Home cleaning is something you can become accustomed to very quickly. Some people even find it enjoyable and therapeutic running through their cleaning schedule and checklist of chores. What many people don’t realise though, is that even the most well-run cleaning process can sometimes set them back in the long run. That’s because cleaning is not always as simple as it looks and many cleaning regiments require methodical techniques to be effective.
If you’re curious about the cleaning mistakes you should look out for, keep scrolling – you might even find one or two you’re guilty of without being aware of it. At SweepSouth, the only thing that makes us happier than clean homes is the smile on our customers’ faces, so we’re happy to share some cleaning tips and help you avoid some common cleaning mistakes.
1. Cleaning From Bottom To Top
It’s a common mistake to start cleaning from the bottom up. After all, it makes sense to clean the dirtiest surfaces first, right? Wrong. When you clean from the bottom up, you’re just making more work for yourself. All the dust and dirt that you brush off of surfaces will end up on the floor, where you’ll have to vacuum or sweep it up. It’s much more efficient to start at the top and work your way down.
That way, any dust or dirt that falls won’t land on already-clean surfaces. Plus, it’s less likely that you’ll miss any spots when you’re starting at the top and working your way down. So next time you’re getting ready to do some cleaning, remember to start at the top and work your way down. You’ll be glad you did.
2. Using Cleaning Products With Harmful Chemicals
We’ve all been there – you need to clean something quickly, so you grab the closest thing to you, which is sometimes a chemical cleaner. You might not think twice about it, but using cleaning products with harmful chemicals can actually be doing more harm than good. These chemicals can be toxic if inhaled or ingested, and they can also cause skin and eye irritation. In addition, they can pollute the air and water in your home. So next time you reach for the cleaning spray, think twice about the ingredients – it might be better to opt for a natural cleaner that’s been tried and tested, or an easy-to-make homemade cleaner.
3. Forgetting To Wash Appliances That Do The Cleaning
Dishwashers and washing machines are some of the most important appliances in the home, but they are also some of the most commonly neglected when it comes to cleaning. Many people assume that these appliances clean themselves, but this is not the case. In order to function properly, dishwashers and washing machines need to be periodically cleaned of built-up dirt and grime. Failure to do so can lead to a number of problems, such as decreased efficiency and unpleasant odours.
The good news is that cleaning these appliances is relatively easy. Dishwashers can be cleaned with a vinegar solution, and washing machines should be cleaned with a bleach solution at least once a month. By taking the time to clean these appliances, you can avoid common problems and extend their lifespan.
4. Making Use Of Dirty Cleaning Tools
It’s easy to forget how often we use cloths and sponges around the house – for dusting, cleaning up spills, washing counters, and more. Over time, these items can become stained and full of bacteria. Yet many people don’t think to wash or replace them on a regular basis. This can be a big mistake, as old cloths and sponges can spread dirt and bacteria, making your home dirtier instead of cleaner. If you’re not sure when to wash or replace your cloths and sponges, a good rule of thumb is to wash them after each use. This may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it to keep your home clean and healthy.
5. Using One Cloth For The Whole House
One of the most common house cleaning mistakes is using the same cloth to clean your whole house. This might not seem like a big deal, but it can actually lead to cross-contamination. For example, if you use the same cloth to wipe down your kitchen counter and then your toilet, you could end up spreading bacteria from one surface to another. Similarly, if you use the same cloth to dust your furniture and then sweep your floors, you could end up tracking dirt and dust throughout your home. To avoid this problem, be sure to use different cloths for different surfaces. Use separate cloths for your counters, floors, and furniture, and be sure to wash them after each use. This will help to ensure that your home is truly clean.
6. Not Checking Laundry Labels
Have you ever made the mistake of not checking the laundry label before washing your clothes, only to end up with a ruined item of clothing? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s a common error that can be easily avoided by taking a few moments to read the care instructions before putting your clothes in the wash. Not all fabrics are created equal, and some require special care in order to avoid damage. For example, delicate items like lace or silk should be hand washed, while heavily soiled items may need to be washed on a hot cycle. By taking the time to check the label, you can ensure that your clothes will come out of the wash looking and feeling their best.
Keep these 6 pointers in mind the next time you run through your house cleaning schedule and you’ll find that the results will be better than ever. If you don’t have the time, remember that you can book an expert cleaning service with a trained and vetted SweepStar.
