13 Dangerous Mistakes You’re Making When Cleaning Your Home
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Cleaning your home can be like running on a hamster wheel — a lot of effort and you’re not really sure if you’re making any progress. There are so many tips and tricks available that it’s easy to think you’re doing it all correctly. That’s where the problem lies. What if you’re doing some things that you don’t know might lead to more cleaning headaches (or even health hazards)?
When you do take on household tasks, you have to realize that some of your every day habits could be actually harming you more than helping you. Ok, roll up your sleeves and let’s get into the cleaning conundrums you may be facing.
Not Having a Cleaning Plan
I’d say cleaning without a plan is like going into a race blindfolded. Make a checklist or even schedule of what you need to do and when. Not only does it help you get organized with everything you have to do, it makes cleaning feel like something you can do rather than something you can’t.
Cleaning Your Windows on a Sunny Day
You might think it’s a good idea to use natural light, but cleaning windows in the sun will leave streaks. The cleaners dry too fast with the heat and are harder to remove. Choose a day when it’s a little cooler and a little cloudy and you can make that glass shine without all the fuss.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
All purpose cleaners are slippery slopes. Some surfaces need certain cleaners. For example, vinegar on granite won’t leave you with a shiny countertop. Always use the right product for each surface, and it’s always worth checking labels so you don’t accidentally damage something.
Mopping Before Vacuuming and Forgetting
Imagine painting a room without first dusting, that doesn’t sound right. When you mop and don’t vacuum, you are just pushing dirt and debris around. To really clean your floor, vacuum first to lift the grime and then mop.
Neglecting to Read Labels
Most people skip reading labels. It’s like diving into a swimming pool without checking there’s water first! Some cleaners contain harmful chemicals, and it’s important to know how to use them. Some may have to be diluted, some may require gloves, or ventilation. Read before you spray.
Mixing Cleaning Products
You’ve probably heard how a fizzy explosion of vinegar and baking soda, or bleach mixed with ammonia, is a thing. It’s like a science experiment in your own home! Never mix cleaning products unless you know it’s safe, do one product at a time.
Ignoring High-Touch Areas
These are the places we touch most often, such as doorknobs and light switches, but we are so easy to overlook. Funny thing, these high touch areas can be harbouring more germs than you’d expect. Imagine all the hands coming in and out! Keep your home healthy by wiping these down regularly.
Overusing Air Fresheners
Putting air fresheners all over your house can be like icing a burnt cake, even though it’s great to freshen up your home. So instead use a few well placed air fresheners or even natural alternatives like essential oils. Less is more, especially with scents.
Not Paying Attention to the Importance of Regular Maintenance
If you don’t keep up with routine maintenance, cleaning can become overwhelming. Your home is your most prized possession. Keep your space is clean, little upkeep will prevent future messes.
Focusing Only on Visible Dirt
Some things may may look clean but are not really clean. You never know what kind of dirt is lurking behind furniture or under cushions? All you need to do is dig a bit deeper, and get in those hidden spots and your home will be fresher and more inviting.
Cleaning From the Bottom Up
You may think you’re saving time when you clean from bottom to the top, but it’s just like you’re washing your car’s wheels before you wash the rest of the car. Dust surfaces before you vacuum or mop so the dirt that falls doesn’t cause you a problem. Start at high and work your way to low to keep it neat and tidy.
Skipping Your Routine Deep Cleaning
Cleaning can be a sprint but deep cleaning is a marathon. If you ignore it, eventually dirt and grime will build up and you’ll start to believe you’re never going to win. Set up deep cleaning sessions to avoid the cleaning avalanche when it all gets too messy.
Not Using the Right Tools
If you wouldn’t use a butter knife to cut a steak, then why use the wrong cleaning tool. Sponges to microfiber cloths, it has to be right. They only work well when you use them the right way. Moreover, it will save you time and effort.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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