Cleaning is an essential part of maintaining healthy and comfortable living and working environments. However, not all cleaning methods are equally effective or safe. Some common cleaning mistakes can damage your belongings, waste your time and money, or even harm your health. Whether you’re tidying up your home or maintaining a clean workspace, knowing the dos and don’ts of cleaning is crucial. Keep reading as the pros at One Source, the experts in professional cleaning San Diego businesses and organizations trust to coordinate cleaning services that meet all their needs, explore the essential guidelines for effective and efficient cleaning.

 

Dos

Start with a Plan

A well-structured plan is your best friend when it comes to cleaning. Begin by making a checklist of the areas and items you need to clean. Prioritizing tasks and setting a schedule will ensure you don’t miss anything important and help you manage your time efficiently.

Gather the Right Tools

Having the appropriate cleaning tools and products is vital for achieving the best results. Ensure you have cleaning agents, brushes, microfiber cloths, a mop, and a vacuum cleaner suitable for different surfaces. Using the right tools will save you time and effort.

Follow Label Instructions

When using cleaning products, always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Different products have specific usage guidelines and safety precautions. Disregarding these can lead to ineffective cleaning or even safety hazards.

Declutter Before You Clean

Before diving into cleaning, declutter the area. This will make cleaning more straightforward and efficient. It also eliminates dust and dirt that might be hidden under clutter.

Work from Top to Bottom

When cleaning a room, start from the top and work your way down. This prevents dust and dirt from falling onto already cleaned surfaces. Dust light fixtures, clean ceiling fans, wipe down counters, and finish with vacuuming or mopping the floors.

Disinfect High-Touch Areas

Disinfect high-touch areas regularly, such as door handles, light switches, faucets, keyboards, and phones. These areas can harbor a lot of germs or bacteria that can cause infections or illnesses. Use disinfectant spray or wipes to kill the germs or bacteria and make these areas safe and clean.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Cleaning should be a regular part of your routine. Perform daily quick cleans, weekly deep cleans, and monthly maintenance to ensure your space stays in top condition. Consistency is key to avoiding overwhelming messes.

Use Protective Gear

For your safety, wear appropriate protective gear when using cleaning products. This includes gloves, eye protection, and even masks when dealing with strong chemicals or dusty environments. Your health should never be compromised.

 

Don’ts

Mix Cleaning Chemicals

Never mix cleaning chemicals unless the product instructions explicitly say it’s safe to do so. Combining chemicals can produce harmful fumes and may lead to health risks or damage to surfaces and items.

Overuse Cleaning Products

Using too much cleaning product can leave behind residue and may even damage surfaces. Use the recommended amounts and follow label guidelines to prevent any issues.

Scrub Delicate Surfaces Aggressively

Delicate surfaces like wood, glass, and stainless steel require gentle cleaning. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals on these surfaces to prevent scratches and damage.

Ignore Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial when using cleaning products. Ensure there’s good airflow in the area you’re cleaning, especially when dealing with strong-smelling or potentially hazardous chemicals.

Overlook Hidden Areas

Don’t forget to clean the hidden or hard-to-reach areas, such as behind furniture, under desks, and inside cabinets. These areas can accumulate a lot of dust, dirt, cobwebs, or pests that can affect your health or comfort. Use a vacuum cleaner with attachments, a duster with a long handle, or a cloth with a stick to reach these areas.

Leave Wet Surfaces

Leaving surfaces wet after cleaning can lead to mold and mildew growth. Always dry surfaces, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, to prevent these issues.

Rush through Cleaning

Cleaning is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. Rushing through it can result in missed places and a less-than-spotless outcome. Take your time to ensure a thorough job.

Neglect Regular Maintenance

Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to the accumulation of dirt and grime, making cleaning more challenging in the long run. Stick to your cleaning schedule to avoid this problem.

Maintaining a clean environment is essential for our wellbeing, and knowing the right way to clean can make a significant difference. Follow these dos and don’ts to ensure your cleaning routine is effective, efficient, and safe. 

The professionals at One Source specialize in commercial maintenance, and we’ll be your single point of contact so you never have to worry about the details of selecting and overseeing the relationship with a commercial cleaning services provider yourself. We’ve been in the business of coordinating janitorial services San Diego organizations and businesses have relied on for years. At One Source, we’re committed to being the last and only commercial maintenance company you’ll ever need in San Diego. To discover the difference we make, schedule a consultation and receive a free estimate within 24 hours. Give us a call today at (858) 683-6287.