Notes from the crew

A practical seasonal schedule for deep cleaning, and the signs your home needs one sooner.

The exact areas landlords check at hand-over, and the ones that get deposits docked most often.

A realistic routine for hair, dander and odors — and the products that are safe around pets.

A realistic schedule for driveways, siding and decks, and the warning signs that mean it is overdue.

Why dark streaks and moss are more than cosmetic, and the soft-wash method that removes them safely.

Wall-to-wall carpet and area rugs collect the same dirt but need different cleaning methods — here is why.

When to clean, when to just check, and the signs that mean you cannot wait for the next scheduled visit.