Keeping your home clean is something most of us aim for.
But, is it easy? Nope!
Whether you’re tidying up a little each day or doing a weekend deep clean, the goal is the same, a fresh, healthy, and welcoming home. Some cleaning habits may actually be making your home dirtier.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most frequent house cleaning mistakes people make and how you can avoid them. Whether you do your own cleaning or use cleaning services, this guide will help you make better choices and create a cleaner, healthier space.
1. Using Dirty Cleaning Tools
Imagine trying to clean your floors with a dirty mop or wiping your counters with an old, stained sponge. Instead of removing germs, you’re spreading them around!
What to do instead:
Always clean your tools after use. Wash mop heads, replace sponges often, and throw cleaning cloths into the laundry. A clean tool means a clean home.
2. Ignoring High-Touch Areas
Doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and cabinet handles are some of the most touched areas in a home, but often the most ignored during cleaning.
Why it matters:
These surfaces collect germs and bacteria quickly. Leaving them untouched can spread illness or leave your home feeling unclean.
Quick tip: Wipe down these spots at least once a week using a disinfectant and don’t forget to spray an air freshener, so the place smells amazing.
3. Spraying Cleaner Directly on Surfaces
It seems easy to just spray your cleaner straight onto a counter or table, right? But this common habit can lead to streaks, sticky buildup, or damage.
A better method:
Spray your cleaner onto a cloth first. This gives you more control and helps avoid soaking surfaces like wood or electronics.
4. Not Following Product Instructions
Different cleaning products are made for different surfaces and uses. Ignoring the directions can lead to poor results or even damage.
For example:
Using too much bleach can discolor surfaces, and some disinfectants need time to sit before being wiped away to actually kill bacteria.
Always read the label before using any cleaning product and make sure you purchase high-quality cleaning products.
5. Forgetting to Dust Before Vacuuming
Many people vacuum first and dust after. But dusting after you vacuum means all the dust you just stirred up will settle back on your clean floors.
Best order:
Dust first (including ceiling fans, shelves, and furniture), then vacuum the floors. That way, you remove all the dust in one go.
6. Overloading the Washing Machine
Stuffing too many clothes or linens into your washing machine can lead to poor cleaning results and wear out your appliance faster.
Why it’s a mistake:
Your clothes need room to move around for the water and detergent to do their job properly.
Keep it light:
Follow the recommended load size and give your laundry space to breathe.
7. Skipping Deep Cleaning
Daily tidying is helpful, but some areas of your home need a deep clean now and then. Skipping this step leads to buildup in hidden spots like under furniture, behind appliances, or inside air vents.
Solution:
Schedule time every few months for a full deep clean or consider deep cleaning services in Dubai if you need help handling the big jobs.
8. Using the Same Cloth All Around the House
Reusing the same cloth from the bathroom to the kitchen spreads germs instead of cleaning them.
What to do:
Use color-coded cloths for different areas (e.g., blue for bathrooms, green for kitchens). This helps keep bacteria from one room out of another.
9. Not Having a Cleaning Plan
Jumping from room to room with no plan usually means you’ll forget something or waste time.
Try this instead:
Make a checklist or stick to one room at a time. You’ll be more organized and thorough.
10. Skipping Behind and Under Furniture
It’s tempting to clean only what you can see, but dirt, dust, and even mold can build up behind furniture and appliances.
Every few weeks:
Pull furniture away from the wall or shift it slightly to vacuum and wipe underneath.
Conclusion
A clean home starts with smart habits. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll not only make your cleaning more effective but also keep your home looking and feeling fresh longer. If you ever feel like cleaning is too much or need a hand with those tough spots, home cleaning services are a great solution. And when you want it done right, AFS Store offers trusted, reliable, and high-quality cleaning solutions to keep your home at its best. If you need advice, call on +971 55 791 6612 or email at online@afs.ae.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I deep clean my home?
A full deep clean every 3 to 6 months is a good rule of thumb, though it may vary depending on your lifestyle, habits, and home size.
Can I use vinegar on all surfaces?
No, avoid using vinegar on natural stone, hardwood floors, and electronics, as its acidity can damage surfaces and reduce the lifespan of certain materials and devices.
What’s the best way to clean my mop?
Wash it with hot, soapy water after every use, then let it air dry fully before storing to prevent bacteria growth and keep it clean for next time.
Should I dust or vacuum first?
Always start by dusting. This way, any dust that falls to the floor can be vacuumed afterward, leaving your home cleaner and saving you time.
Are professional cleaners worth it?
Yes! Professional cleaning services save time, use the right tools, and reach spots you might miss, making your home cleaner, healthier, and easier to maintain overall.
