Keeping your living space clean involves more than just obvious spots like floors and countertops. Even if you’re diligent with regular cleaning, there are areas you might easily overlook. These overlooked places can harbor germs and dirt, affecting your overall cleanliness.
Understanding which spots you might be missing can help you maintain a healthier and fresher home. By focusing on these often-forgotten areas, you can elevate your cleaning routine and reduce hidden germs.
Door knobs
You probably touch door knobs dozens of times a day without thinking about cleaning them. They collect germs from every hand that grabs them, making them a common spot for bacteria buildup.
Wiping your knobs regularly with soap and water helps remove dirt. You can also use a disinfectant or a natural solution like vinegar to keep them cleaner. Don’t forget bathroom and kitchen doors—they get the most use and germs.
Light switches
You probably touch your light switches dozens of times a day, but they often get overlooked during cleaning. These spots collect germs and fingerprints quickly.
When cleaning, avoid spraying directly on the switch. Instead, use a disinfectant on a soft cloth and gently wipe the surface. This keeps your switches clean without risking damage.
Toilet handles
You might forget to disinfect your toilet handle, but it’s one of the germiest spots in your bathroom. Every flush spreads bacteria and viruses to the handle, making it a hotspot for germs.
Wiping it down regularly with an antibacterial cleaner helps keep it sanitary. Don’t skip this simple step to reduce the risk of spreading illnesses in your home.
Salt and pepper shakers
You might not think about cleaning your salt and pepper shakers often. They can collect germs from frequent handling and kitchen splatters.
Make it a habit to wipe their exteriors regularly with a damp cloth. If the contents inside look clumpy or discolored, it’s time to empty, wash with hot soapy water, and dry them thoroughly before refilling. This helps keep them fresh and cleaner.
Trash cans
Your trash cans are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting. They hold bacteria and odors that can build up over time, especially in outdoor bins.
Make sure to wash and disinfect both the inside and outside regularly. Using a mixture of soap, water, and disinfectant can help keep germs and smells under control.
Don’t forget to replace or clean liners frequently. This simple step helps reduce residue and odors, making your trash cans fresher and cleaner overall.
Toothbrush holders
Your toothbrush holder often stays wet at the bottom, making it a perfect spot for bacteria to grow.
You might not see it, but toothpaste residue, saliva, and water collect there regularly.
Cleaning your toothbrush holder regularly helps keep your bathroom germ-free.
Try to take it apart if possible and rinse it with warm water or wipe it down often.
This small habit can make a difference in your daily hygiene.
Window tracks
Window tracks often collect dust, dirt, and grime that you might easily miss. To clean them, spray some white vinegar and let it sit for a minute to loosen the gunk.
Use a small brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the tracks gently. Wiping with a paper towel or cloth afterward will help remove loosened dirt and keep your window tracks fresh.
Baseboards
You probably don’t think about baseboards when cleaning, but they collect dust, dirt, and even germs over time. Wiping them down with a damp cloth or a gentle cleaner can make a big difference.
If you skip this, allergens might build up along your floors without you noticing. Cleaning baseboards regularly keeps your space looking fresh and can improve air quality.
Sliding glass door tracks
Your sliding glass door tracks often collect dust, dirt, and even mold in hard-to-see corners. Start by vacuuming the loose debris using a brush attachment.
Next, scrub the tracks with a damp sponge or toothbrush and a little dish soap to reach stubborn grime. Wipe everything dry to prevent moisture buildup. Regular cleaning helps your door slide smoothly and keeps germs at bay.
Mattress seams
Mattress seams often collect dust, sweat, and skin cells, making them easy to overlook. These areas can also trap moisture, encouraging bacteria like Serratia marcescens to grow.
You should clean seams gently using a cloth dampened with mild detergent. Avoid soaking them, as too much water can damage your mattress or promote mold.
Regularly vacuuming seams can help keep them fresh and reduce allergens. Don’t forget to let your mattress dry fully after cleaning.
Refrigerator door frames
You might not realize it, but the frames around your refrigerator doors collect crumbs and spills. These areas are easy to miss during cleaning but can build up dirt over time.
Pay attention to the rubber seals, too. They trap moisture and debris, which can lead to bad odors or mold if left unchecked.
Wipe these frames regularly with a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to keep your fridge fresh and working efficiently.
