Cleaning enthusiast Lou, known on TikTok as lou's_home_, has revealed five common cleaning habits that could actually be making your home dirtier. In a viral video, she explained how these seemingly innocuous practices can breed bacteria and reduce cleaning efficiency.
1. Not Drying Your Toilet Brush
Lou warned against putting a wet toilet brush straight back into its holder. 'All that moisture sitting at the bottom of the toilet brush holder is a breeding ground for bacteria,' she said. Instead, she recommends securing the brush handle between the toilet and seat, allowing it to drip-dry into the bowl.
2. Leaving Wet Cloths in the Sink
Leaving damp cloths in the sink after use can quickly lead to odors and bacterial growth. 'A damp cloth will start to smell really quickly. And again, perfect breeding ground for bacteria,' Lou noted. She advises hanging cloths over the tap or placing dish brushes near an open window to air dry.
3. Making Your Bed Immediately After Waking Up
While many people make their beds first thing, Lou suggests waiting. 'Your bed needs to air after you spend a whole night in it,' she explained. She recommends waiting a couple of hours before making the bed to allow moisture to dissipate.
4. Overfilling Your Washing Machine
Lou cautioned against cramming too many clothes into the washing machine. 'Shoving as much in as you can feels productive,' she admitted, but overfilling reduces cleaning efficiency because clothes cannot circulate and detergent cannot dissolve properly. She recommends filling the machine to three-quarters full for optimal results.
5. Cleaning Windows in Direct Sunlight
Washing windows in direct sunlight almost guarantees streaks, according to Lou. 'The direct sunlight makes the product you're using dry up too quickly, which will lead to your windows looking streaky. You might as well not even bother,' she said. She suggests waiting for cloudy conditions or cleaning windows first thing in the morning.
Lou's tips have resonated with viewers, highlighting that even well-intentioned cleaning habits can backfire. By making small adjustments, homeowners can achieve a cleaner, healthier living space.
