Our society is cleaning-obsessed and germophobic. This could mean that perhaps we are cleaning a little too much. For instance, must we really throw everything into the hamper after one wear? What about our car, furniture, or our hands? How often should we be cleaning certain things? Take a look:
1. The mirror
While we all want to look good when we look at ourselves in the mirror, you need not clean your mirror at every sign of a fingerprint. In fact, Harriet Jones of Go Cleaners London says “If you use half of your cleaning solution for only one or two small fingerprints on your mirror, you are overdoing it. Moisture from humidity or over-spraying can get behind the mirror and harm the backing. So, clean your mirror when there are enough spots to justify the use of the detergent.”
2. Carpet
When an accident happens, many people saturate the carpet with a cleaning solution, hoping for the best. But using too much cleanser too often, “can damage the carpet and will be almost impossible to wash and remove. Over time, this soapy residue will attract dirt and your efforts will be in vain. Instead, use less aggressive products—soap, water, and vinegar,” says Jones.
“Remember—blot, do not soak up your carpet with the solution, and always dry it properly after the cleaning.” The same goes for throw and area rugs with rubber backings. Too many washes can cause the rubber to flake off and ruin the entire rug. You can also try these DIY carpet stain removers.
3. Suits and dress slacks
Andre Rhodes, owner of Platinum Dry Cleaners in Naples, Florida says “The average American household completes 300 loads of washing a year, at 27 gallons per load in a high-efficiency front-load machine, and an average of one hour of time used per load to wash, dry, fold, and put away the laundry. Educating yourself on proper washing frequency saves the one thing you can’t buy: time.” Rhodes suggests that slacks can be refreshed by steaming them either in the shower before work or using a hand-held steamer or iron.
This enables slacks to go for a minimum of two wears and potentially three depending on the conditions and the color. Darks can stay without being washed longer. And since you don’t sweat as much in winter, you can cheat a little. “Suits are typically sent in as a pair. I have never understood this. The jacket can go through three times as much wear as the pants, with only pressing required. Most cleaners offer press-only at a substantial discount. Use this option for all suit jackets and save a bundle while taking less from the environment. What a win-win!” Rhodes adds.
4. Bras
According to Rhodes, bras are the most over-washed item in the wardrobe. “Frequent washing changes the shape of a bra. Wash your brassieres every three to four wears and in a net bag to ensure it doesn’t tangle with other washing and hang them to dry.”
5. Car
