12 Household Items You Need to Avoid Cleaning with Water

Last Updated on November 15, 2019

The safest way to clean your electronic gadgets is to use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt, and for stubborn dirt, use rubbing alcohol.

#6 – Suede, Velour, and Velvet

We love fluffy and soft pillows, draperies, and carpets, but these pretty items can be difficult to wash without causing any damage.

Well, the first step to safe-washing such fabrics is to completely avoid water. Cleaning up suede, velour, and velvet using water can cause stains and streaks or make the fabrics pill and shrink.

To clean these fabrics, vacuum and brush off the surface soil, and for deep cleaning, you’d want to use a specialized cleaner for each fabric.

#5 – Keyboards

Computer keyboards tend to deal with daily bacteria, greasy fingers, or fallen crumbs. The more we use them, the worse is their hygiene, especially if we don’t bother cleaning off the debris and food residue as soon as possible.

Remember to clean your computer keyboard every now and then and make sure not to do it using water but rather a toothbrush, paintbrush, or microfiber cloth. You may also try a keyboard cleaning gel.

#4 – Cameras and Lenses

Never use water to clean your lenses or any part of the camera. A camera should be handled with extreme care and lenses can easily stain or scratch.

To clean cameras and lenses and keep them sparkly, make sure to use a special lens paper. And if you’re worried about what built-up dust and dirt can do to your camera, you may consider investing in a professional cleaning kit or ask for expert help.

#3 – Light Fixtures & Outlets

The worst combination ever is that of electricity and water! Once they come together, they can result in sparks, shorts, electrocution, and even fire. You should always be extra careful when cleaning lighting equipment and remember to turn the power off before touching anything.

Once the power is off, use a soft cloth to wipe off the dirt and use compressed air to remove any dust that’s stuck inside.

#2 – Marble, Stucco, and Brick

Marble, stucco, and brick may seem quite strong, but in reality, they can be vulnerable to water and harsh chemicals because of their porous surfaces. So using water to clean these stone materials can destroy their protective layers and damage caulking and grout.

The best way to clean brick, stucco, or marble surfaces is by regular vacuuming and using a soft cloth to wipe down dust and dirt.

#1 – Hardwood Floors

Surprisingly, water can still seep into the wood even if your hardwood floors are protected with a thick coating, thus leading to floor discoloration and swelling in the long run. To keep your floors clean, avoid using water. Instead, make sure to sweep, vacuum, eliminate dust using a microfiber mop, and use a special cleaner.

If you must use water to feel that you have a clean house, use a damp mop that’s not too wet and make sure to wipe the floors perfectly dry afterward.

Please feel free to share this knowledge with people you know and don’t hesitate to leave a comment. We’re always happy to read from you.

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