Neglected Nooks and Crannies
Keeping your home spick and span isn't just about the visible surfaces. Often, the most neglected spots harbor hidden dust, dirt, and germs.
Fear not; we've got you covered with these often-forgotten cleaning spots and some pro tips to make your cleaning routine a breeze.
1. Light Fixtures:
Light fixtures are often out of sight, out of mind. They don't seem dirty until you glance up and realize they've accumulated layers of dust.
Pro Tip: Dust and dead bugs love to gather in light fixtures. Use an extendable duster or a microfiber cloth on a long pole to reach high-up fixtures. For easier cleaning, remove and wash glass or plastic light covers in warm, soapy water.
2. Behind and Under Furniture:
Moving heavy furniture can be a chore, so we tend to clean around it instead of shifting it entirely.
Pro Tip: Dust bunnies and forgotten treasures often lurk in these hidden spots. Vacuum or sweep underneath and behind your furniture regularly.
3. Oven Hood and Filters:
The top of the stove gets cleaned more often, but the hood and filters are usually higher up on the priority list.
Pro Tip: Grease and grime can build up over time. Remove and clean the filters in your oven hood every few months. A mixture of baking soda and water works wonders on the hood itself.
4. Baseboards:
They're close to the ground, and unless you're specifically looking for dirt or scuffs, baseboards can be easily overlooked.
Pro Tip: Baseboards are magnets for dust and pet hair. Wipe them down with a damp cloth regularly. Use a fabric softener sheet to help repel future dust.
5. Refrigerator Coils:
These coils are hidden at the back or beneath the fridge. Since they're not in plain sight, they're often neglected.
Pro Tip: The coils behind or beneath your fridge can accumulate dust, making your appliance less efficient. Unplug the fridge, vacuum or use a coil brush to remove the dust at least once a year.
6. Shower Curtain and Liner:
People might not realize that shower curtains and liners are washable, so they replace them instead of cleaning them.
Pro Tip: Throw your fabric curtain and plastic liner in the washing machine with a few towels for scrubbing power. This keeps them fresh and mildew-free.
7. Remote Controls:
Remotes are handled by everyone in the household but rarely cleaned because we don't think about them harboring germs.
Pro Tip: These little gadgets get handled a lot but are rarely cleaned. Use a disinfecting wipe or a cloth lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe them down. Don't forget the buttons!
8. Ceiling Fans:
Ceiling fans are above eye level, so we tend not to notice the dust buildup until it's substantial.
Pro Tip: Ceiling fans are dust distributors if not cleaned regularly. Use a long-handled duster or wrap an old pillowcase around each fan blade to trap the dust as you clean.
9. Trash Cans:
Since they hold trash, we might think they're naturally dirty. But washing them out is crucial for preventing odors and bacteria.
Pro Tip: Even with liners, trash cans can get grimy. Wash them out with soap and water regularly, and sprinkle baking soda in the bottom to absorb odors.
10. Doorknobs and Light Switches:
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They're small, often in high-traffic areas, and we don't think about them as needing regular cleaning, even though they're touched frequently.
Remember, a clean home is not just about appearances; it's about maintaining a healthy and pleasant living environment. Tackling these often-forgotten spots will help you achieve just that.
Happy cleaning!
