8 Common Cleaning Myths

We’re debunking 8 common cleaning myths. Here are some suggestions to get a better clean.  

1. Newspaper leaves your mirrors and glass streak-free.

When newspaper gets wet it can tear easily and can transfer ink to the glass, making you clean twice. Instead a streak-free glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth is your best option.

2. Feather dusters actually dust.

Traditional feather dusters attract dust but just end up pushing it around. Since they are quite ineffective at picking up dust particles, opt for a vacuum with a nozzle attachment or spray a microfiber cloth instead.

3. Vinegar cleans everything.

Vinegar is acidic and can be a very effective cleaner but definitely not be used on all surfaces. Vinegar can damage natural or unsealed stone and wood surfaces.

4. Cleaning solutions act instantly.

It’s recommended to let cleaning sprays sit on the surface for a few minutes before wiping. Always read the labels on cleaning products, especially on disinfectants that usually need to sit on the surface at least a few minutes to kill germs and bacteria.

5. Hand washing is better than using a dishwasher.

Depending on how efficient your hand washing methods are, using a dishwasher actually uses less water, is much more efficient and saves time. The hot water temperature in a dishwasher cleans and sanitizes dishes at the same time.

6. Wash everything in cold water.

Washing in cold water is great for clothes but for bedding and towels, hot water is best to sanitize and kill any germs and bacteria.

7. Your dishwasher cleans itself.

Your dishwasher is a pro at cleaning dishes but sometimes it needs a little TLC. Make sure to completely drain the dishwasher and run it empty on the hot water cycle with vinegar and follow with a short wash cycle with baking soda sprinkled on the bottom to deodorize.

8. You should polish wood weekly.

It’s definitely important to keep your wood furniture clean but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to polish them frequently. Using too much furniture polish will lead to build up and can actually wear them down. Instead, dust them regularly with a microfiber cloth and polish them periodically.