Spring cleaning is that revitalizing time of year when we roll our sleeves, dust off the cobwebs, and breathe new life into our homes. However, even the most well-intentioned tidying can sometimes go awry. Are you unknowingly undermining your efforts with common spring cleaning blunders?
Discover the 12 mistakes you make every year and learn how to avoid them for a spotless and rejuvenated home.
Tackling Everything at Once
One common mistake is trying to clean the whole house in a day, which can lead to missed spots or rushed tasks. Instead, schedule specific cleaning tasks for different zones each week.
For example, focus on bathrooms on Mondays, kitchen on Wednesdays, etc. According to the IICRC, proper cleaning requires time and effort. Rushing may result in missed spots and errors.
Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
We’ve all been there—grabbing whatever cleaning product is within reach without checking if it suits the job. Using the wrong product can damage surfaces or fail to clean effectively.
Take the time to read the labels and choose the right cleaner for each surface. For instance, wood cleaners for wooden furniture and glass cleaners for windows can make a difference.
Forgetting to Declutter First
Cleaning around clutter is akin to attempting a marathon in high heels—it’s impractical and frustrating. Before you start scrubbing, take the time to declutter each room.
Get rid of items you no longer need and organize what’s left. This will make cleaning easier and give your home a more streamlined, tidy appearance.
Ignoring High and Low Spots
It’s easy to focus on eye-level cleaning and forget those hard-to-reach areas. Ceiling fans, light fixtures, baseboards, and under furniture often get neglected. However, these areas also collect dust, contributing to poor indoor air quality.
To thoroughly clean your home, paying attention to these often overlooked spots is important. Use a ladder or step stool to reach high areas, and don’t forget to move furniture to access the space underneath.
Skipping the Kitchen Appliances
Your kitchen appliances work hard year-round, and they deserve some TLC during your spring cleaning. Many people overlook cleaning the inside of their ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators.
The best cleaning solution is to use a baking soda and water mixture to scrub away grime and leave a box of baking soda in the fridge to keep it smelling fresh.
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Using Dirty Cleaning Tools
Using dirty tools for cleaning is counterproductive. Ensure your cleaning tools are clean before you start. Wash mop heads, dusters, and microfiber cloths, and replace worn-out ones. This will help prevent the spread of dirt and germs throughout your home.
Overlooking Air Vents and Filters
Remember to replace or clean your HVAC system air filter regularly. Industry standards suggest changing it every 90 days, especially if you have pets or smoke at home.
Air filters catch dust, dirt, and other airborne stuff that could spread around your place. Clean air is essential, so don’t forget to look after your filter!
Neglecting the Walls and Doors
When cleaning, walls and doors are often forgotten but can accumulate dust, fingerprints, and smudges. Use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down walls and doors.
For stubborn stains, a mixture of water and mild detergent usually does the trick without damaging the paint.
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Neglecting Your Vacuum Cleaner
“Many people overlook a simple yet crucial task—maintaining their vacuum in top condition. Over time, this neglect can result in the vacuum losing effectiveness,” says Diana Ciechorska, a professional cleaner and general manager at Park Slope Cleaning. “Make it a habit to give your vacuum some TLC.
Empty the dustbin when it is complete or the bag is stuffed. Clean or replace those filter thingamajigs as per the manual. Check for any blockages in the hoses or brush rolls. Regular maintenance ensures your vacuum performs effectively,” she advises.
Disinfecting Before Cleaning
Distinguish between cleaning and disinfecting for effective cleanliness. In a bathroom, spraying sanitizer without removing dirt first reduces effectiveness.
Cleaning before disinfecting removes organic soils like skin oils, dirt, and grease, enhancing sanitizer efficacy. “Clean first, then disinfect,” emphasizes Rathey, an expert at Clorox.
Ignoring Upholstery and Carpets
Your furniture and carpets can harbor dust, allergens, and even pests. Yet, they’re often overlooked during spring cleaning. Vacuum carpets thoroughly and consider professional cleaning for deep-seated dirt.
Don’t forget to vacuum and spot-clean your upholstery, paying particular attention to high-traffic areas.
Using Too Much Water
The biggest mopping mistake is using excess water on moisture-sensitive floors like hardwoods and laminates, which can cause warping and bubbling. Melissa Homer, chief cleaning officer for Microfiber Wholesale, advises using only 1 millimeter of soapy water to clean effectively and avoid damage.
If you see puddles forming, wring out the mop and consider damp mopping with a slightly moistened mop.
Forgetting to Clean Cleaning Tools After Use
Once you’ve finished spring cleaning, it’s tempting just to put away your tools and relax. However, cleaning your tools after use is essential for maintaining their effectiveness and preventing the spread of germs.
Rinse out mop heads, washcloths, and empty vacuum canisters. Store them properly so they’re ready for your next cleaning session.
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Avoiding these common mistakes can make the process more efficient and effective. Your home will look better and feel more comfortable and inviting. So grab your cleaning supplies, put on your favorite playlist, and tackle your spring cleaning with newfound knowledge and enthusiasm!
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