Home is a refuge and refuge for many people.
Still, there are many common mistakes that have the potential to destroy a home. Here are 12 things to stay away from to keep your home tidy and functional.
1. Use cleaners with care
When used on the wrong surface, most cleaners – including multi-surface cleaners – can damage furniture and other household items. For example, grout in bathtubs, showers, floors, and counters should not be cleaned with toilet bowl cleaners. These cleaners are said to have many acids that will eventually break down the seal. Try a homemade solution made from dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda instead. Just prepare a mixture with:
Half a cup of baking soda
1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
One tablespoon of soap
After letting the liquid soak in for at least five minutes, scrape off the debris with a grout brush or an old toothbrush.
2. Avoid direct spraying
Cleaning surfaces like counters, floors,, and appliances is a chore and can be frustrating when dirt seems to remain after cleaning.
However, it doesn’t have to be dirt or grime. Or it could be a film left behind by the scavengers. To avoid a residual film or stickiness, spray the towel or mop directly onto the surface instead of the surface itself.
3. Dry before moving.
Walking wet after a shower does more than just spread germs. Eventually, the floor may begin to warp or seep underneath, leading to mold growth. It is best to dry completely before getting out of the shower or bath.
4. Moisture in hardwood
Using too much water when washing floors can cause damage, as can dripping water from the shower. In particular, excessive exposure to water causes warping and damage to wooden floors. When mopping, try an oil-based soap and water mixture or a cleaner made specifically for hardwood floors, being careful not to soak them with water.
5. Remember the fan
Most bathrooms and kitchens contain exhaust fans that are functional. In addition to eliminating impurities from the air, they also help prevent mold. For those who live in extremely humid areas, exhaust fans are a great way to remove moisture from the bathroom after a hot shower or bath.
6. Moisture in odd places
Although most people realize that bathrooms are ideal for mold growth due to the large amount of water and steam used, other places can be home to some really nasty bacteria. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist, and dark environments.
Toothbrush stands or toilets are therefore an ideal environment for mold and germs to grow. If you want to limit the formation of dangerous bacteria and germs, it is a good idea to let them air dry before storing them. Another material that provides perfect conditions for bacteria to grow is fabric. Therefore, towels should not be thrown in the bin or on the floor to dry. In addition, to prevent the accumulation of bacteria, rugs, towels, and dishcloths should be cleaned or disinfected every few weeks.
7. Use vinegar with care
Although vinegar is a great substitute for cleaning solutions, it can damage some equipment. For example, the high acidity of vinegar can damage the rubber parts in the dishwasher.
Using vinegar on granite countertops is another example where it’s not the best cleaning option because it can remove the sealant.
8. Most people get up too early.
A short moment is necessary, although making the bed every morning is a wonderful habit.
The accumulation of sweat, which ultimately promotes the growth of bacteria and odor-causing bacteria, can be reduced by giving the bed some time to air out before making it.
9. Using a sponge
Many dangerous bacteria found in foods such as meat and produce can be spread from one surface to another, including sponges and dishcloths. As a result, hydrogen peroxide is a more effective way to eradicate bacteria from cutting boards and won’t contaminate mushrooms or other dishes.
10. Keep the sun out of your house
The sun’s ability to nourish our bodies and souls is undoubtedly a superpower. But it’s also really risky. For this reason, doctors recommend wearing sunscreen. However, furniture can also suffer damage from the sun’s rays. It is therefore a good idea to close the blinds and curtains before leaving the house to protect the furniture from excessive sunlight.
11. Sweeping as an alternative to vacuuming
Dust and animal hair can be removed from the floor by sweeping with a broom. However, sweeping and then emptying the dust container often disperses more dust. Instead, even on hard floors, the vacuum cleaner will collect dust and dirt.
Keeping your home clean and functional is essential to creating a pleasant environment and ensuring the longevity of your property. However, common mistakes can easily undermine your efforts. By being mindful of what we do in our living spaces, we can avoid damage and promote a healthier home.
First, using the right cleaning products and methods is essential. Many people overlook the specific requirements of different surfaces, which leads to damage from aggressive chemicals or incorrect cleaning techniques. For example, using toilet bowl cleaners on grout can disrupt the seal, while vinegar can damage rubber components and sealants. It is important to choose safer household cleaning solutions and apply the products correctly to avoid side effects.
Additionally, understanding the importance of moisture control can make a big difference to the health of your home. Moisture in unexpected areas, such as under appliances or on fabrics, can lead to mold and bacteria growth. By using exhaust fans, ensuring surfaces are properly dried, and allowing litter to be ventilated, you can reduce humidity levels and promote a cleaner environment.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of how sunlight affects your home. While natural light is beneficial to our well-being, overexposure to furniture can fade and damage other materials. By closing the blinds and curtains when you are not at home, you can reduce this risk.
Finally, using proper cleaning techniques, such as vacuuming instead of sweeping, can lead to more efficient dirt removal and an overall cleaner home. By taking these measures and understanding the impact of our daily habits, we can create a more pleasant and sustainable living space. Emphasizing these small changes can lead to significant improvements and ensure that your home remains a true haven for you and your family.