As a proud homeowner, you probably have your cleaning routines down to a science — the daily wipe-downs, the weekly scrubbing, and even those deep monthly cleans. But even the most diligent among us can overlook a few sneaky spots. And honestly, who can blame you? These areas are often tucked away, hard to reach, or simply easy to forget.
Still, those out-of-sight, out-of-mind spaces can quietly collect layers of dust, grime, and germs over time. Left unchecked, they can dull the freshness of your home and even affect the air quality or hygiene of your living space. The good news? A little extra attention goes a long way.
So, grab your cleaning supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s tackle some of the most commonly forgotten areas in your home — your space will feel fresher, brighter, and cleaner than ever before.
1. Underneath and Behind Kitchen Appliances
It’s easy to forget about the spaces underneath and behind your kitchen appliances. But, did you know that these hidden areas can become a breeding ground for dust and grime? For instance, the space underneath your refrigerator might be home to food crumbs, dust bunnies, and pet hair. And the area behind your oven? Well, let’s just say it’s not the prettiest sight. Try to clean these areas at least once every few months. You can use a long duster or a vacuum cleaner with an extendable hose to make the task easier.
2. Inside the Dishwasher and Washing Machine
Just because they’re machines designed to clean, doesn’t mean they’re self-cleaning! Over time, food particles, grease, and soap residue can build up inside your dishwasher, affecting its performance and potentially creating unpleasant odors. Similarly, your washing machine can accumulate soap scum, dirt, and even mold. Running an empty cycle with a specially designed cleaner can help keep these appliances in tip-top shape. Here are some more tips on how to clean these often-overlooked appliances.
3. Ceiling and Light Fixtures
When was the last time you looked up at your ceiling or light fixtures? If it’s been a while, you might be surprised at how much dust they’ve collected. A feather duster on an extendable handle works great for this task. Just remember to put down a drop cloth first to catch any falling dust. And don’t forget about your ceiling fans! They can also collect a lot of dust, especially on the upper side of the blades.
4. Door Knobs and Light Switches
Think about how many times a day you and your family touch door knobs and light switches. Now, think about how often you clean them. Yikes, right? These high-touch areas can easily become a hotbed for germs. Make it a habit to wipe them down regularly with a disinfecting wipe or a cloth sprayed with a disinfecting solution.
5. Window Tracks and Window Sills
Window tracks and window sills are another set of overlooked areas in many homes. Over time, they can collect dust, dead bugs, and mildew, especially if there’s condensation. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove the loose dirt and dust, then wipe them down with a damp cloth. For stubborn grime, you may need to use a scrub brush and a mild cleaning solution.
6. Air and Heating Vents
Air and heating vents can accumulate dust and debris, which can affect your home’s air quality. Plus, a dirty vent can cause your heating and cooling system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the vent covers, and consider hiring a professional to clean your ducts every few years.
7. Inside and on Top of Cabinets
Just because you can’t see the tops of your cabinets doesn’t mean they’re not getting dirty! Dust, grease, and other particles can settle on these surfaces, leading to a sticky mess. The same goes for the insides of your cabinets, especially if you don’t use all the items in them regularly. Wipe down these areas regularly with a damp cloth and a gentle cleaning solution.
8. Behind and Underneath Furniture
It’s easy to overlook the areas behind and underneath your furniture. But, just like your kitchen appliances, these areas can harbor dust, pet hair, and lost items. Try to vacuum or sweep these areas regularly, and consider moving your furniture away from the wall once in a while to clean behind it.
9. Garbage Bins and Recycling Bins
Even with regular bag changes, your garbage and recycling bins can become dirty and smelly over time. Remember to clean them out regularly to prevent bacteria and odors from building up. You can use a mixture of warm water and dish soap, or for tougher stains and smells, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.
10. Shower Curtains and Liners
Shower curtains and liners can develop soap scum and mildew if not cleaned regularly. Most shower curtains and liners can be cleaned in the washing machine with a gentle detergent. Just make sure to check the care label first! Adding a few towels to the load can help scrub away the grime. And don’t forget to let them air-dry thoroughly to prevent any new mildew from forming.
11. Remote Controls and Electronics
Remote controls, keyboards, phones, and other electronics are frequently touched but rarely cleaned. Keep wipes designed for electronics on hand and give these gadgets a good wipe down every week or so to keep germs at bay. This book offers more tips on cleaning electronics.
12. Toothbrush Holders and Soap Dispensers
Toothbrush holders and soap dispensers are other items that are frequently touched but rarely cleaned. They can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Most toothbrush holders and soap dispensers can be cleaned in the dishwasher, or you can hand wash them with warm soapy water. Don’t forget to dry them thoroughly before putting them back into use!
13. Underneath Rugs and Carpets
When you’re vacuuming your rugs and carpets, don’t forget to clean underneath them too. Dust and dirt can accumulate under your rugs and carpets, leading to allergies and other health issues. Plus, small items can get lost under there. So, make it a habit to lift your rugs and carpets and vacuum underneath them every once in a while.
14. Inside Drawers and Closets
Last, but not least, don’t forget about the insides of your drawers and closets. Over time, they can accumulate dust, cobwebs, and forgotten items. Empty your drawers and closets every once in a while and give them a good clean. It’s also a great opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Here are more tips on cleaning your closets and drawers.
Remember, maintaining a clean home isn’t just about keeping up appearances. It’s also about creating a healthy and comfortable environment for you and your family. So, don’t forget about these often-overlooked spots in your cleaning routine. Happy cleaning!
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