Cleaning can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but it’s something that needs to be done in order to maintain a clean and healthy home. However, there are certain things that we never think we’ll have to clean, but in reality, they require just as much attention as any other part of the house. In this article, we will go over 15 things that you may never have thought you’d have to clean, but are important to maintain the cleanliness of your home.
- Light fixtures: Light fixtures can accumulate dust and cobwebs, which can affect their appearance and the amount of light they provide. Cleaning your light fixtures once a month can improve their appearance and ensure they are providing enough light in your home.
- Ceiling fans: Ceiling fans can accumulate dust and grime, which can affect their function and the air quality in your home. Cleaning your ceiling fans once a month can improve their function and remove any built-up dirt.
- Baseboards: Baseboards often get overlooked when cleaning, but they can become dirty and dusty over time. Cleaning your baseboards once a month can give them a fresh look and remove any built-up dirt.
- Refrigerator coils: Over time, dust and debris can build up on the coils of your refrigerator, which can cause it to work harder and use more energy. Cleaning the coils every six months can help your refrigerator run more efficiently and extend its lifespan.
- Washing machine: Washing machines can harbor bacteria and mold if not cleaned regularly. Cleaning the interior and exterior of your washing machine every six months can prevent any buildup of germs and ensure it’s running at its best.
- Air ducts: Dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, which can affect the air quality in your home. Having your air ducts cleaned every two years can improve the air quality and reduce the risk of allergies or respiratory issues.
- Windows and window tracks: Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on your windows and window tracks, which can affect their ability to open and close properly. Cleaning your windows and tracks every six months can improve their function and make them look like new again.
- Range hood filter: The filter in your range hood is responsible for trapping grease and smoke from your cooking. However, over time this filter can become clogged and need to be replaced. Clean or replace the filter every six months to ensure proper ventilation in your kitchen.
- Dryer vent: Lint and debris can build up in the vent of your dryer, which can lead to a fire hazard. Cleaning the vent every six months can not only prevent a fire, but it can also make your dryer run more efficiently.
- Furniture upholstery: Upholstered furniture can accumulate dirt and dust, which can cause allergies and affect the overall appearance of the furniture. Cleaning your upholstery every six months can improve its appearance and reduce the risk of allergies.
- Mattress: Mattresses can accumulate dust mites, allergens, and even sweat over time. Cleaning your mattress every six months can remove these allergens and improve the overall hygiene of your bed.
- Carpet and area rugs: Carpets and area rugs can accumulate dirt and stains, which can affect their appearance and the air quality in your home. Having your carpets and area rugs professionally cleaned every two years can improve their appearance and remove any built-up dirt.
- Outdoor furniture: Outdoor furniture can become dirty and discolored over time due
to exposure to the elements. Cleaning your outdoor furniture every six months can restore its appearance and make it look new again.
Gutters and downspouts: Gutters and downspouts can become clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, which can cause water damage to your home. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts every six months can prevent any potential water damage and ensure proper drainage.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested and cleaned every six months to ensure they are working properly and to prevent any potential hazards.
Attic: The attic is often overlooked, but it can accumulate dust, dirt and even pests over time. Cleaning the attic every two years can improve the air quality in your home and prevent any potential pest infestations.
It’s important to note that these cleaning intervals may vary depending on the size of your home, the number of people living in it, and other factors. However, by following these guidelines and creating a cleaning schedule, you can ensure that these hard-to-clean areas are being properly maintained. Additionally, using the right tools such as microfiber dusters, long-handled dusters, vacuum with hose attachments, bent hangers, and paintbrushes can make cleaning these areas much easier.
