When it comes to keeping your home clean, there’s no shortage of advice. Some of it has been passed down for generations, but not all of it holds up. Several popular cleaning methods can waste time, damage surfaces, or leave behind more grime than you think. Here are six common cleaning myths and the better way to handle them.
Vinegar Cleans Everything
Vinegar is a useful tool for certain tasks, like removing mineral deposits or cleaning glass. But it’s not a cure-all. It doesn’t disinfect surfaces or effectively remove grease. Using it on stone countertops or hardwood floors can even cause damage over time.
What to do instead: Choose the right cleaner for the job. Use disinfectants for bathrooms and kitchens, degreasers for stovetops, and pH-neutral cleaners for stone or sealed wood surfaces. You should reference the manual on appliances or furniture if you aren’t sure which product is best suited. For a true deep clean, consider a professional house cleaning service that knows the difference and will have all the supplies and knowledge to reach every area of your home.
Feather Dusters Remove Dust
Feather dusters work well to remove cobwebs from high places like the ceiling, but not when it comes to thoroughly cleaning and removing dust. Most of them just push dust around instead of trapping and removing it. The result is dust that ends up resettling on nearby surfaces or in the air.
What to do instead: Use a microfiber cloth, which attracts and holds onto dust particles instead of spreading them. You can use a vacuum with a dusting attachment for hard-to-reach areas or clean vents, baseboards, and overlooked corners. For stuck-on grime or dust, dampen a soft microfiber cloth, then wipe down with a dry cloth.
Hairspray Removes Ink Stains
This tip originated many years ago when hairspray contained high alcohol content. Today’s formulas are different. Using hairspray on fabric may make the stain worse or leave a sticky residue.
What to do instead: Blot ink stains immediately with rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover. Test it on a discreet area first and always follow fabric care instructions. If you’re facing serious stain problems before a move-out clean, it’s best to contact a professional cleaning company.
Air Freshener Cleans the Air
Spraying air freshener might make a room smell better, but it doesn’t clean anything. In some cases, it can even mask lingering odors from mold, dust, or bacteria. Relying on scents alone doesn’t solve the underlying problem.
What to do instead: Open windows when possible and use a HEPA filter or air purifier. Keep surfaces and fabrics clean to remove odor sources. Regular cleaning is essential, especially during seasonal transitions when a move-in clean or deep clean may be needed.
Appliances Are Self-Cleaning
Just because an appliance has a self-cleaning setting doesn’t mean it’s truly clean. Dishwashers, washing machines, and ovens still collect food residue, grease, and hard water buildup. Ignoring them can affect performance and hygiene.
What to do instead: Clean appliances monthly. Wipe down seals and doors, run empty cycles with vinegar or a specialized cleaner, and remove any buildup from filters.
Cast Iron Pans Can’t Be Washed with Soap
This myth has roots in older cookware care techniques, but doesn’t apply to modern cast iron. A bit of mild soap won’t ruin your pan or strip its seasoning if it’s properly maintained. Avoiding soap altogether may lead to bacteria or old food residue buildup.
What to do instead: After cooking, wash cast iron with warm water and a small amount of soap if needed. Dry it immediately and apply a light coat of oil to protect the seasoning. If cast iron has been left sitting too long, it may need a more thorough cleaning.
Professional Trusted Cleaning Services
Kathleen’s Cleaning Service provides professional care for all your cleaning needs. Our trained technicians provide residential cleaning support with results you can count on. We offer flexible options for every need, from a maintenance refresh to a detailed deep clean. Virginia residents can call (804) 729-7401, and residents in Florida can call our Pinellas County location at (727) 377-5522, or request an estimate online.