Cleaning your home can sometimes feel like second nature, but it’s easy to overlook the correct methods for specific items. Over time, improper cleaning techniques not only fail to sanitize effectively but can also damage surfaces and appliances.
This article explores common mistakes and provides easy solutions to ensure your cleaning efforts are efficient and effective.
Cutting boards
Many people wash their cutting boards with soap and water after each use, but this may not be enough to effectively remove bacteria. To properly clean your cutting board, start by rinsing it off with hot water. Then, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and generously spray the surface of your cutting board. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it down with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Kitchen sponges
It’s essential to regularly clean your kitchen sponges, as they can harbor harmful bacteria if not cleaned properly. Instead of rinsing them, try soaking them in a mixture of hot water and bleach for five minutes, then thoroughly rinse them out before using them again.
Pillows
Did you know that your pillows can be cleaned in the washing machine? Instead of throwing them in with your regular laundry load, try adding a cup of baking soda and a half cup of vinegar to neutralize any odors. Make sure to dry on low heat or air dry to avoid damaging the filling.
Dishwasher
Although dishwashers are designed to clean dishes, they also need some TLC occasionally. Remove any food particles from the bottom of the dishwasher, then pour one cup of vinegar into its base. Let it sit for about an hour before running a hot water cycle with no dishes inside.
Windows
Many people use circular motions when cleaning windows, which can result in streaks on the glass. For a more effective clean, try using horizontal strokes on the outside of windows and vertical strokes on the inside.
Remote controls
It’s easy to forget about cleaning remote controls, but they can accumulate a lot of germs. To clean them, gently wipe them down with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or disinfectant wipes.
Refrigerator
Even if you regularly clean out your fridge, the shelves and drawers may not be as clean as you think. Remove all items from your fridge and use warm, soapy water to scrub the shelves and drawers before drying with a clean towel.
Towels
Towels are often used to dry off after a shower, but they can quickly become musty and harbor bacteria. To keep them fresh, add half a cup of baking soda to your wash cycle.
Showerheads
Mineral deposits can build up on showerheads, clogging the spray holes and making them less effective. To remove these deposits, fill a plastic bag with white vinegar and secure it over the showerhead using a rubber band. Let it sit for an hour before removing it and running hot water through the showerhead to rinse.
Coffee maker
If not cleaned properly, coffee makers can accumulate mold and bacteria. Instead of just rinsing out the carafe, try filling it with equal parts water and white vinegar. Then, run a brewing cycle without coffee grounds. Rinse by running two cycles with only clean water.
Stainless steel appliances
Stainless steel appliances are prone to streaks when cleaned with regular glass cleaner or soap and water. Instead, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to clean stainless steel surfaces. Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Mattresses
Mattresses can accumulate dust mites and dirt over time, affecting the quality of your sleep. To refresh your mattress, sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for at least an hour before vacuuming.
Shoes
Shoes can carry bacteria from various surfaces, so cleaning them regularly is essential to prevent the spread of germs. For fabric shoes, try sprinkling baking soda inside and letting them sit overnight before shaking them out the next day. For leather or faux leather shoes, use a damp cloth to wipe them down and dry them with a towel.
Electronic devices
Electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and keyboards can quickly accumulate bacteria from our hands. To clean them, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently wipe the surfaces of your devices. For keyboards, use compressed air to blow out any debris between keys.
Light switches
Light switches are frequently touched but often overlooked when it comes to cleaning. To disinfect them effectively, spray some disinfectant onto a cloth or paper towel and wipe down the switch before drying with another clean cloth or paper towel.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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