Mopping Mistakes
Mopping is essential to clean hard surface flooring. There are some common mistakes that many people make when it comes to mopping. Here are some mopping don’ts to avoid when cleaning your floors.
Not Sweeping First
Some of us think “well I am cleaning the floor by mopping , so why clean it by sweeping first?” It kind of feels like the pre-rinsing the dishes before sticking them in the dishwasher thing.
Did you know that mopping an unswept floor can lead to scratching? Dragging larger dirt particles across your floor while mopping can scratch it. So before you get the mop out be sure to sweep, dust mop, or vacuum first.
Hot Water and Lots of Moisture on Wood Floors
Hardwood floors are very popular right now because they are beautiful and believed to be more sanitary by not holding in dirt. Hardwoods can last for many years as long as they are properly cared for.
Extreme moisture is not good for wood. Unless you have industrial ship lap finish on your floors you want to keep your mop nearly dry and skip on scorching hot water, room temp or just barely warm is best. Too much or too hot water can warp and rot wood floors.
Not Changing Water
If you are using the old rag mop and bucket method the water needs to be changed as soon as it turns grey and murky otherwise you are just making your floor dirtier than it was to begin with.
Using the Wrong Type of Mop
A mop is a mop is a mop right? Wrong. Hardwood floors are best when mopped with a flat head mop. Large amounts of tile are not best mopped by a small sponge mop. Sponge mops are really only for small spaces.
Not Cleaning the Mop Head
Mop heads should be cleaned after EVERY use. A dirty mop does not clean a dirty floor.
Too Much Soap
Too much solution or soap on the floor sits on the surface and not only looks filmy but attracts more dirt making the next mopping job less fun.
Irregular Mopping
Just like vacuuming mopping and sweeping should be done often and on a regular basis. The best way to keep your floors looking and performing great is with a once weekly mopping. More often if you have high traffic areas or pets that go outside. The longer you let dirt hang out on your floors the harder they are to clean. This is especially detrimental to keeping grout clean.
Only Using on Floors
Okay so this one isn’t necessarily a mistake just a tip. Mops are great for getting cobwebs off of tall ceilings. Flat mops with a dry pad are nice for cleaning walls and dusty corners. You can even mop tile shower surrounds.
For the best care of your tiles make sure to have them deep cleaned and sealed at least annually. All Kleen has the equipment and trained pros to get your tiles looking brand new again. Make an appointment online for fast efficient service with a satisfaction guarantee.