Cleaning Myths: True or False?

There are countless tips and tricks to be found on the correct way to clean your property, but with so much conflicting information online, it can be difficult to sort fact from fiction.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top cleaning tips you might hear – and which are true or false!

Citrus peel can deodorize waste disposals: False

Putting the peels of citrus fruits such as lemon or oranges down your waste disposal can help to eliminate odors. However, simply dropping them down won’t help – you need to ensure the peels are ground up completely or the peels will simply clog up your drain and even start corroding the metal in the pipes.

Toothpaste removes tarnish from silverware: True

Brushing your silverware or silver jewellery with toothpaste can help to polish the material and remove any tarnish.

Vinegar can clean everything: False

A popular myth is that vinegar is a multi-purpose cleaner that can be used on all surfaces. This is not true – vinegar can actually dull the finish of some surfaces such as hardwood or wax flooring. Vinegar can be an effective cleaner for some tasks, such as cleaning the toilet bowl or for rinsing, but make sure you know you are using it for the correct purpose first.

Oil can remove sticky stains: True

Oil is a great natural remedy for removing sticky stains from furniture – perfect for when a drink has been spilt over a desk! Rubbing a little olive oil and a pinch of salt over a sticky area can held to quickly dissolve the substance and remove any stains.

Bleach is a universal cleaner: False

Bleach is great for use as a disinfectant, and for removing heavy stains. However, the fumes released make it unsuitable for day-to-day cleaning, and can cause headaches and sickness if you are exposed to it for too long, not to mention the damaging effects it can have on softer wood and surfaces.

Ice cubes can remove a carpet dent: True

It sounds odd, but it works! If your desk, chair, or other heavy furniture has created imprints in your carpet, place an ice cube on it. Once the ice has melted, fluff up the carpet fibres with a fork to eliminate the dent.

The hoover can damage your carpet: False

Some people believe that the brushes on a hoover can damage a carpet’s fibres, but leaving your carpet unvacuumed will actually be much worse for it! Make sure that your hoover is on the correct setting when used on carpet and bare floors, and the floor will stay in much better shape for longer.


Scott & Sons Ltd provide a first class cleaning service using tried and tested practices – so you don’t have to worry about what works! Our cleaning services are available for both domestic and commercial properties, so we’ll be able to tailor every job to your requirements.

For more information, or for a free, no obligation quote, simply contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you.