DETROIT – When you tackle your household chores, you want to make sure you're using the most effective cleaning methods to get the job done in order to kill bacteria and avoid wasting time.
Consumer Reporters recently published a list of common house cleaning myths and Ruth to the Rescue went to a local cleaning expert to get a second opinion about what works and what doesn't.
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Housecleaning myths Part 1: What really works
Shirley Mika has been professionally cleaning homes for 30 years. She said that the process feels therapeutic.
"Well, for me it is. I like it and I like leaving a house where it's all clean," Mika told Ruth to the Rescue.
Cleaning might not be therapeutic for everyone, but as we all know it has to get done.
Are String Mops Top Mops?
You might believe that string mops are best for cleaning floors, but Consumer Reports says otherwise. The consumer magazine says string mops are good for cleaning up big spills, but they don't pick up all dirt and debris. Mika favors a newer option: microfiber mops.
"A lot of microfiber mops that you can wring out and it's not so wet on your floors, which works really well," Mika said. Consumer Reports agrees, reporting that studies show microfiber mops are percent more effective for removing dirt and bacteria.
Instant Cleaning? Dish Debate
Do traditional cleaning products work instantly? Experts say it is often better to wait and allow the product time to work.
"Like for a shower, if you have a lot of soap scum. It's better to spray it for a few minutes and you now let it do its work," Mika said.
One myth that is hotly debated is whether or not it's better to hand wash dishes or use your dishwasher. Consumer Reports says if your dishwasher is newer, it will beat hand-washing out by a mile.
"Handwashing probably wouldn't get the germs as much as if you put them in the dishwasher," Mika said. Consumer Reports also points out that dishwashers can heat the water to 140 degrees, which really sanitizes your pots and pans.
Vinegar on Hardwood Floors?
Finally, Mika said she is a fan of using a mixture of vinegar and water to clean hardwood floors. If you look online, you will find a variety of opposing viewpoints on that topic. Some say never, some say it depends on the floor's finish, and others say it depends on the ratio of vinegar to water.
"I like a quarter cup of vinegar with you know probably a gallon of water for the floors that's mainly what I used it for," said Mika.
No matter what products you use on your floors, it's always a good idea to try it out in a small portion of the floor before cleaning the whole room.
Ruth to the Rescue has been polling viewers on their opinions. You can vote and check the results here.
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