6 things you should never wash with soap
Things you should not wash with soap (photo: Freepik)
For many, soap is the simplest cleaning agent always at hand. Despite its effectiveness in cleaning small surfaces, soap can sometimes leave residue and streaks, and in some cases, it may damage the material.
Website Martha Stewart explains which household items should not be cleaned with soap.
Mirrors
Using soapy water to clean mirrors can leave visible streaks, especially if you have hard water. Depending on the surface, removing these residues can be incredibly difficult.
Whenever you clean shiny objects, opt for specially designed cleaners instead of soap.
Windows
Washing windows - or any glass - with soap can result in a filmy residue. The levels of magnesium and calcium in the water affect how noticeable this film will be.
The only way to remove it is to wipe the window with vinegar to dissolve the film. To avoid the hassle, choose a cleaner specifically designed for windows.
Leather and suede upholstery
Leather and suede can be quite difficult to clean. Using soap on these materials can dry them out, leading to irreversible damage.
While occasionally you can spot-clean washable leather and suede with water and a mild detergent, some leather and suede items should only be cleaned professionally.
Additionally, never rub the material, as this can make stain removal harder by spreading the dirt and damaging the surface.
Cast iron cookware
Cast iron pots and pans are some of the most durable, but soap can harm them - it can cause the cast iron to rust.
Moreover, soap can remove the thin layer of oil that helps create a smooth cooking surface. Instead of soap, it's advised to use a mixture of salt and oil to remove stuck-on food particles.
Coffee makers
Using soap in a coffee maker can lead to unwanted bubbles in your beverage and a soapy taste in your coffee.
To clean your coffee maker, it's recommended to use a solution of water and white vinegar. White vinegar helps dissolve any mineral deposits in the coffee machine without leaving a soapy taste.
Surfaces needing disinfection
Frequently touched surfaces, such as door handles, countertops, faucets, and light switches, should be regularly disinfected to prevent the spread of bacteria.
While soap effectively removes dirt and grease, most soaps are not capable of disinfecting surfaces.
For this purpose, it's best to use a separate disinfectant or sanitizer to kill germs.
Recently, we wrote about the cleaning mistakes that make mirrors dull.
