Introduction

Every week we receive calls from worried homeowners in Bondi, Vaucluse and Mosman who have permanently damaged their stone benchtops or upholstery trying to save a few dollars. They've used the wrong chemical on marble and etched a dull ring that costs $2,400 to polish out; they've doused mould with bleach and ruined paint worth $18,000. As a professional cleaner serving Sydney's Eastern Suburbs and Lower North Shore, I'm tired of seeing people waste money and stress when a little knowledge would have saved them.

That's why this guide exists. You won't find sales fluff here—no email gates, no scarcity pitches. You'll learn exactly how we approach cleaning in high‑end homes, why chemistry matters more than brand names, and how to tackle Sydney's unique challenges like salt air and humidity. By the end, you will either be ready to maintain your property like a pro, or you'll see why professionals charge $620+ per visit and decide to call in help. Either choice is an informed one.

Here's what you'll learn:

1. The chemistry of cleaning and why pH matters more than brand names.
2. How to assemble a complete cleaning kit for about $150 AUD (with specific products you can buy at Coles, Woolworths or Bunnings).
3. Step‑by‑step protocols for natural stone, grout, glass, upholstery and carpets.
4. Professional workflows used to clean luxury homes quickly and thoroughly.
5. Sydney‑specific issues: salt air corrosion and humidity‑driven mould, plus daily routines to prevent them.
6. Equipment reviews—what's worth buying and what isn't.
7. The ten most expensive mistakes we see homeowners make (and how to avoid them).
8. Final thoughts on deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Cleaning involves chemicals and tools that can be hazardous if misused. Always follow product labels, test on hidden areas first and wear protective gear. If in doubt, call a professional.

Chapter 1: The Chemistry of Cleaning

pH 101 – Why It Matters

pH is the first lesson every professional cleaner learns. The pH scale runs from 0 (extremely acidic) to 14 (extremely alkaline), with 7 being neutral. Understanding pH matters more than any marketing claim because it tells you what type of soil a cleaner will dissolve and what surfaces it may damage.

Acids (pH 0–6): Good at dissolving mineral deposits like lime scale, rust and salt residue. They neutralise alkaline soils. Examples include white vinegar (pH 2.5), citric acid (pH 2), CLR (pH 1.5) and bathroom descalers. Never use acids on natural stone like marble or travertine—acid etches the surface and dissolves sealants.

Neutral Cleaners (pH 6–8): Safe for most surfaces. These include pH‑neutral stone cleaners, mild dish soaps and some glass cleaners. Neutral cleaners lift light soils without damaging coatings or finishes.

Alkalines (pH 8–14): Cut through organic matter like grease, oil and food residue. Examples include dish soap (pH 8), sodium bicarbonate or "bi‑carb soda" (pH 8.3), household degreasers (pH 9–11) and bleach (pH 12–13). Never mix alkaline cleaners with acids or ammonia—this can produce toxic gases like chloramine.