper kitchen cabinets?

The beginning of the year is the perfect time to start making those cleaning duties a part of your routine.

Dust and dirt collect in those areas all year and could negatively impact your air quality and make it difficult for your loved ones to breathe easier.

Instead of a conventional duster, use a dry microfiber cloth to attract dust and keep from leaving residue behind.

Want to start this year off with a clean?

If you resolved to tidy up around the home but can’t find the time or energy amongst everything else happening in January, don’t worry.

Your local Merry Maids business can carry out a professional one-off or regular cleaning service to get your home fresh and sparkling this new year.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business to book a free, no-obligation quotation with your local cleaning specialists, or book online today to get that fresh New Year feeling in your home this January without lifting a finger.

Care in the community: Charity Initiatives from Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington

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How Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington support their community through charity engagement. 

Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington’s Office Supervisor, Jo, has been with the company for several years, beginning as a cleaner.

She uses her position to combine her passion for the community and background in care to support local and national charities.

Jo’s Background

Jo worked in care for eight years, running care homes and fundraising regularly through sponsored activities and events.

These have included mental health and dementia campaigns and a brain tumour charity.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Jo returned to Merry Maids, having worked with us as a cleaner before her time in care.

In joining Merry Maids, Jo joined a business that enables her to use her natural affinity for providing personalised care through professional and bespoke home cleaning services.

Recent Charity Work at Merry Maids

In April, Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington donated Easter eggs and chocolate to Dandelion Time, a local charity that supports children who have experienced hardship and traumatic events.

But that’s not all they’ve been up to.

Recently, Jo has been getting active and supporting charities close to her heart while at Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington.

“In February this year, I did 10,000 steps [daily] for Brain Tumour Research. And then I did 30 miles in September for dementia charities,” she says.

Her other recent activities have again supported the brain tumour and mental health charities.

Jo also completed a Memory Walk for Alzheimer’s Society, a charity that is close to all of our teams at Merry Maids UK and Jo, whose mother-in-law sadly suffered from the disease.

She estimates that she has raised £1500 from her recent efforts.

Upcoming Charity Work with Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington

Looking to the future, Jo has some ambitious charity plans for the new year.

Alongside more active fundraising for dementia and mental health charities, she is organising a charity initiative with her son to give out Christmas presents to local children in need.

Furthermore, Merry Maids Bromley will donate an afternoon tea to Southmore Court Assisted Living, one of their regular cleaning clients.

Jo says she is always looking to push her contributions and do more for the people in the local community:

“Me, myself, I want to do more volunteer work in the lines with dementia, like volunteer, maybe afternoon or a couple of hours here and there. I really like doing it,” she says.

“For my birthday, I’ve put something up for anyone to donate to Alzheimer’s instead of getting me giving me a present. And that’s what I’ll do for Christmas as well. We do cancer one, me and my friends. We don’t buy each other cards, but donate to Cancer Research.”

Want to see the value of a cleaner who cares?

If you or someone you know would benefit from a professional and compassionate home cleaning service from Merry Maids UK, find your nearest Merry Maids business today.

To schedule a visit from Merry Maids Bromley and Orpington, book online or call 01689 830000 for a free quote for our bespoke and professional home cleaning services.

From one-off deep cleans to regular visits and spring cleaning, we do the cleaning so you don’t have to.

Merry Maids Relaunches in Northampton under brand new ownership

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(Re)introducing Merry Maids Northampton, bringing brand new and improved cleaning to Northampton and the surrounding areas like never before.

Merry Maids Northampton has reopened this week under the management of franchisor ServiceMaster Ltd.

We spoke to Office Manager Becky Gardner about the changes to the business and what customers, new and old, can expect from the new and improved Merry Maids Northampton.

Northampton, a history

Merry Maids Northampton has been operating for 18 years.

Previously under the ownership of Barbara and Martin Smart, the business faced hard times during the COVID-19 pandemic when it was forced to close as lockdowns threatened the retirement plans of its owners.

This year, the business has come under the management of Merry Maids’ franchisor, ServiceMaster Ltd.

Becky started as a part-time cleaner in 2011, “which worked wonders for me with the two young children,” she says.

“It was a perfect job. And I loved cleaning. I took pride in cleaning. It’s always been nice to go into a customer’s house and make it all nice.”

She became an Office Manager when Barbara and Martin retired and is being supported in the reopening by the ServiceMaster team, including Merry Maids Brand Leader Vikki Donnachie.

“One day, my old boss called me into the office and said she needed an Office Manager to take over the day-to-day role of going out, doing quotes, seeing off the girls, sorting out the bays and the folders.”

“Vikki has been amazing. She’s been there every step of the way. It’s been useful to have that support.”

Changes and Transformation

Under Becky and Vikki’s supervision, Merry Maids Northampton has transformed, moving from a small unit to a brand-new office unit alongside ServiceMaster’s Northampton-based contract cleaning franchise.

“At first, it was scary, but we’re fully operating from the new unit now. We absolutely love it. The girls are so happy!

We’ve just rolled with it. The girls have been amazing. We all get on really well. They’ve supported me, and I them.”

Aspirations and Assurances

Becky and Vikki have big plans for the business.

“I just want it to grow and get bigger and bigger,” says Becky.

“We’ve got loyal customers. I want to build from that to get more customers, get more staff in and build Merry Maids to as big as we possibly can.”

We’ve got the space now. We’ve got the unit, we’ve got the facilities, we’ve got it all now. It’s just growing and making it as best as we can make it. Which I’m excited about!”

Vikki adds:

“I’m delighted to reintroduce Merry Maids Northampton into the Merry Maids franchise network under the ownership of ServiceMaster. Becky and the team have embraced the transition brilliantly, so I’m very excited to see their growth in driving the business to new heights while delivering the trademark Merry Maids service to the community.”

To those loyal customers, Becky says:

“Thank you for continuing to let us clean your homes. We did lose a lot of customers through COVID, but we also have a lot of loyal customers who stayed with us, and getting their feedback from cleans is always lovely.”

To new customers, Merry Maids Northampton provides satisfaction, a spotless home, and time that would’ve otherwise been spent cleaning.

“Our goal is to make the customer happy, and their home is done exactly how they want it.”

“Hence, we come out to quote for the cleaning in the first place, so we can get an idea of what the customer wants to do in their home and then make sure that we follow the instructions and just make them happy.”

Speaking with experience as a cleaner, Becky adds:

“I love going into a customer’s home, and I prefer the ones that are a bit messy because once you’ve done it and then close that door, you just know when they open it, it’s going to be all nice and clean and won’t have to worry about anything. It’s all done. They can relax and enjoy their evening.”

See how Merry Maids Northampton can help you

If you are in Northampton or the surrounding areas and would benefit from a professional and bespoke home cleaning service carried out by trained and fully insured professionals, or if you would like to work for a cleaning business that provides a high standard of service as part of a friendly and professional team, call 0845 7626 828 today to see how we can help you today.

To benefit from Merry Maids services nationwide, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book online now.

Merry Maids’ top tips for a spooktacular Halloween party

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How to make sure your Halloween party is scarily good.

Halloween is coming.

It’s the perfect holiday for people who love sweets and chocolate, dressing up, and being a big kid.

Whether you’re planning a ghostly gathering for kids or grown-ups, some Halloween essentials can’t be missed.

Here are our tips on preparing the perfect Halloween monster bash.

  1. Make it age-appropriate

No matter your guest demographic, ensure it is appropriate for the age of your guests.

For example, some scarier decorations might be too intense for young kids.

If your guests are all adults, you’re probably safe to go all out with the fright factor, but the last thing you want from a fun kid’s party is to upset them!

  1. Avoid hard-to-clean substances

In our experience, some spooky substances are an absolute monster to remove from surfaces and furnishings.

While they are essentials for many, substances like fake blood, silly string, and the makeup from Halloween costume sets can easily stain carpets, curtains, and upholstery and are notoriously difficult to remove.

If any spillages or issues with these substances occur, your local ServiceMaster Clean technicians will remove them in a flash with their specialist expertise and high-quality equipment.

  1. Set the scene with some monstrous media

Prepare for your guests and set the mood for a fun and festive time with a combo of themed media.

Make a playlist of your favourite songs to get you in the spooky spirit.

Some hits like Thriller and the Monster Mash will surely get guests feeling Halloween-y.

And if you don’t have time to make your own, check out our Halloween playlist that’s sure to have your party jumping with fright.

You could also play classic Halloween films in the background for extra ambience.

For horror fans, you could play one of the many Halloween or Scream films, Friday the 13th or The Exorcist.

For a less frightening time, try some appropriate films for a younger audience, like The Corpse Bride, Wendall and Wilde, The Addams Family, or Beetlejuice.

  1. Plan ahead

Your gathering doesn’t need to be a massive expense.

Throwing a memorable, sustainable, but inexpensive party merely requires a little forward-thinking.

The only strangers turning up on your doorstep should be trick-or-treaters.

Establish a “ghouls list” and get an exact headcount for the evening by specifying whether or not people should bring plus 1s.

When you invite your guests, set an RSVP date.

If you host guests often, you can also use decorations that can be used more than once.

You can source a lot of cheap and inexpensive decorations from discount stores.

Halloween is meant to be scary, but one thing you shouldn’t be afraid of is asking for help.

Ask your guests to help out by bringing beverages or their favourite (possibly themed) dish.

This might save you valuable prep time ahead of your party.

You can also plan fun activities like games or a prize for the best costume.

  1. Clear away the cobwebs

While giant spider webs are appropriate for Halloween, you don’t want to invite guests into a dusty or untidy home.

Ensure your home is party-ready by enlisting the help of your local Merry Maids.

As experts in cleaning for over 60 years, we’ll help ensure your home is so clean it’s almost scary!

Contact Us

To see how we can help you maintain a clean and tidy home, find your nearest Merry Maids business for a free, no-obligation quotation on a range of bespoke, one-off or regular cleaning services.

4 Habits of New Year’s Resolution Keepers

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How to stick to your resolutions this new year.

Have you ever wondered how some people actually stick to their New Year’s resolutions? Or why some resolutions fail?

The answers aren’t as simple as, “some people are just more motivated to reach their goals.” Motivation doesn’t always yield fruitful results.

In fact, across the pond, Ohio State University psychology professor Steven Reiss argues that “there is no real evidence that intrinsic motivation even exists.”

This is to say that motivation can’t be packaged in a neat little box and sold as a one-size-fits-all.

When you resolve for the New Year, usually it’s to make positive changes in your life. And many who are successful in that endeavour are creatures of particular habits.

But if you’ve found yourself only in the third week of January and already struggling to stick to your resolve, we’ve put together a guide on how to stick to your resolution.

  1. Keep It Real

To avoid resolution failure, an important habit is staying grounded.

It’s never a good idea to set an unattainable goal or one outside your means to complete it.

For instance, if you resolve to travel internationally but are in enormous credit card debt, that’s probably not the most realistic (or financially savvy) resolution for you at this point.

Strive for something you’ll be able to achieve, like spending more time with your family, reading more books, or drinking more water.

Most significant change happens incrementally, so keeping your resolutions achievable in the short term will help you in the long run.

Remember, there are many days in the year – it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

  1. Plan Ahead… (And Back)

Poet Robert Burns coined the phrase, “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”

This means even with a there’s no guarantee of success.

However, there’s a much higher chance you’ll accomplish a New Year’s resolution when you plan in reverse.

But what does that mean?

In a 2017 study, researchers at the University of Iowa, Peking University HSBC Business School, and the Korea University Business School found that goal-planning methods amongst students were more comprehensive when done backwards.

To put things in perspective, start with your end goal.

Then, work backwards to develop a plan to achieve your realistic resolution. Make sure to set a due date if a schedule drives your goal.

Remember, reverse planning doesn’t mean you follow your steps backwards. It’s simply a way to help you map your goal if you’re unsure of your first step.

  1. Incentivise Resolutions

Keeping New Year’s resolutions can be challenging if you set your sights too high and don’t reward yourself throughout the process.

Sure, the reward is accomplishing your goal, but you deserve mini rewards here and there to keep you inspired.

Ways to incentivise your resolution:

  • Buying yourself something small anytime you reach a mini-goal
  • Book a staycation to a part of the country you’ve never been
  • Treat yourself to your favourite dessert or tasty treat
  • Invite a good friend to watch a movie you’ve been waiting to see

Whatever the incentive, make sure the reward doesn’t contradict your resolution.

For instance, if you’re working toward cutting back on sweets, the best prize probably isn’t a box of chocolates.

Your incentive should be something in line with your goal.

  1. Give Yourself Some Grace

Sometimes, resolutions don’t always work out the way you planned because various factors obstruct you or other things take precedence.

In those cases, give yourself grace.

Don’t beat yourself up about any missteps you may have. There is, quite literally, always tomorrow.

But that’s not to say you should continuously give yourself a pass on the things you aspire to achieve.

Whether you resolve to stop a bad habit or pick up a healthier routine, continue to focus on reaching your goal.

Want a cleaner home this year?

If your New Year’s resolution is to have a cleaner home, give yourself some grace by contacting your local cleaning professionals.

While you’re taking on the world and your resolutions, we’ll be here to maintain your home.

With over 30 years of experience as experts in home cleaning, all of our cleaning professionals are best equipped to take care of the everyday messes in your home while you take care of what matters to you.

To find out more about our services, find your nearest Merry Maids business or book now through our online shop.