Water is much more than just something you rely on for survival and hygiene. Water washes away dirt, loosens grime and can make a variety of items shine. But it's not ideal for everything. Some household items can even be permanently damaged by water. So before you fill the cleaning bucket, read on to find out what you should never clean with water.
Which surfaces and materials should never be cleaned with water?
There are some common household items that can be damaged or stained by water. Here is a list of surfaces and fabrics that you should never wash with water.
Wood and laminate floors
In general, wood and water do not mix. Even though wood and laminate floors have a water-repellent coating, this will wear off over time and cleaning with water can cause damage. If water penetrates the wood, it can swell and turn black.
Dust your wood floors regularly and use a wood floor cleaner and a microfiber mop that won't damage your floors. If you absolutely want to use a mop, make sure it is only slightly damp and not wet.
Avoid liquids on wooden furniture
Anyone who has ever had to deal with white rings or spots on the table knows that wooden surfaces and water do not mix. The liquid can leave discoloration and also cause the wood to swell, split and crack.
Wipe your wooden furniture regularly with a microfiber cloth and use a quality furniture polish or lemon oil to smooth and protect the wood.
You should never clean marble with water
Elegant marble surfaces are susceptible to acid and moisture due to the porosity of the stone. If you waterfor cleaning marbleIf used, it may remove the protective seal and potentially damage the grout or caulk. Therefore, you should only use special cleaning agents and remove water splashes as soon as possible, otherwise limescale will deposit on the surface and stains will form.
Leather does not tolerate liquids
You know you need to protect your leather shoes and handbag from the rain. Leather furniture also needs special attention to maintain its appearance and water should never come into play. It can cause unwanted streaks andStains on the leatherand lead to tears in the fabric over time. Also avoid using natural oils such as olive and coconut oil or fatty foods to add shine to your leather furniture. The best way to clean and polish leather is to use a cleaning agent specifically designed for this purpose.
Velvet, velor and suede
Soft, fluffy fabrics are very popular for upholstery, curtains and decorative pillows, but they are sometimes difficult to clean. Water can leave stains, streaks and smudges and cause fabric to shrink and puff up. To keep these fluffy fabrics clean, vacuum them regularly and use a soft brush to remove surface dirt. For a more thorough clean, you can use a foaming upholstery cleaner, a cleaning cloth, or a special suede cleaner, depending on the fabric.
How do you properly care for silk?
Silk can be a difficult material to clean at home. Whether it's curtains or a silk garment that you're not sure you can clean at home, it's best to entrust it to a professional cleaner.
Some silk fabrics are labeled as washable, but even these must be handled with care. Remove any surface dirt with a soft brush and check color fastness in an inconspicuous area before washing. Then wash the garment on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent.
Gas stove burners should never be cleaned with water
Carelessly spraying your gas stove with water or wiping it with a rag that is too wet can actually damage the ignition devices. If the igniter has ever clicked without turning off, this could be the reason. Usually the igniters correct themselves once they dry, but they can also be permanently damaged. Spray your cleaner onto a cleaning cloth or squeeze out excess water before cleaning near your burners.
Lighting fixtures and sockets
Water and electricity don't mix either. If they collide, it can cause short circuits, sparks, and in some cases serious damage, including electric shock and fire. That's why you should never use water when cleaning lighting fixtures, outlets, and other electrical devices in your home. Always turn off the power before cleaning these devices. Then wipe with a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt and blow out the inside with compressed air.
Only clean brass and silver with polish
Brass and silver seem impervious to liquids, but using water to clean will only cause tarnish. Most household brass and silver has been treated with a varnish or sealant, and over time water will remove this protective barrier. It is better to have a brass orUse silver polish, which is specifically designed to clean and protect these metal objects.
English version:What should never be cleaned with water? 9 surprising surfaces and fabrics where H2O is forbidden.
