cleaning myths debunked!
Like many “how to’s” out there, cleaning tips can sometimes be less useful than claimed and as a result can negatively impact on your cleaning and desire to see the job through. Your Castle Caretakers have decided to debunk the most common cleaning myths so your next cleaning job can be much simpler!
myth 1: A room that looks tidy is clean
One of the most common misconceptions about cleaning is that tidiness is equivalent to cleanliness. Tidiness refers to the organization and appearance of a place. Although it may look presentable and aesthetically appealing, a tidy room is not the same as a clean one. For a room to be cleaned, we need to look at the ‘microbial’ aspect. Ask yourself: has the room been disinfected properly to remove bacteria? Has the room been vacuumed, mopped, and wiped to ensure dust particles have been removed? If not, then a room is not clean.
myth 2: more detergent is the same as better cleaning
Another well-believed myth is that a greater volume of detergent used means that the surface will be cleaner. This is an ineffective tactic that wastes product and creates unnecessary residue on your surfaces, which actually results in dirt being attracted to those surfaces! Sometimes a more concentrated solution can clean more efficiently but when it comes to detergents, manufacturers will have specified the dilution that will be most effective for the job. Keep in mind too, that higher concentrations of products may be unsafe to use. So it is essential to stick to the recommended dilution indicated on safety labels.
myth 3: bleach is the best cleaner
There are many safety hazards associated with the use of bleach. Bleach emits a potent odour that can cause severe respiratory damage. This is particularly true when bleach comes into contact with other chemicals. The resulting odours are dangerous causing discomfort and can even prove fatal in some instances. Those with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma are especially vulnerable. To make matters worse, it can also cause spotting and damage to clothes and surfaces as it is corrosive and oxidizing (which is why your clothes may be stained orange). We recommend avoiding bleach and sticking to safer household detergents.
Myth 4: detergents act on a surface as soon as they are applied
Detergents will have a minimum contact time for effective application. This is usually indicated on the safety label. Few chemicals react instantaneously, so always read the instructions before you begin. Failing to allow the correct contact times can result in inefficient cleaning. You will essentially just be wiping away the detergent rather than using it to clean the surface to which it was applied.
myth 5: spraying air freshener will make a room seem cleaner
Just as a tidy room is not always a clean room, a fragrant room is not always a clean room! Spraying scents around a room act to mask odours for a short period of time rather than removing them. To effectively clean a room, you need to target the cause of the odour rather than the effects. Start by wiping all the surfaces, ventilating the room and cleaning the floors thoroughly. Once the room is completely clean, the area will be fresh and is not likely to require any fragrance, unless this is your preference. Remember that many people suffer with allergies, so using a lot of fragrance can often lead to irritation.