How many times have you searched online for cleaning hacks or tips to make the cleaning process quicker and easier or to save a few bucks? We’ve all been there. The frustrating thing is that most of the cleaning hacks you find online simply don’t work. People make the mistake of trusting these hacks all the time, only to find that they’ve wasted their time. So, here are a few of the most common mistakes that people make so you can avoid them.

1. Vinegar is an all-in-one cleaning solution

While vinegar has its uses, they’re mostly suited to cooking. When it comes to cleaning, vinegar can actually end up causing damage on surfaces like marble and granite and if mixed with other cleaning ingredients can be dangerous.

2. Using hot water is always best

This is another cleaning myth that needs to be addressed. People assume that hot water will always result in a better clean than cold water. This is simply not true and, like vinegar, hot water can damage surfaces like wood and certain plastics.

3. A feather duster is the best thing for cleaning dust

Nope. A feather duster is just going to swish a good portion of the dust around. You’re much better off using a slightly damp microfibre or coral fleece cleaning cloth that will actually capture all the dust particles.

4. Bleach is the best disinfectant

While bleach can be a useful cleaning tool in low concentrations, it can be damaging to surfaces and harmful to humans and animals, not to mention the environment, in high concentrations and when mixed with some other cleaning products. Try an eco-friendly disinfectant instead.

5. Newspaper is the best material for window cleaning

Remember the days of being a kid, using newspaper and Windex to clean the windows during household chores? Newspaper may be a cheap cleaning option, but it certainly isn’t the best. It can leave ink residue on hands and surfaces. Use a squeegee or microfibre cloth instead.

6. The more cleaning fluid used, the better the clean

This is such a common mistake that people make. A good cleaning fluid should only need a very small amount to carry out an effective clean. Using too much of a cleaning solution can leave streak marks. Use the amount recommended on the product packaging.

7. It’s ok to mix cleaning products

Mixing cleaning products is a massive no-no! Some cleaning solutions, when mixed together, can create toxic fumes and chemicals. Never mix cleaning products and always read the label for proper usage instructions.

Hopefully these tips will help save you time and effort for future cleans!