Ah, grandma—the keeper of all things old-school. From homemade remedies to quirky cleaning tips, grandma always had a way of keeping the house sparkling… or so we thought. While some of her time-tested tricks are worth keeping, others might need to be retired, pronto. We tapped into expert cleaning advice to highlight some common household tips that are actually more harmful than helpful. So, let’s dive into the top cleaning methods you should stop doing, ASAP!
1. Vinegar for Everything? Not So Fast!
Grandma swore by vinegar for everything, from cleaning windows to removing stains. While vinegar is a powerhouse in the right applications, experts suggest it’s not the universal miracle worker we thought. For instance, using vinegar on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble can cause damage over time. Instead, reach for specialized cleaners that won’t harm your countertops—like Lola’s Eco Clean Bamboo Scrub Brush for a gentle yet effective clean.
2. Baking Soda + Vinegar = Not a Dream Team
Another classic combo from grandma: Baking soda and vinegar. While it fizzes up fun reactions in the sink, this duo isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Sure, they can neutralize odors and clean some surfaces, but combining them creates water and carbon dioxide—basically neutralizing their cleaning powers! If you're looking for a strong stain-fighting cleaner, we recommend trying Pot Brite Scour N' Sponge—designed for tough grime and baked-on messes without the weird chemical reaction!
3. Old Towel Towels as Mops? A Recipe for a Bigger Mess!
Grandma loved using old towels as makeshift mops, but experts agree this can actually spread germs more than clean. Old, worn-out towels are a breeding ground for bacteria, and when you mop the floor with them, you could be leaving behind dirt and grime. It’s time to swap out your old towels for a cleaner option! Try the Lola Pro Amazin Sponge & Scrubber Roller Mop, which not only absorbs more moisture but is also reusable and super effective at cleaning all floor types.
4. Ammonia for Glass Cleaning? Let’s Just Say ‘No!’
Ah, ammonia. Grandma might have sworn by it for streak-free windows, but this potent chemical is far from safe, especially in small, unventilated spaces. Inhaling ammonia fumes can be harmful, and it can damage some surfaces. Instead, opt for a safer, more eco-friendly option like Lola Glass & Jar Sponge Brush, which is non-scratch and safe for delicate surfaces, leaving your windows sparkling and streak-free without any harsh chemicals.
5. Using Bleach for All Disinfecting? Overkill!
While bleach certainly has its place in deep cleaning, it’s not necessary for every surface. Using bleach too often can damage fabrics, discolor surfaces, and harm your respiratory system. Experts suggest using it sparingly and opting for gentler cleaning solutions when possible. If you need a heavy-duty clean that’s still gentle, check out the Flexible Dust Mop w/ 4 Piece Handle, which is designed for maximum dirt attraction without harsh chemicals.
6. Dousing Your Carpets with Baby Powder? Say Goodbye to That!
Grandma’s method of freshening up carpets by sprinkling baby powder might sound nostalgic, but it’s time to let that one go. Not only does it leave a mess of powder residue, but it doesn’t do much in terms of cleaning. Instead, use a Iron Handled Scrubber to scrub out deep dirt and stains in your carpet fibers.
It’s clear that grandma’s heart was in the right place, but when it comes to cleaning, some methods are in desperate need of an upgrade. By embracing modern solutions, like the clever products from Lola, we can get the best of both worlds: effective cleaning with a healthy dose of wisdom. So, bid farewell to these outdated tricks, and say hello to a cleaner, safer home!
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