Contact time is crucial for effective cleaning, something that many of us may be doing wrong. Unless we know where the hotspots are and how to deal with them, we may be ineffectively cleaning by leaving behind harmful bacteria. Worse still, our mistakes could be causing more damage to our homes than help.

It’s time that we stop making these mistakes with the help of Bright Side, who’s found the 12 most common cleaning errors.

1. Not using enough contact time

These 2 items are extremely useful for cleaning, however, when it comes to stone surfaces, they should be kept away. This is because of their high levels of acid that can eat away at the stone, leaving it with blemishes known as etches.

4. Adding too much detergent

Although it may be tempting to add some extra detergent to our washing machines if some items are particularly dirty, it should be avoided. This is because the excess soapy detergent left in our clothes actually attracts dust and dirt to them more quickly since they stick to the fabric. It can also stain our clothes with white detergent.

5. Putting small pieces or wooden items in the dishwasher

Kitchenware such as graters, garlic pressers, and zesters do not belong in the dishwasher because they may develop mold. This is because they have small holes and spaces in them where food can remain trapped and damp.

Wooden spoons should also be kept out of the dishwasher as the warm and damp environment will promote the growth of mold.

6. Using a disinfectant wipe on everything

They’re a breeding ground for mold, which thrives in damp conditions. To make sure that you’re cleaning them properly, fill the water tank with 2 cups of white vinegar before placing it on the base so that it drains into the reservoir. Empty it after 20 minutes and give it an extra scrub with a small brush to make sure all the nooks and crannies are cleaned.

8. Putting our skillets in the dishwasher

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This pan will not do well in the dishwasher because the appliance will strip the bottom of the pan of all its seasoning. This seasoning is a beneficial buildup of oils over time that reacts to the metal of the pan and helps to keep it non-stick.

9. Washing our towels with fabric softener

Bath toys are especially known to grow harmful mold inside of them. Unfortunately, soaking toys in vinegar will not remove all of the bacteria buildup and it’s below EPA standards.

Both bath toys and plastic toys can be cleaned with disinfectant, but make sure that the surface is wet for at least 10 seconds for wipes and 5 minutes if using a bleach and water solution. This ensures that the items are effectively disinfected. Always give them a quick rinse after they’ve dried.

12. Cleaning our glasses with water and paper towels

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It may be tempting to quickly wipe off your glasses with a tissue but the best way to ensure that your glasses remain clean and scratch-free is to rinse them in warm water and gently wash them with dish soap. Dry the lenses with a soft microfiber cloth before using a disinfectant wipe to clean around the nose and earpieces.

What would you add to the list? Do you believe that we’re making some serious cleaning mistakes?