5 mopping mistakes to avoid for a shinier, cleaner floor  

Common floor cleaning mistakes: If you find your floor dirty even after mopping, chances are you are using dirty water or a dirty mop (Image: Pexels)

When it comes to cleaning the floor, mopping helps in more ways than one. It is not only good for the hygiene of the house, but also makes the place look shinier and well-organised. However, it’s a task that requires attention because, if not done correctly, it may leave a negative impression. 

To avoid making the floor look dirtier, stickier, or unkempt, look into these commonly made mopping mistakes that can prevent efficient completion of the task and keep you from getting the desired results.

• Not sweeping the floor before mopping: One of the most common mistakes is failing to sweep or vacuum the floor before mopping. Directly mopping the floor leads to dust, food crumbs, or even hair being swept across the floor. Much worse, dust and debris often get stuck to the mop, making it dirty and difficult to clean.

• Choose the right mop: Modern Indian homes are built differently. Hence, it’s wise to use mops that are most effective on your flooring. It’s believed that microfibre mops work well on hardwood, while sponge mops clean tiles better. Seek help online to choose the one that’s best suited for your floor. 

• Using dirty mop or water: If you find your floor dirty even after mopping, chances are you are using dirty water or a dirty mop. Before you begin and after you finish mopping every day, ensure the mop is clean and sanitised to avoid spreading bacteria. And while you are cleaning the house, frequently change the water to avoid dirt and grime from sticking to the mop. Replace the mop head regularly to prevent the spread of germ-carrying bacteria.

• Right use of cleaning solution: It is not only important to use the right cleaning solution for your floor’s durability, but also to use it in the right quantity. While too little cleaning solution may be ineffective in cleaning the floor properly, too much of it will leave a residue, attracting dust and dirt. Hence, choosing the right cleaner and using the right quantity play an important role.

• Using too much water: While it’s important to gauge the quantity of the cleansing solution, it is equally important not to use too much water on the floor. If you have wooden or laminate flooring, excess water may seep into cracks, affecting its durability. Also, excess water takes longer to dry, hence increasing the chances of someone stepping on the wet floor and making it dirty with shoe marks. It also increases the likelihood of slipping and falling.