6 Items Not Suitable for Cleaning with Multi-Purpose Cleaners
Heads up, folks! It seems that 'all-purpose cleaner' might not be as versatile as it sounds. A variety of surfaces and materials don't exactly get along with this popular household essential. Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a company based in Irving, Texas, lends her expertise to guide you on what to clean and what not with all-purpose cleaners.
Before stocking up on new cleaning companions, Mock advises steering clear of harmful chemicals like phosphates, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These ingredients can be detrimental to both your home and the environment, so opt for products containing natural ingredients such as lauramine oxide or caprylyl glucoside instead.
Upholstery, Leather, and Delicate Fabrics
Sadly, all-purpose cleaners can mar these delicate materials, causing fading or staining. Leather, for one, won't benefit from the conditioning it needs, only to suffer dryness and cracking. Instead, pick products specifically tailored for each fabric type to protect them while effectively cleaning.
Electronics
It's a no-go to clean electronics with all-purpose cleaners, as they often contain moisture. Even wetting a cloth with the formula and applying it can still lead to damage, such as short-circuiting. Stick with electronic-safe cleaning wipes or sprays for a safe clean.
Stone Surfaces
Resist the temptation to wipe down natural stone surfaces with all-purpose cleaners, as they might be too harsh and damage or discolor the stone. Opt for cleaning formulas that are suited for stone care to ensure a long-lasting shine.
Wooden Furniture
Wooden furniture can lose its finish or fall victim to chemical damage from all-purpose cleaners. The right option here is cleaning products designed for wood furniture, which will preserve its finish.
Non-stick Cookware
Think twice before scrubbing down your non-stick pots and pans with all-purpose cleaner, as it can strip the coating. Opt for cleaners or soap specifically made for non-stick cookware to maintain their quality.
Mirrors and Windows
Lastly, windows and glass surfaces are not compatible with all-purpose cleaners, as they can leave streaks or residue behind. Instead, stick to dedicated glass cleaners for a streak-free shine.
So there you have it! Make the right choice, and keep your belongings in tip-top shape with the perfect cleaning match for each surface.
- Southern Living magazine might want to advise homeowners to be cautious when using all-purpose cleaners on upholstery, leather, and delicate fabrics, as these materials can be damaged or stained.
- When it comes to cleaning electronic items, avoid using all-purpose cleaners as they often contain moisture that can lead to damage, such as short-circuiting.
- natural stone surfaces should not be cleaned with all-purpose cleaners due to their potential to be too harsh and damage or discolor the stone.
- Wooden furniture can lose its finish or fall victim to chemical damage from all-purpose cleaners, so it's best to use cleaning products designed specifically for wood furniture.
- To maintain the quality of non-stick cookware, it's important to avoid scrubbing it with all-purpose cleaners, as they can strip the coating. Choose cleaners or soap specifically made for non-stick cookware instead.
Additionally, when cleaning windows and glass surfaces, it's recommended to use dedicated glass cleaners to achieve a streak-free shine. By making the right cleaning choices, you can keep your belongings in great condition and maintain a comfortable and stylish lifestyle in your home-and-garden.
