As we age, we often become creatures of habit, especially regarding our household routines. We've been cleaning our homes for decades, and it's easy to think we've got it all down to a fine art. But what if I told you that there's a good chance you've been cleaning your kitchen counters all wrong? That's right, even the most seasoned homekeepers among us might be guilty of this common cleaning faux pas.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and its counters are the workhorses of our daily lives. From preparing meals to being the dumping ground for mail, keys, and everything in between, they see a lot of action. So, it's no surprise that keeping them clean is a task we perform almost robotically. But according to a professional cleaner, there's a revolutionary method that could change the way you tackle this chore forever.

The Counterintuitive Countertop Cleaning Method

Disinfectant is recommended to be sprayed on kitchen countertops and allowed to sit for a few minutes before being wiped off for a thorough clean. Credit: Shutterstock

Lynsey Crombie, affectionately known as the Queen of Clean, has shared a countertop cleaning tip that might blow your mind. It's a simple change that promises to make a difference in the cleanliness and hygiene of your kitchen surfaces.

Many of us make the mistake of not giving our cleaning products enough time to do their job. We spray and wipe almost immediately, but Lynsey suggests a different approach. After spraying your countertop with an antibacterial cleaner, she advises leaving it to sit for a while. This could be the perfect time to tackle another small task, like washing up or organizing your kitchen cabinets.

The reason behind this method is simple yet profound. Allowing the cleaning product to dwell on the surface gives it the necessary time to break down grime and kill bacteria more effectively. This is particularly important for those stubborn spills that need more elbow grease.

However, there's a caveat. Don't get so caught up in other tasks that you forget about the cleaner on your counters. Leaving it on for too long can be counterproductive. If you get easily sidetracked, setting a timer might be a good reminder to return and wipe down the surfaces.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Now that you're armed with this new cleaning knowledge let's discuss the tools of the trade. Selecting the right cleaning products is crucial for both the cleaning effectiveness and the home environment's safety.

For those who prefer non-toxic options, plenty of high-quality, eco-friendly multi-purpose sprays are available that can tackle bacteria without harsh chemicals. And if you're sensitive to fragrances, unscented antibacterial options can provide a gentle yet effective clean.

On the other hand, if you enjoy a fresh scent lingering in your kitchen post-clean, a fragranced antibacterial spray can double as a cleaning agent and a room freshener. It's a win-win for a spotless and inviting kitchen.

The Takeaway for Our Senior Discount Club Members

We understand that safety and simplicity are key for many of our members when it comes to cleaning. This countertop cleaning tip not only ensures a more hygienic kitchen but also offers a straightforward approach that can be easily incorporated into your routine.

Remember, it's never too late to improve your cleaning habits. So, next time you're wiping down those counters, take a moment to let your cleaner work its magic. Your kitchen will thank you for it.

Key Takeaways

• It's recommended to spray disinfectant on kitchen countertops and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off to ensure a thorough clean.
• A cleaning expert advises that this method allows the cleaning products to work more effectively against bacteria and stubborn spills.
• It's important not to leave the spray on for too long – setting a timer can help prevent forgetting about it.
• Non-toxic and antibacterial cleaning products are preferred for cleaning kitchen countertops, providing a balance between effectiveness and safety.

We'd love to hear from you, too. Have you tried this method before? Do you have any cleaning tips or tricks that have served you well over the years? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let's help each other keep our homes sparkling clean!

 

[SandyM]

The overuse of anti-bacterial products has been linked to our increasing resistance to antibiotics. You don't need these products when "friction", (i.e. washing with a cloth or sponge with your regular cleaner), is all that is usually required on hard surfaces. It's the same with washing your hands - regular handwash & making sure you wash all sections. (I was taught this in nursing.)