When it comes to everyday cleaning, we all have our favorite go-to sprays that help us tackle tasks in less time. Whether it’s wiping down my kitchen countertop or bathtub to make it spotless and fresh-smelling, I just can’t live without my trusted cleaning arsenal.
But, it turns out I've been making one of the biggest mistakes when using cleaning sprays. In fact, this is a common error that most of us have been guilty of — and can actually do more harm than good. Here's what it is.
Don’t spray cleaning solution directly onto surfaces!
Although it might seem like the most obvious thing to do, never spray cleaning solutions directly onto surfaces. This is mainly because it often leads to an overload of fumes in the air, which can be harmful to inhale, especially in smaller rooms with little ventilation, such as bathrooms.
"Using more cleaner than you need doesn't just waste product — it leaves residues that attract dirt and dust, which you then breathe in,” advises Bryan Griffin, founder at Patriot Maids Cleaning Services. “And that can be super irritating to your nose and throat. Skip the "antibacterial" frenzy. Regular cleaners do the job without helping superbugs get stronger. When you need to disinfect, pick something from the EPA’s approved list to ensure it’s effective without being overkill.”
Additionally, we tend to use a lot more spray than we actually need. This leads to product wastage, and build-up that could damage surfaces over time, especially natural stone or wood countertops. Not only can a build-up of residue soak into the surface, causing it to warp, but it can also cause discoloration. Plus, this will create more work as you’ll then need to remove the excess polish.
If you’re prone to airborne allergies or simply want fresher air, you might want to invest in one of the best air purifiers to filter airborne, indoor pollution.
Instead, spray directly onto a clean microfibre cloth before wiping down surfaces evenly. This will minimize the particles sprayed into the room, plus will save you a fortune on cleaning sprays in the long-term.
What’s more, remember to always open a window, door or have adequate ventilation when using cleaning sprays or products. So the next time you grab your spray,
For more top tips, check out these 10 cleaning mistakes that will ruin your home. And avoid these 5 common cleaning mistakes that could make you sick.
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