7 Things You Didn’t Know You Cleaned Too Often

things you clean too much

When it comes to keeping our homes clean, there are a lot of things we could all probably stand to clean more often, like throw blankets, filters, and other items that suffer from being out of sight and out of mind. But in today’s post, we’ll be exploring the opposite end of the spectrum, because there are also things around the house you could be cleaning too often!

Can things really be too clean? The answer is more complicated than you’d think. Technically, cleanliness itself isn’t the issue—it’s the act of cleaning than can do harm. When done too often, washing, wiping, scrubbing, and spraying can shorten the lifespan of your things, and that’s not ideal if you want them to last!

So today I’ll be sharing 7 things that people commonly clean too much or too often. You’ll find out why it’s harmful, and learn how often you should clean each item to ensure it has a good, long life!

7 Things You Can Clean Too Often (And Why It’s Harmful)

things you clean too much

1. Bathroom Mirror

Bathroom mirrors are subjected to a lot of humidity, both from general steaminess and frequent cleanings. If your mirror is exposed to too much humidity, the moisture can get behind the mirror and damage the backing. So it’s wise to clean your bathroom mirror on an as-needed basis to avoid doing moisture damage!

things you clean too much

2. Carpet

If you use foaming carpet cleaners frequently on spills and stains, you may be doing more harm than good. The problem with really foamy cleaners is that it’s hard to rinse them out of your carpet, which can leave behind soapy residue that ends up attracting more dirt.

Instead, use carpet cleaning products only as needed, and make sure to blot the area thoroughly with a clean, wet cloth to remove any residue afterward. For simple carpet cleaning tips, read the post below.

Related: Here’s How To Remove The Most Dreaded Carpet Stains

things you clean too much

3. Wood Furniture

Cleaning products that are formulated for use on wood to can help keep your furniture nice and shiny. But if you use these cleaners too often, it can lead to greasy buildup that attracts dust and dirt. Instead, use special wood cleaners just once or twice a month—for everyday cleaning, wipe down your furniture with a damp microfiber cloth.

Related: How To Make A Cheap, All-Natural Dusting Spray

things you clean too much

4. Jeans

With as tricky as it is to find the perfect pair of jeans, it only makes sense to make them last as long as possible, and the best way to do that is by washing them infrequently. Some say once a month is fine, but makers of raw denim recommend waiting up to six months between washes.

To keep your jeans fresh between washes, you can stick them in your freezer overnight to kill bacteria. You can also make a simple “freshening” spray with 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1/4 cup of water, and 3 drops of lavender essential oil. Shake the ingredients up in a small spray bottle, and spritz your jeans every few wears to keep them smelling fresh.

things you clean too much

5. Bras

Bras are another clothing item that wear out quickly when washed frequently, so try to wear a bra 3-4 times before washing it to help extend its life. And when you do wash it, always zip it into a mesh laundry bag first, and wash on the gentlest possible cycle. And don’t forget—hang dry only!

Related: This Brand Makes The Most Comfortable Bras Ever

things you clean too much

6. Your Hair

Shampooing hair doesn’t just remove excess oil from your hair and scalp—it removes all the oil! Your hair and scalp produce oils for a reason, and stripping them out by shampooing every day can really take a toll on your hair.

The only reason to shampoo your hair every day is if you have very fine hair, very oily hair, or if you sweat a lot. Everyone else is better off washing their hair just 2-3 times per week. (And those with very thick or very curly hair may want to shampoo even less frequently!)

things you clean too much

7. Your Car

Keeping the outside of your car clean is important, but it’s easy to overdo it. Every time you wash your car, you wash away some of the waxy outer layer that helps protect your car’s paint job, and once it’s gone, your paint job is even more vulnerable. It can even result in “spiderwebbing,” or small, web-like cracks in your paint.

Instead, scale back to washing your car once or twice a month, and get your car re-waxed at least once a year to ensure your paint job is protected.

What’s your best tip for making something last as long as possible?

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Jill Nystul (aka Jillee)

Jill Nystul is an accomplished writer and author who founded the blog One Good Thing by Jillee in 2011. With over 30 years of experience in homemaking, she has become a trusted resource for contemporary homemakers by offering practical solutions to everyday household challenges.I share creative homemaking and lifestyle solutions that make your life easier and more enjoyable!

About Jillee

Jill Nystul

Jill’s 30 years of homemaking experience, make her the trusted source for practical household solutions.

About Jillee

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