A professional cleaner has shared four common cleaning habits that could actually be making your home dirtier, and explained better alternatives. Kellsie from Zapata's Cleaning detailed the mistakes she often sees clients make in a video.
Cleaning tools need cleaning too
Kellsie said many people forget that their cleaning tools also need to be cleaned after use. "Your brushes, microfibre towels, mop heads, and even your vacuum need to be cleaned, too," she said. "If the tools you're using are already full of dirt, hair, grease, and built-up, you're just bringing all of that right back onto the surfaces you're trying to clean."
She urged people to wash mop heads and microfibre towels regularly, and to wash and disinfect cleaning brushes. Vacuum cleaners also need attention, with Kellsie recommending emptying and washing the canister if the model allows, cleaning the brush roll, and washing or replacing filters according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Work from top to bottom
Kellsie also highlighted the importance of cleaning from top to bottom, starting with higher surfaces and working down to the floor. "Dust and debris are going to fall as you clean. So, start with your higher surfaces and work your way down," she explained. "Otherwise, you could clean your floors first, dust everything afterwards, and end up with dust right back on the floors you just cleaned."
She recommended working top to bottom and dry to wet whenever possible, removing dust, hair, and loose debris first before using cleaners.
Avoid using too much product
Using too much cleaning product can leave behind a residue that makes surfaces look dull, streaky, or sticky. "More product does not mean more clean," Kellsie said. "And you'll notice this, especially on your floors. If you have ever mopped and wondered why your floors felt sticky afterward, there's a good chance you used too much cleaner."
She advised following the dilution instructions on each product and adopting a 'less is more' mindset.
Leave the washing machine door open
For her final tip, Kellsie said it is better to leave the washing machine door open when it is not in use. "Once you're finished with laundry, leave the door open so the inside can dry out," she urged. "Your washer holds onto moisture, and keeping everything closed up can encourage odours and built-up. Giving that moisture somewhere to escape can make a huge difference."
