London's #1 End of Tenancy Specialists
London's #1 End of Tenancy Specialists
Cleaning Products That Could Damage Your Home
Maintaining a clean home is a priority for many, but the cleaning products you use can sometimes cause more harm than good. While most cleaning agents are designed to make our homes safer and more hygienic, improper use or choosing the wrong product can lead to significant damage to surfaces, furniture, appliances, and even your health. This article will explore several cleaning products that, if misused, can cause harm to your home, along with safer alternatives and best practices.
1. Bleach (e.g., Clorox, Lysol Bleach)
Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and stain remover, but it is also highly corrosive. When used on certain surfaces like stainless steel, natural stone (like granite or marble), or colored fabrics, it can cause irreversible damage, including discoloration, etching, and pitting. Mixing bleach with other cleaning agents, such as ammonia or vinegar, can also create toxic fumes, which are harmful to health.
Safe Alternatives: Use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant or opt for a gentle all-purpose cleaner for routine cleaning.
2. Ammonia-Based Cleaners (e.g., Windex Original Glass Cleaner)
Ammonia is a common ingredient in many glass cleaners, but its harsh nature can damage surfaces like wood, leather, and certain electronic screens. Repeated use on surfaces like hardwood flooring can strip away finishes, leaving them dull and susceptible to further damage.
Safe Alternatives: Use a mixture of vinegar and water for a streak-free shine on glass. For wood, choose pH-balanced, wood-specific cleaners.
3. Vinegar (e.g., Heinz Cleaning Vinegar)
Vinegar is a popular natural cleaner, but it is also acidic, which means it can damage natural stone surfaces (like granite, marble, and limestone) by etching and dulling their finish. It can also harm grout over time, making it more susceptible to staining and moisture.
Safe Alternatives: For natural stone, use a pH-neutral cleaner. For grout, consider a mild soap solution or a specialized grout cleaner.
4. Abrasive Cleaners (e.g., Comet Powder Cleanser, Ajax)
Abrasive powders or scrubbing pads are effective at removing tough stains, but they can leave scratches on delicate surfaces such as glass cooktops, stainless steel, porcelain sinks, and ceramic tiles. Over time, these scratches can become stained and worsen the appearance of the surface.
Safe Alternatives: Use soft microfiber cloths or non-abrasive sponges with gentle, non-scratch cleaning solutions.
5. Acid-Based Cleaners (e.g., Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Lime-A-Way)
Cleaners containing hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, or phosphoric acid are often used for tough stains or toilet cleaning. However, these can corrode metal fixtures, damage natural stone, and even harm plastic surfaces. Prolonged use can also degrade grout and caulk in bathrooms.
Safe Alternatives: Opt for gentler toilet cleaners without harsh acids, or use baking soda and a mild detergent for most cleaning tasks.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide (e.g., Swan Hydrogen Peroxide Solution)
While hydrogen peroxide is a great disinfectant, using it on dark or coloured surfaces can lead to discoloration. It can also damage certain types of countertops, especially natural stone, if left on too long.
Safe Alternatives: Use hydrogen peroxide only on light-coloured surfaces and test in an inconspicuous area before use.
7. Dish Soap on Stone Surfaces (e.g., Dawn Dish Soap)
Dish soap might seem like a mild cleaner, but when used on stone surfaces over time, it can leave a residue that dulls the finish. This is particularly problematic for granite or marble countertops, which can lose their polished look.
Safe Alternatives: Use a specialized stone cleaner or a diluted pH-neutral soap for stone surfaces.
8. Multi-Purpose Cleaners (e.g., Pine-Sol, Mr. Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner)
Not all multi-purpose cleaners are suitable for all surfaces. Some may contain chemicals that can strip protective coatings on furniture, damage delicate fabrics, or harm painted surfaces.
Safe Alternatives: Always read the label carefully and use surface-specific cleaners when in doubt.
Best Practices for Safe Cleaning
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for both the surface you are cleaning and the cleaning product you are using. It is essential to understand the labels, terminology, and ingredients included in the products.
- Conduct a patch test in an inconspicuous area before using a new cleaning product.
- Store cleaning products safely, away from children and pets.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (like gloves and masks) when handling strong chemicals.
- Opt for eco-friendly, pH-neutral, and non-toxic cleaning products whenever possible.
Conclusion
While it is essential to keep your home clean, it is just as important to ensure that the products you use are used on the right surfaces and do not cause unintended damage. By being aware of the potential risks of certain cleaning products and adopting safer alternatives, you can maintain a clean, beautiful, and damage-free home. Understanding the impact of these products not only preserves the value of your home but also protects your health and well-being.
At Scrubs Cleaning, we are extremely careful with our cleaning products. If you need a professional End of Tenancy, Deep of After Build Cleaning Service, please contact Scrubs Cleaning.