Maintaining a clean and sparkling home can be challenging, particularly when it comes to keeping your floors pristine. To shed some light on the topic, we consulted with an expert for advice on floor mopping frequency, techniques, and selecting the right mop for your needs.
Meet Jorge Leiva, the owner of Bee Maids House Cleaning Services in Houston, Texas.
How Often Should You Mop Your Floors?
Jorge Leiva suggests that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, as a general guideline, he recommends mopping your floors at least once a week, especially in high-traffic areas prone to spills and stains like the kitchen and bathroom. “Before mopping, be sure to sweep or vacuum the floor,” Leiva advises. “Depending on how pristine you want your home to be, you may find yourself mopping more frequently than once a week.”
Consider the number of occupants in your home. More people equate to increased foot traffic, necessitating more frequent mopping. However, Leiva emphasizes that the focus should be on cleaning visible dirt rather than rigorous scheduling. He shares an anecdote about clients with differing cleaning needs, highlighting the importance of addressing dirtiness promptly.
Indicators That It’s Time to Mop
Aside from obvious grime, subtle signs that your floor needs attention include faded appearance due to foot traffic, the accumulation of dust bunnies in corners, sticky spots, grimy grout, and exacerbation of allergies.
Preparing for Mopping
Before mopping, ensure you sweep or vacuum the floors to prevent spreading dirt and germs. Leiva recommends using a flat-head mop with multiple mop pads instead of a mop wringer to avoid exacerbating the issue.
Tips for Prolonging Time Between Mop Sessions
Regularly sweeping or vacuuming the floors helps keep them clean and free of debris that could harm your flooring. Promptly picking up crumbs and hair can maintain the cleanliness of your floors. Periodic steam mopping can extend the time needed between traditional wet mopping sessions.
To prevent water damage or stains, clean up spills promptly. Leiva also suggests employing two doormats per entrance to trap debris and maintain floor cleanliness.
“And free of dirt and dust.” What to look for when purchasing a new mop
According to Leiva, there are many people who use disposable mop pads. However, he doesn’t believe that they are the best option. “They can only be used once, which makes them not very cost-effective,” he explains. “They also aren’t good for the environment.”
Instead, Leiva recommends microfiber mop pads. “The microfiber material is great for picking up and holding dirt, leaving your hard surface flooring sparkling and streak-free,” he says. “You can use it effectively with plain water, or use a cleaner designed for your floors.”
Related: The Best Spray Mops for Every Floor Type, According to Months of Testing
Read the original article on Southern Living.
