Keeping your home clean can feel like a never-ending task. You probably focus on obvious areas like floors and countertops, but there are many spots that often go unnoticed during regular cleaning.
By paying attention to those overlooked places, you can maintain a healthier and more comfortable living space without extra effort. This article will help you discover common cleaning tasks you might be forgetting so you can easily add them to your routine.
1. Door knobs and handles
You touch door knobs and handles all day, but they often get overlooked during cleaning. These spots collect germs from frequent contact, especially in high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Wiping them down regularly with a disinfectant helps keep your home healthier. It only takes a minute but makes a noticeable difference in cleanliness.
2. Light switches and covers
You probably touch your light switches many times a day but rarely clean them. This means they can collect dirt, oils, and germs over time.
To clean them, dampen a cloth or use a gentle cleaner to wipe the switch and the cover plate.
Doing this regularly helps keep your home feeling fresh and reduces bacteria buildup on these often-handled spots.
3. Cabinet fronts and knobs
You often touch your cabinet fronts and knobs, but they rarely get cleaned. Over time, grease, fingerprints, and dirt build up on these surfaces.
Wiping them regularly with a gentle cleaner helps keep your kitchen looking fresh. Pay special attention to knobs, as they carry germs from frequent handling.
Make it a habit to include cabinet fronts and knobs in your cleaning routine for a cleaner, more inviting kitchen.
4. Top of the refrigerator
You probably don’t think about cleaning the top of your refrigerator often. Dust and crumbs can build up there, creating a hidden mess.
Because it’s out of sight, it’s easy to forget, but wiping it down can help reduce dust in your kitchen.
Use a damp cloth and mild cleaner to remove grime. Be careful if you have items stored there—move them first to clean thoroughly.
5. Under and behind major appliances
You might not think about cleaning under or behind your fridge, stove, or washer often. Dust, dirt, and even small crumbs can build up in these hidden spots.
Pulling appliances out just a little lets you wipe away grime and prevent pests. It also helps your appliances run more efficiently by keeping vents and coils clear.
Make it a habit to check these areas every few months. Your home will feel cleaner, and your appliances will thank you!
6. Oven hood and vents
You might not realize how much grease builds up in your oven hood and vents. This buildup can reduce airflow and make cooking less efficient.
Cleaning the vent hood filter is easy—it usually just pops out with a little pressure.
Regularly wiping down these parts helps keep your kitchen air fresh and lowers the risk of grease fires. Don’t forget to give your vents some attention during your next cleaning session.
7. Toilet handles and bathroom fixtures
You probably touch your toilet handle more than any other surface in the bathroom. It’s easy to forget, but germs can build up quickly there. Wiping it down regularly helps keep things cleaner and fresher.
Bathroom fixtures like faucets and light switches also need attention. They collect fingerprints and bacteria, so don’t skip these spots when you clean. A quick wipe with a disinfecting cloth makes a big difference.
8. Salt and pepper shakers
You probably overlook cleaning your salt and pepper shakers, but they can collect dirt and bacteria over time. Wipe the exteriors regularly with a damp cloth, especially if they sit near the stove.
Take time to remove the contents and wash the shakers in warm, soapy water. Use a small brush to clean inside. Make sure they are completely dry before refilling to avoid clumping.
9. Inside kitchen drawers
You might overlook cleaning inside your kitchen drawers. Crumbs and small bits of food often build up in corners and between utensils.
To clean them, start by removing everything. Use a vacuum or brush to clear out debris, then wipe the drawer with warm, soapy water.
Dry the drawer thoroughly before putting items back. This simple step helps keep your kitchen more hygienic and fresh.
10. Dryer vents
You might forget to clean the vent behind your dryer. Dust and lint can build up inside, making your dryer less efficient.
Always unplug your dryer before you start cleaning. Pull the dryer away from the wall, disconnect the vent, and use a brush or vacuum to remove clogged lint.
Cleaning both the inside vent and the outside vent is important for safety and to help your dryer work better.
11. Ceiling tiles
You might overlook cleaning your ceiling tiles, but they collect dust and dirt over time. Use a soft brush or vacuum with an extension wand to remove loose debris regularly.
For stains, gently wipe tiles with a damp cloth and mild soap. Be careful not to soak them, as excess moisture can cause damage.
12. Light fixtures
You might overlook cleaning your light fixtures, but dust and grime build up quickly on them. Use a damp cloth with mild cleaner to wipe down both inside and outside surfaces.
Remember to turn off the power before you start to avoid any accidents. Cleaning your fixtures can help brighten your room and improve the light quality.
13. Top of window frames
You might forget to clean the tops of your window frames. Dust and dirt can easily collect there, but it often goes unnoticed.
Using a damp microfiber cloth helps remove dust gently without damaging surfaces. Check these spots regularly to keep your windows looking fresh and your home cleaner.
14.Underneath Rugs
You might not realize how much dirt and dust can build up under your rugs. Taking the time to lift and clean beneath them helps keep your floors fresh and reduces allergens.
If you have rugs on carpet, consider shampooing the carpet underneath to remove trapped grime. Regularly checking this area can also help prevent unwanted odors from developing.
15. Walls and baseboards
You might clean your floors regularly but forget about your walls and baseboards. Dust and dirt tend to collect there, making your space look less tidy.
Wiping down baseboards with a damp cloth can make a noticeable difference. For walls, use a gentle cleaner to remove marks without damaging paint.
Checking these areas during your regular cleaning routine keeps your home looking fresh and cared for.
Like what you read? Here’s more by us: