The Top 5 Home Cleaning Mistakes You’re Making (And How to Fix Them)
Keep your home clean and hygienic is a constant struggle for many of us. Despite our best efforts, we often fall into the trap of making common cleaning mistakes that can compromise the effectiveness of our cleaning routine and the overall appearance of our home. In this article, we will identify the top 5 home cleaning mistakes you’re making and provide practical tips on how to fix them.
Mistake #1: Not Creating a Cleaning Schedule
Many of us tend to put off cleaning until it becomes overwhelming, leading to a messy and cluttered home. To avoid this, create a cleaning schedule that outlines tasks to be completed on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. This will help you stay on track and ensure that your home remains clean and organized.
Fix: Start by identifying your cleaning priorities and assigning tasks to specific days of the week. For example, dedicate Monday to vacuuming and dusting, Wednesday to laundry, and Friday to cleaning the bathroom. Sticking to this schedule will make it easier to maintain a clean home and reduce stress.
Mistake #2: Not Decluttering Regularly
Clutter can quickly accumulate and make a home look and feel uninviting. Not decluttering regularly can also lead to lost items and increased stress.
Fix: Set aside 10-15 minutes each day to declutter and tidy up. Go through each room and sort items into three piles: keep, donate/sell, and throw away. Let go of items that are no longer needed or useful, and consider donating or recycling items that are still in good condition. This will help reduce clutter and create a more organized living space.
Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Using the wrong cleaning products can lead to ineffective cleaning, damage to surfaces, or even pose health risks. This can be due to using products that are not suitable for a specific surface, such as using a glass cleaner on a porous surface like marble.
Fix: Always read the label and follow the instructions for the specific surface you are cleaning. Use cleaning products that are labeled as safe for the surface you are cleaning. For example, when cleaning natural stone surfaces, use a product specifically designed for that type of surface.
Mistake #4: Ignoring High-Touch Areas
High-touch areas, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remotes, can harbor germs and bacteria. Ignoring these areas can put you and your family at risk of illness.
Fix: Make sure to clean high-touch areas frequently, using a disinfectant that is effective against germs and bacteria. Use a microfiber cloth or a disinfecting wipe to wipe down these areas regularly, ideally after company or when someone is feeling unwell.
Mistake #5: Forgetting to Clean ‘Behind’
Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on surfaces, such as blinds, baseboards, and ceiling fans. Failing to clean these areas can lead to dust bunnies and allergens spreading throughout the home.
Fix: Use a duster or a vacuum with a crevice tool to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as blinds and baseboards. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to clean ceiling fans and other hard-to-reach areas. Regularly cleaning these areas will help reduce dust and allergens in your home.
By identifying and fixing these common cleaning mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to a cleaner, healthier, and more organized home. Remember to create a cleaning schedule, declutter regularly, choose the right cleaning products, pay attention to high-touch areas, and clean ‘behind’ to keep your home in top shape. Happy cleaning!