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Resolve to Break These 5 Bad Cleaning Habits

Out with the old, and in with the new! That’s what the new year is all about—getting a fresh start. And 2021 is the perfect year to break some bad cleaning habits you may have been practicing for years. Whether it’s leaving dirty dishes in the sink or letting paper collect on a desk, the professionals at Merry Maids® want to help you jumpstart some better cleaning habits you can take into the new year and beyond.

Letting Paper Pile Up

Even with the ability to take care of most things online, you probably still get a mountain of mail that seems to make a comfy home on your kitchen countertops or office desk. From magazine and newspaper subscriptions to greeting cards and invitations, it’s time to stop letting these items pile up and clutter your life.

Resolve to create a paper-clutter organizing system

Break this habit by designating better places for cluttered paper, deciding what’s worth keeping, what needs immediate action, and what can go. Try to do this at least once a week. Additionally, having a place designed for essential papers like receipts or upcoming bills will help you keep better track of them and prevent them from getting discarded accidentally.

Technology can also be a great organizing companion. Many apps allow you to scan important documents to be logged digitally for you. This solution can eliminate unwanted paper piles for good.

Overusing Detergent

You know the phrase, “too much of a good thing?” The misconception is if a little bit of cleaner works, then a lot of cleaner will work better and faster, right? Not exactly. When it comes to your household detergents, many people make the mistake of using too much in their daily cleaning routines. In fact, it can actually cause more harm than good. Excess detergent can cling to fabrics if not thoroughly and completely rinsed off.

Resolve to read directions more closely

Detergent residue can become a dirt magnet, trapping bacteria, and encouraging mold and mildew growth. To prevent this, simply read directions more closely to determine the recommended amount of detergent to use. In the long run, this will save you time and money that can be better used elsewhere.

Leaving an Unmade Bed

A tidy bedroom means nothing if your bed is unmade. Disheveled bedding can undo all the hard work you put forth straightening up and even create a sense of unhappiness. Psychology Today surveyed 68,000 people and found that 71% of bed makers consider themselves happy, while 62% of non-bed-makers admit to being unhappy. Making the bed each morning can help you set positive intentions for the day.

Resolve to make making the bad a priority

Starting a new habit to make the bed will promote a cleaner room—and, possibly, a more immaculate house—for the new year. To help speed up the process and make this an easy-to-maintain habit, avoid a lot of decorative accessories such as throw pillows, blankets, and bed skirts.

Using Dirty Cleaning Supplies

The entire reason for cleaning is to rid your space of unwanted dirt and grime. But what if you’re actually adding to the growth of bacteria instead? Many of your everyday cleaning tools like your broom, kitchen sponges, and mops can collect harmful germs you might be embedding in fabrics or adding to high-touch surfaces in your home.

Resolve to disinfect cleaning tools regularly

To keep from pushing around germs rather than eliminating them, make sure your cleaning supplies are disinfected. A good and simple way to determine if your cleaning tools need to be cleaned and sanitized is to smell them for foul odors. Also, if your supplies appear dirty, it’s time to give them a thorough cleaning before their next use.

Follow these instructions to help decontaminate cleaning supplies:

  • Cleaning a broom: Use warm, soapy water and soak your broom for at least 30 minutes.

  • Cleaning a sponge: Ensure your kitchen sponge isn’t damaged (this may indicate you need a replacement), and then soak it in a bowl of full-strength vinegar for 5 minutes.

  • Cleaning a vacuum: Empty the vacuum canister or bag and use a disinfectant wipe inside (if possible) to remove all the dust and debris that’s built up over time.

Leaving Dirty Dishes in the Sink

Your sink is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and germs, usually when dirty dishes are left untouched. Leaving dirty dishes in the sink can create a whole host of unpleasantries, including foul odors and attracting insects.

Resolve to create a schedule for dish duty

One reason dishes get left in the sink is that everyone assumes someone else will take care of the mess. Cut out the guesswork and create a dishwashing schedule to help everyone anticipate the days it’s their turn to wash. For long-term success, remind everyone in the household to either put the dishes in the dishwasher or wash them immediately.

This new year, the cleaning specialists at Merry Maids want to help your home get back to being your sanctuary. Request a free cleaning quote today to determine how one of our professionals can help you with all your cleaning tasks in 2021.