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All-purpose cleaner doesn't clean... everything. Or does it?

All-purpose cleaner doesn't clean... everything. Or does it?
02 september, 2025
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The name 'all-purpose cleaner' sounds promising. One product for all your cleaning jobs... Handy, right! But can all-purpose cleaner really do everything? And how do you use it efficiently and safely? As specialists in cleaning, we think it's definitely worth a blog, in which we answer some frequently asked questions!

Can I clean the whole house with all-purpose cleaner?

Yes, you can use all-purpose cleaner for most of your interiors. Think floors, sanitaryware and interior items. The key is to use different cloths or sponges for the different areas. For example, never use the same cloth for your toilet as for your kitchen sink. With one product, you will work efficiently and never have to hesitate about which bottle to grab.

For which materials is all-purpose cleaner less suitable?

Although all-purpose cleaner works great on tiles, varnished wood, linoleum and vinyl, be careful with delicate or luxurious materials. All-purpose cleaner can cause discolouration on:

  • Rough wood
  • Concrete
  • Non-sealed stones
  • PVC
  • Marble and copper
  • Fabric upholstery (such as on sofas or curtains)

For these materials, it is better to use a specialised product or a natural alternative, such as a mixture of water and vinegar.

When is it better not to use an all-purpose cleaner?

For best results, it is better to use a different product for specific, stubborn stains. All-purpose cleaner is less strong against:

  • Oat: For a greasy oven, it is better to opt for a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
  • Soap streaks and limescale: A specialised abrasive or a descaler works better here.
  • Windows: Hot water with vinegar (without soap) provides streak-free results.

Should I rinse after cleaning?

That depends on how you use it:

  • Diluted: If you use liquid all-purpose cleaner diluted in a bucket of water, you basically don't need to rinse.
  • Undiluted: For stubborn stains, you can use the product undiluted on a cloth. In this case, however, rinsing is recommended.
  • Food surfaces: Always rinse your countertop or dining table to make sure no product residue gets into your food.

How much product should I use?

Less is often more. Do you use a spray bottle? One spray is often enough. Let the product act on the stain for a while and only then scrub. With liquid all-purpose cleaner, two caps (about 60 ml) are enough for a five-litre bucket. That way you save money and it's better for the environment!

Is all-purpose cleaner environmentally friendly?

Most all-purpose cleaners are fairly eco-friendly as they break down quickly in sewage. Still, it is important to check environmental labels on the packaging. Avoid pouring the suds in your garden or on your driveway. Also be careful not to inhale any atomised droplets.

Don't feel like getting started with all these tips yourself? Our experienced domestic helpers know exactly how to tackle each job, with the right products for each surface. So you can always be sure of brilliantly clean results, without having to think about the cleaning routine yourself.

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