People like to clean with dish soap, but here are 6+ things you should for sure avoid

#### Why to Avoid:
– **Fabric damage:** Dish soap can be too harsh on delicate fibers, potentially causing them to shrink, fade, or lose their softness.
– **Residual buildup:** Dish soap is designed to break down grease, which can be too strong for delicate fabrics and may leave a residue that damages the fabric.

#### What to Use Instead:
– Use a **mild detergent** that’s designed specifically for delicates or hand wash these items using a **gentle fabric wash**.

### 7. **Expensive Rugs and Carpets**
Rugs and carpets, especially expensive ones made of fine fibers like wool or silk, require careful attention when cleaning. Dish soap can cause more harm than good if used improperly.

#### Why to Avoid:
– **Staining:** Dish soap can leave soap stains behind, especially if not thoroughly rinsed out, and these can attract dirt.
– **Damage to fibers:** The strong detergent can cause fibers to break down, leading to fading or texture changes.

#### What to Use Instead:
– Use a **carpet cleaner** or a **mild solution of vinegar and water**. Always test any cleaning product in a small, inconspicuous area first.

### 8. **Screens (Phones, TVs, Computers)**
The screen of your phone, tablet, or computer requires special care when cleaning. While dish soap is effective at cutting grease, it’s not the right choice for electronics.

#### Why to Avoid:
– **Residue:** Dish soap can leave residue behind on screens, causing streaks or gunk that’s difficult to remove.
– **Potential damage:** The moisture from dish soap can seep into your device, damaging internal components.

#### What to Use Instead:
– Use a **microfiber cloth** and a **screen-safe cleaner** specifically designed for electronics to gently wipe away dirt and fingerprints.

### Conclusion

While dish soap is a versatile cleaner that works wonders for washing dishes and tackling greasy messes, there are several items in your home that require more specialized cleaning solutions. Using dish soap on delicate surfaces like wood, leather, or nonstick cookware can cause irreversible damage, and it’s not the best choice for glass, stainless steel, or electronics. To preserve the longevity and appearance of your belongings, always choose a cleaning method suited to the material or surface you’re working with. A little knowledge and the right products can go a long way in maintaining the integrity of your home and belongings.