When professional cleaners come across so-called ‘shortcuts’ on how to make your home spotless, they’ll often roll their eyes. That’s because these methods are known for leaving your surfaces damaged, weakening fabrics, and creating stubborn streaks. It just goes to show that you shouldn’t believe everything you see on social media, as more often than not it lacks proper research!
Misusing Natural Cleaners
We’ve all been told how easy and cost-effective it is to use natural cleaners such as vinegar and baking soda, and while these natural ingredients have their place, relying on them for every cleaning task can cause problems. Vinegar’s acidity can etch stone countertops and dull polished marble, while baking soda’s abrasive nature can harm delicate surfaces.
Professionals recommend using these agents only for select types of cleaning, such as vinegar and lemon juice for dissolving limescale and baking soda for odour removal.
Whitening Clothes with Undiluted Bleach
You’ve probably been told countless times before that pouring undiluted bleach directly onto your laundry is a fast route to brilliant whites, but it actually weakens fabric fibers, causing brittleness and uneven fading.
For sparkling whites, professional cleaners advise diluting bleach carefully according to label instructions or, better yet, using specialized whitening agents that protect materials.
Cleaning Windows with Old Newspapers
It’s not always the best idea to follow old cleaning hacks like this one; while it was once considered a household staple, old newspapers are no longer ideal for glass cleaning. Modern paper quality and ink formulations often leave streaks, smudges, and residue rather than gleaming panes.
Think about ditching newspapers for microfibre cloths, as these will lift dirt and oil without leaving annoying scratches or marks.
Using Kitchen Scouring Pads on Delicate Fabrics
You might be guilty of using scouring pads on fabrics to try and remove any pesky stains, but according to professionals, this could actually cause more harm than good. Scouring pads designed for pots and pans are far too abrasive for fabrics, upholstery, and clothing. Using them can tear threads, create rough patches, and distort weaves
Instead, cleaners recommend using gentle soft-bristled brushes and microfibre cloths to lift dirt without ripping fibres apart. For tougher stains, you might want to think about investing in a stain remover for your fabrics—you can now even purchase ones specifically for upholstery.
Spraying Furniture Polish Everywhere
Drenching every wooden surface with furniture polish may seem efficient, but it often leaves sticky layers that attract dust and dull finishes, and the last thing you want is to ruin all your hard work. By using less polish and buffing gently, you’ll keep the natural shine of your wooden furniture and avoid a buildup of oily residue.
Scrubbing Carpets Vigorously with a Hard Brush
Don’t pay attention to anyone who tells you to scrub your carpet with a hard brush, as this will actually ruin it. Vigorous scrubbing breaks down the fiber structure and pushes dirt deeper into the carpet. Professionals suggest blotting stains gently with a clean, absorbent cloth or using proper carpet cleaners.
Ignoring Manufacturer Instructions on Cleaning Products
One thing you should never do is ignore cleaning product labels, as they provide instructions for safe and effective usage. Professional cleaners will tell you that each formula is carefully developed, and by following the product’s instructions, you’ll get the best outcome. So the next time you buy a new cleaning product, always read the back of the label!
Using a Multi-Purpose Cleaner on Every Material
Don’t be fooled by the term ‘multi-purpose cleaner.’ While it may promise to clean multiple surfaces, not all materials respond well to a universal approach. Glass and fabrics each require their own unique care, and while a multipurpose cleaner might remove surface grime, it’ll eventually degrade delicate finishes or leave streaks behind.
Overusing Harsh Chemical Sprays Indoors
Did you know that constantly relying on strong chemical cleaners can create a lingering odour and irritate the respiratory system? Professional cleaners often choose gentler, eco-friendly alternatives that achieve similar results without ruining indoor air quality or harming surfaces. By limiting how many chemicals you use at once, you can keep a healthier home, help surfaces retain their finish, and reduce the risk of peeling paint or weakening sealants.
Soaking Wooden Floors with Soapy Water
If you didn’t already know, soaking wooden floors under pools of water risks warping floorboards, lifting finishes, and dulling shine. Try using a slightly damp mop and wood cleaner to keep your boards sparkling; it’ll work wonders and prevent the need for any refinishing.
Polishing Stainless Steel with Abrasive Pads
Try not to forget that stainless steel appliances, sinks, and fixtures need a careful touch, so using abrasive pads can leave scratches and remove protective coatings. Professionals always use soft microfibre cloths and specialized stainless steel polishes, which will restore shine without causing any damage.
Using the right tools and products means you keep the sleek, modern look of stainless steel surfaces and reduce the need for any repairs or replacements.
Leaving Cleaning Sprays to Dry Without Wiping
Take note that while spritzing surfaces and letting the liquid evaporate may seem time-saving, the dried residue often forms streaks and dull patches. Most sprays are formulated to loosen dirt, which means surfaces will then need wiping to achieve that sparkling clean finish. Just make sure you aren’t wiping it off too soon, as most sprays need 5 minutes to fully work.
Wiping Electronics with Excess Liquid
You might want to keep things as clean as possible, but applying too much cleaner to electronics risks liquid seeping into their seams and damaging internal components. Professional cleaners recommend using minimal moisture, ensuring cloths are barely damp, and selecting screen-safe formulas.
Always wipe electronics gently so that you don’t damage them, and with the right cleaner, you’ll still be able to remove dirt and fingerprints.
Cleaning Mould with Bleach Alone
In the winter, mould often becomes the bane of our lives, and while many online cleaning tips will tell you that bleach can lighten mouldy patches, it rarely tackles the root cause. To tackle any moldy patches, you’ll want to buy a specialized cleaner and focus on the underlying source, whether that’s a leak, humidity, or poor airflow.
Only Using One Bucket to Mop
It’s common for many professionals to use a two-bucket system when mopping floors, as it keeps fresh, clean water separate from dirty water. By dipping into the clean solution and rinsing dirt into a separate bucket, you stop the same dirt you’ve just mopped from going back on the floor. Even though it requires slightly more effort, this two-bucket method ensures your floors stay fresh and hygienic.
Dusting with a Dry Cloth on Delicate Items
One final tip to keep in mind is that dry dusting can actually spread dust particles and even cause micro-scratches on polished surfaces or delicate collectibles. Take advice from the professionals and use a slightly damp or electrostatic cloth that traps dust, preventing it from becoming airborne again. By doing this, you’ll be able to protect antiques, fragile ornaments, and any intricate décor.