Keeping your home spotless can sometimes feel like a never-ending task, but your cleaning tools are your trusty companions in the fight against dust, dirt, and grime. We often spend a lot of time finding the best mops, brooms, and scrubbing brushes but rarely think about maintaining them. Like any tool, your cleaning tools needs proper care to perform efficiently and last longer.
HOW TO MAKE YOU CLEANING TOOLS LAST LONGER
1. Keep Your Tools Clean After Every Use
It may sound ironic, but cleaning your cleaning tools is the first step toward their longevity. After each use, dirt, grime, and cleaning solutions accumulate on your tools. If left unwashed, these residues can wear down the material and reduce their efficiency.
Mops: After mopping, rinse the mop head thoroughly with water to remove any dirt and cleaning products. If your mop has a removable head, wash it in warm, soapy water or in a washing machine if it's machine-friendly. Make sure to dry it properly before storing to prevent mildew or foul odors.
Brooms and Brushes: Brooms often trap dust and debris in their bristles. Tap the broom against a hard surface to dislodge the dirt and, if needed, rinse the bristles under warm water. For brushes, a thorough rinse with warm soapy water should do the trick. Let them dry completely before the next use to avoid weakening the bristles.
2. Dry Thoroughly to Prevent Mold and Bacteria
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of cleaning tools. It invites bacteria, mold, and mildew, which can compromise the cleanliness of your tools and even cause them to break down faster.
Mops and Sponges: Always let your mop and sponges air dry in a well-ventilated space. Consider hanging them up instead of leaving them in a bucket or laying flat, as this allows for better airflow and quicker drying.
Microfiber Cloths: Microfibre cloths are excellent for cleaning surfaces without leaving streaks, but they need to be dried properly too. Avoid drying them in direct sunlight, which can degrade the fibers. Instead, let them air dry indoors or use a low-heat setting if machine drying.
3. Store Properly to Maintain Shape and Quality
Storing your cleaning tools properly plays a key role in ensuring their longevity. Cramped, humid spaces can wear them down faster, while improper storage may bend or damage your brooms, brushes, or mop handles.
Brooms and Mops: Always store them upright to avoid bending the handles or distorting the bristles. Hang them on hooks or place them in an area where the bristles aren’t resting on the floor. This will maintain their shape and keep them in good working condition.
Sponges and Cloths: Store sponges in a well-ventilated area to keep them from harboring bacteria. Microfiber cloths should be folded and stored in a clean, dry place to keep them fresh and ready for use.
4. Replace Parts When Needed
Some cleaning tools are designed to last longer when parts are replaced regularly. For example, a high-quality mop with a detachable head can last for years if you replace the mop head when it gets worn out.
Mop Heads: If you’re using a mop with a detachable head, make sure to replace it when it starts to look worn or isn’t cleaning as effectively. Similarly, replace sponges and microfiber pads when they start to lose their absorbency or show signs of wear and tear.
Vacuum Filters and Bags: For those who use vacuums regularly, don’t forget to clean or replace the filters and bags. A clogged vacuum filter will reduce suction power and strain the motor, which can lead to premature failure.
5. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals That Can Damage Tools
While cleaning solutions help you get the job done, some harsh chemicals can erode or weaken your cleaning tools over time. Using milder, eco-friendly cleaning products not only protects your home’s surfaces but also extends the life of your tools.
Mops and Brushes: Avoid bleach or strong acidic cleaners that can degrade the fibers of your mops or brushes. Opt for mild soaps or specialized cleaners that are gentler on the tools.
Cloths and Microfiber: Avoid using fabric softeners or harsh detergents on microfiber cloths, as these can coat the fibers and reduce their ability to trap dust and dirt effectively.
6. Regular Maintenance for Commercial Cleaning Equipment
If you use commercial cleaning equipment like vacuum cleaners, floor brushes, or pressure washers, regular maintenance becomes even more crucial.
Vacuum Cleaners: Clean the brushes and roller regularly to remove hair, strings, or other debris that may get tangled. Empty the vacuum bag or bin after each use to avoid reducing suction power, and check the belts and hoses periodically for any damage.
Pressure Washers: After each use, run clean water through your pressure washer to flush out any debris or chemicals. Inspect the hoses, nozzles, and connections regularly to ensure everything is in good working order.
7. Perform Deep Cleanings and Tune-ups
Just like your car, your cleaning tools need occasional deep cleanings and tune-ups to stay in top form. Schedule deep cleaning for your tools at least once a month to maintain their quality.
Mop Buckets: After every few uses, give your mop bucket a deep clean to prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and cleaning solution residue. A mixture of warm water and vinegar or a disinfectant cleaner can keep the bucket fresh and ready for future use.
Brushes and Brooms: Every now and then, soak your brushes or broom heads in warm, soapy water for a thorough cleaning. This helps remove any stubborn grime that regular rinsing might miss.
REPLACEMENT PARTS FOR CLEANING TOOLS
Have you ever found yourself with a worn-out mop or broom, but realized the entire cleaning tool isn’t actually damaged? It’s often just the mop head, the rod, or maybe the broom’s brush head that’s no longer working as well as it should. It seems such a waste to throw away the entire cleaning tool when only one part needs replacing, right?
Well, worry no more! Zidello has got you covered with a wide range of replacement parts. Whether it’s a spin mop refill, mop rod, mop plate, mop bucket, or broom refills, we've got everything you need to keep your cleaning tools working like new! Visit our website today!