Six Household Items You Shouldn't Clean With Water: Preventing Warping, Staining, and Rust
In the world of cleaning, water might seem like a harmless and universal solution. However, professional cleaners advise against using it on certain household items to prevent damage and costly repairs. Here are six items you should never clean with water and their recommended cleaning tips:
1. Wood items (cabinets, furniture, floors)
Water can cause staining, warping, cracking, and cloudy rings on wood surfaces. To maintain the integrity and appearance of your wooden items, use a soft microfiber cloth and a wood cleaner such as Weiman cabinet and wood cleaner spray. For hardwood floors, consider using a wood-safe detergent like Method Almond Sqirt+Mop with a suitable mop such as the O-Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop. Avoid excess moisture and harsh chemicals.
2. Cast iron cookware
Water strips seasoning and encourages rust on cast iron cookware. Instead, clean your cast iron with coarse salt and a bit of oil to scrub off residue, then wipe clean. After cleaning, season the pan again to prevent rust and food sticking.
3. Electronics (lights, speakers, keyboards, etc.)
Water can seep inside and cause permanent damage or destruction. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off dust and dirt. For stubborn residue, consider using a small handheld vacuum, soft-bristled attachment, or a soft toothbrush.
4. Brass and silver
Water can tarnish or damage protective coatings on metals. Use appropriate metal polishes or dry cleaning methods recommended for brass and silver.
5. Suede, velvet, and velour fabrics
Water can stain or ruin the texture and appearance of these delicate fabrics. Use dry cleaning or specific fabric cleaners designed for these materials.
6. Porous natural materials (e.g. stone, certain leather types)
Water can penetrate pores causing stains, warping, or deterioration. Use cleaners specifically formulated for porous materials and avoid excess moisture.
These guidelines help preserve the integrity, appearance, and longevity of these items by avoiding water-related damage such as warping, rust, staining, or coating removal. Always opt for specialized cleaners or dry cleaning approaches endorsed by professionals for these delicate materials.
For instance, leather should not be exposed to water as it can leave stains, dry it out, or create stiff patches. Use a product like Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner instead. Similarly, water should be avoided on any fabric surfaces, including lampshades, to prevent marks or further setting in of dust or stains. Use a lint roller, vacuum with a brush attachment, or dry sponges instead.
In addition to these tips, it's important to note that microfiber cloths are super soft and ideal for cleaning items that should not be cleaned with water. Seal your natural stone counters regularly with products such as Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator.
Professionals like Alicia, who creates all-natural, chemical-free cleaning services through AspenClean, and Nathaly Vieira, founder of Inspire Clean, share their expertise online to help revolutionize the cleaning industry. Services like Joy's Cleaning Service, specializing in commercial, post-renovation, and post-demolition cleaning, also play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness while preserving the integrity of various materials.
Matthew Baratta, with his extensive knowledge in the cleaning industry and a master's degree in Public Health, serves as the vice president of operations at Daimer Industries. His contributions further emphasize the importance of using appropriate cleaning methods for different materials.
Lifestyle considerations extend beyond personal hygiene and cleaning; fashion-and-beauty products and home-and-garden items require specialized care. For instance, avoiding water on suede, velvet, and velour fabrics can preserve their texture and appearance. Specific fabric cleaners or dry cleaning methods are recommended for these materials. Similarly, home cleaning tasks often require specific cleaners, such as Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner for leather items or wood cleaners for wooden furniture, to maintain their integrity and appearance.
