Mistakes can happen in any part of our lives, and how we learn from them and avoid them in the future is what matters most. This theme applies to any kind of regular house cleaning homeowners perform on their homes – while a few common mistakes can take place here, a bit of basic adjustment will help you avoid these problems in the future and optimize your regular house cleaning tasks.

At Healthy Homes Housekeeping, we’re here to help. We offer the best house cleaning services available around Ogden, Layton and Farmington areas, from maintenance cleaning to deep cleaning solutions and more. We also assist homeowners with tips and expertise on their own cleaning tasks, including small mistakes they may be making without realizing it. Here are some common cleaning mistakes we see, plus practical solutions to each of them that will set your regular house cleaning routine on the optimal path.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

Perhaps the single most common mistake we see from homeowners as they go about cleaning their homes is using the wrong cleaning products. This often manifests in one of two ways:

• Using harsh or abrasive chemicals on sensitive surfaces, such as granite countertops or hardwood floors
• Using all-purpose cleaners for every surface and task, rather than specific products designed for certain areas (bathroom cleaners for bathrooms, kitchen cleaners for kitchens, etc.)

The solution here is simple: Take a bit of time to research the right cleaning products for each area of your home. Not only will this better protect your surfaces and keep them looking great longer, it will save you money by avoiding damage that could require costly repairs down the line.

Skipping Certain Tasks

Another common issue we see: Homeowners who simply skip certain cleaning tasks altogether because they don’t know how to properly clean or maintain them. This often includes things like tile grout, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances.

But skipping these tasks can also lead to bigger problems down the road. For example, neglecting to clean and properly seal tile grout can result in discoloration and even mold growth. Similarly, not properly caring for hardwood floors can lead to scratches, dents, and warping over time. And neglecting your stainless steel appliances can result in unsightly smudges and stains.

The solution: Create a simple list that serves as a reminder of all the tasks that need to be completed on a regular basis, such as weekly or monthly. This list can include tasks like wiping down kitchen countertops and appliances, vacuuming and mopping floors, dusting furniture and shelves, cleaning windows and mirrors, and deep cleaning bathrooms. By staying on top of these basic tasks, you can prevent bigger problems from arising in the future.

Neglecting Hidden or Unseen Areas

The phrase “out of sight, out of mind” is especially true when it comes to cleaning. Often, we focus on the areas that are visible and neglect hidden or unseen spaces in our homes. These include behind appliances, under furniture, inside cabinets and closets, and even air vents. Neglecting these areas can lead to dust buildup, mold growth, and other issues that can affect your health and the overall cleanliness of your home.

To combat this, make sure to add these hidden or unseen areas to your cleaning routine. This could mean moving furniture and appliances regularly to vacuum underneath them or wiping down the inside of cabinets every few months. By paying attention to these often overlooked spaces, you can ensure a more thorough clean for your home.

Pressing or Scrubbing Too Hard

While there are some elements of house cleaning that require some elbow grease, it’s important to be mindful of how much force you’re using. Overly enthusiastic scrubbing or pressing down too hard on surfaces can lead to damage and wear over time.

To prevent this, try using gentler cleaning tools and techniques, such as microfiber cloths or natural cleaners. Also, consider rotating between different methods depending on the sensitivity of the surface being cleaned. For example, use a soft cloth and light pressure when wiping down delicate countertops but switch to a more aggressive approach for tougher stains on sturdier surfaces.

Using Too Much Product

Another common mistake in house cleaning is using too much product. While it may seem like adding extra cleaner will result in a more thorough clean, it can actually be counterproductive. Using excessive amounts of cleaning products not only wastes money but can also leave a sticky residue on surfaces and contribute to build-up over time.

To avoid this, always follow the recommended usage instructions on cleaning products and start with a small amount before adding more if needed. Additionally, consider using concentrated formulas that require less product per use.

By following these basic tips and avoiding common cleaning mistakes during the process, you can ensure your periodic house cleaning tasks go smoothly and efficiently. For more here, or to learn about any of our house cleaning services around Ogden, Layton and Farmington, contact us at Healthy Homes Housekeeping today!