When it comes to cleaning, everyone seems to have their own tried-and-true methods. But how many of these “golden rules” are actually facts, and how many are just cleaning myths passed down over the years? Today, we’re diving into some of the most common cleaning myths to help you understand what really works—and what might be wasting your time!
Myth #1: The More Soap, the Better the Clean
Reality Check: More soap doesn’t necessarily mean a better clean. In fact, using too much soap can actually leave behind residue, which attracts more dirt and makes surfaces appear dull or sticky over time. A little soap often goes a long way, and too much can even harm certain surfaces.
Pro Tip: Use the recommended amount of cleaning product on the label and try rinsing with water to see if any soap residue remains. A clean surface should feel smooth, not slippery or sticky.
Try this next time: Lighten up on the soap, and let us know how it goes! Or, for a no-fuss, residue-free cleaning, book with us at Cleaning Concierge!
Myth #2: Bleach is the Ultimate Cleaner for Every Surface
Reality Check: Bleach is powerful, but it’s not the catch-all solution it’s often made out to be. While bleach is effective at disinfecting, it doesn’t exactly clean dirt or grime. Bleach should mainly be used for sanitizing surfaces, like bathroom counters, and even then, it can be too harsh for some materials.
Pro Tip: Use bleach sparingly and only when needed for sanitizing. For general cleaning, go with an all-purpose cleaner or gentle soap. This will help keep your surfaces looking great without the wear and tear bleach can cause over time.
Myth #3: Vinegar Cleans Everything
Reality Check: Vinegar is natural and has antibacterial properties, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all cleaning solution. While vinegar can be a great choice for glass, mirrors, and some countertops, it can actually damage surfaces like natural stone and granite over time.
Pro Tip: Use vinegar for specific tasks, like cleaning glass or removing hard water stains. But if you’re dealing with materials like marble or stone, it’s best to avoid it and opt for a pH-neutral cleaner instead.
Not sure what’s safe for your surfaces? We’re here to help! Our team knows what works best for every surface.
Myth #4: Dusting Before Vacuuming is a Waste of Time
Reality Check: Actually, dusting before vacuuming is the way to go! When you dust surfaces first, any particles that get dislodged will settle on the floor, where you can easily vacuum them up. Doing it the other way around can mean dust particles floating around and landing back on surfaces after you’ve vacuumed.
Pro Tip: Start with dusting high surfaces like shelves and work your way down. When you reach the floor, vacuuming will pick up all the dust and dirt that may have settled.
Want a deep clean without the hassle? Book with Cleaning Concierge, and let us handle the details, dusting-to-floor!
Myth #5: Air Fresheners Clean the Air
Reality Check: Air fresheners might make your home smell great, but they don’t actually “clean” the air. Instead, they mask odors without removing the source of the problem, meaning the smell will likely return. For genuinely fresh air, you’ll want to remove the source of the odor and properly ventilate the space.
Pro Tip: Clean fabrics, carpets, and surfaces regularly to prevent odor buildup. Adding natural purifiers, like plants, can also help freshen up the air without any chemicals!
Myth #6: Baking Soda Can Fix Everything
Reality Check: While baking soda is versatile, it isn’t a miracle worker. It’s great for deodorizing and works well on some stains, but it’s not the best for all surfaces. For instance, baking soda can scratch certain materials like glass or polished metal, so be careful when using it.
Pro Tip: Use baking soda for targeted cleaning tasks, like in the fridge, on carpets, or to remove stubborn sink stains. But stick to gentler products for delicate surfaces.
The Takeaway
Not all cleaning advice is created equal, and knowing the facts can make a huge difference in the results you get. Whether it’s avoiding too much soap or knowing when (and when not) to use vinegar, you’ll get better results by cleaning smarter—not harder.
So, next time you’re ready to tackle a cleaning job, remember these myth-busting tips and enjoy the difference they make!
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