Everyone’s cleaning routines are different. Some people have a daily schedule of areas to tidy, while others have a one-time big time approach and clean everything, everywhere, all at once. Whatever the approach may be, there are definitely some areas in your home you missed.
Areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms get special attention because it’s where we spend most of our time. But even then, there are probably some things you’ve missed out on during your routine cleaning.
Cleaning these areas are especially important if you have frequent and unexplained allergies, asthma, or eczema. Being allergic to dust could be a culprit, which means a more thorough home cleaning is in order.
Here are a few spaces and items you need to add to your cleaning routine.
Items and appliances
Washing machine
Like all other appliances, washing machines need periodic cleaning and maintenance. You should clean out the lint filter after every use, and give your washing machine a thorough clean monthly. If you’re not confident in your skills, there are technicians that can clean it for you.
Remotes
TV, gadget, and air conditioning remotes are other often touched areas that need a thorough clean. Aside from germs and dust, the natural oils from our fingertips can damage the buttons over time. Wiping it down with some alcohol every other day should do the trick.
Handles and light switches
In general, handles are commonly used areas. Be it a door, fridge, or appliance handle, there’s a high concentration of contact. This can also mean that handles are especially susceptible to bacteria. Handles should be cleaned as often as possible to prevent the spread of germs. Same goes for light switches.
Knife and utensil holders
Cleaning our utensils is a no-brainer, but what about where we store them? Drying racks, utensil compartments, and knife holders can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Washing them with soap and water can keep them clean so you don’t have to worry about them contaminating your utensils.
Knife holders, especially the block types with slots, need extra care. Slotting in wet or moist knives can encourage bacterial growth. It’s best to soak knife holders in some soapy water and scrub the inside of each slot with a wire brush or a pipe cleaner.
Rugs and carpets
Sadly, vacuuming rugs and carpets aren’t enough. If you have pets and kids, you’ll need to deep clean them at least once a year. Pet dander, dirt, crumbs, and hair can live in your carpets and become a breeding ground for allergens and bacteria. There are professional rug cleaning services that can shampoo and dry rugs and carpets, especially if they’re delicate.
Decor
Figurines, collectibles, paintings, and assorted decor is nice to look at, but also requires a good dusting every so often. If you keep your decor in a display cabinet, wiping it down from time to time is a good idea. Bigger decorative pieces that are out in the open such as vases, paintings, and other assorted knick knacks should be dusted as often as weekly because they’re more exposed.
Light fixtures
Large accent fixtures like chandeliers and lamps can collect a lot of dust over time. Overhead lighting can become neglected because it’s a hassle to get that high. Going over delicate glass or crystal light fixtures with a feather duster should be part of your weekly routine. If there’s a special occasion on the horizon though, you’ll want to break out the crystal cleaner to make sure the fixture really shines.
Areas
Under big appliances
The out of sight, out of mind principle is at work here. You don’t see the mess, so you don’t see the need to clean it up. Microwaves, ovens, refrigerators, and stoves can collect a lot of dust and dirt if there’s some space underneath.
Aside from underneath these big appliances, you’ll also want to check the space next to it. With stand alone stoves, there can be a gap next to it where dust, dirt, old ingredients, and grease can build up.
Walls
Often seen and touched but seldom cleaned, walls need a thorough scrub, too. Natural oils from fingertips, smoke residue, and dust can accumulate on its surface. The approach to cleaning is different depending on the type of paint and material the wall is made of. Using natural, all-purpose cleaners can work for most types of walls, but make sure to spot-test it in a discreet area before going all in.
Molding and baseboards
Depending on your taste, molding can be a great addition to any home. It is a pain to clean though. The groves and corners of molding can easily store dust and dirt. The same goes with baseboards. A thorough vacuuming weekly and a scrub down from time to time can keep the dust away and make sure it keeps looking great.
Recessed areas
Alcoves and recessed lighting have been a trend for a while now. While it does look nice, it also requires a lot of cleaning and maintenance. Dust and insects can settle in recessed areas of the home, so taking the time to vacuum it is a necessary chore.