8 Cleaning Mistakes Pros See All the Time That Make Your House Dirtier

Using the wrong type of cleaning product or tool, using too much cleaner, or not giving the cleaning product time to work can leave a space dirtier than when you began cleaning.

We talked to three cleaning experts who shared the biggest mistakes and bad habits they see when guiding people on how to clean their homes.

Using Too Much Cleaning Product

Using too much cleaning product is a mistake that all of our experts mentioned they often see in clients’ homes. It can leave behind sticky residues that end up harboring more dirt and grime over time.

“My advice is to read the label,” says cleaning expert Rosa Picosa. “Concentrated cleaners require very little product to do the job. If you see suds building up or feel a film, you’re using too much.”

Remember that less is more when it comes to cleaning products. Also, this will save you more money in the long run.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest hacks, expert advice, and more!

Using the Wrong Cleaning Tool on Surfaces

The wrong cleaning tool can leave unwanted grime and damage behind. One of the most common mistakes is using paper towels to clean windows and mirrors.

“Paper towels leave lint and tiny scratches, making mirrors and glass look streaky and dull over time, and can ultimately damage your mirrors/windows,” says janitor Brandon Pleshek. “Always use a clean, dry microfiber cloth.”

When cleaning mirrors and windows, spray your cleaning solution and wipe from top to bottom. Using a second dry, clean microfiber towel, buff the surface clean to ensure it stays crystal clear for longer.

Skipping the Dry Prep Before Wet Cleaning

Always start by cleaning a space dry, whether that means wiping, dusting, or sweeping a surface first.

“If you’re using a wet cleaner to wipe down a counter covered in crumbs, pet hair, or dust, you’re not cleaning—you’re just making mud,” says Picosa.

The same problem happens with floors that have not been swept, a dusty toilet, or a mud-spattered door. So, Picosa suggests starting with a quick brush, vacuum, or dusting with a microfiber cloth. This will make wet cleaning more effective, and keep you from just smearing debris around your home.

Mopping Floors the Wrong Way

Pleshek warns that an un-rinsed mop is one of the worst “cleaning” tools one can use; it actually just spreads grime and dirt around.

“It can also leave puddles of cleaner and wet spots on the floor, which can lead to damage to the surface, as well as sticky cleaning residue,” he says.

To correct the problem, use a neutral pH floor cleaner and dilute it according to instructions; definitely don’t use too much. Mop with a clean microfiber mop, rinsing head frequently and drying floors with a towel or microfiber mop to prevent streaks and water damage.

Recklessly Mixing Cleaning Products

Mixing different cleaning product brands won’t necessarily do a better cleaning job, and it can be dangerous to your health.

“Mixing cleaners, especially those containing bleach or ammonia, can produce harmful fumes,” says cleaning expert Becky Rapinchuk. “Stick to one cleaner per task or use a multi-purpose cleaner designed for various surfaces.”

If you’re determined to mix products, just ensure that you’re not mixing items that create toxic fumes by looking up the combination before mixing.

Using Harsh Cleaners and Scrubbers

There is no such thing as a cleaner for every surface, and it’s important to pay attention to the intended use of a product before applying it. Using abrasive cleaners on delicate surfaces can scratch them, and using harsh chemicals on sealed surfaces can unintentionally strip the sealant.

“You’re not just failing to clean effectively, you’re potentially causing lasting damage to your home’s surfaces,” Picosa says.

She and Pleshek both recommend reading labels to be sure the cleaning product is safe for the surface you are cleaning and avoid harsh scrubbers. Also, never forget that letting a cleaner soak for a few minutes is almost always going to make it more effective, and make your job easier by requiring less scrubbing.

Using One Cloth to Clean the Entire House

Using one cloth as you move from room to room while cleaning can spread bacteria and cause cross-contamination; you don’t want to be using the same rag to clean in the bathroom as in the kitchen.

“Color-code your cleaning cloths—one color for the bathroom, one for the kitchen, and so on,” Rapinchuk suggests.

Be sure to wash these cloths often—ideally after each use, but at a minimum once grime is visible on them.

Ignoring Regular Maintenance and Hard-to-Clean Spots

The best way to make cleaning easier on yourself is to do it more often.

“Waiting too long between cleans allows buildup that’s much harder to tackle and encourages bacteria growth,” says Pleshek.

He suggests incorporating quick daily wipe-downs of high-touch surfaces like sink handles, counters, and toilet seats with disinfecting wipes or a damp microfiber towel.

Don’t neglect hard to clean areas such as faucet bases, behind the toilet, and shower door tracks that allow grime and mold to build up unseen. Use small brushes or cotton swabs dipped in multi-surface cleaner to clean and tackle tight spaces regularly.