10 Tips to Avoid Common Cleaning Mistakes
Small things can turn a simple cleaning session into a long and unpleasant process. You don’t need to worry because we’ll show you the common mistakes we might regularly make when cleaning along with some handy tips on how to avoid them.
1. Washing windows on a sunny day
Window-washing experts recommend doing this chore on cloudy days. The lather will dry very quickly when it’s sunny, leaving streaks, so the windows will remain dirty.
2. Using dirty tools
It won’t make much difference if you clean your house with dirty tools. Old rags, sponges, brooms, and other tools will only move the dirt and dust around surfaces instead of removing them. To be sure the cleaning is effective, replace old tools with new ones regularly.
3. Starting from the wrong spot
If you start cleaning in the wrong spot of the room, you might spend way more time doing so. Start at the top of the room because if you go in the opposite direction, like by washing the floor first and then dusting off your furniture, you will have to rewash the floor because the dust will have settled on it.
4. Cleaning the drains only when clogged or when there’s a bad smell
Although we may not notice it, drains slowly get clogged. That’s because food leftovers, dirt, and dust all stick to the inside of the pipes and build up over time. To avoid this, clean the pipes regularly. You can use the following method:
- Boil some water, then pour a bit of dish soap into the drain.
- Add hot water to dissolve the grease.
- Pour a glass of baking soda into the pipe followed by 1 cup of vinegar.
- Finally, a bit later, wash the drain with hot water.
5. Using a broom before or instead of vacuuming
Even though brooms are great for removing dust and dirt from almost any area of the home, using them before or instead of vacuuming is a big mistake. That’s because when sweeping, you might throw a lot of dust into the air that will settle around the entire room. Therefore, opt for vacuuming first to remove the dust, then you can use a broom to get rid of bigger pieces of dirt.
6. Not using gloves when washing the bathroom and toilet
Most toilets, pipes, mold, and fungus cleaners contain ingredients that can cause skin and eye irritation. To be safe, ensure the room is well-ventilated and wear rubber gloves. If a detergent gets on your skin, wash it with cold water immediately.
7. Using regular detergents for carpets
One of the main pros of specialized carpet cleaners is that they don’t form much foam; therefore, they quickly remove stains. On the other hand, regular detergents get very foamy, making the stains and dirt hard to remove. If you still want regular detergent, opt for a liquid one.
8. Using bleach for cleaning the inside parts of the toilet tank
Be careful when choosing cleaners for toilet tanks. Those with bleach can corrode metal.
9. Using window cleaners to wash glass-top stoves
It seems like a good idea to use a glass cleaner on a glass-top stove, but it’s not. Most glass cleaners contain ammonia and leave stains on the surface. Don’t use such cleaners, and opt for white vinegar instead.
10. Using a magic eraser for washing dishes
Magic erasers work like a very fine abrasive. Yes, they can remove some stains, but they also scratch the protective layer of some surfaces. Don’t use magic erasers on non-stick surfaces or stainless steel.
Bonus: Use dishwasher detergent pods to clean a dirty oven, toilet bowl, and more.
In a few simple steps, you can make your toilet sparkle again. To do so, try the following:
- Boil water in a kettle or on the stove. Then carefully pour the hot water into the toilet bowl, which is necessary to help dissolve the dishwasher pod.
- Drop the dishwasher pod (or tablet) into the bowl, then let it dissolve. You can wait overnight, or a few hours should be fine.
- Using a toilet brush, start brushing.
- Flush it down. That’s all.
How about you? How do you clean your house? Please share in the comments below!!👇👇