Cleaning your home can feel like a never-ending task, and despite your best efforts, some spots just never seem to get clean enough. Believe it or not, you might be making some common cleaning mistakes that can hinder your progress and even damage surfaces over time. Here, we reveal five cleaning errors you probably didn’t know you were making and how to correct them for a truly sparkling home!
One of the most common cleaning mistakes is using the same cloth or sponge for different surfaces. While it might seem convenient, this practice can spread dirt, bacteria, and germs from one area to another, especially if you’re using the same cloth in the kitchen and bathroom.
How to Fix It: Use different cloths for different areas of the home. Microfiber cloths are a great choice since they trap dust and bacteria without scratching surfaces. Consider color-coding cloths for each room (e.g., blue for the bathroom, yellow for the kitchen) to avoid cross-contamination. Wash and disinfect them after each use to keep them clean and ready for the next round.
It might be tempting to think that more cleaning product equals a cleaner surface, but overusing detergents and sprays can actually do more harm than good. Excess product can leave a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and grime, leading to surfaces getting dirty faster.
How to Fix It: Use cleaning products sparingly. A little goes a long way, especially with concentrated formulas. Always follow the instructions on the label to avoid residue build-up. For surfaces like countertops and floors, rinse them with a damp cloth or mop after cleaning to remove any leftover product.
Doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and appliance handles are some of the most frequently touched surfaces in your home, yet they are often overlooked during regular cleaning routines. These areas can harbor germs and bacteria, which can spread throughout the house.
How to Fix It: Make it a habit to wipe down high-touch surfaces daily, especially during flu season or when someone in the house is sick. Use disinfectant wipes or a spray cleaner on a clean cloth to kill germs effectively. Quick and consistent attention to these spots will help keep your home healthier and cleaner overall.
While it might seem logical to clean your windows on a bright, sunny day so you can see streaks and spots more clearly, direct sunlight can actually cause window cleaner to dry too quickly. This results in streaks and smudges that defeat the purpose of cleaning in the first place.
How to Fix It: Clean your windows on a cloudy day or during the early morning/evening when the sun isn’t directly hitting the glass. Use a microfiber cloth or a squeegee to ensure a streak-free finish. If you’re using a spray cleaner, spray it directly onto the cloth rather than the glass to avoid excess moisture, which can leave behind spots.
Many people spray a cleaning solution onto a surface and immediately wipe it off, believing that this quick action is enough to remove dirt and germs. However, most cleaning products need time to work effectively, especially when it comes to disinfecting.
How to Fix It: Read the instructions on your cleaning products carefully to see how long they need to sit to be effective. For disinfectants, this “dwell time” is crucial for killing bacteria and germs. Typically, you should let the product sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. This gives the formula time to break down grime, grease, and germs, leaving your surfaces truly clean.
Even when you avoid these common cleaning mistakes, maintaining a spotless home can be a time-consuming and exhausting job. That’s where VP Cleaning Services comes in! Our professional team knows all the best techniques and products to clean every nook and cranny of your home efficiently. We use the right tools and products for every surface, ensuring a deep, thorough clean that you can trust.
Why Choose VP Cleaning Services?
Let us handle the cleaning while you enjoy a fresh, welcoming home. Contact VP Cleaning Services today to book your next cleaning appointment!
Everyone makes cleaning mistakes now and then, but by being aware of these common errors, you can easily correct them and improve your cleaning routine. Remember, using the right techniques and tools can make a world of difference in maintaining a sparkling, healthy home. And when you need a helping hand, VP Cleaning Services is here to give your space the professional clean it deserves!