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General19:26 · 2h ago

Cleaning Helpers Cause Unexpected Damage to Homes Across Israel

MakoCenter
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
The story · English

Many homeowners in Israel hire cleaning helpers to save time and achieve spotless homes, but some encounters have led to unexpected and costly damages. Common issues include quartz countertops stained by inappropriate cleaning agents, stainless steel faucets damaged by harsh chemicals, and kitchen appliances like stoves and sinks suffering from improper care. For example, a homeowner named Liat Ruberman shared how a cleaning helper accidentally spilled a strong cleaner on her quartz countertop, requiring professional polishing to fix the damage. Similarly, another user reported bleach stains on her countertop after a first-time cleaner used unsuitable products.

Damage extends beyond countertops. Rivital Oren experienced irreversible harm to her faucet’s coating after a cleaner used acidic substances, leaving permanent discoloration. Toilet bowls have also been affected, with aggressive cleaners causing dark streaks by eroding protective layers and trapping minerals. Kitchen stoves have suffered from abrasive sponges and clogged gas burner nozzles due to careless cleaning, leading to dull surfaces and malfunctioning flames.

Furniture is not spared either. Dakkala Cohen’s sofa was stained when a cleaning helper left a bleach-soaked cloth on it, prompting suggestions ranging from fabric patching to repainting fibers with matching markers. Entry doors have also been damaged by cleaners mistaking strong chemicals for window sprays, sometimes necessitating full replacement.

The article highlights that while cleaning helpers often have good intentions, lack of knowledge and use of inappropriate materials can cause significant damage. Homeowners are advised to provide clear instructions, supply suitable cleaning products, and test methods on hidden areas first. Professional restoration services may be required for severe damage. Some cleaners emphasize the importance of proper training and warn against expecting low-cost services without risks. The piece concludes with a reminder that sometimes the best cleaning service is doing it yourself.

Summary: Israeli homeowners report various damages caused by cleaning helpers using unsuitable products, affecting countertops, faucets, toilets, stoves, sofas, and doors. Professional repairs are often needed, and experts advise clear communication and proper materials to prevent such issues.

Read the original at Mako
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