London's #1 End of Tenancy Specialists
London's #1 End of Tenancy Specialists
Forgotten Places and Tools in the House That People Often Neglect to Clean
When it comes to cleaning the house, most people focus on visible surfaces like floors, countertops, and bathrooms. However, there are many areas and household tools that often get overlooked, leading to hidden dirt, dust, and bacteria buildup. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the places and tools in your home that need extra attention during your next deep cleaning session.
Forgotten Places in the House That Need Cleaning
- Light Switches and Door Handles
Light switches and door handles are touched multiple times a day, making them breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. A simple wipe-down with disinfectant wipes or a cloth with soapy water can keep these areas clean and germ-free.
- Baseboards and Moulding
Dust and grime accumulate along baseboards and moldings, but they often go unnoticed. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dirt and keep your home looking fresh.
- Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Ceiling fans collect dust on their blades, which can spread throughout the room when turned on. Similarly, light fixtures accumulate dust and dead insects. Wipe down fan blades with a microfiber cloth and clean light fixtures regularly.
- Under and Behind Furniture
Areas beneath couches, beds, and heavy furniture tend to gather dust, pet hair, and debris. Move furniture periodically to vacuum or sweep these neglected spaces.
Dust and allergens build up inside air vents and ducts, reducing air quality. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean vent covers and consider professional duct cleaning for a deeper clean.
- Window Tracks and Blinds
While windows may get cleaned regularly, their tracks and blinds are often neglected. Use a small brush or a vacuum crevice tool to remove dust from tracks, and wipe down blinds with a damp cloth.
- Behind and Under Appliances
The spaces behind and under refrigerators, stoves, and washing machines collect dust, crumbs, and grease. Move these appliances occasionally to sweep, mop, or vacuum these hard-to-reach spots.
- Shower Curtains and Liners
Mildew and soap scum build up on shower curtains and liners over time. Toss fabric curtains into the washing machine with mild detergent and replace plastic liners when they become too grimy.
- Inside Kitchen Drawers and Cabinets
Crumbs, dust, and spills accumulate inside kitchen drawers and cabinets. Empty them out periodically and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
- Under Sink Areas
The area under sinks can develop mold, mildew, and leaks. Wipe down surfaces, check for plumbing issues, and organize cleaning supplies to keep these spaces tidy.
- Bathroom Exhaust Fans
Bathroom exhaust fans help remove moisture but also gather dust over time. Use a vacuum or a brush to clean the vent cover and ensure proper airflow.
- Dishwasher and Washing Machine Seals
Dishwasher and washing machine seals trap moisture and food particles, leading to mold growth. Wipe down rubber seals with a vinegar solution or mild detergent.
- Pillows and Mattress Covers
While pillowcases and sheets are washed regularly, pillows and mattress covers need cleaning too. Machine wash pillows every few months and vacuum mattresses to remove dust mites.
- Remote Controls and Electronics
TV remotes, gaming controllers, and keyboards collect dirt and germs from frequent use. Wipe them down with disinfectant wipes or a microfiber cloth.
- Closet Floors and Shelves
Closet floors and high shelves accumulate dust and forgotten items. Vacuum the floors and dust the shelves to maintain a cleaner space.
- Behind the Toilet
While toilet bowls and seats are cleaned regularly, the area behind the toilet often gets ignored. Wipe it down with disinfectant to prevent dust and grime buildup.
- Pet Bowls and Toys
Pet food and water bowls collect bacteria and should be washed daily. Similarly, pet toys accumulate dirt and saliva and should be cleaned regularly with soap and water.
- Trash Cans and Recycling Bins
Even with liners, trash cans develop unpleasant odors and residue. Wash them with soap and water and disinfect them occasionally to prevent bacteria growth.
- The Tops of Cabinets and Fridges
High surfaces like the tops of kitchen cabinets and refrigerators collect dust and grease. Wipe them down every few months to prevent buildup.
- Inside the Oven and Microwave
Spills and splatters inside ovens and microwaves harden over time. Use baking soda and vinegar or a store-bought cleaner to remove stuck-on grime.
Forgotten Household Tools That Need Cleaning
- Brooms and Mops
Brooms collect dirt and dust while mops retain moisture, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. Rinse brooms outdoors and soak mop heads in a disinfectant solution regularly.
- Vacuum Cleaners and Filters
Vacuum filters, hoses, and brushes accumulate dust and debris. Clean or replace filters and empty canisters frequently for better performance.
- Sponges and Dish Brushes
Kitchen sponges and brushes gather bacteria and should be replaced every two weeks. Disinfect them by soaking in a vinegar solution or microwaving damp sponges for one minute.
- Toothbrush Holders
Toothbrush holders collect toothpaste residue and moisture, making them prone to mould growth. Wash them with hot soapy water regularly.
- Coffee Makers and Kettles
Coffee makers and kettles accumulate mineral deposits and bacteria. Run a vinegar and water solution through them monthly to remove buildup.
- Reusable Shopping Bags
Fabric shopping bags collect dirt and germs from groceries. Wash them in the washing machine or wipe down plastic ones with disinfectant wipes.
- Hairbrushes and Combs
Hairbrushes and combs trap hair, oil, and product buildup. Remove hair regularly and soak brushes in warm soapy water to keep them clean.
- Cutting Boards
Wooden and plastic cutting boards can gather bacteria from food residue. Scrub them with a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and salt for a deep clean.
- Blenders and Food Processors
Blender gaskets and food processor blades accumulate food residue. Disassemble and wash thoroughly after each use.
- Faucet Aerators
Faucet aerators trap mineral deposits and can affect water flow. Remove and soak them in vinegar to remove buildup.
- Doormats
Doormats collect dirt from shoes and need to be shaken out and vacuumed regularly. Wash fabric mats periodically for deeper cleaning.
- Shower Heads
Mineral deposits clog shower heads over time. Soak them in vinegar overnight to remove buildup and improve water flow.
Conclusion
Many areas and tools in the home are easily forgotten during routine cleaning, leading to hidden dirt and bacteria. By paying attention to these often-overlooked spots, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier home for you and your family. Next time you clean, add these tasks to your checklist to maintain a truly spotless living space.
Please contact Scrubs Cleaning if you need a deep clean of your house.