While keeping your home clean is essential, some areas tend to be overlooked, no matter how often you tidy up. If you want to take your cleaning routine to the next level, it’s time to focus on those often-forgotten spots. Cleaning these areas will not only improve the appearance of your home but also contribute to a healthier living environment.
Here are 10 places that often get neglected during regular cleaning and should be added to your deep cleaning schedule this week.
1. Under and Above Large Appliances
How often do you clean under or behind large appliances like the refrigerator, washing machine, or microwave? While counters are cleaned frequently, the spaces beneath and around these appliances often accumulate dust, food crumbs, and even forgotten socks. Move these appliances and clean the areas thoroughly using a vacuum or a long-handled brush. Don’t forget the tops of appliances, which can collect dust and grime. Use a step stool to wipe down these hard-to-reach areas for a more complete clean.
2. Throw Pillows and Blankets
Your throw pillows and blankets add comfort and style to your home, but they can also trap dust, allergens, and odors if not cleaned regularly. Wash removable pillow covers and blankets according to their care instructions, and for non-removable covers, use a fabric cleaner or vacuum attachment. Rotate pillows to keep them in good shape, and remember to clean blankets at least once a month. For larger or delicate blankets, consider professional cleaning services.
3. Air Vents and HVAC Systems
Air vents and exhaust fans are essential for maintaining air quality, but they often get neglected. Dust tends to build up on vents, and exhaust fans can trap grime. To clean them, vacuum vents with a nozzle attachment and remove the fan cover to clean both the fan blades and the surrounding grill. Be sure to clean your HVAC systems twice a year to ensure proper air circulation and prevent the buildup of dust and allergens.
4. Mattresses
Even though you sleep on your mattress every night, it’s easy to forget about cleaning it. Over time, mattresses accumulate dust mites, dead skin, sweat, and allergens. Vacuum your mattress thoroughly, paying close attention to seams and crevices. If there are stains, spot clean them with a mild detergent or a baking soda-water mixture. Sprinkling baking soda on the mattress and vacuuming it up after a few hours will help neutralize odors. Be sure to rotate your mattress every few months to maintain its shape.
5. Blinds and Curtains
Blinds and curtains are major dust collectors, but they often go unnoticed during cleaning. Dust the blinds with a microfiber cloth or a special blind duster, and if they’re particularly dirty, consider washing them. Curtains, too, trap dust and allergens; most are machine washable, but always check first. Use a handheld vacuum to remove debris, and don’t forget to wipe down the curtain rods and tiebacks, which also gather dust. Clean them every six months, or more frequently if you suffer from allergies.
6. Books
Bookshelves are another spot that tends to get overlooked. Dust can accumulate on the tops of bookshelves and the covers of books themselves. Use a microfiber cloth or soft brush to gently wipe down each book and the shelves. Rearranging your books can also prevent uneven wear and freshen up the look of your bookshelf. For leather-bound or special edition books, use a mild cleaner appropriate for the material.
7. Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans collect dust on their blades, and turning them on without cleaning them can spread that dust around the room. Clean the blades with a microfiber cloth or duster to avoid this. Using an extendable duster can make this task much easier. Don’t forget to clean the light fixtures attached to the fan, as dust can accumulate there as well.
8. Trash Cans
Trash cans may keep your home tidy, but they can quickly accumulate odors and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Empty the bins, then scrub the insides with warm soapy water, paying special attention to areas around the rim and bottom where spills and leaks often occur. After cleaning, let them air dry before replacing the liners. Aim to disinfect your trash cans at least once a month to maintain hygiene.
9. Inside Appliances
It’s not just the outside of appliances that need cleaning; the inside requires attention too. Clean your refrigerator by removing expired food, wiping down the shelves and drawers with a mild detergent, and using a mixture of baking soda and water to eliminate odors. The inside of your microwave can also accumulate grime—wipe it down regularly. For your oven, use the self-cleaning feature if available or create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it overnight, and wipe it away the next day.
10. Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning. Grease, food splatters, and dust tend to build up on cabinet surfaces, especially around the handles and knobs. Take everything out, wipe down the shelves, and clean the handles thoroughly. This is also a good opportunity to declutter your cabinets and reorganize the items inside.
A Cleaner, Healthier Home
By adding these often-forgotten items to your cleaning routine, you’ll create a fresher, cleaner living space. These cleaning tasks not only make your home more visually appealing but also contribute to better air quality, longer-lasting appliances, and a healthier environment overall.
Make these items part of your weekly deep cleaning schedule, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a truly clean home.