Quiz: How Good Are Your Housekeeping Habits?

Test Your Home Cleaning Know-How

Keeping a neat and tidy home is something we all desire. And while many of us have good intentions, it is possible to clean incorrectly. The sad truth is that many of us are unknowingly self-sabotaging ourselves with bad cleaning habits.

So, what’s secret to being a good housekeeper? We’ve created a seven-question quiz to test your cleaning IQ:

1. How often do you get a new kitchen sponge?

1. Once every few weeks
2. Once every few months

Answer: Once every few weeks

Some cleaning experts will say to soak the sponge in a water and bleach mixture weekly, but since we don’t advocate cleaning with toxic chemicals (and bleach is the worst offender!), we have another neat trick. Throw your sponge in the dishwasher and run it on the hot, dry setting. The heat will kill the germs and bacteria.

2. Do you dust before or after cleaning your floor?

1. Before
2. After

Answer: Before

Think about it: As you’re dusting, it’s inevitable that dust will get on the floor. The mere thought of dust going on a clean floor is enough to make anyone cringe.

3. Do you read the directions on the labels of cleaning products? (Be honest!)

1. Yes
2. No

Answer: Yes

This one is a no-brainer, but we felt it was an important one to mention because if you don’t use a cleaning product properly, you are wasting your time and energy. When it comes to cleaning, many people unknowingly overdo it, which is just as bad as not cleaning thoroughly.

4. How often do you clean your coffee machine?

1. When it looks dirty
2. Every day

Answer: Every day

Washing the pot every day is a must! The water that accumulates on a coffee pot is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.

5. Do you overstock your refrigerator?

1. It’s filled with just the basics, nothing too crazy
2. There are probably some leftovers buried somewhere that I forgot to throw away

Answer: Just the basics

Food that isn’t stored properly (in many cases, leftovers) can grow mold and bacteria. If this becomes a habit, you can imagine the buildup of bacteria over time – not to mention, cleaning your fridge will become an even greater task!

6. When do you wash your dishes?

1. I wash my dishes immediately
2. I get around to it eventually

Answer: I wash my dishes immediately

The longer you leave dirty dishes in the sink, the higher the chances you will develop bacteria. You’re better off taking the 20 extra seconds to wash your dishes.

7. How often do you clean your bed sheets?

1. Once a month
2. Once a week

Answer: Once a week

Many people are unaware of the sweat and body oil that accumulates on their sheets – especially during the hot summer months. And let’s not forget the makeup that’s on your pillowcases, ladies.

How did you score on our cleaning quiz? Are there any that surprised you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

To get your cleaning experience into tip-top shape, read: Soap Science: Suds Don’t Clean Your Dishes.