A glass expert is warning cleaning fans to think twice before scrubbing their glass hob a certain way.
The routine often puts us on autopilot. Perhaps we use any sort of surface spray lying around, before quickly pressing on with other tasks.
But one leading glass expert claims you're probably doing this all wrong and, when it comes to scrubbing your hobs, you ought to be a little more careful. John Cutts, founder of , warns that using abrasive sponges, too much water, and even wiping the wrong way are among the countless rookie errors he's seen in the kitchen.
"There are several common mistakes many of us are making when it comes to cleaning glass hobs and surfaces," he said. "It might seem like an obvious and quick solution to use a glass cleaner, but the harsh chemicals inside this product can actually do more harm than good to the surface.
"Abrasive sponges should also be avoided, and instead, you should use a microfiber cloth to clean in gentle circular motions."
Several window and glass cleaners contain ammonia, which is generally effective at breaking down tough grime and stains, but may etch into the surface of your worktop over time. Switching the heat up while this chemical is still lingering may also release corrosive ammonia gas into the air.
In the worst cases, this burns your eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory tract, which can even result in lung damage or death. So, to stay on the safe side, John recommends using white vinegar as a cleaner instead.
This contains acetic acid which works to break down grease and grime while banishing any tough stains. And you may be surprised to know it's useful for many other household tasks too - from killing bacteria to even banishing t-shirt stains.
John claims this should be wiped in circular motions to prevent scratches and marks. And no matter what, steer clear from scraping the final bits off with a knife or adding water too.
Splashing this around can cause damage to the electrical parts of the hob when used in excess. He continued: "It's [also] important to clean up any big spillages when cooking as soon as possible to prevent food substances from sticking to the glass and liquids, making a semi-permanent mark on the hob.
"When cleaning the hob, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust, grime, and crumbs first to be able to properly clean the glass."
A cleaning expert says there are a number of habits that are a no-go if you want to have a clean home.
Keeping up with house chores can often seem like an endless task, and a cleaner has stated that even when you think you have washed your dishes or cleaned your bathroom, they could still be "so unhygienic". An individual, who shares their household tips and product recommendations via their page, recently stated that she has a number of 'icks' when it comes to cleaning.
The cleaner says there are some things they "would never have being a cleaner" - items that she "hates cleaning". First up is a toilet brush - the cleaner suggests getting rid of it if you own one. Instead, she advised, "all you need is bleach and for a deep clean, gloves and a sponge". She also says people should "never" have a toilet mat, adding they "smell and are so unhygienic".
Next up, the cleaner says they would also never own a drying rack for crockery and cutlery - and for good reason. They added: "They hold onto so much grime. Would you want to eat off the rack, because that's where you put your clean plates."
The cleaner also advises people to steer clear of slatted blinds. The home hack lover pointed out that they gather a lot of dust and can be a nightmare to clean.
"Stay clear" of matte cupboards, warned the cleaner. They said that the fashionable and modern cupboard style can cause any fingerprints or grease to easily stick to them. On the theme of fashionable furniture, the cleaner also said any black furniture - especially glass - attracts dust. It will "never be dust-free," they said.
The pro also said that hose taps can "never" be cleaned properly. She advises against choosing this type of tap, and commented: "All dirt and limescale gets trapped. Don't do it."
The 'icks' confession sparked debate on the social media platform. Disagreeing that a toilet brush is not needed, one individual said: "Sorry but how are toilet brushes unhygienic? What do you do with your brush? It's a cleaning aid."
Another added: "The toilet brush thing is rage bait. If you rinse it with a flush after every use it stays clean. I've had the same one for eight years." But another said: "Unlike most of these commenters I defo agree with the toilet brush one."
Speaking about the use of toilet mats, one wrote: "I don't know what y'all are doing to your toilet mats, but mine have never smelled." One individual added: "Am I the only person who changes their toilet mat daily? I've got 7 and after every use, I just wash it in the washer. I love the way they look after a deep clean daily."
Another cleaner commented: "The toilet mats are the most disgusting thing ever coming from a professional cleaner. Unless you put a new one after every time you flush."
Another, commenting on the black furniture advice, said: "Black furniture doesn't attract dust, it just makes it more visible." One other individual disagreed with the cleaner's advice and said: "Sorry but the only thing I disagree on is the dish rack. It actually dries your dishes without needing to use a towel. All you need to do is clean it."
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