Hidden Cleaning Tasks You Didn’t Know You Were Missing
- Best Home Services
- Nov 1, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 22
When it comes to home cleaning, there are countless areas we often miss because they're easy to overlook or hard to reach. These hidden areas can quickly collect dust, grime, and bacteria, impacting the cleanliness and freshness of your home. Here’s a guide to some commonly overlooked places, as reported by reddit users — and how to clean them right.
Quick Reference List: Areas we Don't Realise we Should be Cleaning
1. Pet Marks on Walls and Furniture
If you have pets, you might notice dark, oily smudges on walls or furniture where your furry friends rub up against. These marks are from oils in their fur, and cats may also leave scent markings on corners, while dogs may boop their noses on everything. Clean these spots with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent using a microfibre cloth.
2. Baseboards and Under-Furniture Areas
Baseboards easily collect dust and dirt, especially near high-traffic areas. Regularly vacuum or wipe down with a damp cloth. Don’t forget to clean behind and under large furniture pieces as well, as these spots collect dust and fibres that are often missed.
3. Electric Toothbrushes and Water Picks
Electric toothbrushes can accumulate gunk at the base and under the brush head. Remove and rinse the head after each use, and disinfect regularly by soaking the head in a hydrogen peroxide solution. Dry thoroughly to prevent mould and bacteria growth.
4. Grease Screens and Stove Knobs
The grease filter above your stove absorbs cooking residue and should be cleaned monthly. Remove it, soak in hot soapy water, scrub gently, and let it dry before reinserting. Also, check stove knobs; many pull off easily for a quick clean to remove built-up grease.
5. Door Knobs, Handles, and Light Switches
Frequently touched surfaces like door knobs, light switches, and cabinet handles collect bacteria. Wipe these down weekly with disinfectant to keep germs at bay. Pay special attention to door edges and frames, which can accumulate grime from daily use.
6. Houseplants
Indoor plants gather dust on their leaves, impacting their growth. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or rinse under a light shower. For a natural pest deterrent, you can mix a mild dish soap solution (about five tablespoons per gallon of water) and spray it on the leaves.
7. Top of Kitchen Cupboards and Curtain Rods
Dust and grease can settle on high-up areas like the tops of cupboards or curtain rods. If your cupboards don’t reach the ceiling, clean these areas monthly with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner.
8. Refrigerator Coils and Seals
To keep your fridge running efficiently, clean the coils at least once a year with a vacuum attachment or a gentle brush. Also, check the rubber seals around the doors, which can trap crumbs and grime, affecting the fridge’s efficiency and hygiene.
9. Kitchen Drawer Inserts and Utensil Trays
Food crumbs and dust often accumulate in utensil trays. Remove the contents, vacuum or wipe out the drawer, and wash the tray itself to prevent a build-up of residue.
10. Oven Door Glass
The space between the oven door’s inner and outer glass can get grimy. Most doors have small openings or can be unscrewed to access and clean the glass. Check online guides for your oven model for easy DIY instructions.
11. Bathroom Cupboard Clutter
Toiletries and bath products that sit unused can gather dust and become breeding grounds for bacteria. Regularly sort through and clean the inside of bathroom cupboards, tossing out old or expired products.
12. Remote Controls and Electronic Gadgets
Items like remotes, tablets, and phones are high-touch but often missed. Use a disinfectant wipe to clean the surfaces, paying attention to buttons and edges where dirt and germs accumulate.
13. Behind Large Appliances and Furniture
Dust and debris tend to settle behind refrigerators, couches, and other heavy items. Moving these for a deep clean once or twice a year keeps your home free from build-up in hard-to-reach areas.
14. Pet Beds and Feeding Areas
Pet beds, food bowls, and feeding areas can harbour bacteria and odours. Wash pet beds as often as recommended by the manufacturer, and clean bowls daily to prevent dirt and bacteria build-up.
15. Window Tracks and Sliding Door Frames
Window and sliding door tracks collect dust, grime, and sometimes even mildew. Use a small brush or vacuum attachment to remove dirt, then wipe with a cloth soaked in a mild cleaner.
16. Kitchen Drain and Sink Lip
The kitchen drain and the lip under the counter can build up grease and grime over time. Use a brush and some baking soda with vinegar to remove any residue and freshen up these areas.
17. Remote Controls, Keyboards, and Phones
These often-overlooked gadgets need regular cleaning. Wipe them down with a disinfectant, paying attention to edges and buttons where germs can accumulate.
Final Thoughts
Keeping these often-missed areas clean can drastically improve the overall cleanliness of your home, making it a fresher, healthier environment for you and your family. Tackle one or two areas each week, and soon you’ll be on top of every last nook and cranny.
