Below we list the 20 best gifts you can give new moms and dads as they welcome a new member into their family.

1. Meal Delivery Service or Prepaid Grubhub/Doordash/Postmates account

This gift idea tops our list because it’s not an immediately obvious choice but can make all the difference to a new parent. This baby shower is probably the last time you’re going to see the happy couple well-rested for a while. Even for those without newborns, preparing dinner can be overwhelming, so you can imagine how helpful it will be to have food almost magically appear at their front door – a true gift! 

You have two options for this gift: find a prepared meal delivery service through Yelp or set up accounts on food delivery service apps like Grubhub, Postmates, or Doordash with a prepaid credit card. Visa has several options, so you can bestow your generous gift with a preset limit that you’re comfortable with.

 2. Laundry subscription or prepaid gift card

Another daunting chore that you can help new parents avoid is laundry. The average person spends 3+ hours per week washing, folding and putting away their clothes. With a new baby in the house, your new parents will need that time for other important things, like sleep!

Rinse picks up, professionally cleans, folds, and delivers laundry to the new parent’s door. Rinse offers Rinse Repeat, a subscription laundry service with plans starting at just $50 per month, as well as gift cards that can be used on Wash & Fold, Hang Dry, and Dry Cleaning services. One of the best gifts you can give the soon-to-be parents is the gift of never needing to fold a baby blanket or finding and pairing those tiny little socks!

Rinse is currently available 10 major metro areas, including the Bay Area, New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, Washington DC, Dallas, Austin, and Boston. If the new parents live elsewhere, local cleaners often also offer laundry pickup and delivery services, which will make a huge difference for the expecting family.

3. Date night gift certificates

Another non-baby baby shower gift that will make your loved one’s lives easier are gift certificates for a date night. This means you arrange the sitter (if you’re comfortable taking care of the baby, it’s great to offer your own services) and an activity – it can be a gift basket for a date night in, or an activity out of the house like a dinner and a movie. The important part is to give the new parents space to be together as a couple and recharge during this new and exciting chapter of their lives!

4. Gifts just for Mom

Speaking of recharging, another great gift option is to make sure that the mom-to-be is taken care after the baby comes. Her life is going to all-baby, all-day so making sure she has something fun that’s just for her may mean more than you know in the coming months. Mom gift boxes and gift sets like FitFabFun or beauty boxes like Ipsy will be a great reminder that she is a valuable and beautiful adult between naps, diaper changes, and feedings.

You may be thinking, these suggestions don’t seem very baby-related. Well, that’s because these gifts are meant to take care of the parents so they can take care of their new bundle of joy. But, if you are looking for baby-focused gifts, (we can’t blame you, they are the cutest) then the next six ideas on this list may be just the thing!

5. Handcrafted gifts

If you are at all creative, one of the best gifts you can give is a thoughtful DIY gift! There is no cuter project than baby-related crafts and here are a handful of our favorites. 

• DIY lovey bunny blanket

• DIY sensory hula hoop

• DIY stackable toys

If you’re no Martha Stewart, that’s fine. Meet Etsy, a magical marketplace of artists where you can pick out the sweetest handmade gifts without having to bust out your own hot glue gun. 

6. Helpful baby gifts (with a gift receipt)

Maybe you just want some classic baby gifts for the new little angel. If so, here are the favorites from parents and friends in our office. Consider packaging one or more for a thoughtful gift set.

1. Wubbanubs - the cutest pacifiers out there. Once the baby is past the age of a pacifier, you just cut the little creature from the binky and you have a little stuffed animal that they can hang onto.

2. DockATots - the well-named DocATot is basically a docking station for a baby. It’s a portable cozy place for the baby to rest, play, and bond with loved ones.

3. Blooming Bath Lotus - This baby bath makes sink baths easy, safe and comfortable for little one. Plus it’s almost impossibly adorable.

4. Sleepsack Swaddle - This wearable blanket allows babies to feel contained like when they are swaddled but have a bit more mobility 

5. Baby Shusher - A shusher is a nearly magical product to help babies fall asleep and stay asleep

7. Diaper subscription

This may be the most helpful baby gift of them all. You can give the gift of disposable or reusable diapers so it’s worth asking your mom-to-be if she has a preference before you pull the trigger. A baby will go through six to ten diapers in a day, so helping parents with their diaper needs will be a highly appreciated gift. 

 8. Cute diaper bag

A great baby shower gift is a diaper bag because they are indispensable once the baby arrives. The best part is that they now make very cute versions of diaper bags so new moms and dads can stay stylish even while toting their little one and 25 diapers around town. A diaper bag carries everything a new mother needs so it’s one of her most important possessions in the early months of motherhood. Getting a cute and durable diaper bag is always a thoughtful gift. 

9. Gifts to create memories

The new parent's first year is going to be a blur of sleep deprivation and pure, euphoric love. One of the best gifts new parents can receive is one that helps the new family document all of the sweet moments of their baby’s first year like a month blanket, memory scrapbook, or month by month frame.

10. Newborn photography session

You know the new mom best so number 10 is a real judgment call. Some moms may absolutely love a newborn photography session because they can have a tangible reminder of this sweet time, but other moms may find a photography session completely useless. If you’re unsure, think back to if the mom-to-be took engagement photos. If she did, then you’re in business with this gift and Yelp is a great place to find talented photographers that specialize in baby shoots.

11. A Baby Milestone Monthly Blanket

A baby milestone monthly blanket is a thoughtful and practical gift that helps new parents capture the growth and development of their baby month by month. These blankets typically feature a grid with numbers representing the months, allowing parents to place the baby on the blanket and mark the current age with a prop or frame. It’s a creative way to document the baby’s first year, creating precious keepsake photos that can be shared with family and friends. With various designs and themes available, you can choose one that matches the parents’ style or nursery décor, making this gift both sentimental and functional.

12. Pajamas for the Baby

Soft, cozy pajamas are a staple for any newborn wardrobe, making them an excellent gift for new parents. Look for pajamas made from breathable, hypoallergenic fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo to ensure the baby’s comfort. Many pajamas come with practical features like footies to keep little toes warm, snap closures for easy diaper changes, and adorable designs that make them even more special. Given how quickly babies grow, parents will appreciate having extra sets of pajamas on hand, and they’ll love dressing their little one in something cute and comfortable.

13. Stretch Marks Cream

Pregnancy often brings about physical changes, and one of the most common concerns for new moms is stretch marks. A high-quality stretch marks cream can be a thoughtful and much-appreciated gift. These creams are specially formulated with ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and nourish the skin. By giving this gift, you’re not only helping the new mom care for her skin but also offering a small gesture of self-care that can make her feel pampered during a busy and stressful postpartum time.

14. A Flower Bouquet

A flower bouquet may not be a typical baby gift, but it’s a beautiful way to brighten up the home of new parents and add a touch of cheer. Fresh flowers can bring warmth and positivity to the environment, which is especially welcome during the often overwhelming early days of parenthood. Consider selecting a bouquet with flowers that have special meanings, such as lilies for purity or roses for love, to add a deeper layer of sentiment. If you want the gift to last longer, opt for a potted plant or a subscription to a flower delivery service that provides fresh blooms on a regular basis.

15. Back and Neck Massager with Heat

Parenthood can be physically demanding, especially with all the lifting, carrying, and bending involved in caring for a newborn. A back and neck massager with heat is a perfect gift to help new moms unwind and soothe their sore muscles in the postpartum period. These devices offer targeted relief, using a combination of massage nodes and heat therapy to ease tension and promote relaxation. It’s a gift that shows you care about their well-being and want to help them find a moment of relaxation amid their busy schedules.

16. A Robot Vacuum

Keeping the house clean can be a challenge for new parents who are already juggling diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights. A robot vacuum is a practical and innovative gift that can be programmed to clean floors on a schedule, navigating around furniture and returning to their charging stations when done. With features like powerful suction, multiple cleaning modes, and compatibility with smart home systems, a robot vacuum can keep the home tidy with minimal effort from the parents, giving them more time to focus on their baby and themselves. Especially if the family is moving into a new home, a robot vacuum is one of the best gift ideas for a housewarming.

17. An Ice Roller

An ice roller is a versatile tool that offers a refreshing and soothing experience, making it a unique and thoughtful gift for new parents postpartum. This handy device can be used to reduce puffiness, relieve tension headaches, and even soothe skin after sleepless nights. Filled with water or gel, the roller can be stored in the freezer and then rolled over the face and neck for an instant cooling effect. It’s a small but luxurious self-care item that can help new parents feel rejuvenated, even when they’re running low on sleep.

19. A Blanket Doll

A blanket doll, also known as a lovey, is a comforting and cuddly gift that can provide security and warmth to a newborn. These soft toys combine the familiarity of a blanket with the appeal of a plush doll, often becoming a baby’s first best friend. Blanket dolls are perfect for nap time, car rides, or just snuggling, helping to soothe and calm the baby. They come in various designs, from animals to simple shapes, allowing you to pick one that fits the baby’s personality or nursery theme. It’s a sweet and enduring gift that will likely become a cherished keepsake.

18. A Baby Bouncer

A baby bouncer is a lifesaver for new parents who need a safe and comfortable place to put their baby while they take a quick break, do chores, or simply relax for a moment. These bouncers often feature gentle rocking or bouncing motions that help soothe the baby, along with toys, sounds, or vibrations to keep them entertained. Look for a bouncer with adjustable positions, easy portability, and machine-washable fabrics to make it as convenient as possible for the parents. It’s a gift that offers both peace of mind and a few extra hands-free moments during a busy day.

20. A Nursery Bralette

Comfort is key for new moms, and a nursery bralette offers just that. Designed with breastfeeding in mind, these nursing bras are soft, supportive, and easy to use, making them one of the best gift ideas for any new mom’s wardrobe. This new mom gift provides easy access for nursing, with features like pull-down cups or front clasps, and are often made from breathable, stretchable fabrics that adapt to changing body shapes. Giving a nursery bralette as a gift shows that you understand the practical needs of new motherhood, while also ensuring that the mom feels comfortable and cared for during this special time.

 

Make New Parents’ Lives Easier with Rinse

When it comes to easing the daily burdens of new parenthood, few services are as helpful as Rinse. Juggling the demands of a newborn leaves little time for household chores, and laundry is often one of the first tasks to pile up. Rinse offers a convenient and reliable solution, ensuring that parents have one less thing to worry about.

Rinse provides a professional laundry service that picks up dirty clothes, washes, folds, and delivers them back to the new parents’ doorstep. With plans like Rinse Repeat, which starts at just $50 per month, parents can enjoy a subscription service tailored to their needs. Rinse also offers gift cards, allowing friends and family to contribute to the new family’s laundry care. This service covers everything from everyday Wash & Fold to delicate Hang Dry and Dry Cleaning needs, giving new parents the gift of time and peace of mind.

Contact us at Rinse today to see our skill in action.

Have laundry or dry cleaning to do?

Rinse picks up, cleans and delivers 7 days a week. Amazingly awesome. Ridiculously simple.

Try Rinse 

What would make you happier: spending fifty dollars to buy yourself a couple hours of free time, or spending the same amount on a material good? According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and reported on by the New York Times, people who spend money to save time experience a boost in happiness that doesn’t occur by simply buying more stuff. So how can you save time and maximize happiness? Stop doing the chores you hate!

 

Five Chores to Outsource Right Now

1. Meal planning and preparation

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American woman spends 37 minutes per day on meal and drink preparation, while men average 17 minutes. The first takeaway is that men need to help more in the kitchen! The second is that both groups could benefit from ordering in. 

Unless cooking is genuinely enjoyable for you, consider spending a bit more money to buy yourself some time. Those same minutes that you spend in the kitchen could be spent exercising, pursuing a hobby, or playing with your kids. I would much rather watch my three-year-old ride his bike in circles on the driveway than stand at the counter chopping onions. While delivery from restaurants will save you the most time, it’s also the most expensive (and possibly least healthy) option.

Meal kits from companies like Blue Apron or Hello Fresh are a nice compromise—cheaper than take out, but more expensive than doing it on your own. These kits save you valuable planning, shopping, and prep time while still allowing you to serve up a home-cooked meal.

 

2. Laundry

Laundry is another top contender for most-time-consuming chore, costing the average American woman about two hours a week. Men spend, on average, about one fourth the amount of time, which leads me to believe that either women are doing their laundry or they are wearing dirty clothes. Assuming you are doing your own laundry and don’t particularly enjoy it, consider reclaiming that time.

In addition to the time you spend sorting, loading, folding, and (in my case) scrounging around for quarters, you may also find yourself waiting for the machines to finish or interrupting other activities to move the clothes along.

How nice would it be to forget all that and have your clean clothes delivered to your door? The cheapest way to live this dream is through a subscription laundry service like Rinse Repeat. Rinse Repeat lets you stuff your dirty clothes, towels, sheets, etc, into a bag that’s picked up and delivered to your door. While most laundry services cost upwards of $2 per pound, a Rinse Repeat subscription can cut that price in half.

 

3. Cleaning

How much time do you spend cleaning your home? Now, how much time do you spend thinking about cleaning your home or, perhaps, feeling guilty about the grime on the top of your microwave? Hiring a cleaning professional to clean your place once or twice a month is a worthwhile investment. 

First of all, you’re probably not that skilled at cleaning the grout in your shower, so why not outsource to somebody with specialized knowledge? Also, when you know that your place is in for a thorough cleaning, you can stop worrying about the dust on your bookshelves and enjoy the moment instead. 

 

4. Yard work and landscaping

I know a handful of people who get joy from tending their gardens and maintaining their yard—they are usually eager to tell me about their most recent blooms and overflowing crop of arugula. Are you one of these people? If not, it might make sense to hand your yard work over to a professional.

A weekly visit from a gardener will save you about two hours a week of yard work, and their expertise could leave your yard looking even better. With weeding and trimming out of your mind, you can enjoy your outdoor space rather than seeing it as a chore.

 

5. Furniture and other assembly

Maybe you grew up crushing lego kits in record time, but if you’re like me, and you break out in a cold sweat every time you see instructions written in 17 different languages, you need to hire a professional.

Fortunately, Amazon, IKEA, and others give customers the option to purchase assembly right in the checkout.  Alternatively, you can hire a tasker via Taskrabbit to complete the task.  Spend the time you saved doing something fun or just enjoying your magnificent new nightstand.

Pick you favorite (or rather, your least favorite) chores from the list above and outsource. Give yourself more time for the things you actually want to do!

Readers also liked:

1.) Your Complete Guide To Caring For Cashmere

2.) What Is Green Dry Cleaning?

3.) The 4 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Silk

As cliche as it sounds, the new year is a time for new year resolutions and goal setting. But in order to accomplish your goals, you have to start slow and focus on the little thing to get where you want to be.

One important detail that most likely relates to all of your goals this new year is - organization! In honor of National Clean Off Your Desk Day, here are some ways you can get organized to start 2018 off refreshed and adequately prepare to accomplish your goals this new year!

Rid Yourself of Clutter

One given with the holiday season is you’ll be receiving gifts and new household items. You may have upgraded your wardrobe or received replacement electronics. For every new item you received this holiday season say goodbye to three old items.

By doing so you will be on your way to decluttering your life and creating an organized environment to come home to each day. Happiness at home will translate into happiness at work and into all around positive energy that will help you stay focused in the new year and beyond.

Create Lists and Labels

There is an old saying “it’s only a dream until you write down, and then it becomes a goal.” This still holds true today. Write down your goals and stick to them! More importantly, get organized by making lists for your to do’s or label items and boxes in and around your home.

By labeling items that are in storage or items that are in your closet you are able to hide them from plain sight but at the same time maintain easy accessibility.

Making lists and labels create accountability and order and the actual act of writing something down can relieve stress and help you feel productive!

Clean Up Regularly

Now that you started to declutter your home, outlined your goals, and labeled your home cleaning should be easy! Start a house cleaning schedule and hold yourself to it. We suggest trying dedicating one day a week to your entire home or one room per day. Don’t let all your hard work go to waste either. Get into the habit of putting things away immediately to avoid making your home cluttered and dirty again.

Remember that we can take care of your dry cleaning and laundry! One less thing you have to worry about this year!

Don’t forget about cleaning and organizing your closet so you have room to store your freshly cleaned clothes. Head over to our blog post here to read more about how you can make the most out of your closet space.

And lastly, cleaning up doesn’t just mean your home anymore. Clean out your personal and work inboxes by unsubscribing to unwanted email lists, organizing your desktop and files, and making sure all your important information is backed-up properly.

Find Time For Yourself

We can’t go to the gym for you but we can take care of your dry cleaning and laundry. And by taking that off your list of to do’s we hope you are able to find more time for yourself and more time to focus on your health. It’s important to not only get your environment organized but your body as well. Getting into a healthy routine will maintain order and provide energy so that you can take on any challenge this new year!

Introduction

The current guest leaves your Airbnb at 9 a.m., and the new one checks in at noon. You're in a three-hour time crunch, and there's plenty to do to get your place ready for the new arrival. 

You could just give it a quick sweep and call it a day, but you don't want to lose your Superhost status. After all, cleanliness is essential in garnering positive reviews, eventually resulting in a better host reputation and more bookings. 

Now, the pressing question on your mind – how to clean for Airbnb and how to do it well. Don't worry, Rinse has your back. 

The Essential Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Start with a walkthrough of your property to make a mental note of areas requiring more or immediate attention. Then, go through the following checklist to tackle all rooms one by one: 

Bedroom Bliss 

The more the bedroom in your Airbnb reminds a guest of a fancy hotel, the higher the likelihood of positive reviews. Do the following for a hotel-like bedroom experience:

• Replace the bedding, such as sheets, comforters, and blankets, with freshly cleaned ones. 

• Make the bed, including the following: a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, pillows, a duvet cover, and a top sheet. 

• Dust the light fixtures and furniture. 

• Vacuum the floors, rugs, baseboards, and window sills. 

• Wipe all surfaces, such as nightstands, bed frames, dressers, and mirrors.

 

Revitalized and Refreshed Bathrooms

The bathrooms can make or break a guest's experience in a vacation rental. Our tip is to clean in a back-to-front order, i.e., from the shower to the toilet to the sink to the floor. Here's what to do: 

• Clean the toilet, shower, and sink thoroughly. Scrub off any stains or dirt. 

• Wipe the mirror with an appropriate glass cleaner. 

• Replace the used towels with fresh ones. 

• Restock amenities in the bathroom, such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, dental floss, and a fresh bar of soap. 

• Take the trash out and put a new liner in the bin. 

• Mop the floor with a disinfectant cleaner. 

Sparkling Clean Kitchen

Moving on to the kitchen, give this area a refresh, too. Your guests might not cook, but they'll definitely pop in here for a quick cup of coffee or snack. Follow this cleaning checklist for the kitchen: 

• Take all remaining food out of the refrigerator. 

• Scrub off the grease and food particles in the oven, microwave, refrigerator, and other appliances. 

• Clean the countertops, stovetop, and faucet with an all-purpose cleaner. 

• Wash and organize all cooking utensils. 

• Restock kitchen supplies like dish soap, paper towels, matchsticks or lighters, garbage bags, and napkins. 

• Sweep and mop the floor.

A Welcoming Living Room

The living room is where guests will probably spend most of their time, so cleanliness is a must here. The checklist for the living room is as follows: 

• Vacuum the floors, carpets, rugs, and upholstery. 

• Dust the blinds, vents, light fixtures, window sills, baseboards, and shelves. 

• Wipe the TV screen and other glass surfaces, such as mirrors. 

• Disinfect the remote control and other objects that are touched frequently. 

The Extra Mile with Delightful Touches

What differentiates a regular host from a Superhost? The additional beautification touches. Here's what you can do to make your vacation rental memorable for guests. 

• Place welcome chocolates or flowers to welcome your guests. 

• Add complimentary water bottles, snacks, or a basket of toiletries in the bathrooms. 

• Provide add-ons like a hair dryer, phone charger, first aid kit, etc. 

• Provide extra blankets and pillows in the closet. 

Deep Cleaning Your Space Between Guests

How to clean Airbnb when your guests are on their way to the airport and will arrive in under 24 hours? Prepare yourself for a long day. 

Start with decluttering the space and removing garbage. Then, vacuuming all possible surfaces, including the floors and the stairs. A wet-dry vac is a lifesaver since it can also be used to spray and clean any hard-to-reach places. 

Tackle the bedrooms by replacing the sheets and cleaning all surfaces. As for the bathroom, clean the toilet and shower thoroughly using disinfectant. Don't forget to wipe down all surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. 

Take a quick look at the kitchen to see what needs restocking. Then, clean it thoroughly, just like the bedroom and bathroom. 

Finally, disinfect the doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and other high-traffic areas. For an added welcome appeal, sweep the deck area or the porch. 

Maintaining Cleanliness During Guests' Stay

Keeping the Airbnb rental sparkling clean during guest stay is just as important as preparing it for check-in. Keep fresh linen and towels on hand to replace dirty ones, and leave cleaning supplies in the vacation rental for the guests' convenience. 

Communicate guidelines with the guest on how to use the space optimally. For example, instruct them to throw their trash out at the end of each day and wipe down kitchen surfaces after using them.

​If you hire Airbnb cleaning services, run them through the checklist you used when preparing for your guests' arrival.

Outsourcing Cleaning Services for Airbnb

Sometimes, the DIY cleaning approach just doesn't work. Maybe you're a vacation rental owner with a full-time job or just detest the idea of working a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner. 

Either way, an Airbnb cleaning company can take the task off your hands. Hiring housekeeping for Airbnb means you can rest easy knowing your rental is in good hands. 

A house cleaning service is already well-versed in the basics of Airbnb cleaning. So, you can expect them to do a stellar job. They also bring their equipment and tools, saving you the hassle and cost of renting or buying them. 

You don't necessarily have to outsource all Airbnb cleaning services. You can simply outsource laundry and dry cleaning to a professional service like Rinse. We will pick up the dirty laundry, clean it, and deliver it to your property. 

Similarly, you can hire a cleaning company for monthly deep cleans. The same goes for lawn upkeep and pool maintenance.

At the end of the day, you're left with a cleaner Airbnb without spending half your day on property management and continue being a stellar Airbnb host. Sounds like a dream come true, doesn't it? Get in touch with us at Rinse to outsource your first cleaning job today. 

 

 

Introduction

When it comes to laundry, the washing machine is our trusty sidekick. But did you know that a cleaning trend has been making waves — quite literally — in bathtubs across the globe? It's called laundry stripping, a technique that emerged on the screens of TikTok and quickly gained millions of views. This method promises to revive those dingy, lackluster garments in your closet, making them shine with newfound freshness.

What is Laundry Stripping?

At its core, laundry stripping is a deep cleaning method that targets the grime, dirt, and residue that regular laundry sessions might miss. Whether from body oil, hard water, or leftover detergent, our favorite garments and linens can accumulate a buildup that regular washing can't handle over time. That’s where laundry stripping steps in, promising to strip away this undesirable gunk.

To start, you'll need a few key ingredients: borax, washing soda (sodium carbonate), and Calgon or a homemade laundry detergent containing the active elements of both. These cleaning agents work together to break down and remove the buildup from your clothes. The process utilizes hot water to dissolve and activate the ingredients, ensuring a thorough cleaning.

Laundry Strip Recipe

Stripping isn't about playing with fancy, hard-to-find ingredients; it's about sticking to basics and giving fabrics the deep clean they deserve. The magical concoction that does the trick involves everyday cleaning staples that are easily available.

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Borax (Arm & Hammer's Borax is a popular choice)
• Washing Soda (Also by Arm & Hammer, and no, it's not the same as baking soda)
• Powdered Laundry Detergent (Any brand, though some prefer using well-known ones, like Tide)
• Calgon (Especially if you're dealing with hard water stains)
• A bathtub or large basin
• Hot water (as hot as you can safely manage)

For a rejuvenating soak in a standard bathtub half-filled with hot water, you’ll need:

• ¼ cup Borax
• ¼ cup Washing Soda
• ½ cup Powdered Laundry Detergent
• Optional: ¼ cup Calgon

Start by ensuring your tub or basin is clean. Fill it with hot water and then gradually add your ingredients, stirring well to ensure they dissolve fully.

Calgon acts as a water softener, and while not always necessary, it's a great addition if you have hard water. Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your clothes, affecting their look and feel. If you cannot find Calgon, a splash of vinegar can also help break down the mineral build-up.

Once your mixture is ready, add in the dirty clothes, ensuring they're fully submerged. Soak the garments for several hours, stirring occasionally. As time progresses, you might be surprised (and perhaps a tad grossed out) to see the water change color. This is the residue, fabric softener, detergent, and grime being stripped away.

After soaking, rinse your clothes well and run them through a regular washer cycle. The result? Clothes and towels that look, feel, and smell cleaner than they have in ages!

How to Strip Your Laundry: Step-by-Step

Despite its viral nature, laundry stripping is more science than spectacle. It's a method designed to remove residues, buildup, and grime that regular washing may miss.

1. Collect the Laundry Items for Stripping

First and foremost, select the items you believe need rejuvenation. Common candidates are towels that have lost their absorbency, workout clothes that don't feel as fresh, or bed linens that seem dingy even after a wash. Be cautious of extremely delicate fabrics; they might not withstand the vigorous process.

2. Prepare Your Basin Or Tub

You can use your bathtub or a large basin for this process. Fill it with hot water, ensuring it's as hot as you can safely manage. The warmth helps in activating the ingredients and enhancing their cleaning properties.

Note: If your clothes or linens are not very dirty or stained, you may opt for warm water instead.

3. Add Your Laundry Stripping Ingredients

Create a cocktail of cleaning agents. For a standard-sized bathtub, mix:

• ¼ cup Borax (often found under the brand Arm & Hammer)
• ¼ cup Washing Soda (it's not baking soda!)
• ½ cup Powdered Laundry Detergent (brands like Tide work well)

If you face hard water issues, add ¼ cup Calgon as a water softener to combat the minerals. In the absence of Calgon, a bit of vinegar can also help break down those stubborn mineral deposits.

4. Immerse and Stir Your Laundry

Once your concoction is ready, gently place your clothes, towels, or linens into the tub. Ensure they're completely submerged in the solution. Let them soak, but remember to occasionally stir the mix, helping to agitate the buildup and residues of the fabric. This process should take up to six hours, and you may be surprised to see the water's transformation as it collects all the buildup and grime.

5. Remove and Give It a Final Wash

After a thorough soak, remove the stripped items from the solution. You'll likely notice a significant amount of gunk left behind in the water — a testament to the effectiveness of the strip. Run the stripped items through a regular wash cycle in your washer to remove any remaining cleaning agents. Then, dry as you normally would, but perhaps skip the dryer sheet this time to avoid reintroducing any residue.

Is Laundry Stripping Safe?

The allure of laundry stripping has been significantly amplified by viral TikTok videos, showcasing tubs filled with murky water after a good soak, illustrating the amount of muck removed from what were thought-to-be-clean textiles. But is this mesmerizing method safe for all your clothes and linens?

Laundry stripping primarily aims to remove the dingy buildup and residue that accumulates on fabrics over time. This includes remnants from homemade laundry detergents, fabric softeners, hard water minerals, and body oils. The primary agents used in the process – Borax, washing soda, powdered laundry detergent, and sometimes Calgon or vinegar – effectively target this accumulated grime.

However, there are considerations to make when determining the suitability of laundry stripping for various items:

Color and Fabric Type: Laundry stripping works best on whites, light-colored items, and specifically colorfast bath towels and bed sheets. These textiles can endure hot water cleaning without the risk of fading. Darker-colored items or non-colorfast fabrics might lose their vibrancy or suffer damage in the process.

Temperature Resilience: The technique involves soaking items in hot water, often for hours. Only clothing or bedding items that can withstand high temperatures should be subjected to stripping. Delicate items, such as lace, silk, or fabrics prone to shrinking, should be kept away from this method.

Laundry Stripping vs. Regular Washing: It's worth noting that not every piece of fabric needs to undergo this deep-clean treatment. While laundry stripping can be a revelation for revitalizing old workout clothes, towels, or bed linens that have lost their charm, it's not a replacement for regular washing. Instead, consider it an occasional spa treatment for those items that have been feeling a bit off despite regular washes.

Experience Effortless Laundry with Rinse

After diving deep into the world of laundry stripping, understanding the nitty-gritty details of removing dingy buildup, and witnessing the resurrection of towels and linens from a murky tub of residue, one can't help but ask: Isn't there an easier way?

Enter Rinse. While the fascinating world of laundry stripping, made famous by TikTok, does wonders in breathing new life into fabrics, it can be a lengthy and sometimes messy process. From the mixture of homemade ingredients to soaking and stirring, stripping is an art and a commitment.

At Rinse, we understand the beauty of clean, revitalized clothing without the hassle of extended soaking or the need to buy multiple products. Our expert services cater to various laundry needs, ensuring your clothes are free from the sludgy buildup of residue, soap remnants, and the challenges that hard water brings.

Why Choose Rinse?

1. Convenience: Say goodbye to the days of working over a tub full of dirty water. With Rinse, schedule a pick-up, and our team will handle the rest. From wash to fold to delivery, your laundry is in expert hands.
2. Expertise: While you might be using a combination of vinegar, powdered laundry detergent, and Calgon at home, our team at Rinse employs a blend of techniques and products to ensure your fabrics are treated with the utmost care, stripping away stains, residues, and dinginess without harming the fabric.
3. Versatility: Whether it's workout clothes that have endured too many rigorous sessions, towels that have lost their plush appeal, or linens that don't feel as fresh anymore, Rinse has got you covered.
4. Eco-friendly: Are you concerned about the environmental impact of bleach, excessive water use, or waste? Rinse prides itself on its eco-friendly processes, ensuring your clothes aren't just clean, but the Earth is a bit cleaner, too.
5. Dedication to Quality: We don't just wash and deliver. Every garment goes through a rigorous process to ensure it's returned to you in the best condition possible, from the washer to the final fold.

In an age where convenience is king, why not hand over the reins of your laundry challenges to the experts? While stripping at home can be gratifying, Rinse offers the joy of impeccably clean textiles without the elbow grease. So, the next time you find yourself battling stubborn stains, residues, or just a pile of dirty laundry, remember: Rinse is here to make it all effortless. Experience the magic of clean, rejuvenated fabrics without lifting a finger.

Ready to revolutionize your laundry routine? Try Rinse today!

 

Introduction

Cleaning a restaurant, especially a commercial kitchen, is no walk in the park, considering the scrutiny by health inspectors and customers. Even missing or overlooking the tiniest detail can lead to a whole slew of problems for restaurant owners. 

That's where a comprehensive restaurant cleaning checklist comes in handy. It serves as a guide for restaurant owners to ensure that every possible area of their business has been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. 

But what goes into this checklist? Is it anything like house cleaning, or is there something more complex at hand? Let's find out.

The Importance of Regular Restaurant Cleaning

Regular cleaning, particularly in a restaurant's kitchen, is a must-do to prevent cross-contamination. According to the Canadian Institute of Food Safety, the common sources of cross-contamination in a commercial kitchen are kitchen equipment, utensils, cutting boards, mixing boards, cloths, towels, uniforms, and hairnets. 

Another notable source of cross-contamination is insect infestations – cockroaches and flies can be carriers of disease-causing bacteria. Their presence in a kitchen is a sign of sanitation and hygiene issues that can be resolved with proper cleaning.

Cleanliness in a restaurant is not limited to sanitizing, scrubbing, mopping, wiping, and cleaning the furniture or other surfaces. It includes employees' sanitization measures, too. Are they washing their hands frequently? How often do they change their gloves? 

It's important to ensure no cross-contamination is happening in the kitchen, both from employees to food and vice versa. When health emergencies arise, like COVID-19 or other viruses, cleanliness becomes even more paramount. 

Ensuring top-notch cleanliness routines in your restaurant also gets you positive feedback during health inspections, a way to attract customers to dine at your establishment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has food service codes and regulations you can consult for more guidance. 

Front-of-House Cleaning Checklist

Would it be okay to create a kitchen cleaning checklist and call it a day? Not at all. The front-of-house is just as important as it's the first impression your guests have, and as we all know, the first impression is often the one that sticks.

Daily Cleaning Tasks 

These tasks comprise the cleaning activities you need to perform during working hours and at the time of closing. Let's tackle both individually. 

During the Day

• Wipe high-traffic areas such as tabletops, railings, door handles, chairs, and countertops with a disinfectant throughout the day.
• Wipe tables after every customer leaves. 
• Clean the bathroom periodically and restock soap or toilet paper if needed. 
• Empty wastebaskets as they fill up.
• Sweep the floor at least once every hour and mop if needed. 
• Clean glass doors and windows to remove smudges.

At Closing Time 

• Wipe all tabletops and chairs with a disinfectant. 
• Vacuum the floor, paying extra attention to corners and behind furniture.
• Clean the menus. 
• Sanitize the bathroom and restock any supplies. 
• Empty wastebaskets and wipe down the bins. 
• Clean the windows, doors, and their frames. 
• Clean all equipment, such as the cash register, coffee machine, and soda dispenser.

Weekly Cleaning Tasks 

Not everything has to be done every day. There are some tasks that, if done once a week, will keep your restaurant clean and safe. These tasks are more specific and often require more time too. 

If possible, you can dedicate your restaurant's day off or a designated time for cleaning to attend to these tasks:

• Clean the ceiling fans to remove any dust buildup. 
• Wash the walls and baseboards to get rid of any dirt trapped in them. 
• Dust the shelves and other surfaces, such as picture frames or plants. 
• Vacuum the nooks and crannies of the restaurant. 

Monthly Cleaning Tasks 

Here's a cleaning checklist of the tasks you only need to do once a month: 

• Sanitize decorative elements, like artwork or plants. 
• Clean the air conditioning unit. 
• Clean the upholstery, carpets, curtains, and chairs while checking them for any damage or wear. 
• Check and clean all the lights, including chandeliers and light fixtures. 

Back-of-House Cleaning Checklist

The back-of-house mainly involves the preparation area, kitchen, and storage. Its cleanliness is essential to ensure food safety and employee well-being. Plus, you want the food prep area to be spotless to avoid contamination. 

Commercial kitchens are much more complicated than residential ones. Naturally, they also have more equipment and surfaces. That's why it's necessary to organize your kitchen cleaning checklist into a routine with regular and specific tasks. 

The regular ones range from tidying up the premises and mopping the floors to sanitizing counters, refrigerators, shelves, stoves, ovens, and other cooking surfaces. As for specific tasks on your list, these can include replacing old sponges with new ones and sterilizing all cutting boards. 

Here are some daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning tasks to take on. 

Daily Cleaning Tasks

The restaurant kitchen cleaning checklist can be broken down into sections:

Prep Stations 

During the shift:

• Clean all surfaces before preparing food. 
• Wipe the surfaces between prepping different ingredients. 
• Clean the floors after spills and accidents.

At the end of the shift:

• Clean all tools and equipment, including containers, utensils, knives, cutting boards, and bowls. 
• Sanitize all surfaces and equipment used during food preparation. 
• Clean the floor mats and mop the floors. 
• Refill the soap dispensers. 
• Empty the trash cans. 

Line 

The ''line'' is where the cooks prepare and cook the food. There's a high risk of food contamination here. 

During the shift: 

• Scrape the grills and griddles between uses. 
• Clean spills immediately. 
• Sanitize all surfaces. 
• Clean the fryers, ovens, and hood systems.

At the end of the shift: 

• Empty the drip trays and clean them. 
• Clean the microwaves and toaster ovens. 
• Clean the vent hood, filters, and exhaust fans. 
• Mop the floors and empty the trash cans. 
• Put all the dirty linens and towels in the laundry basket. 

Dish Pit 

The dish pit is where the dishwasher washes the dishes and utensils. It usually has a conveyor belt or a rack where the dishes and utensils are placed. 

During the shift: 

• Empty the dishwashers after every cycle. 
• Clean the surfaces of the dishwashers. 
• Mop the floor to remove any soap or water that may have pooled. 

At the end of the shift:

• Hand wash any utensil or dish that could not fit in the machine.
• Clean the sinks and washing stations. 
• Sweep and mop the floors. 
• Empty the trash cans. 

Weekly Cleaning Tasks

Besides daily cleaning, it's also imperative to do weekly deep cleaning to ensure a safe and healthy environment for everyone. Here's what needs to be done: 

• Toss out expired ingredients and food products. 
• Clean the shelves and refrigerator doors. 
• Clean the fryer, ice machine, refrigerator, and oven. 
• Use a degreaser to clean the grills and griddles. 
• Wash walls, light fixtures, and ceilings with soap and water. 
• Sweep and mop all the floors. 

Monthly Cleaning Tasks 

Every month, dedicate a day to deep cleaning. The cleaning schedule should include all back sections of the restaurant, from the line to the dish pit and storage areas. 

Pay close attention to all the appliances, from the fryers and ovens to the refrigerators and ice machines. Depending on your menu, you might also have additional appliances like food processors, slicers, mixers, etc. All of these need to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a month. 

Here's what to do: 

• Sanitize the walk-in coolers with a detergent-sanitizer mixture. 
• Clean the commercial stovetop and ovens. 
• Inspect and clean the ducts and hoods. 
• Clean the drains in the dish pit and mop sinks. 
• Polish all stainless steel faucets and sinks. 
• Clean and sanitize all cutting boards with a vinegar solution. 

Simplify Your Linen Care with Rinse

When creating a commercial kitchen cleaning checklist, many restaurant owners overlook the importance of clean kitchen linens and aprons. Often, these linens are responsible for the cross-contamination and health hazards that later get your restaurant bombarded with negative reviews on Google or Yelp. 

Why not avoid this issue by outsourcing laundry and dry cleaning needs to a professional solution like Rinse? On one hand, it saves you a ton of time that your employees would otherwise have to spend washing the tablecloths, napkins, towels, aprons, and other linens. 

On the other, it also ensures quality and consistent results. Boasting a convenient and tested cleaning process, Rinse provides a safe and hygienic way of dealing with laundry without having to lift a finger. 

Want to learn more about Rinse? 

Schedule a pickup to get started today and see for yourself why the hospitality industry is turning to Rinse for all its linen needs.