10 Common Cleaning Mistakes

No matter how often you clean your home, chances are you’re still making a few sneaky mistakes. 🧼 From reusing old sponges to skipping deep cleans, many well-intentioned habits are actually making your house less clean.

In this post, we’re breaking down the 10 most common cleaning mistakes, why they matter, and what to do instead. Whether you’re a cleaning pro or just getting started, these tips will help you get the job done faster, better, and more hygienically.

🧽 1. Using the Same Cloth for Everything

We’ve all done it—grabbed the same cloth to wipe down the kitchen, bathroom and living room. But this spreads germs instead of removing them!

✅ The Fix: Use colour-coded microfibre cloths for different rooms or surfaces. Wash them regularly on a hot cycle.

🧴 2. Spraying Cleaner Directly Onto Surfaces

Spraying directly onto furniture or electronics can lead to residue build-up or even damage.

✅ The Fix: Spray onto a cloth instead of the surface itself—especially on wood, glass, and electronics.

🧼 3. Ignoring the “Hidden” Areas

Out of sight, out of mind? Not quite! Areas like light switches, door handles, skirting boards and remote controls are high-touch and high-germ.

✅ The Fix: Add these spots to your regular routine, or schedule a deep clean every few months to catch what you’ve missed.

🧹 4. Sweeping Before Dusting

Dust falls—so if you sweep before dusting, you’ll just end up with dusty floors again. 😩

✅ The Fix: Always start from the top and work your way down. Dust shelves, then wipe surfaces, then vacuum or mop floors.

🛁 5. Overusing Cleaning Products

More product doesn’t mean more clean—in fact, it often leaves residue that attracts even more dirt.

✅ The Fix: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct amount. Sometimes, less is more!

🧼 6. Not Letting Disinfectant Sit Long Enough

Many people spray disinfectant and wipe it off immediately. That’s not enough time for it to actually kill bacteria!

✅ The Fix: Check the product label. Most disinfectants require 3–5 minutes of dwell time to be effective.

🧺 7. Forgetting to Clean Your Cleaning Tools

Your vacuum, mop, and even washing machine can harbour bacteria if not cleaned regularly. 🦠

✅ The Fix: Clean tools monthly. Empty vacuum filters, wash mop heads, and run an empty hot wash with vinegar in your machine.

🛋️ 8. Skipping Upholstery and Fabric Surfaces

Cushions, sofas and mattresses collect dust, skin cells and allergens—but they’re often overlooked.

✅ The Fix: Vacuum fabric surfaces weekly, and consider professional services like domestic cleaning to maintain a fresh, allergen-free environment.

🍽️ 9. Cleaning the Wrong Way with the Wrong Tools

Using abrasive pads on glass or the wrong cleaner on marble can damage surfaces permanently.

✅ The Fix: Always double-check what tools and products are safe for specific materials. And when in doubt, opt for gentle, pH-neutral cleaners.

⏱️ 10. Trying to Clean Everything in One Go

One major mistake? Trying to blitz the entire house in a day. It leads to rushed jobs and burnout 😓

✅ The Fix: Break cleaning into manageable tasks. Do a room per day or set a timer for 30-minute sessions. Or, let the experts handle it for you with our deep cleaning service for a top-to-bottom reset.

🧽 Why Avoiding These Mistakes Matters

Fixing these common errors isn’t just about having a cleaner house. It means:

• Fewer allergens and better air quality

• Safer surfaces for kids and pets 👶🐶

• Less wasted time and product

• A longer lifespan for furniture and appliances

• A calmer, more enjoyable home environment 🏡

👩‍🔧 When to Call the Professionals

Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, life just gets in the way. That’s where Maid Squad comes in.

Whether you’re looking for:

• A one-off deep clean after a busy season

• Routine domestic cleaning to stay on top of dust and dirt

• Or just need a hand when you’re overwhelmed

Our trained cleaners are just a few clicks away.

💬 Conclusion

Cleaning smarter means cleaning less often—and getting better results. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes and upgrading your habits, your home will look better, feel fresher, and stay healthier all year round. 🌿

Need a hand getting your space spotless? Let Maid Squad help take the pressure off.