We’ve all heard those cleaning hacks passed down from family and friends. Some of them may sound convincing, but when it comes to keeping your home truly clean, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Here are the top 10 cleaning myths debunked, with professional advice on how to maintain your home more effectively.
Myth #1: Bleach Cleans Everything
Bleach is often praised as the ultimate cleaner, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While bleach disinfects, it doesn’t clean dirt or grime. It’s best used after surfaces are cleaned with soap and water. For deep cleaning, start with a dedicated cleaner and reserve bleach for disinfecting after the initial grime is gone.
Myth #2: More Soap Means More Clean
More soap doesn’t always equal a cleaner surface. In fact, using too much can leave behind residue that attracts dirt and grime. Stick to the recommended amount, and remember that rinsing thoroughly is just as important as the cleaning itself.
Myth #3: Vinegar Cleans Everything
Vinegar is hailed as a natural miracle cleaner, but it’s not effective on every surface. While great for glass and some countertops, vinegar can damage stone surfaces like marble or granite. Be sure to research which surfaces are vinegar-safe before applying it.
Myth #4: Newspaper is Best for Cleaning Windows
Newspapers were once a go-to for streak-free windows, but modern paper contains chemicals and ink that can leave streaks and stains. Instead, opt for a microfiber cloth or squeegee, both of which provide streak-free results without the risk of leaving ink behind.
Myth #5: A Feather Duster Works Well for Dusting
Feather dusters may look fancy, but they often just push dust around rather than trapping it. To truly eliminate dust, use a microfiber cloth, which grabs and holds onto the dust particles, keeping your surfaces clean for longer.
Myth #6: Vacuuming Daily Wears Out Carpets
Some people believe that vacuuming too often damages carpets, but the opposite is true. Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from settling deep into carpet fibers, where it can cause wear over time. Vacuum frequently to maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpets.
Myth #7: Cleaning Products Work Immediately
Many assume that as soon as a cleaner touches a surface, the job is done. However, most cleaning solutions need time to work. Read the label and allow the cleaner to sit for the recommended time before wiping it off to ensure it effectively breaks down dirt and grime.
Myth #8: Disinfecting and Cleaning Are the Same Thing
Cleaning and disinfecting are not the same. Cleaning removes dirt and germs, but disinfecting kills bacteria and viruses. It’s important to clean first, then disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs and countertops to keep your home truly sanitary.
Myth #9: Hot Water Kills All Germs
While hot water can help in cleaning, it doesn’t kill all bacteria or viruses on its own. To truly sanitize, you need to combine hot water with a disinfectant cleaner. For laundry, using hot water along with a detergent will help kill germs, but for surfaces, disinfectant is still necessary.
Myth #10: Baking Soda is All You Need for Carpet Odors
Baking soda is often touted as the perfect solution for absorbing carpet odors, but it’s only a temporary fix. While it may mask odors, it doesn’t clean or eliminate them. For long-lasting freshness, deep clean your carpets regularly or hire professional cleaning services.
Pablo Martinez
A seasoned professional in the cleaning industry with over a decade of experience providing top-tier residential and commercial cleaning services. As the founder of Cleaning Maids Houston, Pablo’s passion for delivering exceptional customer service and creating healthier living spaces has driven the company’s success.