9 Things You’re Actually Cleaning Too Much?
Cleaning is one task that needs to be done daily and by every household that wishes to live in a clean and healthy environment. Some people find this to be an arduous task, while others take pride in keeping their homes spotless. Regardless of how you feel about it, it’s possible that you might be going overboard with it at times. While some areas require a regular deep clean, others may actually suffer from it, i.e., if you subject them to frequent cleaning, you could cause unnecessary damage, waste of effort, and cleaning products.
This article will be exploring 9 things that you might be cleaning more than necessary and potentially causing more harm than good. From furniture and clothes to kitchen appliances, over-cleaning can lead to quicker wear and tear, bacterial resistance and other unintended consequences. Whether you’re doing your weekly round of cleaning or preparing for a more vacate cleaning Perth, understanding when to stop cleaning something is just as important as knowing when to start.
1. Wooden Furniture
Many people believe that dusting and polishing wooden furniture on a daily basis helps keep it in top shape. Nothing can be farther from the truth than this. Frequent polishing can lead to the build-up of sticky residue that attracts more dust and dirt, which can dull the appearance and shine of the wood with the passage of time. Most wood surfaces need to be dusted once a week and polished once every month. In doing this, opt for a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove the dust and maintain the wood’s natural sheen instead of using chemical-laden sprays.
2. Clothes
Washing your clothes after every wear isn’t always necessary. Over-washing your fabric can lead them to fade, cause shrinkage and weaken its fibres, all of which drastically enhances the wear and tear of the garment. Items such as jeans, jumpers, and jackets can be worn multiple times before needing a wash. Instead of subjecting them to a rinse, air out your clothes after a day of wearing them or spot-clean small stains to extend their lifespan.
3. Carpets
Vacuuming is crucial to keeping your carpets clean and free from the likes of dust and allergens, but too much vacuuming – especially for high-pile rugs – can lead to fibre damage. Overzealous vacuuming may break down the backing and make them lose their fluffiness. So, instead of vacuuming daily, aim to do it only once or twice a week and consider utilising a Professional Vacate Cleaning Perth service when moving out to ensure all the carpets are refreshed as dictated in the lease contract.
4. Dishes
Washing your dishes immediately after every use might seem like the best way to keep your kitchen clean, but excessive washing – especially with hot water – can wear down the dishware over time. Non-stick pans, wooden utensils and certain glassware can degrade faster when they are subjected to frequent scrubbing. Instead, wash each item individually throughout the day or consider waiting until you have a full load for the dishwasher or doing one big round of cleaning after mealtimes.
5. Kitchen Countertops
Although keeping the kitchen surfaces is required to maintain the hygiene of the kitchen, excessive scrubbing of certain material like granite, marble or wood can lead to unwanted damage. Harsh cleaners can erode the sealants, making these surfaces more susceptible to stains and bacteria. A simple wipe-down with mild soap and water is enough for daily maintenance, with deeper cleans reserved for occasional maintenance.
6. Curtains
Many people think that washing the curtains frequently is the best way to keep them fresh, but over time, this washing can cause the fibres of the curtain to wear down faster, become brittle and even fade out their colours or cause shrinkage. Most curtains need only be cleaned once or twice a year unless they are visibly stained or unclean. Instead of frequent washing, try vacuuming them or giving them a good shake outdoors to remove the loose dirt and allergens.
7. Washing Machines
As ironic as this may sound, the appliance you use to clean your clothes and fabrics does not need to be constantly scrubbed or cleaned. Many people run empty cleaning cycles far too often, using chemicals that could damage their drum and rubber seals.
In actuality, these machines should only be cleaned once a month with vinegar or a gentle cleaning solution to prevent them from moulding and getting bad odours. Additionally, wipe the detergent tray and rubber gasket weekly and leave the washing machine door open after each wash to help it dry and prevent moisture build-up inside.
8. Windows
Cleaning your windows too frequently can wear down their protective coatings and cause streaking, especially more so if you’re using harsh chemical cleaners. Most windows only need to be cleaned every few months unless they are visibly dirty. To maintain them daily, use a microfiber towel or cloth to dust them and spot-clean them whenever necessary. Reserve deep cleaning for later or when you are preparing to move out and need to carry out a meticulous Vacate Cleaning Perth to get your bond back.
9. Toilets
It might seem like a preposterous notion, but cleaning a toilet too much and using strong cleaning chemicals can erode the protective glazing on the porcelain surfaces, making them more prone to stains. A light, daily wipe-down is enough for regular maintenance, with the deeper cleaning sessions reserved for once or twice a week. Instead of opting for harsh chemical-based cleaners, consider using gentler options like baking soda and vinegar to maintain hygiene levels without damaging the surface.
9 Things You’re Cleaning More Than Necessary
Wrapping up
While cleaning is essential, overdoing it could result in unintended consequences like damaged household items and surfaces. By having a proper understanding of which things require frequent cleaning and which need to be washed once in a while, you’ll be able to save on time, effort and money, while still maintaining a tidy home. Whatever your goal, finding the right balance is key to effective and efficient cleaning.
