Finding The Right Method To Clean Your Leather Upholstery

Water Damage In Austin Texas

When you’re cleaning something that people will be sitting on every day, you want to make sure it’s done right. But there are many different types of leather upholstery, so the first step is figuring out which type of upholstery you have, and only then can you find the right method to clean it. Let’s talk about how The Steam Team’s highly trained cleaning professionals can help you when you’re unsure about cleaning your upholstery.

The Right Method

We train our technicians to offer excellent service to all of our customers. When you call them for upholstery cleaning, they’ll start by recommending only the most appropriate cleaning method for your specific type of upholstery. Then, to be absolutely sure that we’re providing the best service we can to meet your needs, our technicians will test the cleaning method on a small area of the upholstery for you to see and make sure you approve. If the upholstery is easy to clean, our prices will be lower to match. More expensive upholstery requires more expensive cleaning methods.

Powerful Fabric Protectant

Once the upholstery has been cleaned, you’ll have the option to have our technicians apply a powerful fabric protectant. This is a recommended part of our total cleaning program and will save you money in the long run. Over time, spills, pets and children will wear down your upholstery and soon you’ll have to have it cleaned again or even replaced, but not if we apply a fabric protectant. The protectant will easily resist anything that might dull your upholstery over time.

Total Clean and Replenishing

Our technicians even come prepared for leather upholstery. They’ll carefully and properly clean the leather, removing all dirt and grime, and replenish the natural oils that help keep the leather in good condition. We’ll bring your leather back to the sleek shine it used to have in no time. For more information on upholstery cleaning and our other services, visit The Steam Team website.

3 Forgotten Areas to Clean Around the Home

Carpet cleaning in Austin.

With Springtime just around the corner, we’re already thinking about Spring cleaning. Has it crossed your mind? Without diving too deep (because we’ll save that for a Spring cleaning blog), we wanted to give you a few areas to begin dusting before the deep clean a little later. Here at The Steam Team, we’re armed with our cleaners and ready to tackle any project you may throw at us. So, while we have plenty of tips for you here on our blog, don’t forget we can always help you out around the house!

Air Ducts

Air ducts are notorious for hoarding dust, dirt, dander, and other allergens. If you’re having trouble with your allergies this season (even indoors), then it may be time to check out your air ducts and have them professionally cleaned. You won’t regret it! And how often do you need to do this, anyway? Let’s just get it over with. 

Underneath Furniture

When was the last time you moved your couch and checked underneath for dust, dirt, and pet hair? It’s probably safe to say that this doesn’t happen very often. It may be a pain to physically move your furniture around to make sure everything is cleaned thoroughly, but we promise: the results are well worth the effort. 

Ceiling Fans

Try this: turn off your ceiling fan (because we know it runs almost constantly). Now, what do you see? Dust? More dust? So much dust you forgot what color the blades were? That’s okay. Ceiling fan blades can be steam cleaned! So after you’ve dusted, give The Steam Team a call; we’ll be able to reach those tight spots and give your fan the thorough clean that it deserves.

And there you have it, friends! Now, don’t forget: there are plenty of other dusty areas around your home or office, so don’t neglect those! And also don’t hesitate to call in The Steam Team, no matter what you need done around your home. We’re not just here for spring cleaning! We can help with cleanup and restoration, too! 

Back to the Basics: A Quick Guide to Steam Cleaning

So you’ve given up your traditional methods of cleaning and have decided to go with steam cleaning! First of all, we’re proud of you! Second of all, let’s go back to the basics of steam cleaning. What’s it all about? Well, here are five facts about steam cleaning that are bound to get you even more excited about your new endeavor!

Steam Cleaning is Completely Safe

Steam cleaning is absolutely, entirely safe for your children, pets, other family members, and the environment in general. It doesn’t involve the use of any chemicals at all. That means that no potentially harmful substances are used while we clean, and we won’t leave behind any residue!

Steam Cleaning Saves You Money

That’s right! Steam cleaning saves you money. You won’t need to purchase any cleaning supplies if you’re steam cleaning- since a steam cleaning machine won’t use them! You’ll love

having that extra cash stowed away for a rainy day.

Steam Cleaning REALLY Cleans

Finally, a clean that you can trust! You’ve seen the before and after pictures, right? Then you know that steam cleaning really gets at that grime and dirt. Nothing gets past a professional grade steam cleaning machine!

Steam Cleaning Kills Germs and Bacteria

Bring it on, springtime. Bring all of your germs and bacteria. Let us fight them away with our professional grade steam cleaning machine! With high pressurized water and intense heat, we can take care of germs and bacteria in bathrooms, kitchens, entry ways- wherever!

Steam Cleaning Eradicates Allergens

Having trouble this allergy season? We can’t blame you; Austin is the allergy capital of the nation! But before you throw in the towel and succumb to runny, stuffy noses forever- consider steam cleaning. It does wonders for eradicating allergens like dust, dander, and pollen!

Contact The Steam Team today if you’re in need of a serious cleaning! Or log online and view our list of services here!

How The Steam Team Handles Water Damage Restoration

Flooding can happen in the blink of an eye- one minute water is overflowing and the next you’re surrounded by it. We know how difficult it can be to get every bit of water out of your house, deal with the insurance company, and then have to worry about putting your home back together again- that’s why The Steam Team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your restoration needs.

Restoring a home from water damage is not an easy project, we don’t recommend that you try to take it on yourself (especially during such a stressful time). Bringing in the professionals will ensure that everything is taken care of properly and will leave you with ease knowing you’re at no risk for mold.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

After water floods your home, whether it be from a storm, busted pipe, or broken appliance- the first thing to do is to remove any and all water from the house (if possible). We know that the biggest hassle for homeowner’s is often dealing with their insurance companies throughout this process, so we actually take that off of your shoulders and work with them directly.

Then, we’ll focus on your belongings and other surfaces around the home. We’ll clean and sanitize the area to ensure the health and safety of you and your family. The fans come next to begin drying everything out, from the flooring to the furniture. We’ll ensure that there isn’t any structural damage and check around for any signs of mold spores and growth. When it comes to restoration and remediation, we’ve got the experts!

So next time you find yourself facing a tragedy like water damage, don’t hesitate to call The Steam Team- even if it’s the middle of the night, our emergency crews are available!

How Does Mold Affect Your Home?

Water Damage and Mold Remediation 

Have you been smelling a damp, musty scent around your home? There’s a chance that scent could be the result of a growing mold problem- a problem that definitely needs to be addressed! Unfortunately, most of the mold that is toxic to our health is invisible to the naked eye, so we have to rely on our other senses. And if you can see the mold growth- well, you’d better tackle that issue right away! Let’s talk about mold and how it affects our home, health, and what we should do about it. Mold remediation Austin Texas. 

Mold in the Home

Mold thrives in warm, humid environments. There are several places around the home that it could fester, such as a dark and dingy kitchen cabinet, a constantly-damp bathroom, or even inside that bread box of yours! It doesn’t take much time to begin growing (maybe around twenty four hours), and most of the air we breathe in contains mold spores that are harmful to our health! How exactly do those mold spores affect your health, might you ask?

Put Your Health First

Mold can cause a variety of health effects, or none at all, depending on how sensitive you are. Mold spores can cause symptoms varying from throat and eye irritations, to stuffy noses, coughing, wheezing, or even skin irritations! It’s also possible to have a mold allergy in which case you’d experience even more difficulty around mold, of course. We are licensed for mold remediation for Austin Texas. 

Call the Professionals

No matter how big of an issue it may be, if you have a growing mold problem in your home, you’ll want to call the professionals right away. They’re the best ones for the job! They’ll know how to safely and effectively remedy the situation. So don’t hesitate, don’t even blink! Just give The Steam Team a call. Callus for mold removal in Austin. 512-451-8326

How Improper Water Damage Restoration Can Be Dangerous

Emergency Water Damage

When it comes to water damage, you want to rely on the professionals- but not just any professional. You want to trust and call The Steam Team, a team of dedicated professionals who have the right equipment, more than enough experience, and the most reliable expertise for the job! Below, we’ll explain just why exactly improper water damage restoration can be dangerous, and why we’re the best for the task! The Austin Texas water damage experts. 

Flood Damage is Dangerous- You Need Experienced Pro’s

Some “professionals,” may not understand just how dangerous flood damage can be! The water that enters a home during a flood or natural disaster may carry dangerous debris, or it could come straight from drainage ditch! Professionals have to be careful when working in and around an environment subject to water damage, or they risk their health and the condition of your home.

You DON’T Want a Mold Infestation

Mold infestations are an ever-present concern for water damage technicians and homeowners alike. If a technician isn’t doing his job properly, your home could fall subject to a mold issue, and this is something you certainly want to avoid! Mold only needs twenty four hours to grow and begin festering, so make sure your cleaning company is on the ball!

You Want the Job Done Correctly and Thoroughly call The Steam Team of Austin. 

This is why you need someone who knows what they’re doing, and will complete the job correctly; you don’t want to risk your possessions being damaged or lost, or your home being unsafe after the job is “finished.” Call 512-451-8326 now. 

The Steam Team has been helping the Austin area with a multitude of cleaning and restoration projects for over a decade! Put your trust in us during a flood, or severe case of water damage and you can rest assured that we’ll be safe, effective, and will keep home and possessions safe the entire time! Water damage service in Austin!

High Rise Cleaning in Austin, TX

Cleaning After A High Rise Fire In Austin Texas 

This summer, it may be time to give your office building a deep cleaning, one that will last, one done by the professionals! The temperatures are rising in Austin and with them, your need for a professional cleaning to rid your office of dirt, dust, dander and grime. The Steam Team Area Rug Cleaning has been there for Austinites through thick and thin; we’ve really enjoyed watching the city grow, and meeting its demands. Now it’s your turn to experience just what our professional team can do for you. Serving Austin for over 36 years. 

Draperies

We don’t use an ordinary duster on your blinds and draperies. We steam clean them! And oftentimes, we can do this without even removing them from where they hang, shortening the process for your convenience.

Tile Cleaning

Think about how often you’ve eaten lunch at your desk. It’s bound to have built up some grime by now. But with a few sweeps of our high powered steam cleaning equipment, we can remove dust, dirt, and nasty leftovers from the surfaces in your office, no problem. Best of all, a steam cleaner won’t leave behind any residue for you to clean up, as it’ll only utilize high pressurized water, and extreme heat. There are absolutely no chemicals involved! Our tile cleaning process has 8 steps. 

Carpet and Flooring

Sure, the cleaning crew does a lot for your carpet! But every now and then it could use a deep cleaning. Let us come and steam clean your flooring and you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about. A steam cleaner reaches deep within the fibers of your carpet and extracts dirt, dust, dander, allergens, and so much more from your flooring. Your office will be spotless!

We love serving the city of Austin, and we’re not stopping anytime soon! So if your office is in need of a deep cleaning this summer, don’t hesitate to call in The Steam Team of Austin! 

5 Ways to Keep Flooring Looking Fabulous in Austin, TX

Cleaning Austin, TX

Your flooring may already look fabulous to you, but who knows what’s truly lurking against the grain of those beautiful planks? Dirt and dust can hide quite inconspicuously. Not to

mention, at some point in time, a wet mop will have to make its way out of the cleaning closet (for best results, that is). Below, you’ll find five ways to care for your hardwood flooring!

Dust Weekly with Microfiber Cloth or Dry Mop

Dust seems to attack from all corners of the house: the back door, the front, foot traffic, our animals… it even cycles around beneath ceiling fans. Try dry dusting with a microfiber cloth (so that the dust sticks, and doesn’t spread!) or even better- with a dry mop!

Vacuum Regularly

We’re not talking about carpet, here. In fact, many vacuums function on hardwood floor, as they come with a setting suitable for bare floor. If you don’t have time to dry mop or dust often, we suggest finding a vacuum cleaner suitable for your hardwood. It can save time and so much energy!

Use a Wet Mop

It’s unavoidable, especially if you spot a neglected spill. Before using a wet mop, make sure you’ve prepared properly by purchasing the correct floor cleaner. Using a solution that isn’t designed for hardwood can cause damage, or at the least, smudging and obvious track marks!

Clean Spills Immediately

Rule #1 of cleaning: if it spills, it stays… until somebody comes to clean it up. To keep your hardwood flooring looking clean and pristine, tackle spills and stains right away! Don’t let them settle onto the flooring- it’ll only be more difficult to clean in the long run.

Call The Steam Team!

If properly cared for, hardwood floors can last forever. Every one to three years or so, The Steam Team can assist you in deep-cleaning your floors. Or if you’re in need of a hardwood floor refinishing, we’ve got your back! Don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re available around the clock!

Fire Damage Restoration: The Insurance Process

The Steam Team Helping Install Fire Alarms

When you and your home or place of business are victims of fire damage, the recovery process can be overwhelming. One of the first things you’ll need to do is contact your home insurance company to discuss how to proceed—and ASAP, to prevent further damage to belongings that could potentially be saved. We’ve compiled some tips for communicating with your insurance company during the claims process.  

Leave a trail

Document everything! Have a mindset of gathering proof or evidence, in case any challenges come up later. Confirm updates on your claim or any promises made over the phone by sending a quick follow-up email or letter.   

Be polite and proactive

Everything goes into the company’s records, so no matter how frustrated or justified you feel, refrain from saying or writing anything that would make you come across uncooperative or the cause of any delays or problems. And don’t make the insurance company a target of your venting emotions related to your loss. Instead, be proactive about staying in touch and offering proof of your losses.  

Stay organized

Keep a separate folder, notebook, and/or binder of all paper mail and printouts, and organize any related electronic communications in a separate folder in your inbox. Also, keep a diary of when you spoke with your insurance company, to track info and jog your memory should you need to look back.

Cleanup and restoration are going to require professional help, so you’ll want your insurance company on your side. After speaking with your insurance, you will need to hire a company that can take care of the fire and water damage. It’s important to act fast to minimize permanent damage. The Steam Team offers restoration services 24/7 within 24–48 hours of a fire. Call the emergency line at 800-880-7785, and we will send out a restoration professional to assess the extent of the fire or water damage and provide you with an estimate of costs.   

Water Damage In Austin

The Steam Team Office In Austin, Texas

Pets make loyal, loveable additions to the family, but they’re not the most considerate of companions… especially when it comes to the carpet. For starters, our pets don’t think twice about tracking mud around, and housetraining is a battle in itself.

We’ve compiled a few tips to help you implement a system that protects your carpet from day-to-day damage.

Keep an Enzymatic Cleaner On hand

It’s important to use an enzymatic cleaner on urine—it’s the only product that contains enzymes that break down the non-water-soluble components in urine, such as uric acid. Use as directed on the bottle. If the stain persists, you can try your trusty commercial carpet cleaner, or mix your own solution, using water and dish detergent, or water, baking soda, and white vinegar. As we always suggest... Remember not to scrub the stain. Instead, blot the area with a clean cloth.

Set Up a Paw-Wiping Station

After romping around the muddy backyard, Fido hurries inside, leaving filthy paw prints in his path! Do yourself (and your flooring) a favor and set up a paw-wiping station near the entryway.

Spread out a towel (or doormat) at the backdoor, suitable for your pet to step on as they enter. You can layer this towel with a damp, smaller towel to help wipe away mud. Set a spray bottle and soft bristle brush nearby, if necessary.

Conceal High-Traffic Areas with Decorative Rugs

An area rug is easier to replace than carpet! A smaller pattern will be more forgiving of dust, dirt, and fur. Be sure to include your area rugs in your normal vacuuming routine.

Hire the Professionals

How often should you have your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned? Well, this will depend on how much foot traffic/wear and tear your carpet has endured. Contact The Steam Team if you notice any staining, discoloration, or if your home needs a professional’s magic touch!