Everyone knows that spring is the best time for cleaning – it’s a great feeling to throw open the windows after the winter freeze and dust, scrub, and sweep away the debris of winter to get a fresh start. But whether you love it or hate it, you may be making your spring cleaning harder than it has to be.
To help make your cleanup smooth sailing, today we’re highlighting some big mistakes that you’ll want to avoid as you break out the cleaning kit and get to work.
Don’t Use Too Much Laundry Detergent
It can be tempting to overfill your washing machine with extra laundry detergent, especially if you’ve got a particularly smelly load (think kids sporting clothes) to do. But putting too much detergent in can actually have a negative impact on your laundry – excess detergent may not rinse out completely and may even trap stains, preventing them from washing away. Your best bet is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular washing machine, and add the recommended amount of detergent and other cleaning additives.
Waiting to Hit Carpet Stains Hard
Nothing soils a carpet faster than a dropped glass of juice or wine, but a little spillage isn’t the end of the world. The problem pops up when you don’t attack the stain immediately – untreated (or poorly treated) stains can set in and linger if you don’t address them quickly. In order to avoid a permanent issue, grab a clean towel and blot the stain immediately. Then pour club soda or ice water on the stain and blot, repeating until no color appears when you lift the towel.
Use the Right Tool for the Job
Not all surfaces are created equal, and so when it comes to choosing a cleaning solution, you’ll want to pick something designed for the material you’ll be cleaning. Granite or laminate countertops, hardwood or vinyl floors, etc. all react differently to various cleaning solutions. In fact, using a cleaner that’s too abrasive for the material can actually result in permanent damage!
Wait til the Time is Right
Tired of grimy looking windows, despite using a streak-free cleaner? It may be that you’re just washing them at the wrong time of day! Especially in the warmer months, washing your windows during the day can be a big mistake – glass cleaner dries quickly with the added heat of the sun and can leave ugly looking streaks and residue. For the best results, wash your windows in the late afternoon or evening, once it’s started cooling down for the day.
Avoiding Nasty Scratches
Using abrasive cleaning products and stiff-bristled scrubbing tools can make a permanent mark on your stainless steel appliances. Instead, just use hot water or a cleaning solution specifically designed for stainless steel, and apply it with a clean, soft cloth.
