4/16/10 Comparing Cleaning Cloths
Your supermarket aisles are filled with dozens of cleaning cloths to use around the house. Some options are disposable; others advertise thousands of uses. Many are highly absorbent and others are infused with cleaning solution when you purchase them. Choose the right cleaning cloth for your home to get the job done right.
Sponges and rags are among the longest lasting cleaning cloths available. Unfortunately, for residential cleaning services that work in many homes, these options are unsanitary for most uses. Bacteria and germs can reside in the absorbent fabrics, transferring from one home to another unless they are properly cleaned and stored between uses. These options tend to work better for dusting and cleaning non-shiny surfaces as they can leave a streaky finish.
Cleaner-infused cloths are generally used for antibacterial cleaning. They are stored in an airtight container that helps the cloths retain moisture. The downside: the cloths often contain little cleaner and are small in size, requiring many to clean even a small room. But they do cut down on some costs, eliminating the need to buy a second cleaning solution.
Paper towels are a great way to maintain sanitary conditions and streak-free shines. They can be purchased in a variety of grades ranging from thin paper-like sheets to thick, absorbent cloths that leave lint-like films if used with too little cleaning solution. Paper towels are, unfortunately, a less eco-friendly alternative to reusable cloths, despite their sanitary superiority.
Microfiber cloths are touted for their highly absorbent nature. However, don’t be fooled by infomercials that make exaggerated claims. Most reusable microfiber cloths are good for cleaning up small spills and little else. They must be cleaned between uses, and they can be quite expensive to purchase and replace. Some housekeeping services might use these for dusting or cleaning countertops; however, you should always make sure they are properly cleaned between uses.
Decide what you need your cleaning cloth to do before you invest in it. If you’re looking for something that is versatile and inexpensive, opt for paper towels. Perhaps you’d like a nice eco-friendly cleaning that doesn’t need to be streak free or perfect; in this case, look into rags and sponges. Cleaner-infused cloths offer an innovative way to scrub small spaces without making double purchases, while pricey microfiber cloths claim to be part of the cleaning revolution—offering superb absorbency and an engineering construction.
Whichever type you choose, make sure you or your maid service knows the benefits of each variety. Follow the proper usage guidelines, and your choice of a cleaning cloth will make cleaning up a breeze!
Maid for Mommy is central New Jersey’s premier cleaning services company. We are dedicated to taking care of all the cleaning chores around your home so you have more time to spend doing what you like. Relax with your family while our expert maid service scrubs your kitchen and bathrooms to perfection. Sit back and enjoy a movie as we vacuum your carpets and polish your furniture. After you host the perfect party for friends, leave the cleaning to us—we’ll have your house spotless in no time. Visit MaidForMommy.com or call 1-877-466-6697 for a free estimate and come home to a house that truly sparkles!