Khaberni - Scented wipes are made for a specific purpose, but it is common for people to use them for other things like wiping surfaces that are frequently touched such as door knobs and light switches. However, caution must be exercised; because using them on the wrong items can cause damage. In the following lines, an explanation of the most important items that should not be cleaned with scented wipes, in order to preserve different surfaces and household furnishings, and to prevent damage.
Granite Surfaces
Shiny granite surfaces enhance the look of kitchens and bathrooms, and can be well maintained by washing with water and soap. It is important to avoid using cleaners like bleach and ammonia, as well as abrasive cleaning tools and disinfectant wipes. Since granite is porous; people usually prefer to seal granite surfaces after installation, forming a protective layer that prevents moisture, but using scented wipes on sealed granite is not advised; as citric acid is strong enough to penetrate the sealing material. On the other hand, the damage can be worse on unsealed granite, as without protection, granite can stain and damage and may need to be replaced. The safe way to disinfect granite surfaces is to use diluted 70% medical alcohol, by applying it directly to the granite and wiping with a lint-free clean cloth, ensuring that the surface is air-dried. Antibacterial soap can also be used if the strong smell of medical alcohol is bothersome.
Carpets and Rugs
Scented wipes should be kept away from carpets and rugs, as they are not designed for use on soft surfaces, and because the fibers easily absorb moisture, scented wipes can also change fabric colors. Housewives may notice dark stains where "the wipes" were used, or lighter areas if the wipes contain bleach. Therefore, the next time someone spills a drink or drops food on a carpet or rug, it is better to use a clean cloth towel and baking soda.
Copper Surfaces
Scented wipes can be used for cleaning areas frequently touched made from certain metals like stainless steel, but the nature of other metals like copper and aluminum is porous, and quaternary ammonium in the composition of "the wipes" can cause corrosion if used frequently. On the other hand, to clean copper, ordinary soap and water are used. Note that using scented wipes or even a little bleach on a copper basin or aluminum handle occasionally may not cause damage, but doing so frequently is not desirable. In general, to combat bacteria and the spread of viruses, it is necessary to keep surfaces as dry as possible. As for aluminum; many water bottles are made from this metal, and can be cleaned with dishwashing liquid and hot water, but if your dishwasher contains a sterilization cycle; it is ideal.
Wooden Floors
It is not advisable to hastily use scented wipes on wooden floors for stained spots, as untreated and porous wood can absorb the chemicals found in disinfectant wipes, causing, over time, swelling, cracking, warping, and fading of wooden floors and furniture irreparably. It is noted that some types of wood are more porous than others, including some types such as maple, oak, and teak, but whatever type of wood you have; the safest method is to keep it as dry as possible to protect the finish. If you need to clean the wood in your home; mix vinegar and a few drops of dishwashing liquid and water in a spray bottle and spray the resulting solution. This will be suitable as long as you wipe the surfaces well afterwards with a soft, clean cloth.
Leather Furniture
It is not appropriate to use scented wipes for the care of any type of leather, although disinfectant wipes contain water, the composition of "the wipes" includes medical alcohol, which absorbs moisture from the leather furniture, causing it to dry out, crack, or fade. On the other hand, white vinegar (one part) mixed with olive oil (two parts) can clean stained spots on leather furniture, retaining the moisture of the material, or you can buy a special ready-made leather cleaner and moisturizer.
Garden Tools
Garden tools should not be cleaned with scented wipes; while it is necessary to keep the mentioned items clean, from pruning shears and saws to shovels and rakes, to prevent the spread of bacteria, fungi, and viruses among garden plants, but to do the task ideally, a water hose is used to remove dirt, in addition to a multi-purpose household oil to get rid of tree sap residues. Medical alcohol can also be used for this purpose, either by dampening a clean cloth with the liquid or spraying it on the tools after drying them, and then they should be stored in a clean bucket and will be ready when needed.
