A flooring expert has shared a simple mop mix that “repels dust and keeps floors cleaner for longer”
Tidying your home can feel like an enormous task, particularly when you allow numerous smaller jobs to accumulate throughout the week. Whilst certain chores require only minutes to finish, others demand considerably more time, making them even more unappealing.
Maintaining spotless floors represents one such challenge. Debris from animals and young children, alongside everyday spillages, scuff marks and stains, can rapidly leave your flooring appearing tatty.
However, Richard McKay, flooring specialist and managing director at flooring firm Sprung, has revealed a straightforward mop solution that “repels dust and keeps floors cleaner for longer”.
For dust-resistant floors, Richard recommends incorporating fabric conditioner into the water within your mop bucket, reports the Express.
“By adding one to two teaspoons into one litre of warm water and then using it to mop as usual with a microfibre mop, you can say hello to clean floors that are easy to maintain,” he explained.
“This is because the softener leaves a thin anti-static layer which repels dust, dirt and hair. And it means your floors are cleaner for longer.”
Fabric conditioner contains cationic surfactants, which create a treated surface behind. In the same manner that it functions on your garments and laundry, reducing static properties, it also prevents fluff from adhering to hard floors.
“Not only does this handy cleaning hack work well for homes with kids and pets where daily dirt becomes a nuisance, but your floors will likely smell great, too,” Richard added. To keep your floors at home looking their best, it’s crucial not to drench them during cleaning.
Richard advised using a slightly damp mop for cleaning laminate, wood or vinyl.
“Rugs and furniture should also be rotated regularly to prevent pressure spots,” he added. “And, if you’re looking for a more natural solution rather than the one mentioned above, combining a teaspoon of white vinegar and a few drops of essential oil works just as well.
“When mopped onto floors, it will repel dust, neutralise odours and again leave your floors smelling nice.”
Other tips to keep your floors in top condition include steering clear of harsh cleaners and opting for a pH-neutral cleanser with a microfibre cloth.
For stains, a magic eraser can be used instead of soaking the floor with a wet mop.