House cleaning habits are difficult to break but it may be time to examine your routine. Some cleaning practices make your home dirtier, spread bacteria, use the wrong tools, and are inefficient. Eliminate some of these mistakes for a cleaner and healthier home.
Not Emptying the Vacuum Bag
Replace vacuum bags or empty the canisters regularly. Full bags reduce the amount of suction and leave dirt on the floor. Dirty filters also recycle dust out of the exhaust vent. It blows around the room and coats everything you just cleaned.
No Feather Duster
Feather dusters have a reputation as a good trap and hold cleaning tool. Not so. They move dust around and make it airborne. The dust settles onto the room’s flat surfaces that you just dusted. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster that holds dirt–like a Swiffer.
Stop Transferring Bacteria
Cleaning sponges and cloths pick up dirt and bacteria. Using the same sponge in room after room risks transferring bacteria around the house. Use dedicated cloths for cleaning each room–especially bathrooms and kitchens. Sanitize them after each use.
Sponges are a poor cleaning choice compared to microfiber cloths or even cleaning rags. They are difficult to clean and disinfect. Bacteria find it easier to survive in a sponge. Avoid using them if possible.
Not Cleaning In the Proper Order
Gravity works. Clean and dust the higher parts of the room first. Dust, dirt, and crumbs fall to the floor. Then vacuum to pick up everything.
Wiping Too Quick
Read the instructions on your cleaning products. Some require several minutes to disinfect and sanitize. Not following directions wastes time and money without any positive results.
Not Cleaning Your Tools
Dirty cloths, brushes, mops, and crusty sponges already have a bacteria buildup. Dirty cleaning tools can spread bacteria, grime, and even mold around the house. Wash your equipment regularly in hot soapy water. Use bleach to make sure you kill mold spores and bacteria. Your dishcloth that washes dishes, wipes the counter, and occasionally picks up spots on the floor is a good example of a cleaning tool that needs regular washing. Replace the dirty one with a clean one every two or three days.
Clean Your Garbage Disposal Properly
There are many ways to clean your garbage disposal. Running water and dish soap do not remove mold and built-up debris. Run a cup or two of ice cubes and lemon peels through the disposal with cold water. It dislodges and eliminates scraps–and improves the smell.
Not Cleaning Your Dishwasher
Dishwashers are not self-cleaning. Racks, baskets, walls, and the door need to be cleaned regularly. Use a 50/50 vinegar/water solution to wipe it out and get rid of limescale. You can also run it through a cycle with vinegar but without dishes and soap. Don’t forget to clean out the filter.
Not Cleaning Refrigerator Coils
The more dust and grime stuck to refrigerator coils, the longer the appliance has to run–shortening its lifespan and costing money. Pull it out at least once every year and vacuum or brush the coils and compressor clean.
Not Cleaning the Sink
Water and dish soap do not prevent bacterial growth in and around sinks. They should be given a good cleaning every week with baking soda, vinegar, or bleach to get rid of bacteria in the drains, garbage disposal, and the countertop.
