As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to declutter your cleaning routine and leave behind the ineffective cleaning hacks that don’t actually work. While some viral tips may seem like life-changing shortcuts, many are overhyped and fail to deliver the results you expect. This year, it’s time to ditch these cleaning hacks and embrace strategies that truly make a difference. Here are five cleaning hacks to leave in 2024!
1. Dryer Sheets for Dusting
Using dryer sheets to dust your furniture is one of the most popular cleaning hacks shared online. The idea is that they help attract dust and leave surfaces shiny. However, dryer sheets often leave behind a sticky residue that attracts even more dust, making your furniture harder to clean over time.
Instead: Use Swiffers to trap the excess dust, followed by a damp microfiber cloth, which is designed to trap dust without leaving residue. This is far more effective and long-lasting than dryer sheets.
2. Newspaper for Window/Mirror Cleaning
Cleaning windows and mirrors with newspaper is another cleaning hack that’s been around for years. The idea is that the paper leaves your windows streak-free. But in reality, the ink can smudge onto the glass, and newspapers are often too rough, potentially scratching delicate surfaces.
Better Alternative: Use a lint-free cloth or a squeegee for streak-free results. The secret is to apply the product you’re using to the cloth, not the surface, and then polish afterwards with a dry cloth to make sure no streaks are left. Check out some extra tips we’ve prepared for you.
3. Cleaning Hacks Using Toothpaste for Grout
Many cleaning “enthusiasts” recommend using toothpaste to clean grout, claiming it helps remove stains and restore its original color. However, toothpaste leaves behind a sticky residue that attracts dirt, making your grout look even worse.
Instead: Use a specialized grout cleaner or a bit of bleach + dish soap to get rid of mold and grime. Use a sponge or brush to help break down the dirt.
4. Cleaning Stainless Steel with Baby Oil
There’s a trend that suggests cleaning stainless steel with baby oil, claiming it leaves a shiny, streak-free finish. While it may give stainless steel a temporary shine, it also leaves behind a greasy residue that attracts more dirt and fingerprints. Over time, it can make the surfaces look dirtier rather than cleaner.
Better Alternative: Use a cleaner specifically designed for stainless steel. If the build-up grease is too hard to get out, use a mixture of dish soap and water, and apply it with a non-abrasive sponge. Follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface to a streak-free shine without the greasy mess.
5. The “Coca-Cola Toilet Cleaner” Cleaning Hack
One of the most notorious cleaning hacks involves using Coca-Cola to clean the toilet, claiming it removes stains and rust. While the acid in the soda might dissolve some grime, it doesn’t do nearly as good of a job as proper toilet cleaners. Plus, it leaves behind a sticky mess that can clog pipes and attract more dirt.
Better Alternative: Use a toilet cleaner with bleach and proper equipment to scrub off the toilet. These products and equipment are designed specifically for cleaning and disinfecting toilets without the mess.
Say Goodbye to These Cleaning Hacks and Embrace What Works in 2025
While cleaning hacks can seem like fun shortcuts, many of them don’t live up to the hype and can even make your cleaning tasks harder. As we move into 2025, leave these ineffective cleaning hacks behind and focus on tried-and-true methods that truly work. Whether it’s using the right tools or investing in the proper cleaning products, a cleaner home is just a smarter approach away. Here’s to a fresh start with effective cleaning habits this year!