Spring cleaning mistakes that (almost) everyone makes
Even it doesn’t always feel like spring, it’s time to roll up our sleeves
and clean off all the dirt and grime that accumulated through winter. Cleaning out the refrigerator, sweeping away cobwebs, deep cleaning the floors…spring cleaning comes with an extensive to-do list and a million chances to make mistakes that can slow down your progress and leave a mark long after your spring cleaning is over.
Using the wrong cleaning supplies
Not all cleaning supplies are created equal; using the wrong cleaning supplies on your surfaces and floors can cause fading or scratches. As dirty as the stain is, avoid using abrasive sponges, pads, or cleaners that can damage your counters and floors. When using a cleaner on your flooring, test a spot that is hidden in a closet or under furniture before you use it to clean the entire floor. If you have new flooring, visit your local cleaners to purchase cleaning products that are approved by the manufacturer and won’t void the warranty.
Not gathering cleaning supplies
Don’t jump into spring cleaning without a plan—it’ll take longer and be less efficient. Instead, use a spring cleaning checklist and divide up the tasks into a manageable schedule (don’t forget to include other helpers in your schedule). As you work, gather up all the cleaning supplies you need for each room; it’s faster and more efficient. Before you clean your bathroom, collect all your cleaning supplies and then go from one bathroom to another. Do the same for every room in your home until you can (happily) proclaim your spring cleaning done.
Using too much water and cleaner
It’s common to attack your spring cleaning with a vengeance; however, that cleaning tactic can become an issue when you leave puddles behind. Puddles can permanently stain surfaces and flooring (especially wood and laminate), so make sure you don’t apply an excessive amount. Wipe down all surfaces and flooring after you clean to ensure you don’t leave any extra liquid behind (and cause any excessive damage!).
Not sweeping or vacuuming
When you’re done tracking in all the mud and grime of winter into your home, don’t start mopping and carpet cleaning until you’ve removed all the gravel and grit that gets tracked in. Vacuum your carpets and sweep hard floors BEFORE you start deep cleaning floors (or contact a professional floor cleaner to take on the vacuuming and deep cleaning); this simple step can remove deep grit and prevent scratching the floors.
Steam cleaning wood floors
As tempting as it may be to use a steam cleaner on your wood floors, don’t. Steam cleaners can leave excess moisture on the floors, leaving behind stains and permanent damage. Using a steam cleaner on wood floors can also void the manufacturer’s warranty; if you have any questions about the correct way to deep clean your wood floors, use these tips or contact the local flooring pros to schedule a deep clean.
Washing windows on a sunny day
It’s a common picture of spring cleaning: washing windows on a beautiful spring day with the sun brightly shining in the background. However, this common practice is not necessarily going to get you the streak-free impeccable results you’re trying to achieve. Washing windows on a sunny day can cause the window cleaner to dry as you work, leaving behind a ton of streaks.
Scrubbing carpet stains
Elbow grease gets you great results when you are scrubbing grout or washing the walls. It is, however, the enemy of carpeting. When tackling carpet stains as part of your spring cleaning, blot at the stain. Don’t scrub, which can damage carpet fibers. If you have a carpet stain that you can’t get clean, contact a carpet cleaner to remove the stain and clean the room carpeting.
