Regular home cleaning can be overwhelming, especially when you consider those hard-to-reach places. Thankfully, these spots don't need daily attention like the rest of your home. However, removing dust, grime, and mold from these areas is crucial for maintaining a healthy, allergen-free environment.
To help you tackle this task, here are 10 hard-to-reach places you should clean at least once a month.
1. Tops of Furniture and Cabinets
Cleaning the tops of tall furniture and cabinets can be challenging, especially if you prefer not to use a ladder. Opt for disposable dusters with extendable handles and flexible heads to make this task easier without awkward hand positions.
For kitchen cabinets, a thorough clean is necessary due to grease and dust buildup. Mix equal parts household ammonia and liquid dishwasher in two cups of warm water. Use a scrubber to apply the solution, wipe away the loosened dirt with a damp rag, and finish with a clean cloth to dry the surface.
2. Crown Moldings and Ceilings
Ceilings and crown moldings are often neglected, but regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of dirt and cobwebs. Use long-handled brushes or brooms to dislodge dirt, especially for intricate moldings.
Wear a mask to avoid inhaling debris, and take breaks to reduce strain on your neck, shoulders, and back. When using a ladder, have someone hold it steady for safety. After dislodging the dirt, use a vacuum cleaner or broom to thoroughly clean up the fallen debris.
3. Lighting Fixtures and Fans
Ceiling fans and high light fixtures often go unnoticed during regular cleaning. To clean them, you'll need microfiber cloths, a mop or long-handled broom, and a rubber band. Wrap the cloth around the broom handle and secure it with the rubber band.
A disposable duster with an extendable handle works well for removing cobwebs and dust without scattering particles, but if you don't have one, the makeshift tool will suffice. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust, and have someone steady the ladder if you need to climb.
4. Behind the Commode
Maintaining cleanliness in the bathroom is crucial, especially behind the commode, an area often overlooked. This spot can harbor bacteria, so it's essential to clean it regularly.
Wear knee pads, rubber gloves, and a face mask for this task. Use a hard-bristled brush to scrub the toilet base, floor, and wall. Apply a disinfectant cleaner to eliminate harmful bacteria, following the product's instructions. Finally, rinse the area and dry it with a clean cloth.
5. Dishwasher Filter
The dishwasher filter, which traps food particles, is often overlooked, leading to unpleasant odors and reduced efficiency. To ensure clean dishes and smooth operation, clean the filter regularly.
Locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher by pulling out the bottom rack. Some filters can be removed; refer to your manual for instructions. Soak removable filters in warm, soapy water and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. For non-removable filters, lift them up, remove visible food particles, and wipe with a soapy cloth.
TIP: Remove the racks, pour white vinegar into the empty dishwasher, and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Replace the racks and run a short cycle for a fresh, odor-free dishwasher.
6. Sliding Tracks
Sliding door, window, and shower door tracks accumulate a lot of dust and dirt. Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation and prevents debris from lodging under the frames.
Start by vacuuming loose dirt with an appropriate attachment. Mix a cleaning solution using two cups of warm water, one teaspoon of liquid dish soap concentrate, and one teaspoon of household ammonia. Use a hard-bristled brush to scrub away the remaining grime. Rinse the tracks with plain water. For shower doors, vinegar works well to cut through soap scum and grime.
7. Venetian or Slatted Blinds
Start by closing the blinds to create a smooth surface for cleaning. After cleaning one side, flip the blinds over to continue. Alternatively, use a duster glove or an old cotton glove to pinch each slat between your fingers for simultaneous cleaning of both sides.
Pay special attention to the top slats, which are often overlooked. Use furniture polish for wooden slats and glass cleaner for plastic or metal blinds, depending on the material. Repeat the process for each slat until they are all clean.
8. Refrigerator Coils
Cleaning refrigerator coils is crucial for maintaining efficiency and reducing utility bills, yet many overlook this task. With a few simple tools, you can remove dirt and debris, saving money in the process.
Before starting, turn off the main power supply to your fridge for safety. Pull the refrigerator forward and use a suitable brush attachment to vacuum the coils, dislodging and suctioning up loose dirt. For models with bottom coils, use a stiff brush with an extendable handle to reach narrow spaces. Vacuum remaining dirt with a crevice attachment. Don't forget to clean the condenser fan to ensure blades rotate freely.
9. Garbage Disposal
Despite being a "dirty" appliance, the garbage disposal is often neglected. However, a quick sniff around the sink will prompt you to grab your cleaning supplies. Avoid sticking your hand into the disposal area due to safety concerns.
Start by turning on the disposal and running cold water for around fifteen seconds to flush out any food bits and debris. To tackle stubborn grime, scrub the interior with a hard-bristled brush and a paste of water and baking soda. Rinse thoroughly with cold water afterward. For lingering odors, add citrus peels and run the disposal to freshen it up.
10. Computer and Laptop Keyboards
For those who spend hours on PCs and laptops, dirt and dust buildup on the keys is inevitable. This is especially true for those multitasking between work and meals. To clean your keyboard effectively, disconnect it from your computer or turn off your laptop.
No specialized cleaning tools are necessary; an old blush brush and narrow paintbrush work well. Dust the keys with the blush brush, then use the paintbrush to clean between them. Use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the grooves around the keys, changing them frequently. Pinch the swabs after soaking to remove excess liquid before use.
Regular cleaning of your laptop and keyboard helps maintain hygiene, especially if others use them. Germs can easily transfer through touch, including colds and viruses like COVID-19.
Conclusion
After thoroughly exploring and detailing various cleaning tasks for often overlooked areas in the home, it's evident that attention to these spots not only enhances cleanliness but also contributes to a healthier living environment. From the tops of furniture and cabinets to behind the commode, each area presents its unique challenges and solutions.
By incorporating regular cleaning routines and utilizing simple tools and techniques, maintaining cleanliness in these areas becomes more manageable. Additionally, adopting safety measures, such as wearing masks and taking breaks during cleaning sessions, ensures both efficiency and personal well-being.
By following these guidelines and incorporating them into regular cleaning routines, homeowners can enjoy a cleaner, healthier living space while also prolonging the lifespan and efficiency of household appliances. Ultimately, investing time and effort into cleaning these often overlooked areas contributes to a more comfortable and enjoyable home environment for all inhabitants.
