5 Common Cleaning Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
I'm going to address several common cleaning mistakes and how to avoid them. We'll discuss using expired cleaning products, washing microfiber cloths, using the same product on different surfaces, cleaning stainless steel, and not cleaning hidden areas. Let's get started on these cleaning hacks!
Tools and materials
- Cleaning products
- Microfiber cloths
- Warm water
- Dish soap
- Polishing product
- Furniture sliders (optional)
- Vacuum cleaner with attachments
- Microfiber duster
- Cleaning brush
- All-purpose cleaner
- Extension wand (for high or hard-to-reach areas)
Common cleaning mistakes
1. Check expiration dates
Before using any cleaning products, check their expiration dates. Cleaning products can lose their effectiveness and become less safe to use after they expire.
Avoid buying cleaning products in bulk if you can't use them before they expire to prevent wasting money and ineffective cleaning.
2. Properly wash microfiber cloths
To maintain the effectiveness of microfiber cloths and prevent them from coming out fuzzy, wash them separately. Microfiber is delicate, and washing it with other fabrics can damage the fine fibers.
Use a gentle wash cycle and avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets when cleaning microfiber cloths.
3. Use the right product for each surface
Stop using a single cleaning product for everything in your home. Different surfaces require specific cleaning products to effectively remove dirt and grime without causing damage.
For example, don't use bleach on every surface. Invest in a variety of cleaning products suitable for various materials.
4. Properly clean stainless steel
When cleaning stainless steel appliances, avoid starting with a polishing product. Instead, begin by wiping the surface with warm water and dish soap. This helps remove smudges, dirt, and grime.
The polishing product should only be used after cleaning to make the stainless steel shine.
5. Don't neglect hidden areas
Just because you can't see hidden areas doesn't mean they should be ignored. Dust and dirt can accumulate in these spots, causing issues throughout your home. Use the following methods to clean hidden areas:
Moving furniture
Slide furniture using furniture sliders to access the space underneath. Clean beneath and behind furniture to prevent hidden dust and dirt from spreading.
Dusting
Use a microfiber duster or an extension wand with a microfiber attachment to reach high or hard-to-access areas.
Scrubbing
For areas with caked-on dirt or grime, use a cleaning brush and an all-purpose cleaner to ensure thorough cleaning.
Common cleaning mistakes
By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you'll be more efficient and effective in maintaining a clean and healthy home.
Don't forget to check the expiration dates on your cleaning products, wash your microfiber cloths separately, use the right cleaning products for different surfaces, clean stainless steel properly, and give attention to hidden areas for a truly spotless home. Share your cleaning hacks with us in the comments!
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Fill your pot with hot water then put a couple of big squirts of dishwashing liquid in , then throw in 2/3 new dryer sheets the let soak for an hour. Pot should wipe our clean.
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