I’ve noticed that many people assume water is the go-to solution for cleaning just about anything. It’s important to know that using water on certain surfaces or materials can actually cause more harm than good.
In this article, I’ll share five things that you should avoid cleaning with water to help you prevent damage and maintain your belongings. Trust me, keeping these tips in mind can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
1. Electronics like TVs and computers
I avoid cleaning my electronics with water. It can cause serious damage to internal components. Water can seep into circuitry, leading to malfunctions.
Instead, I use a microfiber cloth. It’s gentle and effective for dusting screens and surfaces. If there’s stubborn grime, I lightly dampen the cloth with a screen-safe cleaner.
Keeping electronics dry helps prolong their lifespan. I appreciate my devices working smoothly, so I stick to safe cleaning methods.
2. Books and paper documents
I’ve learned the hard way that cleaning books with water is a bad idea. Water can cause pages to warp and ink to run, ruining the look and feel of a book.
When my documents get dusty, I prefer to use a dry microfiber cloth. It picks up dirt without risking damage.
For anything stuck on paper, I stick to a gentle eraser. It’s a safe way to remove marks without making a mess. Keeping books and paper documents dry is key for preservation.
3. Musical instruments such as violins
When it comes to cleaning my violin, I steer clear of water. Water can seep into the wood and affect its sound quality.
Instead, I use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the strings and body. This helps remove dust and oils without causing any damage.
Keeping my instrument dry ensures that it stays in top shape. Plus, a little care goes a long way in preserving its beauty and tone.
4. Leather furniture or clothing
I’ve learned that cleaning leather with water can be a risky move. Leather is porous, and using water can lead to discoloration or even damage.
When wet, leather can lose its natural oils, making it stiff and prone to cracking.
Instead of water, I prefer to use a damp cloth with a specialized leather cleaner. This keeps my leather looking fresh without ruining its texture.
5. Cast iron cookware
I love using my cast iron skillet, but I’ve learned that water isn’t my friend when it comes to cleaning it. When I rinse it with water, it can lead to rusting and damage the seasoning.
Instead, I usually wipe it down with a dry cloth or use a little salt to scrub off food particles. If it’s really stuck, I might heat it up slightly and then wipe it clean. This way, my skillet stays in great shape and ready for my next meal.
