EXPERTS have listed the most popular mistakes you're making when cleaning your home – and they're doing more harm than good.
When it comes to giving your home a clean, most of us have a rough routine we tend to follow without giving it much thought.
But whilst it may seem totally harmless, experts recently insisted that some habits could actually be making your home more dirty – and you might not be realising it.
To ensure your home sparkles like brand new, gurus at Better Homes and Gardens shared a list of popular mistakes.
Scroll to see how many you are guilty off…
Using Dirty Cleaning Tools
According to the pros, your cleaning kit plays a huge rule in how tidy your home is going to be – so it's essential to keep them in a pristine condition.
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Before starting your cleaning routine, ensure the cleaning cloths have been washed, scrub brushes, and mop heads on a regular basis.
Items such as toilet brushes should be sanitised after each use, they added.
As soon as it becomes full, empty your vacuum and change or wash the filter often for best performance.
Not Cleaning Before Disinfecting
The pros insisted that there's a difference between cleaning and disinfecting and here knowing the distinction can make – or break – the way you clean surfaces.
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Whilst cleaning can physically get rid of nasty germs from a surface, a disinfectant uses strong chemicals that will actually kill the germs.
''If the surface is covered in dust or dirt, however, the disinfectant won't be able to effectively target the germs, which is why cleaning is an important first step.''
Before you grab the disinfecting spray, the experts advised to ensure the surface is free from any residue or debris, meaning that the chemicals can do their job properly.
Rubbing Stains Instead of Blotting
Fellow cleaning fans will most likely know that unexpected spills and splatters call for quick action – however, there is a way of doing it.
Your first instinct might be to start scrubbing vigorously – but this will only make the problem worse.
According to the gurus, rubbing a stain could cause it to spread, push it deeper into the material, or even damage upholstery fibers.
To draw the residue out, you're better of by blotting our stains with a clean white cloth and then use a stain removal method that's appropriate for the material.
Wiping Surfaces Too Soon
''Disinfectants take time to work, so patience is key. In some cases, the surface needs to be visibly wet for several minutes to effectively eliminate germs,'' the pros noted.
They also reminded to always read the product's label carefully to see the recommended contact time for sanitising or disinfecting.
Cleaning Surfaces with Sponges
Sponges seem like a harmless choice when it comes to wipingkitchen countertops.
However, as the experts revealed, sponges are notorious for being a breeding ground for nasty bacteria – which can then transfer to other surfaces you clean.
To avoid spreading germs all over the house, cleaning fans are advised to use a microfiber cloth and replace this once a month.
Using the Same Cleaning Cloth Around the House
Although using the same cloth everywhere might seem more efficient and eco-friendly, it's also a great way for bacteria and germs to be transferred from one room to another.
Instead, it's best to designate various cloths to use in different rooms and wash them on a regular basis.
For those using disposable wipes, experts said to use one per cleaning job.
Not Providing Proper Ventilation
When using cleaners that contain popular ingredients like ammonia or bleach, good ventilation is key, the pros warned.
To prevent the harsh chemicals from irritating your airways, you need to clear the air by turning on the vent fan, opening a window, or switching on your air purifier.
When done cleaning, leave the room immediately.
Cleaning from the Ground Up
If you begin with cleaning the floors, you'll most likely find yourself having to do it later again.
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This is because when cleaning other areas, crumbs, dust and other debris will drop on the floor, making for a mess.
Instead, switch up the routine and start at the top of the room, slowly making your way down.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it's always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here's how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You're cleaning your carpet all wrong – here's how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- Clean your fabric or leather sofa in a few easy steps
- If you haven't cleaned your mattress in ages, here's how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over
- Did you know your Venetian, Roman, vertical, or roller blinds also need cleaning?
- Deep-clean your fridge in five simple steps
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