10 Cleaning Mistakes That Actually Make Homes Dirtier
From misusing cleaners to spreading germs, bad cleaning habits are hard to break. Learn how to avoid these common cleaning mistakes.
1. Using the Same Rag Around the House
Why it’s dirty: Even if you spray it with a cleaning solution, using the same rag in multiple areas of the house spreads grime from one surface to another. Bathroom germs can end up on kitchen counters or your living room coffee table.
How to fix it: Use a fresh paper towel for each surface or designate different microfiber cloths for each area of your home.
2. Using a Feather Duster
Why it’s dirty: Despite advertisements claiming that feather dusters “trap and lock dust,” they tend to push dust around rather than remove it.
How to fix it: Use a microfiber cloth or a disposable paper towel with a suitable cleaning solution, depending on the surface.
3. Not Cleaning the Vacuum
Why it’s dirty: A clogged or dirty vacuum filter reduces suction, preventing it from picking up dirt efficiently. Additionally, dust can be blown back into the air or onto the carpet.
How to fix it: Regularly clean your vacuum. Empty the bag or canister when full, and wipe down attachments, the hose, and the vent with a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel (after unplugging it).
4. Tossing Any Kitchen Tool into the Dishwasher
Why it’s dirty: Small kitchen tools like garlic presses, zesters, or graters have tiny crevices that dishwashers can’t always clean thoroughly. Leftover food can grow mold, contaminating your next meal.
How to fix it: Hand-wash these items with hot water and dish soap, paying extra attention to any hard-to-reach areas.
5. Placing a Toilet Brush Back into Its Holder Immediately
Why it’s dirty: Storing a wet toilet brush right after use traps moisture and germs in the holder, causing bacteria to multiply. These germs can be reintroduced into your toilet next time.
How to fix it: Let the toilet brush dry completely before putting it back in its holder.
