Snow Shovel Safety

We knew it was coming....winter weather is blowing across much of the country and — unfortunately — that means out comes the snow shovel, the snow blower and the ice melt. And sweat on the foreheads of many.
 
(Editor’s Note: you might be fortunate enough not to experience snow at all. If that’s the case, then reading this will at least give you a good feeling that you chose warmer climates, or a feeling of empathy for those who did not.)
 
You’ve seen the news reports: When some overexert themselves when shoveling the white stuff, they can get hurt or even worse… so it’s smart to plan ahead and be prepared with proper information before engaging in a physical activity you aren’t used to. Snow shoveling puts stress on your back and also on your heart.
 
Choose your snow shovel carefully, one that is right for you. A curved handle keeps your back straighter when shoveling, and make sure the handle is of proper length for your height. A plastic shovel might not be as durable as a metal one, but it is lighter and easier to use, especially when dealing with a lot of snow.
 
Just as you would do before working out, stretch your muscles and warm them up. Pace yourself, take breaks.
 
When you go out to take care of a new snowfall, do more pushing of the snow, as that keeps strain on your back to a minimum.
 
When dealing with a heavy snowfall, and you can’t push it, shovel in layers, inches at a time. But never throw snow over your shoulder; toss it in front of you or to the side.
 
And never forget, what is outside comes inside, so snow, mud, ice melt and other hard-to-remove soils will end up on your carpet and other flooring. When this happens, do the right thing: Call your favorite cleaning professional - Delta Carpet Cleaning 216-939-8741

Tossing in the Towel

It happens all the time in a typical household. You grab a paper towel — or two, or three — to wipe up a mess when something is spilled. That’s what paper towels are for, right?

But something else you might have experienced using paper towels is for polishing your nice granite countertop, rubbing and scrubbing but still seeing streaks on the surface. You keep going until you have exhausted not only your stock of paper towels, but your own energy as well.

And what about the mirrors and windows in your home? Have you ever sprayed them with window cleaner and no matter how much you rubbed and scrubbed with a paper towel, you still saw those little swirly marks?

Of course. Happens all the time!

We have nothing against paper towels. We all use them and need them. But there is a better choice when it comes to cleaning many of the surfaces in your home.

What’s that better choice? A “microfiber” cloth or towel, and it solves all kinds of cleaning challenges.

Microfibers are amazing things. They are normally made from polyester, sometimes with other fibers added, and can be reused again and again and again with normal laundering. (A very important tip  don’t use fabric softener when you wash them as that leaves a residue on the towel.)

The word “micro” is key: Tiny filaments that act like thirsty grime-seeking sponges. Microfibers are soft and eagerly grab dirt, spills and more, leaving the surface sparkling clean. Those shiny surfaces in your home are perfect for microfibers.

Bonus: Anyone who believes in cleaning “green” and recycling should consider using microfibers. They are environmentally a superior choice. You can purchase them from virtually any store that sells cleaning products. Try them out.

So toss in the towel — the paper one, anyway.

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Delta Carpet Cleaning, Berea, Ohio  216-939-8741