7 common bathroom cleaning mistakes to avoid
Home and Garden

7 common bathroom cleaning mistakes to avoid

The bathroom is a place of privacy and personal hygiene. However, in the pursuit of an immaculate restroom, many individuals commit common cleaning blunders. A clean bathroom is not merely an aesthetic achievement; it is a sanctuary for health and well-being. To maintain it effectively, one must pay special attention to cleaning practices. This article delves into the prevalent bathroom cleaning mistakes to avoid, ensuring that the bathroom remains a hygienic space. Ignoring regular cleaning A bathroom is a high-traffic area that accumulates dirt, grime, and bacteria quickly. Skipping regular cleaning sessions can lead to the buildup of stubborn stains, unpleasant odors, and a breeding ground for germs. To maintain a clean and healthy bathroom, it’s crucial to establish a cleaning routine that includes regular wiping down of surfaces, disinfecting, and deep cleaning as needed. Using the wrong cleaning products Not all cleaning products are suitable for every surface in the bathroom. Abrasive cleaners can scratch delicate surfaces like marble or granite countertops, while bleach-based products may not be safe for certain fixtures and can release harmful fumes when mixed with other chemicals. To avoid this mistake, always read product labels, follow manufacturer recommendations, and use appropriate cleaning solutions for specific surfaces.
8 safety tips to avoid power tool accidents
Home and Garden

8 safety tips to avoid power tool accidents

The use of power tools is indispensable when one is involved in DIY projects and construction work. However, they also pose inherent risks if not handled properly. Accidents with power tools can lead to serious injuries and damage. To ensure safety in the workshop or on the job site, individuals must be aware of potential hazards and take preventive measures. Here are a few crucial tips on how to avoid common power tool accidents: 1. Read and understand the manual Before operating any power tool, it’s imperative to read and understand the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly. This document provides crucial information about the tool’s proper usage, safety precautions, and maintenance requirements. Neglecting this step can lead to misunderstandings or oversight of vital safety features. 2. Wear appropriate safety gear Personal protective equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable when working with power tools. This includes safety goggles, ear protection, gloves, and, in some cases, respiratory masks. Each piece of PPE serves a specific purpose in safeguarding against potential hazards, such as flying debris or loud noises. 3. Maintain a clean and organized workspace Clutter and disorganization can lead to accidents. Keep the work area tidy by promptly clearing away debris, storing tools properly, and ensuring adequate lighting.
5 things that should not be cleaned with paper towels
Home and Garden

5 things that should not be cleaned with paper towels

All household items need regular cleaning to maintain a hygienic space, and some things even need weekly deep cleaning. Paper towels may seem convenient for cleaning some surfaces, especially in the kitchen; however, there are other, more effective, and environment-friendly cleaning techniques. In fact, certain items just get scratched, dulled, or dirtier after being cleaned with a paper towel. So, here are some common things that should not be cleaned with a paper towel. Carpets An easy solution to a spillage on the carpets or the rugs is quickly grabbing a paper towel and wiping or scrubbing the spill away. However, using a paper towel leaves paper residue on the carpet that goes into the fibers and does not tidy up the area. Experts suggest using a clean, dry cloth to help soak up the spill without leaving residue behind. One can then use any carpet-friendly detergent to gently wash the area. Bathtub If one is looking to remove the residue that usually collects in the bathtub, the sink, or even the shower, then one must avoid using paper towels. It can seem like a convenient way to clean since it only involves using a towel to remove the dirt and throwing it in the trash can, but this can leave stains on the ceramic material.
6 things one should never clean using paper towels
Home and Garden

6 things one should never clean using paper towels

For the sake of convenience, many people turn to paper towels as a quick and disposable solution for various cleaning tasks, from wiping hands to tackling common household messes. While paper towels are undoubtedly versatile and convenient for spills and drying, there are specific surfaces and items that they may not be well-suited for. Here are some common areas that are best cleaned with other alternatives to ensure the best outcome of one’s cleaning efforts. Delicate glassware Paper towels may seem like a logical choice for cleaning glass surfaces due to their absorbency and lint-free nature. But they can leave behind tiny paper fibers and streaks when used on delicate glassware. These imperfections can affect their appearance and require additional cleaning to correct. Instead, one can opt to use microfiber or lint-free cloth specifically designed for streak-free glass cleaning. Windows and mirrors Like glassware, cleaning windows and mirrors with paper towels can result in lint residue. One can instead reach for eco-friendly alternatives like an old cotton t-shirt or a piece of microfiber cloth for a more effective cleaning solution. Electronic screens Modern homes are filled with electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors, all of which have sensitive screens.
Top 5 gardening mistakes to avoid
Home and Garden

Top 5 gardening mistakes to avoid

Gardening as a hobby can help one remain fit; however, that’s not its only advantage. Gardening has proved to possess both physical and mental health benefits, and it can provide a much-needed break from the sedentary lifestyle most people lead. Nevertheless, in the process of trial and error, many people make common mistakes at the beginning of their gardening journey. Keep reading further to learn about these gardening mistakes and tips on avoiding them. 5 common gardening mistakes to avoid Planting too much Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned gardener, one of the common gardening mistakes made by people is to go overboard while planting vegetables or fruits in the garden. While the idea of a bountiful harvest is quite tempting, it often comes with its share of problems, including decreased weeding and watering. Furthermore, maintaining a big garden full of plants can take up a lot of time and energy. Hence, experts suggest having short-term goals and planting veggies or fruits that can be used regularly, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. Forgetting to interplant Sometimes, in order to have a uniform-looking garden, many people opt for a single type of plant. However, intercropping or interplanting has a wide range of benefits.
4 common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid
Home and Garden

4 common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid

Toilets need regular cleaning to prevent health and sanitation problems caused by unhygienic restrooms. Some of these problems include the accumulation of dirt, the spread of foul odor within the toilet and the house, and possible infections among inhabitants because of that. While cleaning toilets, people commonly make certain mistakes, which can dilute the positive effects of cleaning toilets. With that in mind, here are some of the most common toilet cleaning mistakes to avoid. Reusing the same cleaning cloth For convenience, one may be tempted to use the same cloth to wipe various toilet surfaces multiple times. However, this is a major mistake and will simply result in cleaners having to do even more work. Previously used rags transfer bacteria from one spot in the toilet to another. To prevent that, one needs to regularly switch cleaning cloths and sponges when they move from one zone in the toilet to another. Using separate cleaning rags is ideal to prevent the spread of germs and mess around the toilet. This will boost the potency of various cleaning products used for the job. Alternatively, one can also invest in quality paper towels for cleaning. While they may pose a recurring expense, they are an effective and hygienic way to quickly wipe down bathroom surfaces post-cleaning.
5 floor cleaning mistakes that make the home appear unhygienic
Home and Garden

5 floor cleaning mistakes that make the home appear unhygienic

While cleaning floors is not an idea of fun, it is important to keep your home clean and hygienic. Floor cleaning is more than just mopping with soapy water whenever the floor looks dirty. Even though tile and flooring materials are designed to be durable, one needs to know how to maintain them well. Here are some cleaning mistakes to avoid to keep your floors immaculate in the right manner: Not preparing your floors before mopping Make a plan before you start cleaning, and adhere to it. Before you mop, clear the floor of any pets, carpets, rugs, or furniture. Then, sweep or vacuum the floor thoroughly. Only then should you begin to mop. Mopping without doing so could make it dirty faster, further spreading the dirt and resulting in repetitive cleaning. Using too much water Although steam is one of the most harmless cleaning tools, it can cause damage if your home has hardwood floors. Check that your floor is resistant to steam or water before cleaning. Using the wrong chemicals Like water can damage hardwood floors, some abrasive chemicals can also ruin other flooring materials. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the contents of your cleaning products and how they react to the materials in your home.
10 things a home warranty doesn’t cover
Home and Garden

10 things a home warranty doesn’t cover

A home warranty is a contract with a company that agrees to pay to fix or replace major systems and appliances in your house if they malfunction or stop working. Unlike homeowner’s insurance, which covers damage caused by unforeseen events, home warranty guards against everyday wear and tear of household systems and devices. While the policy can be beneficial, you must carefully read the fine print. Here are ten things a home warranty doesn’t cover. Pre-existing problems Most home warranty policies don’t pay for fixing or replacing anything damaged or malfunctioning before the warranty was bought. You must pay from your pocket to resolve the problem in such a situation. Outdoor fixtures Some policies may cover outdoor fixtures like air conditioners but frequently exclude sprinkler systems, swimming pools, and spas. You may need a different approach if you want coverage for these things. Cosmetic damage Home warranties don’t cover cosmetic damages like scratches, dents, or rust but functional problems with your home’s systems and appliances. Non-mechanical parts They may exclude non-mechanical objects like knobs, handles, and shelves and only cover mechanical devices like HVAC systems. Code violations Your home warranty may not apply if a repair is necessary because an electrical system doesn’t comply with the law.