Keeping your home clean goes beyond just sweeping and dusting. There are specific spots that often get overlooked but can harbor dirt, bacteria, or allergens.
Knowing which areas you should never skip when cleaning helps you maintain a healthier and more comfortable living space. Paying attention to these places can make a big difference in your overall home hygiene without adding too much extra work.
Under the bed
You might forget to clean under your bed because it feels out of sight. Dust, dirt, and allergens often build up there, so giving it a good sweep or vacuum helps keep your room fresh.
Avoid storing important papers or hazardous materials under your bed. These items can be damaged or cause problems if left in that space.
Use this area wisely for things you don’t need often, but make sure to check and clean it regularly.
Behind the sofa
You might not think much about the space behind your sofa, but it’s one of the dustiest areas in your home. Dust, crumbs, and pet hair easily collect there, creating a hidden mess.
Try to clean behind your sofa every few months. This keeps your living room fresher and helps reduce allergens. A quick vacuum or wipe-down is usually enough to keep it under control.
Inside kitchen sink drains
You should never skip cleaning inside your kitchen sink drains. Food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up and cause clogs over time.
Grease and oils are especially tricky because they harden as they cool. This creates blockages that slow down drainage.
Regularly flushing the drain with hot water or using a safe drain cleaner can help keep things flowing smoothly. Remember to avoid putting fibrous foods like celery or onion skins down the drain—they can tangle and cause jams.
Under refrigerator coils
You should never skip cleaning under your refrigerator coils. Dust and debris easily build up there, making your fridge work harder than it needs to.
Start by unplugging your fridge for safety. Use a vacuum or coil brush to gently remove dust without damaging wires.
Try to clean this area every six months to keep your fridge running smoothly and efficiently. It’s a small effort that makes a noticeable difference.
Top of ceiling fans
You might overlook the top of your ceiling fans because they’re hard to reach. Dust builds up there quickly, so cleaning it regularly helps keep your home fresh.
Using a long-handled duster makes this job easier and safer. Aim to clean the top at least once a month to avoid heavy buildup.
If your room has high ceilings, consider using a sturdy ladder or an extendable duster. Be careful and make sure your footing is secure before you start.
Light switch plates
Light switch plates often get overlooked but can collect a lot of dirt and germs. You should clean them regularly to keep your home feeling fresh and safe.
Start by turning off the power to avoid any risk. Then, gently remove the plates with a screwdriver to clean them thoroughly.
Use a microfiber cloth and a mild cleaner to wipe away grime. Avoid spraying liquid directly on the switches to prevent damage.
Door handles
You touch door handles many times a day, making them a hotspot for germs. Cleaning them regularly helps keep your home healthier.
Use a gentle cleaner that suits the material of your door handle to avoid damage. Remember to dry and polish metal handles to maintain their shine.
Don’t forget both interior and exterior handles. Guests, delivery people, and family members all touch them, so regular cleaning is a smart habit.
Remote controls
Your remote control is handled often, picking up oils, dust, and germs. It’s easy to forget when cleaning, but it deserves attention.
Use a cotton swab dampened with a little disinfectant to clean around buttons carefully. Avoid spraying liquids directly on the remote to protect its electronics.
Regular cleaning helps keep your remote working well and reduces the buildup of bacteria on its surface.
Under bathroom cabinets
You might overlook under bathroom cabinets because of tricky plumbing or tight space. However, this area can collect dust, spills, and forgotten items that affect cleanliness.
Be careful about what you store here. Avoid harsh chemicals or expired products, especially if you have kids or pets.
Take time to declutter and wipe down surfaces regularly. Organizing with containers can help you maximize space and keep this spot neat.
Inside dishwasher filter
You should never skip cleaning your dishwasher filter. It catches food particles and debris that can clog your machine.
If the filter gets clogged, your dishwasher won’t clean dishes properly. You might notice lingering odors or dishes that come out spotty.
Removing and rinsing the filter once a month helps keep your dishwasher running smoothly. Use gloves and a soft brush to clean it thoroughly.
Window sills and tracks
You might overlook window sills and tracks, but they collect dust, dirt, and even insects. Start by vacuuming loose debris with a crevice tool or brush.
Use a damp cloth or a mix of water and vinegar to scrub away grime. Cleaning these areas regularly keeps your windows working smoothly and your home feeling fresher.
