You may keep your home looking neat, but some everyday items often go unnoticed when it comes to cleaning. Making a habit of regularly cleaning these overlooked items can greatly improve your home’s hygiene and freshness.
From kitchen gadgets to personal items, there are plenty of spots that accumulate dirt and grime without you even realizing it.
1. Ceiling fans
Ceiling fans often gather dust and grime without you noticing. Regular cleaning can improve air circulation and keep your space looking fresh.
To clean your ceiling fan, start by using a pillowcase to dust the blades. Slip it over a blade and wipe it down. This traps dust instead of sending it flying around the room, making cleanup easier.
For deeper cleaning, moisten a cloth with an all-purpose cleaner and wipe each blade carefully. Avoid spraying directly on the fan to prevent liquid from seeping into the motor.
For tough spots, consider taking the fan outside to wash it down with soapy water and a hose. Let it dry completely before putting it back up.
2. Toothbrush holders
Your toothbrush holder can gather a lot of grime if you’re not careful. It’s easy to forget that these holders need a good clean too.
Start by rinsing it regularly to remove any buildup. You can use a mix of vinegar and water or make a baking soda paste for a thorough scrub.
Remember, keeping it clean helps reduce germs that can end up on your toothbrush. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your dental routine fresh.
3. Reusable shopping bags
You probably use your reusable shopping bags all the time, but how often do you clean them? They can accumulate dirt and bacteria, especially after carrying groceries.
Washing them regularly keeps them fresh and safe. The ACI recommends cleaning your bags after each use, so make that a habit.
If you forget them while shopping, keep some extras in your car. This way, you’ll always be prepared for your trips to the store.
4. Light switches
You probably touch light switches daily, but how often do you clean them? They can accumulate dust, dirt, and germs over time.
To clean them, simply use a disinfecting wipe or a damp cloth with mild soap. Wipe down the switch and the surrounding plate to keep your home healthier.
For an extra disinfecting boost, you can use a mixture of vinegar and lemon juice on a cloth. Regularly cleaning light switches can make a noticeable difference.
5. Remote controls
Your remote control is a hidden hotspot for germs. You probably use it daily without thinking about how dirty it gets.
To clean it, start by removing the batteries. Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth and some rubbing alcohol to get rid of stickiness and grime.
For a deeper clean, turn it upside down and shake it gently to dislodge crumbs. Taking these simple steps can help keep your remote looking and feeling fresh.
6. Computer keyboards
You probably don’t think about cleaning your keyboard often, but it’s a hotspot for germs and debris. Food crumbs, dust, and grime can build up between the keys.
To clean it, start by turning your keyboard upside down and shaking it gently. Use compressed air to blow out any stubborn particles.
For a deeper clean, wipe down the keys with a cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. This helps remove oils and germs. Make sure everything is dry before you plug it back in or start typing again!
7. Ice cube trays
Ice cube trays can get pretty grimy if you’re not paying attention. Over time, they can hold on to weird smells and tastes that might creep into your drinks.
To clean your trays, rinse them with warm soapy water. If you notice lingering odors, try washing them with a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize the smells.
For silicone trays, heating them in the oven at 350°F for an hour can help release unwanted odors, according to Yahoo. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your ice fresh!
8. Garbage disposals
Your garbage disposal can get pretty grimy if you don’t give it some attention. Food scraps and grease can build up, causing odors and clogs.
To clean it, try a simple hack: toss in some ice cubes and run hot water. This helps dislodge bits stuck in the blades.
You can also use a cylindrical toilet bowl brush to reach inside and scrub it out. Regular cleaning keeps your disposal running smoothly.
Make it a habit to clean it once a month, and your kitchen will smell fresher!
9. Pet toys
You love your pets, but their toys can get pretty dirty. Bacteria and grime build up over time, which isn’t great for your furry friend.
You can easily clean hard chew toys by using hot water and mild dish soap. A toothbrush or scrub brush works well to get into those nooks and crannies.
For soft toys, many are safe for the washing machine. Just make sure to use a dog-safe laundry detergent. You can also spray and disinfect without rinsing for a quick refresh.
10. Refrigerator coils
You might not think about it, but your refrigerator coils can collect a lot of dust and dirt. This buildup can make your fridge work harder, impacting its efficiency.
To clean them, grab a long, flexible brush or a damp rag. Make sure to unplug the fridge first for safety.
Using a vacuum can help too, especially with those hard-to-reach spots. Regular cleaning can improve your fridge’s efficiency and even extend its lifespan. Just a little effort can go a long way!
