3 cleaning chores you should never do after dark — here's why

We all have set cleaning routines and schedules, whether we tackle a little every day or save it for a relaxed Sunday afternoon.

And as a natural night owl, I usually tackle my cleaning chores and get them finished before bedtime. Plus, it gives me more time to get on with my day or have a weekend off.

However, experts claim that after dark is actually the worst time to do certain household chores. While some cleaning chores, like quickly wiping countertops or folding laundry, are easy to manage, other tasks can negatively impact your health, disrupt your sleep, or even make the problem worse when done at night.

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So before you get out your vacuum cleaner or cleaning caddy, it’s far better to save certain cleaning tasks for the morning. Here are the common chores (that I often do), that you shouldn’t do at night — and reasons why.

1. Cleaning with toxic products

I admit I've been guilty of tackling stubborn bathroom stains late at night, whether that meant spraying down the surfaces or pouring bleach directly into the toilet bowl.

But these products often contain strong chemicals that can release fumes, which can potentially lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or worse, respiratory illnesses if consistently exposed to them.

And since our windows and doors are typically closed at night (for security), there isn’t adequate ventilation to let out toxic fumes. It’s always recommended to do this task during the daytime, when you can easily open the windows or doors to allow air in — without it feeling too chilly.

If it's necessary to perform this chore after dark, be sure to always open a window slightly or use a ventilation fan if one is available. Alternatively, you could clean with homemade cleaning products that are natural and non-toxic, such as baking soda and white vinegar.

Or you can invest in one of the best air purifiers to filter and quickly remove airborne pollutants in the home.

2. Cleaning streaky windows

If you’ve spotted unsightly marks or smears on your windows, it can be tempting to clean them before bed, hoping to wake up to a clear view the next morning.

However, this is a common task that should be left strictly for the morning. Why? According to experts, cleaning windows should be done in the best light possible, as artificial light tends to create shadows and won’t always show up the stubborn marks or smudges.

As a result, you’re probably more likely to miss certain spots and not get the job done well. In fact, you'll end up with windows that look less-than-sparkling, only for you to repeat the task the following day, which defeats the purpose.

Interestingly, you shouldn’t clean windows when the sun is out either. It’s better to do it on a cloudy day instead.

“While you might think a sunny day is best for the job, we always advise people to clean glass windows on a cloudy day,” advises Jamie Jones, Glass Expert from outdoor living specialists, Open Space Concepts. “This is because if the windows get direct exposure to sunshine while being cleaned, this can speed up the drying process, leaving behind streaky marks.

“If the sun does make an appearance, just make sure you wash your windows when they are shaded to avoid the sun from causing any spots or marks.”

Additionally, if you want to ensure sparkling windows, check out these 5 top tips to avoid streaks when cleaning your windows.

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3. Steam cleaning carpets

This might seem like an easy, no-brainer chore to do at night, especially when everyone is in bed, but it’s actually not. While steam cleaners are great for quickly tackling stubborn grime or stains, it’s recommended to wait until the morning to do this.

Not only are steam cleaners prone to spills, but using them when you are tired or in limited lighting increases the risk of accidental scalding. And the last thing you want is to end up in the emergency room at night!

In addition, if you are streaming carpets at night, it can take a longer time to dry. This is especially the case without open windows to provide ventilation, which then increases the risk of mold or mildew developing. So it’s always safe to steam clean during the day, and ensure your carpets dry properly.

If you’re uncertain about steam cleaning, check out our guide on steam cleaner vs. carpet cleaner: Which should you buy? Plus, be sure to check out professional cleaners' tips about 5 things you should never steam clean.

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