These Cleaning Myths are Actually Making Your Home Dirtier

No doubt about it, in the era of COVID-19 we are all trying as hard as we can to help prevent the spread of this deadly virus. We've turned into cleaning fanatics! And if you've been quarantined at home for the last couple of weeks (months) then you've no doubt been disinfecting up a storm with whatever products you already had around the house. Because let's be honest, it's been kinda tough to get supplies at the store these days.

The Insider brought to my attention some things that I've been doing wrong all along, when it comes to cleaning. And yes, I was shocked. So I thought I'd pass along these cleaning myths that are actually making your house dirtier. Some of my favorites are below, but be sure to check out the whole list. Excuse me while I go get my mop.

• Myth: Bleach cleans everything. Great for stains and disinfecting, but not ideal for cutting grease.
• Myth: Use newspapers for a streak free shine on glass. Newspapers aren't what they used to be. They are much thinner, and tend to break up way easier. Use a microfiber cloth instead.
• Myth: Vinegar is an all purpose cleaner. Kind of like bleach, it shouldn't be used for everything. Good for cleaning windows and coffee pots, but not so much on granite counters and wood floors.
• Myth: Hairspray can be used to remove ink stains. This used to be true, when hairspray was way more alcohol based, but not anymore. Rubbing alcohol should be your go-to on this one.
• Myth: Air freshener 'cleans' the air. Not really. And actually it's pretty much just a cover up for those offensive odors.
• Myth: You should polish wood often. A good polish always looks so nice, but too much makes that beautiful table or wood floor dull. You can keep them looking good with a microfiber cloth in between polishings, without any harm being done.
• Myth: Wash sheets every two weeks. Actually, it's best if you do this chore every week, and make sure you use the hottest setting possible on your washing machine to kill germs.
• Myth: Your dishwasher cleans itself. It's best to use a professional cleaner, like Cascade, at least once a month. Because food, hard water, and limescale can be retained unless you clean them out
• Myth: Your washing machine cleans itself. No, it doesn't, and it's very important that you clean it often. I was shocked to find out a washing machine can be a breeding ground for salmonella, especially if you only use cold water. Most machines will have a 'clean' setting, so check yours out today.