5 Common Cleaning Mistakes and How to Correct Them

Let’s face it… between your work life, social life, and your personal life, you’re a very busy person. If this describes the current state of your daily life and you still haven’t developed a strict or consistent cleaning regiment, please don’t feel bad.

We imagine that your current cleaning routine consists of “quick” and “easy” hacks to reduce the time and energy required for household chores. But have you ever noticed that your cleaning hacks are more of a umm…fail? Or are these tips making it harder to achieve the clean and relaxing home you desire after a long day at work?

Don’t worry, we’re here to share some common cleaning mistakes and how to fix them so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying yourself.

1) Spray and Wipe Method

Mistake: We understand that you’re usually in a hurry. But, it turns out, the “spray and wipe” method isn’t the most effective way to get things clean. Commercial cleaning products usually have a suggested soak time to allow the product to soften grime and dirt. Be sure to let the cleaner soak into the surface first before getting the job done.

Fix: Check the recommended time for the cleaner to soak which is usually found on the label. The suggested time is typically only a minute or two for most sprays…those 60 seconds can make the difference between a surface wipe and a deep clean. Allowing the spray to set also gives the cleaner more time to kill germs and bacteria.

2) The Myth of All Purpose Cleaner

Mistake: Unfortunately, nothing labeled as an “all-purpose” cleaner can be used on everything in your home. So don’t be fooled into using one product on every surface or item you need to clean.

Fix: Instead consider spending a little extra money on cleaning products intended for specific surfaces or items. This will be especially good for expensive products to make sure these items lasts long.

3) Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

Mistake: Using cleaning products that aren’t strong enough to do the job can mean you have leftover dirt and ultimately will have to clean all over again.

Fix: Make sure to read the labels on your cleaning products for a quick and easy fix. Checking labels will not only save time, but will also save you money. Using the wrong cleaning product can permanently damage some surfaces. Reading labels carefully and following directions will help lead you to the best results. Also, if you’re trying to reduce the amount of chemicals used in your home, natural or green cleaning products can be quite effective if used correctly.

4) Using Hot Water to Remove Stains

Mistake: Surprisingly, hot water is not your friend when it comes to stain removal, especially those that are protein-based such as blood, because it helps to set the stain in rather than lift it.  

Fix: Try using cold water instead to remove these tough stains, and be sure to check out this list of best stain removal products for your cleaning needs.   

5) Not Cleaning the Washing Machine

Mistake: In case you didn’t know skin cells, dust mites, and stains from clothes can linger in a washing machine drum, on the lid or door, and detergent dispenser. This leads to washing clothes in dirty water, and eventually they’ll turn stinky.

Fix: For a top-loading washer, start it on its longest and hottest wash cycle. When the drum is nearly full of water, pour in 1 liter of vinegar and 1 cup of baking soda. Leave the lid open allowing the mixture to sit in the drum on the paused cycle for at least an hour. While the cycle is paused, clean the lid and any other visible parts of the machine. Close the lid and allow the wash cycle to run. Repeat vinegar and baking soda wash, if needed, then wipe down the inside of the washer. Leave the lid open to allow the washer to dry completely.

For a front-loading washer, pour 1/4 cup each baking soda and water into the detergent compartment and 2 cups of vinegar into the drum. Set your machine to the hottest temperature and let it run. When the cycle is over, clean the drum, the door, the detergent compartment, and exterior. Remember to leave the door ajar between loads for the best air circulation.