Do you have your own cleaning routine? One that you’ve been sticking to for years? Well, maybe it’s time to make some changes. Who knows, it might become even better and faster. That’s why our cleaning masters list the most common cleaning mistakes. This way, your cleaning routine can also become more efficient.
1. Using too much cleaning detergent
One of the most common cleaning mistakes is the excessive use of cleaning detergent, thinking ‘the more detergent, the cleaner.’ However, an excess of cleaning detergent has the opposite effect.
If you use too much cleaning product, a layer of grease remains, which can be harmful to the surface. A simple tip: check the packaging of your product for the recommended amount of cleaning detergent. Often, you only need a small amount, as many cleaning products are increasingly concentrated.
2. Not cleaning your cleaning equipment
Cleaning with dirty or damaged equipment is a futile effort. Worse, it can damage your floors, desks, cabinets, or other surfaces you want to clean. Cleaning equipment, such as vacuum cleaners, mops, or squeegees, requires regular maintenance.
Therefore, clean your brushes after cleaning and make sure to immediately dry your equipment. Don’t forget to regularly replace the filter in your vacuum cleaner. It not only benefits the efficiency of your cleaning but also extends the life of your equipment.
3. Neglecting important places
We are not all 1.90 meters tall, but that doesn’t mean we should turn a blind eye when passing high, hard-to-reach places with our cleaning tools. Dust, dirt, and even mold can accumulate there and also affect air quality.
But it’s not only on top of high surfaces that dirt can accumulate; difficult corners or crevices should also be cleaned regularly with a soft, small brush. Finally, don’t forget to include your sanitary spaces in your cleaning routine.
4. Using the wrong products and/or materials
The right tool for the right job is an important motto when starting your cleaning routine. Be aware that different types of surfaces require different types of products and materials. Therefore, determine which product is best for each surface. If you have spots on your carpet, choose a cleaning product specifically designed for carpets.
If you have hardwood floors, also choose a specific wood floor cleaner and a vacuum cleaner with a base suitable for wooden floors. Additionally, try to avoid abrasive sponges as much as possible. Abrasive sponges often leave scratches. Moreover, (microfiber) cloths are a much more hygienic solution.
5. Being too impatient after spraying
Do you ever use a spray to clean dirty surfaces? A common mistake is that many people do not leave the disinfectant long enough to take effect. Spraying and wiping immediately is not a smart idea. The product needs at least a minute to work properly. Only then does the spray have an optimal effect.
6. Moving dust instead of removing it
This is another one of the most common cleaning mistakes: dusting your furniture with a dry cloth simply moves the dust to another place, most likely the floor. You are not capturing the dust. That’s why it’s better to slightly dampen the surfaces you want to dust with a spray and then go over them with a dry cloth. Alternatively, you can capture the initial dust with a vacuum cleaner and then wipe it with a damp cloth. This way, you gain efficiency, and you finish faster.
7. Not hiring a professional partner
As a company, it is often tempting to keep cleaning in-house. But cleaning is more than just cleaning. There are many other aspects to consider, such as personnel management, handling absences, creating schedules, purchasing materials, etc. A professional partner takes all these worries off your hands. This way, you have more time to focus on what is truly important for your company, while we keep your buildings clean.
