When it comes to cleaning our homes, offices, or other spaces, we all want to make sure we’re doing it effectively and efficiently. But with so much conflicting information out there, it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s just a cleaning myth. In this guide—Cleaning Tips: Which Ones Should You Believe? Are They Fact or Fiction?—we’ll tackle some common tips, clear up claims, and separate fact from fiction.
1. Bleach cleans everything: False
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and can kill bacteria and viruses on hard surfaces. However, it can also be harsh and corrosive. It should not be used not be used on all surfaces or materials. Bleach discolours fabrics and upholstery, and damages certain types of wood or metal. It’s also toxic if ingested or inhaled, so use it with caution in well-ventilated areas.
2. Vacuuming too much damages carpet: False
Vacuuming regularly is essential for maintaining carpet life and appearance. Dirt, dust, and other debris can cut and grind away at the fibres, causing them to become matted and worn. Vacuuming removes these particles, preserving the carpet’s texture and colour. Use the appropriate suction level for your carpet type, and avoid using beater bars or brushes on delicate or looped carpets.
3. Microfiber removes germs: True
Microfiber cloths and mops are made from ultra-fine fibres, finer than a strand of silk. These fibres trap and remove dirt, dust, and other particles from surfaces more effectively than traditional cotton cloths. They can absorb up to seven times their weight in liquid, making them ideal for wiping up spills. Due to its electrostatic charge, the microfiber attracts and traps microscopic particles and is effective at removing bacteria and germs from surfaces.
4. Vinegar is a natural cleaning solution: True
Vinegar is an effective natural cleaner that can remove dirt, grime, and stains from many surfaces. It’s great for cutting through grease and deodorising and can be used as a natural alternative to chemical-based cleaners. Vinegar is acidic, so it’s important to dilute it with water and to test it on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on more delicate surfaces.
5. Lemon juice removes stains: True
Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that helps remove stains from clothes, fabrics, and other surfaces. Its acidic nature lifts and dissolves stains. It can also deodorise and freshen surfaces. Dilute the lemon juice with water before applying it to a stain, and test it on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on more delicate materials.
6. Baking soda removes odours: True
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), is a natural deodoriser that absorbs and neutralises odours. It can be used alone or mixed with water or vinegar to create a cleaning paste. It works on carpets, upholstery, and trash cans, and can be added to laundry to remove odours from clothes.
7. Dusting spreads germs: False
Dusting does not spread germs. It removes the dust and debris that can harbour bacteria and other microorganisms. Of course, it’s important to use a clean, lint-free cloth when dusting, and to follow proper hygiene practices, such as washing your hands before and after cleaning.
8. Steam cleaning is the most effective way to clean carpets: False
Steam Cleaning produces a mist of steam on the carpet, which helps lift dirt and stains but doesn’t fully clean carpets. It is effective at refreshing lightly soiled carpets.
Hot Water Extraction is a deep cleaning method. It uses hot water and suction simultaneously to remove dirt, stains and other contaminants. The combination of hot temperature and pressure is the most effective way to clean carpets (at Solutions, we use Hot Water Extraction).
9. Rubbing alcohol disinfects surfaces: True
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol), is a powerful disinfectant that kills a wide range of bacteria and viruses on hard surfaces. It’s especially effective at killing germs on non-porous surfaces, such as countertops, glass, and metal. Use a 70% alcohol solution, as higher concentrations can be damaging and lower concentrations less effective at killing germs.
10. White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide can’t be mixed: False
Mixing chemicals can produce dangerous or toxic reactions, however, white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are actually safe together. Their combination creates a powerful cleaning and disinfecting solution. Be sure to use the correct ratios and avoid inhaling the vapours produced by the mixture.
So there you have it – 10 cleaning tips debunked! By separating the fact from the fiction, you can be sure you’re using the most effective and safe cleaning methods for your home or office. Happy cleaning!
