A simple two-ingredient homemade floor cleaner can help repel dust and keep floors clean for longer, according to flooring expert Richard McKay, managing director at Sprung. The trick involves adding fabric conditioner to warm water in a mop bucket.
How the Hack Works
Richard McKay recommends adding one to two teaspoons of fabric conditioner to one litre of warm water, then 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.
The fabric conditioner leaves a thin anti-static layer that repels dust, dirt, and hair. “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,” McKay explained. Fabric conditioner contains cationic surfactants, which reduce static and prevent fluff from adhering to hard floors, similar to its effect on laundry.
Benefits for Homes with Kids and Pets
This cleaning hack is particularly useful in homes with children and pets, where daily dirt can become a nuisance. Additionally, the floors will smell pleasant after cleaning. “Not only does this handy cleaning hack work well for homes with kids and pets where daily dirt becomes a nuisance, but your floors will likely smell great, too,” McKay added.
Important Precautions
To preserve the appearance and condition of floors, it is crucial not to saturate them during cleaning. McKay advises using a lightly dampened mop when tackling laminate, wood, or vinyl surfaces. He also recommends rotating rugs and furniture regularly to prevent pressure spots.
For those seeking a more natural alternative, McKay suggests combining a teaspoon of white vinegar with a few drops of essential oil in water. “When mopped onto floors, it will repel dust, neutralise odours and again leave your floors smelling nice,” he said.
