16 Things Everyone Always Forgets to Clean in Their Homes
When it comes to keeping a clean home, we all do the obvious tasks regularly, like vacuuming the floors or wiping down the kitchen counters. The less obvious, often overlooked tasks can make a difference in your home’s overall cleanliness and hygiene. Let’s get into those neglected nooks and crannies, and I’ll share how to tackle them effectively.
Toilet Seat Cover
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Do you think your toilet is clean? Do me a favor and remove the seat — most are designed that way, if you didn’t know. Then please tell me how clean your bathroom really is.
It’s a given that the toilet gets cleaned, but the seat cover can sometimes be an afterthought. Regularly removing and wiping down the seat cover with a disinfectant, especially underneath and around the hinges, can prevent bacteria buildup and keep the bathroom smelling fresh. Aim for a weekly cleaning schedule to maintain optimal cleanliness.
Dishwasher
Yes, the machine designed to clean needs cleaning too. Food remnants and grease can accumulate, reducing efficiency and potentially leaving unpleasant odors. Monthly maintenance is simple: remove any food debris from the bottom, run it empty with white vinegar in the top rack, and enjoy a fresher appliance ready to tackle your next load of dishes.
Washing Machine
Like the dishwasher, your washing machine can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. Once a month, set it to run on its hottest cycle with either a specialized cleaner or white vinegar to flush out any lurking smells and keep your clothes coming out fresh.
It’s a great practice to dry the rubber gasket after each load; I’ll even stuff a dry rag into it to keep the door propped open.
Windowsills
These are dust and dirt magnets, especially during open-window seasons. A quick monthly wipe-down with a damp cloth after a brisk dusting can prevent buildup and keep your windows operating smoothly.
Underneath Appliances
It’s out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Dust, crumbs, and even lost items can accumulate under your fridge or stove. Quarterly, take the time to move these appliances (safely) and give the floor beneath a thorough sweep and mop.
As a bonus, you’ll likely find some long-forgotten treasures down there.
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Cabinet Door Fronts & Knobs
Fingerprints, splashes, and dust don’t just settle on countertops. Giving your cabinet doors and knobs a monthly wipe with a mild cleaner can keep them looking fresh and reduce the spread of germs, especially in high-traffic kitchen areas.
Cabinet Drawers
Inside your cabinets can become cluttered and dirty over time. Every 3-6 months, take everything out, vacuum the crumbs, and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. It’s also a great opportunity to declutter and reorganize.
Vent Hood
Your vent hood works hard to keep your kitchen air clean, so give it a little TLC in return. Remove the filter every month and soak it in a degreasing solution before rinsing and drying. This helps maintain its efficiency and keeps your kitchen smelling better.
Top of Fridge
This often-overlooked surface can collect a surprising amount of dust and grime. A monthly wipe-down with a damp cloth can prevent this buildup and contribute to a cleaner kitchen environment.
Baseboards
They skirt the edges of our rooms and often the edges of our cleaning routines. Dust and dirt can make them look dingy over time. A damp cloth wipe-down monthly will keep them bright and contribute to the overall cleanliness of your home.
Door Knobs
Constantly touched but rarely cleaned, doorknobs can be hotspots for germs. Incorporate a weekly disinfecting into your routine to keep them germ-free.
Faucets
Water spots and mineral buildup can tarnish the shine of your faucets. A weekly rub with a descaling agent or white vinegar will keep them sparkling.
Kitchen Backsplash & Grout
Cooking can splatter and stain, making your backsplash and grout grimy. Wipe down your backsplash monthly, and use a baking soda paste on grout every few months to keep it looking clean.
Mattress
You sleep on it every night, but how often do you clean it? Vacuuming your mattress every 3 months, spot-cleaning stains, and rotating it regularly can improve your sleep hygiene. A mattress protector is really worth it.
Read More: Spring Cleaning Your Bedroom: 9 Ways to Refresh Your Space
Pillows
Pillows impact your comfort and hygiene during sleep, but how often do you wash them? Washing pillows according to their material care instructions every few months removes accumulated oils, dust mites, and dead skin cells, ensuring a healthier resting environment. You should also consider using pillow protectors.
And at some point, it’s just time to invest in new pillows. How old are yours anyways?
The Remote Control
A hub for germs, given how often it’s handled. Wipe it down weekly with a disinfectant, making sure to get between the buttons.
Garbage & Recycling Bins
Bins can harbor bacteria and emit unpleasant odors if not cleaned regularly. A monthly wash with a hose and a spray-down with a disinfectant, followed by drying in the sun, can keep smells at bay.
I wash mine in the bathtub alongside the toilet seat cover right before I clean the bathtub itself.
Spring Cleaning Your Bedroom: 9 Ways to Refresh Your Space
A thorough guide to refreshing your bedroom just in time for spring.
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