the 5 Do’s & Don’ts of Cleaning – Keep It Clean, Keep It Healthy!
Cleaning isn’t just about keeping your home looking like a sanctuary—it’s also about protecting your health. A tidy, well-maintained space helps reduce allergens, bacteria, and toxins that can affect your well-being. Dust buildup can trigger allergies, mold can cause respiratory issues, and improper cleaning methods can spread more germs than they remove.
So let’s clean smarter, not harder, with these five do’s and don’ts to keep your home fresh, safe, and stress-free!
5 Cleaning Do’s
DO: Follow Instructions for Different Surfaces.
Not all surfaces are created equal! That heavy-duty cleaner that works wonders on your stovetop might wreak havoc on your granite countertops. Pay attention to pH balance and abrasion levels—some materials need a gentle touch to stay beautiful and bacteria-free.
DO: Clean from Top to Bottom
Gravity is real, folks! If you dust after vacuuming, congratulations—you just created double the work for yourself. Start from the highest surfaces (think shelves, ceiling fans, curtain rods, and counters) and work your way down so dirt and dust don’t land on your freshly cleaned floors.
DO: Use Eco-Friendly Products
Harsh chemicals can be tough on your lungs, skin, pets, and the planet. Instead, opt for natural, non-toxic cleaners that are just as effective without the harmful side effects. Our Essentially Om All Natural Cleaning Products are designed to keep your home fresh and clean while protecting your health and the environment. Reducing chemical exposure in your home means cleaner air, safer surfaces, and a healthier space for everyone—because a truly clean home shouldn’t come with toxic trade-offs!
DO: Clean High-Touch Areas Regularly & Let Disinfectant Sit
Handles, light switches, and remote controls—these hotspots are basically bacteria breeding grounds. Give them some love with a disinfectant and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping. That dwell time ensures germs don’t stand a chance!
DO: Declutter Before You Clean
Trying to dust around a pile of unfolded laundry is like vacuuming around a minefield of Legos—it’s just not effective! Taking a few minutes to tidy up first makes cleaning faster and easier, plus it helps eliminate dust traps that can affect your home's air quality. Less clutter = less dust = cleaner, fresher space!
5 Cleaning Don’ts
DON’T: Mix Cleaning Chemical.
Bleach + ammonia = toxic disaster (hello, chloramines!). Even vinegar and bleach can create chlorine gas—yikes! But honestly, just skip the bleach altogether—it’s harsh on your lungs, skin, and indoor air quality. Instead, stick to one product at a time and always check labels before combining anything. Your lungs (and everyone else in your home) will thank you.
DON’T: Use Vinegar on Natural Stone
Vinegar is a powerhouse for many cleaning tasks, but when it comes to marble and granite, it’s a hard NOPE. Its acidity can etch, dull, and even weaken the surface over time, leaving your beautiful counters looking less than stellar. Instead, stick with a pH-neutral stone cleaner to keep them sleek, shiny, and sanitary!
Want an all-natural alternative? Try this DIY stone cleaner recipe:
Granite Cleaning / Polishing Spray
1-1/2 Cup of distilled water
1/3 Cup rubbing alcohol or vodka
3-5 Drops of Dr. Bronner’s castile soap
8-10 Drops of essential oil
Add alcohol, dish soap, and essential oils in a dark glass spray bottle.
Add water, and shake to mix thoroughly
Spray onto granite counters and wipe away with a microfiber cloth..
DON’T: Forget to Clean Behind & Under Furniture
We know—it’s scary back there. But ignoring those areas lets dust, mold, and bacteria thrive. Move furniture (even just a little) every now and then to vacuum or mop up hidden messes before they start affecting your air quality.
DON’T: Over-Soak Wood Floors
Water and wood? Not the best combo. Using too much liquid can warp and damage your beautiful floors. Instead, lightly mist a microfiber mop - my favorite flat mop is the Norwex Superior Mop System or use a damp (not wet!) cloth for spot cleaning. Bonus: this prevents mold and mildew growth, which thrive in excess moisture.
DON’T: Use the Same Cloth for Multiple Surfaces
That rag you just used to wipe the bathroom sink? Please don’t take it to the kitchen. 🙃 Using the same cloth spreads germs from one place to another—grab a fresh one for different surfaces to prevent cross-contamination!need more help than these five daily tips to keep your home a sanctuary, we’ve got you!
Why a Clean Home = a Healthy Home
Beyond looking tidy, a clean home helps protect you from dust mites, bacteria, viruses, mold, and other harmful pollutants that can cause allergies, respiratory issues, and even illness. Keeping your home clean isn’t just about making it feel Zen—it’s about creating a space where you can breathe easy, stay healthy, and feel at peace.
If keeping up with cleaning feels overwhelming, Om Sweet Om Cleaning is here to help! Hiring professionals saves you time and effort while ensuring your home stays pristine, safe, and stress-free. Call us at (916) 771-0873 or book online today—because a clean home = a happy, healthy home!