Cleaning can be a tedious and time-consuming task. Unfortunately, many of us make common cleaning mistakes that can extend the amount of time it takes to clean, or even worse, can cause more harm than good. To help you get the job done right the first time, here are 10 of the most common cleaning mistakes you need to stop making.
1) Overlooking common areas
A common mistake people make when cleaning their house is overlooking the most obvious areas. When we say common areas, we mean the ones that get the most foot traffic, such as hallways, entryways, and living rooms.
If you want to correctly clean your house, it's essential to focus on these areas. Otherwise, you might miss the dust and dirt that accumulate in these high-traffic zones. This can also be a significant problem if you're preparing for recurring house cleaning or deep cleaning transformations.
To avoid overlooking these areas, make them a priority on your cleaning checklist. Dust and vacuum thoroughly, wipe down surfaces, and pay special attention to places that are easily missed, such as baseboards and corners. Also, don't forget to clean the entryway, which is the first thing people see when they come into your home.
At Simply Maid OK, we make sure to pay special attention to the common areas in our clients' homes. Our experienced cleaners know exactly how to deep clean and maintain these areas, so you can be confident that your home is clean and welcoming to guests.
2) Not decluttering before cleaning
When asked the question of how to correctly clean house, it is not uncommon for decluttering to come to mind first. It's important to get rid of any unnecessary items and organize the space before tackling the actual cleaning.
So to create a more functional environment, you would want to remove any loose items that are lying around, throw out trash and unwanted items, and put away anything that doesn't belong in that particular space.
Simply Maid OK has seen firsthand how cleaning transformations can occur when clients declutter their homes first. By removing clutter and excess items, they're able to reach areas that were previously inaccessible, which makes the house cleaning process more effective and efficient.
Therefore before starting cleaning or having a recurring house cleaning, make sure to declutter first!
3) Not dusting before vacuuming
Dusting is an essential step, but many people forget to do it before they vacuum. When you vacuum, you're only removing the surface debris, which means you're leaving behind any dust or dirt that's stuck to surfaces.
To avoid this mistake, it's essential to dust and then vacuum. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down all surfaces, including furniture, baseboards, and countertops. Be sure to dust from top to bottom, starting with higher surfaces like shelves and working your way down to the floor.
If you have hard floors, it's also important to sweep or mop them before you vacuum. This will remove any dirt, debris, or pet hair that may be on the floor before you start vacuuming.
By dusting first, you're making it easier for your vacuum to do its job. It'll pick up all the loose dust and dirt, leaving your home cleaner and healthier.
In addition to dusting, be sure to clean your vacuum filters and empty the canister or replace the bag regularly. This will ensure that your vacuum is working at its best and picking up as much dirt and dust as possible.
By avoiding the common mistake of not dusting before vacuuming, you'll be well on your way to having a cleaner, healthier home.
4) Not using the right tools
Another cleaning mistake people make when cleaning is not using the right tools. Using the correct tools for specific surfaces can make a world of difference when it comes to effectively cleaning your home. For example, using a sponge or a towel to clean a hardwood floor can damage the surface, as they can leave scratches or scuff marks. Instead, use a microfiber mop or a floor cleaning machine specifically designed for hardwood floors.
Similarly, using the wrong brush or sponge on your dishes can leave scratches and ruin the finish of your dishes. It's important to invest in a good quality brush or sponge designed for the specific type of dishware you have. Using a soft sponge for non-stick pans or a hard-bristled brush on delicate glassware can cause unnecessary damage.
When it comes to cleaning, investing in the right tools is essential for doing the job well. Doing research on which tools to use for specific surfaces and materials is key to learning how to correctly clean house. It's also important to take care of your cleaning tools, such as washing them properly and storing them in a clean and dry place to avoid bacterial growth. With the right tools and proper care, cleaning can be more efficient and effective.
5) Not using enough elbow grease
One of the most common cleaning mistakes is not using enough elbow grease. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that a quick wipe with a cloth or a spray of cleaner will be enough to get the job done, but unfortunately, that's not always the case.
To get surfaces truly clean, you need to put in some effort. That means applying some pressure with your cloth or scrubber, and really working at those stubborn stains or spots.
Of course, you don't want to overdo it either. You don't want to damage delicate surfaces or scrub so hard that you end up exhausted and sore. The key is to find a happy medium where you're applying enough pressure to get the job done, but not so much that you're causing damage or discomfort.
So, next time you're cleaning, don't be afraid to put a little muscle into it. You might be surprised at how much better your results are when you really put in the effort.
6) Not using microfiber cloths
Using the wrong type of cloth can be a mistake in cleaning. Some people tend to use a regular cloth or even paper towels when cleaning surfaces or wiping down counters. But, this could be causing more harm than good. Microfiber cloths are a cleaning game changer, and you should always have some in your cleaning arsenal.
Unlike regular cloths or paper towels, microfiber cloths are specifically designed to pick up dust, dirt, and grime. They also work wonders in trapping bacteria and other allergens, making them a popular choice for cleaning surfaces and floors. When compared to other cleaning cloths, microfiber cloths are more efficient, durable, and eco-friendly.
When cleaning with microfiber cloths, be sure to use the right technique. Microfiber cloths work best when used damp and gently wiped over surfaces. You should also avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as this can ruin the microfibers. Microfiber cloths can be washed and reused multiple times, saving you money and reducing waste.
In summary, using microfiber cloths is a cleaning tip you should take advantage of. They can make your cleaning routine more effective and efficient, while also reducing the spread of germs and bacteria. Make sure you invest in a few good-quality microfiber cloths and incorporate them into your cleaning routine.
7) Relying on air fresheners
While air fresheners can be helpful in masking unpleasant odors, relying solely on them can be a mistake when cleaning. Air fresheners are on the cleaning mistakes list because they essentially cover up odors instead of getting rid of them, so it's important to identify the source of the odor and clean it properly.
For example, if your bathroom smells bad, simply spraying air freshener won't solve the problem. The source of the odor could be a dirty toilet or a clogged drain, which should be cleaned or unclogged respectively. Once you have taken care of the source, you can then use air fresheners to maintain a fresh and clean smell.
Furthermore, many air fresheners contain chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Instead of relying on air fresheners, consider using natural odor absorbers like baking soda or charcoal, which are both safe and effective.
8) Not disinfecting
Common cleaning mistakes can include not disinfecting properly. Many people assume that a quick wipe down with a cleaning spray is enough to eliminate germs and bacteria, but this is not the case. To truly disinfect a surface, you need to use a disinfectant cleaner that has been specifically formulated to kill harmful microorganisms.
It's important to remember that different surfaces may require different disinfectants. For example, a disinfectant suitable for kitchen countertops may not be suitable for use in the bathroom. Be sure to check the labels of your cleaning products and use them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
It's also important to give the disinfectant time to work. Simply spraying a surface and immediately wiping it down may not be enough to fully disinfect it. Be sure to follow the instructions on the disinfectant cleaner to ensure that it has enough time to work and kill germs and bacteria.
Additionally, it's important to remember to regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and faucets. These areas are often overlooked, but can be major sources of germs and bacteria.
By taking the time to properly disinfect your home, you can help protect yourself and your family from harmful microorganisms. Don't assume a quick wipe down is enough – take the time to properly disinfect and sanitize your home.
9) Not following the manufacturer's instructions
Common cleaning mistakes have also involved not following the manufacturer's instructions. Many cleaning products have specific instructions that need to be followed to ensure that they are used safely and effectively.
For example, some cleaning products may need to be diluted with water before use. If you don't dilute the product as instructed, you could end up damaging the surface you're trying to clean or even harming yourself in the process. Similarly, some cleaning products may have specific application methods or safety precautions that need to be followed.
It's important to read the labels and instructions on your cleaning products before using them. Make sure that you understand how to use the product properly and safely. If you're unsure about how to use a product or have any questions, reach out to the manufacturer for guidance.
Speaking of following instructions, it's also important to follow those that come with your cleaning equipment. For example, if you're using a steam cleaner, make sure you understand how to operate it safely and effectively.
By following manufacturer's instructions, you'll more than likely see better results from your cleaning efforts!
10) Not taking care of your cleaning tools
Your cleaning tools are important investments that need proper care to ensure their longevity. Failing to clean and maintain them can not only affect their performance but can also lead to potential health hazards.
People can often neglect cleaning their cleaning tools after use. Leaving tools such as vacuum cleaners, mops, and brooms without proper cleaning can cause them to accumulate dirt, dust, and grime over time. Not only will this affect their effectiveness, but it can also cause damage to your flooring or surfaces.
In addition, not storing cleaning tools correctly is common. When tools are not stored in the right way, they can become damaged or misshapen. For instance, leaving a mop head damp and bunched up can cause the fibers to rot and become less effective over time.
Moreover, many people don't realize that cleaning tools also need to be replaced periodically. While it may be tempting to use the same broom or mop head for years, they eventually lose their effectiveness and can even harbor bacteria or mold if not replaced regularly.
To avoid these mistakes, ensure that you clean and maintain your cleaning tools after each use. You can use a damp cloth or rinse them in warm soapy water before drying them off completely. Also, ensure that you store them correctly by hanging them up or placing them in a storage cabinet. Lastly, replacing cleaning tools periodically and/or when they start to wear out or show signs of damage is crucial.
By taking care of your cleaning tools, you'll not only keep them in good condition but also ensure that your home is clean and safe to live in.
Due for a Cleaning Transformation?
With Simply Maid OK, you can say goodbye to cleaning mistakes and hello to the home makeover of your choice! Whether you're looking for a first-time deep cleaning or recurring cleaning services, our professional cleaners have the expertise and experience to get your home looking and feeling its best.
Enrolling is easy - simply visit our website or feel free to give us a call: (918) -770-6346.
You can choose the date and time that works best for you, and we'll be ready to work the magic!
