Paper towels are a staple in every kitchen. Even though they are efficient, and quick and easy to use, there are a number of things you should not clean with paper towels. Save yourself some cash and paper, and switch to reusable and washable sponges, rags, microfiber cloths, and other cleaning tools.
In this article, we will talk about the places you should not clean with paper towels and give you expert tips on how to tackle them instead. Keep reading to find out how to do that.
Tub and sink
Next time you want to quickly get rid of the nasty residue that can be found all over your tub or sink, leave the paper towels behind. The best way to get off that grime that quickly accumulates all over your porcelain fixtures, is to use a solution of vinegar and some dish soap. The combination of the two will cut through grime and help you quickly get rid of it. Apply it to the soap scum/stained area, then wipe it away with a clean cloth.
Wiping your hands while cooking
Yes, it might be convenient, however, you will waste so many paper towels in the process. Instead, wear an apron while cooking. You will not only keep your clothes protected and clean, but will also have a fabric ready to quickly take all the mess from your hands. Chances are you most probably have a forgotten apron somewhere in your kitchen cabinets. Give it a good washing and wear it the next time you are cooking. Wipe your hands every time you need to during the cooking process, then wash it after every use.
Carpets and rugs
Spilled Pepsi on the rug by accident? Do not reach for a paper towel. Wiping up spills or scrubbing spots with a paper towel leaves a paper residue on the carpet and does not provide a thorough cleaning. Instead, absorb up spills with a clean, dry cloth, then vacuum. Another issue is that cleaning the stain with a paper towel causes the lint to become embedded in the fibers, making it harder to vacuum afterwards. Instead, use a sponge.
Electronic screens
Forget about wiping down your screens with paper towels. No matter if you are cleaning TV screens, phone screens, LCD or plasma, using paper towels is not recommended. For such delicate surfaces, use a soft microfiber cloth and a suitable product, or rubbing alcohol. Do not use too much liquid and avoid applying too much pressure – it may cause damage to the crystals inside an LCD screen.
Mirrors and windows
When cleaning glass surfaces, mirrors, or windows, use microfiber cloths. Professionals use those as well and the reason for that is that paper towels may leave lint and paper residue behind. That will cause streaks on your windows. What is more, since most paper towels are biodegradable or recycled nowadays, they dissolve quickly after getting wet. Use a good glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol and a soft microfiber cloth. You will ensure that all your windows and mirrors are spotless, and streak-free.
Toilets
Spare yourself the paper towels, time, and effort and don’t use paper towels to wipe down your toilet bowl. It is not efficient and you will achieve much better results using bleach and a toilet bowl brush.
For disinfection of your cutting boards
Do not use a paper towel to clean up stains such as meat juices on a wooden surface such as a cutting board since it will not properly absorb all of the liquid and will leave paper bits behind. To eliminate any residue, use a clean, wet cloth with disinfectant on it. Do not compromise the cleanliness and disinfection of your cutting boards, especially when using them for raw meat, etc. A number of bacteria may become stuck there and harm you in the future.
The interior of your car
Whenever you notice that the interior of your car is dusty or grimy and you want to clean it up, do not use paper towels. They will not get rid of all dust and will instead spread it around. Keep a couple of microfiber cloths and some cleaning spray in your car. Whenever you want to give the interior a quick cleaning, grab a microfiber cloth and wipe down all surfaces, steering wheel, buttons, etc.
Grout
Anything that requires you to really get in there and clean thoroughly, will not be cleaned with a paper towel. The fabric is too thin and will rip as soon as you begin scrubbing! To remove stains from grout, masonry, or other rough surfaces, use an old toothbrush. To clean corners and crevices in your bathroom, have a separate toothbrush that will help you clean grout, the base of your faucets, around the drains, corners, and other small areas that need extra attention.