Spring Into a Cleaner Home with Molly Maid® for National Cleaning Week
WACO, Texas, March 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Molly Maid ®, a Neighborly ® company and the nation's leading residential and commercial cleaning franchise, is sharing helpful spring cleaning tips for all homeowners right in time for National Cleaning Week (March 23-29).
Spring cleaning is known to be the time of year when you do a thorough cleaning of your home and clean away winter's mess. It can include any cleaning task from clearing out cabinets and scrubbing the floors to reorganizing each room. It's the perfect time to give your home that refresh it deserves and what better way to commemorate National Cleaning Week than with a fresh space?
Having an entire season dedicated to cleaning can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be simple and stress-free. Follow these expert tips from Molly Maid to refresh your home efficiently and effectively:
Get Ready: Start by creating a checklist to keep your cleaning tasks organized and efficient. Gather essential supplies like microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaners, vinegar, baking soda, and disinfectants to ensure you have everything you need before getting started.
Declutter First: Before deep cleaning, go through each room and sort items into donate, keep, or trash piles. By decluttering first, it helps create a more manageable space and makes the cleaning process easier.
Clean Room by Room: Focus on one area at a time, starting with the most frequently used spaces like bathrooms and the kitchen. Don't forget to clean forgotten areas, like dusting light fixtures and ceiling fans and wiping down windowsills and moldings. Dust first then move onto vacuuming rugs, carpets and floors to refresh each room.
Disinfect Key Touchpoints: High-touch surfaces like cabinet handles, doorknobs, and light switches can harbor germs, so be sure to wipe them down with disinfectant to keep your home healthy and clean.
'National Cleaning Week is the perfect excuse to tackle all those messes you've been avoiding,' said Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid. 'To make your life easier when this time comes, we recommend making daily cleaning habits a part of your life. Including making the bed, loading the dishwasher promptly and wiping down counters and surfaces regularly. Doing all these things throughout the year, will make spring cleaning a less intimidating and daunting task.'
We understand that sometimes life gets in the way. You may be too busy and/or too tired to do a deep clean or sometimes it is just too much for you to do on your own. Molly Maid is here to help always! We can create a personalized cleaning plan for you and your needs no matter the situation. Help is only a call away!
About Molly Maid®
Molly Maid® is a residential cleaning franchise with more than 450 franchise locations that collectively perform more than 1.7 million U.S. home cleanings annually. Franchising since 1984, and acquired in 2015, Molly Maid® is part of Neighborly®, a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners with more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. Molly Maid® established the Ms. Molly Foundation in 1996 to raise awareness and support for victims of domestic violence. For more information about Molly Maid®, visit MollyMaid.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

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NBC News
a day ago
- NBC News
The best dusters to actually keep your home clean
That dust accumulating in your home? It could be because you're dusting wrong. One of the biggest mistakes people make while dusting is not using the right cleaning tool — bad dusters often push particles around and make more of a mess instead of removing them from surfaces altogether, says Marla Mock, president of home cleaning service Molly Maid. I spoke to experts about how to dust every area in your home and the best dusters for doing so. Using their guidance, I rounded up top cleaning tools from brands like Amazon Basics, Swiffer and Oxo. How I picked the best dusters When shopping for dusters, experts suggest keeping the following in mind: Type and size: Microfiber cloths, dusting wands, vacuum attachments and similar products all qualify as types of dusters. Choose one that's appropriate for what you're cleaning and make sure it's the right size for the space. Disposable versus reusable: Some dusters are designed for one-time use, while others are reusable and can be cleaned after they get dirty. Many options come with a reusable handle or base; to use them, you add a disposable refill each time you clean. Material: Choose dusters that are soft and won't scratch or otherwise damage surfaces. Some surfaces are particularly sensitive, like certain types of electronics (gaming consoles or computers, for example) or screens on tech like TVs. In these cases, experts recommend reading product care descriptions to learn about what materials to prioritize and avoid. Additionally, textured materials have a larger surface area compared to untextured materials, which means they can better pick up and trap dust as you're cleaning, says Angie Hicks, chief consumer officer at Angi and co-founder of Angie's List. The best dusters to clean every part of your home Best hand duster Microfiber cloths are great all-around hand dusters to keep at home because they're gentle on surfaces and act like a magnet for dust — the material attracts the tiny particles, lifts them off surfaces and traps them, experts told us. And while you can use the cloths dry, damp cloths are much better at holding onto debris, says Mock. 'A dry cloth may just push the dust around or create static that attracts more dust,' she says. You can wet microfiber cloths with water, an all-purpose cleaning solution or disinfectant, but be careful not to add too much, as it can leave streaks on surfaces. Amazon Basics has a set of 24, 36 or 48 microfiber cleaning cloths, each of which measures 16 by 12 inches. The microfiber material is soft, nonabrasive and won't scratch delicate surfaces like glass, according to the brand. The cloths are available in pink, gray and green or blue, white and yellow — experts suggest designating different colors for different rooms or floors in your home. Best damp duster Using a damp duster, like this one, is comparable to using a wet microfiber cloth. Before each use, you dampen the foam sponge to soften it. Then, as you wipe dust off surfaces, the sponge's ridged exterior traps particles. The sponge also compresses so you can squeeze it into tight spaces. When it gets dirty, you can rinse it off and reuse it. Be sure to store it in a cool, dry place when you're not using it to prevent bacteria growth, according to the brand. Swiffer's fibrous, fluffy, disposable dusters have a three-dimensional shape. To use: slide them over the top of the brand's reusable handle, which can extend up to three feet. You can also adjust the angle of the handle's head depending on what you're cleaning. I've used this duster for years and it helps me reach places like the tops of bookcases, shelves, ceiling fans and above door frames. I also slide it under furniture and appliances and use it to clean baseboards and molding. Swiffer's dusters are recyclable as well. You can download a free shipping label from TerraCycle, pack all your used dusters in a box or envelope and send it to the recycling company. In addition to Swiffer's unscented disposable dusters, I like the pet refills, which are fluffier and can trap large amounts of cat and dog hair. Best adjustable duster This duster head is made of recycled microfiber, which the brand says can grab three times more dust than its feather counterparts. The head can also rotate in six different directions, making it easier to clean corners, under furniture and other tight spots. Plus, the handle extends three feet so you can reach high ceilings. The kit comes with two replacement duster heads as well, according to the brand. This Oxo duster is similar to the Swiffer option above, but the entire thing is reusable, including the duster head. The duster's handle extends from 24 inches to 53 inches in length — at its longest, it will likely help you reach ceiling fans, air vents and above door frames. The handle also has a soft, nonslip grip to keep your hand comfortable while cleaning. The detachable, reusable microfiber head rotates 270 degrees and locks in multiple positions so you can clean from different angles. You can purchase additional reusable duster heads to keep extras at home. Hiware's Window Blind Duster Brush is one of our favorite cleaning gadgets. It has three arms and comes with microfiber cloths to slip over them, allowing you to dust the tops and bottoms of multiple blinds at a time. You can also use the tool to dust vents and air conditioners. Some of the most common places people forget to dust are under appliances like refrigerators and ovens, as well as under furniture like couches, says Hicks. It can be hard to fit dusters in these narrow spaces and reach all the way behind them, but Mr. Siga's duster is specifically designed for these types of jobs. Its 19.7-inch wide microfiber duster head is flexible so you can bend it to fit into nooks and crannies. If you need to reach high or deep spaces, the duster's handle extends from 46.9 inches to 65.7 inches. Feather dusters are useful for cleaning delicate items like fine china, fragile knick-knacks or picture frames, says Mock. Move the duster in steady, even strokes and dust in one direction instead of moving the tool back and forth, which can stir up dust instead of picking it up. It's made from ostrich feathers and has a wooden handle. You can hand wash it by rinsing the feather off and letting them air dry, according to the brand. How to dust properly, according to experts Yes, there is a right way to dust, although the majority of people dust incorrectly, experts told me. Dusting properly is crucial — it ensures you're actually lifting dust off surfaces and removing it from your home. Otherwise, you might just be moving dust around or putting it into the air. While you're cleaning, consider wearing a face mask so you don't inhale any of the dust particles that might make their way into the air, says Dr. Shradha Agarwal, an allergist and immunologist at Mount Sinai Health System's Icahn School of Medicine. Below, experts share tips for effective dusting. Dust from top to bottom, or in one horizontal direction While you're cleaning higher areas, some particles fall onto surfaces beneath them. That's why it's important to dust from top to bottom — once you get to the lower areas, you can collect the dust that was there in the first place, plus any that made its way down during the cleaning process. Mock also recommends dusting first, then vacuuming. The vacuum can suck up any dirt and debris that got onto the floor while you were dusting. If you're dusting horizontally, make sure to clean in one direction (either right to left or left to right) instead of going back and forth. Doing so ensures you don't dirty already-clean areas, says Mock. Don't forget about these commonly missed spots People most often forget to dust hard-to-reach areas in their homes, says Mock. This includes ceiling fans, light fixtures, behind furniture, the tops of door frames and under appliances. Ignoring these spaces allows layers of dust to build up over time, eventually creating dust bunnies, which are small clumps of dust, lint, hair and other debris. Clean or swap out your dusters Be sure to clean reusable dusters after every job, or trash used disposable dusters and swap them out for new ones. Even if your duster doesn't look dirty, it likely has microscopic dust particles on it that you can spread to other surfaces. Start every new clean with a fresh duster to avoid that. How to reduce dust in your home If your home is particularly dusty, spend some time identifying the root cause, says Hicks. Doing so can reduce how much and how fast dust builds up, making regular weekly maintenance easier. Here are some steps you can take to reduce dust and dust mites in your home. Regularly clean fabric and upholstered surfaces: Dust mites usually settle on bedding, upholstered furniture, curtains, drapes and carpeting, not hard surfaces like wood, says Agarwal. Cleaning these surfaces weekly helps remove and kill dust mites, and you can also put dust mite-impermeable covers on mattresses, box springs and pillows, she says. Additionally, try not to add a lot of additional fabric into your home from decor like accent pillows or stuffed animals, for example. Use an air purifier and/or dehumidifiers: Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help remove dust particles and other allergens like pollen, dander and pet hair from the air, while dehumidifiers can reduce condensation in homes. 'Dust mites have decreased survival and multiplication when humidity is below 50% consistently,' says Agarwal. Also be sure to repair any leaks in your home, as that could also contribute to the buildup of moisture. Keep your air conditioner and furnace filters clean: Furnace and air conditioner filters do an amazing job of preventing outdoor dirt and dust from entering your home, says Hicks. But if they're dirty, they're not as effective as they're designed to be. Be sure to clean or replace these filters on a regular schedule to ensure they're doing their jobs. Similarly, cleaning your air ducts to maintain healthy indoor air quality is also important, says Hicks. You should swap out the filter on your air purifier periodically, too. Close your windows: Open windows provide fresh air and a nice breeze, but they allow debris from the outdoors to flood inside your home, says Hicks. Dirt and pollen that come inside eventually settle on surfaces, which creates more dust and circulates in the air that you then breathe in. Frequently asked questions What is dust? Dust is a collection of particles including skin, fibers, hair, bacteria, soil, pollen and more, says Agarwal. And if you're in a particularly dusty area, you may experience symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy skin, watery eyes and even shortness of breath, she told us. However, feeling irritated by dust is different from having an allergy related to dust. 'When speaking in reference to allergies, we worry about dust mites,' says Agarwal. 'Dust mites are arthropods that are found in the dust of homes located in regions where they are prevalent. They cannot be seen with the naked eye and feed off of organic matter such as skin scales, and bacteria and require moisture for survival.' Dust mites are not usually found in dry climates, which is why they're less prevalent in the western U.S. They thrive in warmer, wetter climates, and there are higher concentrations of dust mites in older homes prone to mold, homes with a lot of carpeting and homes that deal with other pests like roaches, according to Agarwal. Dust mite allergies can lead to inflammation inside the nose and asthma or eczema flare-ups, she says. So while dusting is important regardless of where you live, it's even more crucial if you live in an area where there are dust mites. How often should you dust? You should dust surfaces in your home at least once a week, experts told us. However, dusting frequency depends on factors like the size of your home, the level of foot traffic and activity and the types of surfaces you'll be cleaning, says Mock. If you have pets, consider increasing the number of times you dust a week, especially during shedding seasons, says Hicks. Pet hair and dander contribute to dust buildup in homes, and more shedding means more dust. Additionally, if you live in an area where dust mites are prevalent, you should dust more frequently. Mock recommends dusting after home improvement projects or renovations as well, as they tend to create a lot of dust. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select who covers home cleaning, including stories on eco-friendly cleaning products, disinfectants, dish soap, laundry detergent and hand soap. For this article, I interviewed three experts about dusters and rounded up options that meet expert guidance.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Fly by Night: Catch a Luna Moth Near You
U.S. Postal Service issues stamp for irregularly sized cards and invitations SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Aug. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Postal Service issued Luna Moth, a nondenominated stamp priced at the non-machineable surcharge rate, at the Great American Stamp Show here. A pale green luna moth graces the new release, which is designed for use on irregularly sized envelopes such as square greeting cards, invitations or announcements. Noted for their lovely green coloring and larger-than-average size, luna moths (Actias luna) are among the most beautiful moths in the United States. The stamps come in panes of 20 and are available at Post Office locations nationwide and online at Stamp design Luna Moth was designed by Derry Noyes, an art director for USPS, using an existing image by artist Joseph Scheer. The stamp features an image of a pale green luna moth with darker edges and eyespots on all four wings. The moth has a white and yellow body with feathery brown antennae between its forewings. Scheer created the image using a high-resolution scanner with extended focus, which allowed him to program in a variety of depths of field at exact points above the scanner glass. As many as 32 layers were scanned individually to ensure that all parts of the preserved moth would appear in sharp focus. These layers were stitched together to create the final image. Near the bottom of the stamp, the words "NON-MACHINEABLE SURCHARGE" appear in uppercase letters directly below the word "USA," which is printed in brown type. Like a Forever stamp, it will always be valid for the rate printed on it. Postal products Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon. Additional information on stamps, first-day-of-issue ceremonies and stamp-inspired products can be found at Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to nearly 169 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands. The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter; Facebook; Instagram; Pinterest; Threads; and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel. For more information about the Postal Service, visit and National contact: Leisha Local contact: Tim View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE U.S. Postal Service


Time Business News
11-08-2025
- Time Business News
Why More Buyers Are Choosing Newly Built Homes in El Paso
Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Franklin Mountains, El Paso is a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic growth. As more people choose to put down roots in the Sun City, they face a classic dilemma: should they buy an older, existing house with established 'character,' or invest in a brand-new build? Increasingly, the smart money is on new construction. The allure of a historic home is understandable, but the practical realities of modern life in El Paso are leading a growing number of buyers to partner with experienced local homebuilders. They are discovering that a newly built home offers a unique combination of financial savings, contemporary design, and peace of mind that older properties simply can't match. From lower energy bills to floor plans designed for today's families, the case for new construction is stronger than ever. Let's start with one of the biggest factors in any El Paso household budget: electricity. A summer in the desert is no joke, and the cost of cooling an older, poorly insulated home can be staggering. This is where new construction offers a massive advantage. Today's building codes and construction standards are light-years ahead of where they were decades ago. A newly built home in El Paso typically features: Advanced Insulation: High-performance insulation in the walls and attic keeps the cool air in and the intense summer heat out. High-performance insulation in the walls and attic keeps the cool air in and the intense summer heat out. High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Modern air conditioning units are engineered to use significantly less energy to cool your home more effectively. Modern air conditioning units are engineered to use significantly less energy to cool your home more effectively. Energy-Efficient Windows: Double- or triple-paned windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings reflect heat, preventing the sun from baking your living room. Double- or triple-paned windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings reflect heat, preventing the sun from baking your living room. Tight Construction: Advanced framing and sealing techniques reduce air leaks, meaning your AC isn't working overtime to cool the great outdoors. These features don't just make your home more comfortable; they can lead to substantial monthly savings on your utility bills. This financial benefit is so significant that buyers can sometimes qualify for an Energy-Efficient Mortgage (EEM), a special type of loan detailed by programs like ENERGY STAR®. Life has changed, and so has the way we use our homes. Many older El Paso homes were built with formal, closed-off rooms that feel cramped by today's standards. New homes are designed from the ground up to reflect how we live now. Open-concept layouts that connect the kitchen, dining, and living areas are standard. This creates a bright, airy space perfect for entertaining friends or just keeping an eye on the kids while you make dinner. You'll also find features that are now considered essential, such as dedicated home offices for remote work, larger closets for better storage, and spacious primary suites that act as a true retreat. When you buy a pre-owned home, you inherit its history—and all its potential problems. You never quite know when the aging roof might spring a leak or the 15-year-old water heater will finally give out. These surprise repairs can drain your savings and cause immense stress. With a new build, everything is brand new and under warranty. From the foundation to the fixtures, you are protected. You can move in with the confidence that you won't be facing a major, unexpected repair bill in your first few years of ownership. This peace of mind is priceless, allowing you to simply enjoy your new home without worrying about what might break next. One of the most exciting parts of buying a new construction home is the ability to personalize it. Instead of living with someone else's outdated tile choices or questionable paint colors, you get to make selections that reflect your personal style. From flooring and countertops to cabinets and light fixtures, you can create a space that feels truly yours from day one. This level of customization is happening in communities that are actively shaping the future of the region. As El Paso continues to grow, these new neighborhoods are thoughtfully planned with parks, walking trails, and convenient access to schools and shopping. This community-focused growth, often detailed by local resources like the City of El Paso's Economic Development department, ensures that you're not just buying a house, but investing in a thriving community. For homebuyers in El Paso, the choice is becoming clearer. A newly built home offers a smarter, more efficient, and more personalized way to live, providing a perfect foundation for a fresh start in the Sun City. TIME BUSINESS NEWS