10 Cleaning Habits to Stop (And 3 Better Ones to Start)

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Not all cleaning habits are created equal. Some of them are just plain useless-and some of them are making things worse.

It's time to kick those bad habits that are wasting your time and energy and adopt some good ones to tackle any mess. These habits will make the difference in your home's appearance and vibe, and your sanity.

1. Cleaning With Dirty Tools

Using dirty tools is like trying to wash your car with mud. It's just not going to work.

Now, I get it, most tools don't have to be cleaned every time you use them. However, if you don't regularly clean them, you'll forget, and before you know it your cleaning efforts are futile.

You have to stop spreading the grime around.

2. Spraying Cleaner Directly on Surfaces

Spraying cleaner directly on surfaces seems like the most efficient way to get the job done. But, in reality, it can cause more harm than good. When you spray directly, especially on electronics, wood, or stone, the cleaner can seep into cracks and attract more dirt.

You need to spray the cleaner on a cloth first. This will give you more control and help over-saturating the surface.

3. Ignoring the Ceiling and Walls

We all do it. Out of sight, out of mind.

We focus on floors, counters, and furniture, but the ceiling and walls are often overlooked. However, dust, cobwebs, and even grimy stuff can build up high where you might not notice.

Ignoring these areas can lead to a dull and dingy appearance or trigger allergies. On a regular basis, you need to take a dust mop or a microfiber to your walls and ceilings. It might seem like extra work and it's not doing anything, but trust me...it is. It will make a big difference over time.

4. Using the Same Cloth for Everything

It's easy and tempting to use the same cloth for wiping down everything, but this is a big mistake. You're tracking dirt with you as you keep reusing the cloth.

The kitchen counter, bathroom sink, and living room coffee table have different kinds of germs and dirt. You need to use different clothes for each area. And sometimes you'll need to use more than one cloth in a single area.

You can buy a big affordable bag of microfiber clothes from just about anywhere and they're really worth all of the money you'll spend on them.

5. Overloading the Washing Machine

Stuffing as much laundry as possible into the washing machine might seem like it saves time, but it's not saving you anything in the long run. The washer can't properly clean clothes when it's packed to the max.

Not only does this put extra strain on your machine, but your clothes won't be fresh. THey'll probably have a layer of detergent residue on them too.

Stick to recommended load sizes. And avoid the laundry overwhelm by washing a little every day. Be sure to fold them right away so they stay super fresh. It's going to take the same amount of time no matter what you do. But if you invest it up front, you'll be happier later.

6. Not Emptying the Vacuum Bag or Bin

A full vacuum bag or bin means your vacuum can't do its job.

I get it, you typically can't see inside the vacuum, so you forget. However, not emptying it regularly reduces the suction power and can lead to vacuum overheating.

This means you're not picking up as much dirt and dust as you need to, and you could be shortening the life of your vacuum.

Just make it a habit to check and empty the bag or bin every time you vacuum, and you'll quickly notice a difference in how much cleaner your floors get.

7. Using Too Much Cleaner

Our motto is simple is more around here. So keep it simple.

More isn't always better when it comes to cleaning products. Using too much product can leave behind a sticky dull residue. And don't forget, it's just wasteful.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label, and start with less product than you think you need. If you don't get the results you want, you might need to try a different product. Because one thing I know, it's that more isn't always better.

8. Not Having a Routine

You can't thoroughly clean a house in a haphazard way. Having a strategy like cleaning from top to bottom and wiping in a Z pattern prevents you from undoing your efforts and helps you move through tasks systematically.

9. Not Using a Cleaning Kit

A cleaning kit is whatever you want to make it, but not using one is a big mistake. You want to keep all of your cleaning supplies together to prevent buying duplicates or wasting time looking for something.

I like to keep an all purpose cleaner, window cleaner, tub/tile cleaner, floor cleaner, and wood polisher in my kit. I also keep some washclothes and brushes to get in the nooks and crannies. Keeping it all together helps me seamlessly move from one room to another and get what I need to get done...done.

10. Not Changing Mop Head Regularly

Not many people enjoy mopping, but we have to do it. This bad habit often goes unnoticed, especially when you’re busy or think the mop head still looks "good enough." Yuck!

Over time, mop heads accumulate dirt, bacteria, and grime, which can then spread across your floors instead of cleaning them. However, there's no one time that's best to change mop heads. Just make it a priority. Check before using it for structural damage, streaking, absorbency, and odors. If you're questioning it, change it.

Good Cleaning Habits to Stay on Track

The root causes of a messy house usually stem from more than just lack of time. Sometimes it's about having the wrong habits in place or not knowing what to do. After all, not many of us were actually taught how to clean.

A few good cleaning habits can transform your space into a tidy, organized haven that doesn't feel overwhelming. Don't add more to your to-do list. Streamline it and make your cleaning routine more efficient.

1. Decluttering Before You Clean

Cleaning around clutter is like trying to run a race with weights tied to your ankles. You can do it, but it certainly isn't efficient.

One of the best things I love about having a housekeeper, is it forces me to declutter and tidy up because she doesn't know where everything goes. She's there to clean and only to clean, so I have to keep things picked up and declutter regularly.

By taking a few minutes to clear away unnecessary items you make everything much smoother. No one wants to just shift junk from one place to another.

2. Cleaning as You Go

Waiting until the dirt builds up before cleaning is a no-no. Clean as you go daily.

Wipe the bathroom sink after brushing your teeth, rinse dishes after eating, and sweep up crumbs when you make a mess. You can clean while you're waiting for dinner to cook or fold laundry if you have a few minutes before you need to leave the house.

I like to spend 15 minutes every evening putting away the little things we took out. If I don't have time to put them away, I have a basket that I can put them in. This helps me keep everything off the floor and the house looking tidy between cleanings.

3. Using a Cleaning Checklist

A checklist helps you stay organized by breaking your cleaning tasks into manageable steps (and it helps make sure you don't forget to do something).

You can dedicate specific days to certain tasks and prevent the need for cleaning on your only days off or the weekend.

The checklist will help you keep up with the necessary cleaning and maintenance your home needs to stay clean and tidy without feeling overwhelmed.

This article was produced and syndicated by Simple is More.