Well, howdy there, folks! If you've got yourself a good natural broomcorn broom from www.americanbroomshop.com, you know it's a trusty companion for sweepin' away life's little messes. But just like any other friend, it needs a bit of tender lovin' care to keep it kickin' for the long haul. So, grab your apron and let's dive into some down-home tips on how to care for your broomcorn broom and keep mold and mildew at bay.
Keep it Dry as a Bone
Y'all know that mold and mildew just love to hang out in damp places. Well, don't let 'em cozy up to your broom! After givin' your floor a good sweepin', make sure your broom dries out properly. Hang it up by the handle, with the bristles pointin' down, in a well-ventilated spot. This'll help that moisture mosey on outta there.
Shake It Off, Baby
Shaker brooms, like your trusty broomcorn broom, are made to be shaken, not stirred! Every now and then, give it a good shake outdoors. This'll help get rid of any dust or dirt that might've taken refuge in them bristles. It's like a good ol' fashioned broom hoedown!
A Little TLC
Your broom's gonna need a bit more than just a shake from time to time. Grab a stiff brush or even an old toothbrush and gently comb through them bristles to get out any stubborn gunk. Don't be too rough, now, we don't want to damage those natural fibers.
The Mold & Mildew Showdown
Now, if you find that mold or mildew have dared to set up camp on your broom, it's time for a good ol' fashioned showdown. Here's how to wrangle 'em:
For Mold:
1. Mix up a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water. Just enough to fill a small bucket.
2. Give your broom a good shake outdoors to get rid of loose dirt.
3. Dip the bristles of your broom into the vinegar and water mix, but don't soak it!
4. Gently scrub the affected area with an old toothbrush or a scrub brush. Show that mold who's boss!
5. Rinse the bristles with clean water and hang your broom up to dry like we talked about earlier.
For Mildew:
1. Mix a solution of one part bleach to four parts water in a bucket.
2. Shake your broom outside to remove loose dirt and dust.
3. Dip the bristles into the bleach solution, just deep enough to cover the affected area.
4. Scrub away the mildew with a toothbrush or scrub brush.
5. Rinse the bristles thoroughly with clean water.
6. Hang it up to dry in the sun, if possible, as sunshine is a natural enemy of mildew.
Remember, whether you're usin' vinegar or bleach, make sure you're in a well-ventilated area and use gloves to protect those hands of yours. Safety first, y'all!
Love That Handle
Don't forget about the wooden handle of your broom. Give it a good wipe-down with a damp cloth to keep it clean and free from any grimy buildup. Since it's made of wood, a little beeswax or furniture polish now and then can help keep it lookin' fine.
Store It Right
When you're not sweepin' up a storm, find a cozy spot for your broom. Hangin' it up is always a good idea to keep the bristles straight and ready for action. Just make sure it's in a place where it won't get bumped or knocked around too much.
Know When to Say Goodbye
Now, I hate to say it, but even the best broomcorn brooms have a lifespan. When you notice them bristles are all bent out of shape or startin' to fray, it might be time to bid farewell. But don't you worry none; there's always a new broomcorn broom ready to take its place at www.americanbroomshop.com
Nothing But the Best!
Broomcorn brooms have always been the finest money can buy -- and caring for your natural broomcorn broom is as easy as a pie. With a little care, your broom will be sweepin' up messes and keepin' your home spick and span for years to come! Take care, Y'all!