three pairs of black and white shoes on floating shelf

Things You’ve Probably Never Cleaned in Your Entryway

Ah, the entryway. That space we all have but often forget about until it’s a chaotic jumble of shoes, bags, and the occasional mystery item that looks like it’s been living there since the last ice age. While you might give the floor a quick sweep or wipe down the surfaces every now and then, there are some sneaky spots that could use a little TLC. Let’s chat about the things you’ve probably never cleaned in your entryway. Spoiler alert: they’re more common than you think!

Behind the Shoe Rack

First up, let’s talk about the shoe rack. You know, that thing where all your shoes go to die? While you might be diligent about organizing and occasionally wiping the tops, how often do you check behind it? Dust bunnies? Sure. Unidentifiable crumbs? Probably. You might even find that one sandal you thought you lost last summer. A quick vacuum back there can make a world of difference, and it’s a lot easier than you think!

The Doormat Dilemma

Now, let’s move on to the doormat. It’s the unsung hero of your entryway, bravely battling dirt and debris day in and day out. But when was the last time you gave it a good scrub? If your doormat could talk, it’d probably tell you some wild stories about the outside world! Shake it out, give it a good wash if it’s machine-friendly, or even hit it with a hose if it’s particularly grimy. You’ll be amazed at how fresh it looks—and how much more dirt it can catch afterward!

Light Switches and Door Handles

Okay, let’s get real for a second. How often do you clean your light switches and door handles? If you’re like most of us, they probably haven’t seen a cleaning product since the last pandemic. These little spots are germ magnets, so a quick wipe with a disinfectant can keep your entryway from being a breeding ground for the not-so-friendly bacteria. Plus, think of how good it’ll feel to know your guests won’t be leaving with a side of germs!

Small Furniture Surfaces

a row of wooden lockers sitting on top of a cement floor
Photo by Nipun Chandra Surnilla

If you’ve got a console table or a bench in your entryway, it’s time to show it some love. Dust tends to accumulate on surfaces like these, especially if you’ve got kids or pets—let’s just say they’ve got a knack for leaving their mark. Grab a microfiber cloth and give it a gentle wipe down. Don’t forget to check any decorative items or picture frames that might be gathering dust. Your entryway will feel so much more inviting when it’s tidy and clean!

Underneath the Furniture

Speaking of furniture, let’s not overlook what’s lurking underneath. That’s right, I’m talking about the bits and pieces that have rolled or fallen under your console table, bench, or even your coat rack. You might find a few misplaced items, a dust bunny family reunion, or even an odd sock that escaped the laundry. A quick sweep or vacuum under there can do wonders for the overall vibe of the space. Plus, it’s a great excuse to finally get rid of that ancient penny that’s been hiding out.

Wall Art and Frames

Wall art adds personality to your entryway, but it can also collect dust like nobody’s business. If you’ve got framed photos or art pieces, give them a good dusting. Use a gentle cloth and be careful with any delicate frames—nobody wants to add a broken frame to their cleaning list! A little effort here can really brighten the space and make your entryway feel warm and welcoming.

Coat Closet Chaos

Let’s not forget about the coat closet. This is often a catch-all for jackets, scarves, and the odd umbrella. Take a moment to clean it out—don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a full-on Marie Kondo situation! Just a quick sort to remove items you no longer wear and a light dusting of shelves can work wonders. Trust me, you’ll feel like you’ve gained a new room when you can actually see what’s in there!

Air Vents and Light Fixtures

And finally, let’s talk about air vents and light fixtures. These are often overlooked, but they can really impact the air quality and lighting in your entryway. Give your air vents a quick dusting and check your light fixtures for any accumulated dust and grime. A clean light fixture can brighten up the entire space instantly, making your entryway feel more open, welcoming, and well cared for. It’s a small step that takes very little time but adds a noticeable finishing touch, helping your entryway look cleaner, fresher, and more inviting the moment someone walks in.

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