We've all heard of cleaning hacks that promise to make our chores easier and more effective. From household remedies passed down through generations to the latest internet trends, there's no shortage of supposed shortcuts to a sparkling clean home.
However, not all cleaning hacks are created equal, and some actually might make things worse. In this blog, we'll debunk five popular cleaning hacks that don't work and explain why you should avoid them.
- Using Newspapers for Streak-Free Windows
You may have heard the claim that wiping your windows with newspaper can make them streak-free. While it's true that newspapers can help remove dirt and grime, they are not the best choice for achieving a streak-free finish. Newspapers can leave behind ink residue and lint, making your windows look even worse than before. Instead, opt for one of our multi-purpose cloths and some vinegar for a streak-free shine.
- Using oil to clean your stainless steel
Though using oil might seem like a good idea for cleaning stainless steel, it can actually be counterproductive. When you use oil to clean stainless steel surfaces, it can leave behind a greasy residue that attracts dust and fingerprints, making the problem worse. While it might temporarily add shine, it doesn't provide the deep cleaning action needed to remove stains, grime, or water spots effectively. To clean stainless steel properly, it's better to use dedicated stainless steel cleaners or mild soapy water, followed by a dry cloth to get the best result.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar as a Universal Cleaner
Baking soda and vinegar are popular natural cleaning products, and for a good reason as they can work wonders. However, the claim that this combination can clean virtually anything is a bit of an exaggeration. When combined, baking soda and vinegar create a fizzing reaction that can help remove some stains and odours, but they are not suitable for all cleaning tasks. For example, they are not effective for cleaning grout, and they should be avoided on natural stone surfaces, as the acidic vinegar can damage them.
- Microwaving a Sponge to Sterilise it
Microwaving a kitchen sponge to disinfect it may seem like a quick and easy solution, but it's not as effective as it sounds. While it can kill some bacteria, it doesn't eliminate all the germs present, and the microwave itself can be a breeding ground for microbes. To properly sanitise your sponge, it's better to pop it in the dishwasher or washing machine.
- Lemon Juice as a Natural Bleach Alternative
Lemon juice is often recommended as a natural alternative to bleach for brightening and whitening laundry. While it's true that lemon juice has some mild bleaching properties, it may also cause colour fading in some fabrics, and the results can be inconsistent.
While some cleaning hacks may work for specific situations, others may do more harm than good. Always research and test a cleaning hack before relying on it, and remember that some tried-and-true cleaning methods and products are often the most effective and safest options for keeping your home clean and healthy. So, the next time you come across a cleaning hack that sounds too good to be true, approach it with caution, and don't be afraid to stick to the proven cleaning methods that have stood the test of time.
