Richard McKay, managing director of flooring firm Sprung, has shared a simple two-ingredient mopping trick that repels dust and keeps floors cleaner for longer. The hack involves adding fabric conditioner or white vinegar to mop water to create an anti-static layer that prevents dust, dirt, and hair from settling.
How the Fabric Conditioner Hack Works
McKay recommends adding one to two teaspoons of fabric conditioner to one litre of warm water and mopping as usual with a microfibre mop. 'By adding one to two teaspoons into one litre of warm water and then using it to mop as usual with a microfibre mop, you can say hello to clean floors that are easy to maintain,' he said. 'This is because the softener leaves a thin anti-static layer which repels dust, dirt and hair. And it means your floors are cleaner for longer.'
Fabric conditioner contains cationic surfactants that leave a treated finish on surfaces, reducing static and preventing fluff from sticking to hard floors—similar to how it works on laundry.
Alternative Natural Solution
For those seeking a more natural approach, McKay suggests combining a teaspoon of white vinegar with a few drops of essential oil in mop water. 'When mopped onto floors, it will repel dust, neutralise odours and again leave your floors smelling nice,' he explained.
Tips to Avoid Damage
McKay warns against soaking floors during cleaning. He advises using a lightly dampened mop on laminate, wood, or vinyl surfaces. He also recommends rotating rugs and furniture regularly to prevent pressure spots.
