dustpan and brush

How to Clean a Broom and Dustpan

Have you ever noticed that your broom and dustpan start to look a little worse for wear after a while?

That’s because they work hard to keep your space clean and they deserve some love!

Caring for your cleaning tools not only keeps them looking their best, but it can also make them last longer and work better.

So, if you’re tired of seeing your broom and dustpan looking like they’ve been through a dust storm, then this article is for you!

We’ll go over everything you need to know about how to clean a broom and dustpan, step-by-step.

So, let’s show these cleaning tools some love and make them sparkle again!

 

Tools You May Need

sponge, hose and bucket with soapy water

Cleaning your broom and dustpan is a pretty simple process, but you’ll need a few things to get started.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A bucket or sink filled with warm, soapy water
  • A clean, dry towel or rag
  • A scrub brush or old toothbrush
  • Rubber gloves (optional, but helpful if you don’t want to get your hands dirty)
  • A hose or shower head (optional, for really tough grime)

All of these materials are readily available at home or at your local hardware store.

They’re also affordable and easy to find, so there’s no need to worry about breaking the bank.

These materials will help you get your broom and dustpan looking and working like new in no time!

 

Cleaning the Broom

broom

Cleaning your broom is a piece of cake!

First, take your broom outside and give it a few whacks against a solid surface to dislodge any loose debris.

Then, fill a bucket or sink with warm, soapy water and let your broom soak for about 15-20 minutes to loosen any stubborn dirt and grime.

Once it’s soaked, use a scrub brush or old toothbrush to gently clean the bristles, working from the top down. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this could damage the bristles.

When you’ve cleaned all the bristles, rinse the broom off with clean water to remove any soap residue.

Now it’s time to dry your broom.

Blot the bristles dry with a clean, dry towel or rag, and then leave it to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

If your broom is exceptionally dirty, you can use a hose or showerhead to rinse off any stubborn dirt or grime, but be cautious not to get the wooden handle too wet, as this could cause it to warp over time.

Follow these steps and soon your broom will be lovely and fresh once again!

 

Cleaning the Dustpan

dustpan

While the broom does the bulk of the work, the dustpan still needs a good cleaning every once in a while.

Luckily, it’s a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

First, empty any debris out of the dustpan and give it a quick rinse with clean water.

Next, fill a sink or bucket with warm, soapy water and let the dustpan soak in it for a few minutes.

After it’s soaked, use a scrub brush or old toothbrush to clean any dirt or grime that’s stuck to the dustpan.

Pay extra attention to the corners and edges, as this is where most of the dirt accumulates.

Rinse the dustpan with clean water to remove any soap residue, and then dry it with a clean, dry towel or rag.

Make sure the dustpan is completely dry before storing it away, as any moisture left behind could cause it to rust.

That’s it! Cleaning your dustpan regularly will keep it in good condition and ensure it’s always ready to use when you need it.

 

Drying and Storing the Dustpan and Broom

dustpan and broom

Now that your broom and dustpan are clean, it’s important to dry them properly and store them correctly to prevent any damage or warping.

To dry the broom, gently blot the bristles with a clean, dry towel or rag. Then, leave the broom to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

You can prop it up against a wall or hang it from a hook. Just make sure the bristles aren’t touching anything while they dry.

As for the dustpan, use a clean, dry towel or rag to wipe it dry.

Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies to remove any moisture. Then, store it in a dry place where it won’t get knocked around or damaged.

Remember, proper storage is key to keeping your broom and dustpan in good condition.

Avoid storing them in damp or humid areas, as this can cause the bristles to warp or the metal on the dustpan to rust.

Instead, find a dry, cool spot where they can stay out of the way until their next use.

By following these simple steps, your broom and dustpan will be clean and ready to tackle any mess that comes their way, whenever you need them.

 

Alternative Methods

clean broom and dustpan with vacuum or vinegar

If you’re looking for alternative ways to clean your broom and dustpan, there are a few options you can try.

One option is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris from the broom bristles.

Simply run the vacuum nozzle over the bristles, being careful not to apply too much pressure and damage the bristles. You can then use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the dustpan.

Another option is to wash the broom bristles with a mixture of vinegar and water.

Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a bucket or sink, and soak the broom bristles in the mixture for 10-15 minutes.

Then, rinse the bristles thoroughly with warm water and allow the broom to air dry.

If you’re short on time or don’t have the necessary supplies, you can also try using a clean, dry cloth or rag to wipe down the broom bristles and dustpan.

This won’t give them the same level of deep clean as the methods above, but it can help remove some dirt and debris.

No matter which method you choose, it’s important to dry the broom and dustpan thoroughly after cleaning to prevent any moisture from causing damage or warping.

 

Conclusion

broom with dustpan

Cleaning your broom and dustpan may seem like a small task, but it can make a big difference in keeping your home clean and tidy.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your cleaning tools are always in good condition and ready to use whenever you need them.

Remember to clean your broom and dustpan regularly, especially after heavy use or if they get particularly dirty.

Proper cleaning and storage can help extend the lifespan of your cleaning tools and save you money in the long run.

So go ahead and give your broom and dustpan a little TLC – your home will thank you for it!