According to a 2018 study, most households replaced their brooms every 2 years. However, does this mean that you have to replace yours every two years?
Well, not necessarily. How often should you replace your broom entirely depends on how often you use the broom, what kind of broom you use, and other factors that can affect longevity.
What kind of floor do you have?
Certain types of flooring tend to wear out brooms more quickly. Especially outdoor concrete is rough and uneven, which causes minor damage to the broom after sweeping the floor with it.
Read: Best brooms for outdoor concrete floors
If you mainly use your broom to sweep the outdoor area, you can expect to change your broom 2-3 times more frequently than indoors.
Laminate, wood, and indoor floors are generally easier on brooms because of their soft and even texture. Depending on what kind of surface you will be sweeping, the type of broom also matters; you don’t necessarily want to be cleaning your patio with a broom meant for the indoors.
What kind of broom do you have?
Some brooms are just made differently. When you understand which one is the best option for you to wipe or dust the floor with, you can take the right course of action by replacing your worn-out old one and finding the perfect replacement.
“I sweep my kitchen practically daily – I just have a regular broom and it seems indestructible since I can’t even remember the last time I replaced it. Our entire house is hardwoods so the broom and vacuum get used a lot.
I’ve wondered this as well. My mom still has the same broom that she had when I was a kid. But it still works and doesn’t seem to look as gross as mine, which is only a few years old. I think she might also use a Swiffer cloth at times, too.“
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Thicker bristles usually last longer than thin ones as it is more durable, whereas thinner and plastic ones wear out more quickly. Depending on the material and the quality of the brushes, you can expect to replace your broom every 2-3 months of daily use to have to replace it rarely.
When should you replace your broom?
- If you break the handle or the brush frame. However, sometimes you can replace the broken part and save some money.
- If the bristles are mangled with hair, dirt, and debris, getting a new broom is probably a good idea. Sometimes, you can wash the bristles and prune / trim them to make them look new practically.
How to make your broom last longer?
- Use a broom designed explicitly for their intended use. You don’t want to be using an indoor broom to sweep the outdoor patio even though you can.
- After using it, shake any dust, dirt, and debris off your broom. Most brush frames can be removed from the handle, making things easier.
- Frequently wash and brush off any tangled hair.
Most durable types of broom and broom head
Regarding durability, broom heads made of natural materials like corn, straw, or horsehair are less durable than synthetic options. Synthetic bristles made of nylon or polypropylene (plastic brushes) are typically more durable and long-lasting. A mix of the two could also be a great option for both indoor and outdoor usage.
When it comes to broom heads, angled ones tend to be more durable and practical than straight ones because they can reach into corners and tight spaces more easily.
As for the broom handle, materials like metal or hardwood tend to be more durable than plastic or lightweight wood.
When to clean your broom
You don’t want all that dust lingering and degrading your broom. Cleaning and maintaining your broom is simple. Basic cleaning tools, gloves, a bucket, some sponges, warm water, and soap will do most of the time, but in severe cases, bleach may be necessary. Here are some tips to easily clean your broom for longevity.
Here are some tips for cleaning your broom:
- Shake out the broom: After each use, give the broom a good shake to remove any loose debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the bristles.
- Wash the broom: If it has accumulated a lot of dirt or debris, soak it and wash it in warm, soapy water. Gently rub the bristles with a soft-bristled brush or some sponges and rinse thoroughly with water. Avoid getting the handle wet if it’s made of wood, as excess moisture can cause it to warp or crack.
- Dry the broom: After washing, shake out any excess water, hang it outside, and allow the broom to air dry completely. Avoid storing a wet broom, as this can cause mold or mildew to develop.
- Store the broom properly: Store it with the bristles facing upward in a dry, well-ventilated area to keep it in good condition. This will prevent the bristles from becoming misshapen and ensure that the broom is ready for use when you need it.
When and how often to replace a mop head?
Generally, mop heads should be replaced every two months, if you regularly clean; otherwise, dangerous bacteria can form.
Here are some general guidelines for when to replace your mop head:
- Check the condition of the mops and mop head: If it is frayed, torn, or has holes in it, it’s time to replace it.
- Check the cleanliness of the mop head: If the mop head is stained or has a foul odor that doesn’t go away after washing, it’s time to replace it.
- Consider the frequency of use: If you use your mop frequently, you may need to replace the mop head more often. For example, if you use your mop daily, you may need to replace the mop head every 3-6 months.
- Consider the type of mop head: Different types have different lifespans. For example, microfiber tends to last longer than traditional cotton ones.
Tips to improve longevity
From improper storage to using certain chemicals way past their expiration date can ruin a good broom or a mop, so here are some essential tips to keep them last longer.
- Store your broom and mop properly: After each use, store it in a dry, well-ventilated area with the bristles facing up to prevent them from becoming misshapen or damaged.
- Clean your broom and mop regularly: Rinse your broom and mop with water after each use, and clean them thoroughly regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to avoid damaging the bristles or mop heads.
- Use your broom and mop correctly: Misusing your broom and mop can cause damage or wear and tear. Use your broom and mop gently and avoid applying excessive force when cleaning.
- Use the right cleaning solutions: Certain cleaning solutions can damage brooms and mop heads. Use cleaning solutions that the manufacturer recommends to avoid causing damage.
By following these tips, you can help to prolong the lifespan of your broom and mop and keep them working effectively for all your cleaning tasks.
Learn more: the importance of regular mopping for tile floor maintenance, how often should you replace your broom.