Break Your Bad Cleaning Habits And Avoid These Six Common Mistakes To Maintain A Happier, Healthier Home
When it comes to cleaning, we’ve all got our quirks and routines. But have you ever stopped to think about how some of your go-to habits might actually be doing more harm than good?
Well, if not, it’s finally time to dust off those old practices and reassess. From neglecting deep cleaning to overdoing it with cleaning products, here are some of the most common cleaning habits you might want to reconsider. Trust us, your home will thank you.
The Deep Clean Dilemma
Neglecting deep cleans is like ignoring that one drawer full of random items– eventually, it needs attention.
Sure, surface cleaning keeps things looking presentable, but what about the grime lurking in all of those unseen corners?
By putting off deep cleans, you will be left with a buildup of dust, allergens, and bacteria, making your home a breeding ground for sneezes and sniffles.
The solution? Schedule a deep clean session every few months. Yes, this means moving your furniture, getting into those nooks and crannies, and maybe even tackling that dreaded junk drawer.
Using Way Too Many Cleaning Products
Walking down the cleaning aisle can be overwhelming when there’s a product for every conceivable purpose. However, using too many products, or worse, mixing them, can be counterproductive and even dangerous.
Friends Stock – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
Mixing chemicals like bleach and ammonia can create toxic gases. Instead, simplify your cleaning arsenal.
Oftentimes, a good all-purpose cleaner, a disinfectant, and some trusty vinegar and baking soda can tackle most household tasks. That’s really all you need.
Stop Spraying Directly Onto Surfaces
Spraying cleaners directly onto surfaces seems quick and effective, but it can actually lead to product buildup and even damage certain materials.
So, the smarter approach is spraying your cloth, not the surface. This method will give you more control, use less product, and is even safer for your surfaces, especially the delicate ones.
Patience Is A Virtue, So Let Your Products Sit
It’s tempting to spray and immediately wipe, especially in a rush, but this common habit doesn’t give cleaning products enough time to work their magic.
Most disinfectants need a certain amount of time on a surface to effectively kill germs and bacteria.
So, next time, after spraying, take a moment to breathe. Let the product sit for the recommended time, then wipe it away. This small change can make a big difference in the cleanliness of your home.
Don’t Put Off Vacuuming Anymore
Vacuuming is like the unsung hero of cleaning, but neglecting to vacuum regularly can lead to dust, pet hair, and allergens accumulating in your carpets and floors.
This not only affects air quality but can also shorten the life of your carpets. That’s why you should make vacuuming a regular part of your routine, and don’t forget to hit those hard-to-reach places where dust bunnies love to hide.
Clean Your Cleaning Tools
Cleaning your cleaning tools might sound like a chore within a chore, and it kind of is. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t essential.
Using dirty mops, cloths, or sponges will just spread more dirt around. So, be sure to regularly wash or replace these tools to ensure they’re ready to fight grime effectively.
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