A How-to Home Guide
Keeping a home clean and in good working order isn’t always an easy feat! We asked four home service companies about everything from handy DIY tips for around the house, to the best approach to hiring parttime or full-time help.
How to… interview a potential helper (with help from Jobsearch)
#1 Ask her what her strengths and weaknesses are. This is a good way to find out about her special talents and whether she might be a good fit for your household.
#2 Check her nationality and find out about the culture of the country she comes from; along with her personality, this can be a good foundation for your working relationship.
#3 Check that the helper is comfortable with the priorities you have created for the position and that she is qualified and experienced to perform the tasks.
#4 From your conversations, gauge her proficiency in English and her communication style.
How to… care for air-conditioning (with help from Absolute Services) How often should I have my air-conditioner serviced?
It should be serviced and inspected at least once a year, although tenancy agreements have mandatory requirements that servicing be conducted quarterly. Regular servicing ensures it operates at maximum efficiency. Ideally, you should change your filter at least once a month, and you can easily do this yourself.
Are air-con maintenance plans on a contract, or on a one-off basis?
Maintenance plans are usually structured on a yearly contract basis. One-off servicing costs more. Benefits include pre-empting breakdowns that could be costly to put right, optimising the performance of the units and prolonging their life.
Are gas top-ups included in the maintenance fee?
No, gas top-ups are not included in the fee. Take note that gas top-ups are only necessary if the air-conditioner shows signs of leakage.
How to… remove stains like a pro (with help from Comfy Homes) What are your tips for removing stains from fabric?
Soak the item in cool water with half a teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of vinegar for 30 minutes, and then rinse. If the stain doesn’t lift, pre-treat the area with a prewash stain remover, liquid laundry detergent or a paste of powdered detergent and water. Then rinse with warm water. For oil-based stains, make a paste of talcum powder and apply it to the area, then wash as per the instructions.
What’s the best way to spot-clean a carpet or similar floor covering?
Add a quarter of a cup of white vinegar and a tablespoon of dish soap to water in a spray bottle. Spray the stained area liberally and let it soak for five to 10 minutes. Blot with a dry towel until the stain is removed.
How can I clean leather at home?
First, use a soft cloth (micro-fibre is ideal) to dust the surface. Then lather the leather with moisturising soap on a damp cloth. Follow up with a conditioning product for genuine leather.
How to… maintain a good relationship with your helper (with help from A-team Amahs & Cleaners)
#1 Allow your new helper some time to adapt and to adjust to your expectations. Sure, she may be experienced, but every home and every employer’s expectations are different.
#2 Misunderstandings happen largely due to miscommunication, so speak or write using simple and basic English.
#3 Prevent any false accusations or misunderstandings by keeping cash and valuables locked up. Show respect for your helper and do not assume that misplaced belongings have been stolen.
#4 Praise your helper when she has done her duties well – it will make her day to know that her work is appreciated.
#5 Always be prompt in paying your helper’s salary. Avoid changing or cancelling plans too often or at the last minute, as this will affect the income that supports her family back home.
How to… look after plants (with help from … Expat Living!)
Which plants grow well indoors in Singapore?
Three popular indoor plants are the money plant, the peace lily and the aloe vera. Money plants and peace lilies don’t require direct sunlight, and they can help to purify the air; aloe vera, meanwhile, is a handy home treatment for dry skin or a burn.
Any tips on dengue prevention at home?
Keep all empty flower pots or pails turned over or covered to prevent stagnant water from accumulating, and regularly check flower-pot saucers for excess water. If you’re in a landed property, make sure you keep up with fumigation (“fogging”) services according to NEA guidelines.
What are some of the herbs that can be grown easily at home?
Basil, mint and oregano all grow well in home gardens or pots – just be sure that they get enough sunlight and water, and use well-draining soil. These are three great herbs for the kitchen!