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In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook certain cleaning tasks. While many of us are diligent about sweeping floors or wiping down counters, there are other areas in our homes that often go unnoticed and uncleaned. These forgotten spots, however, can harbor dust, bacteria, and allergens, potentially affecting the health and cleanliness of your living space.
To ensure your home is as clean and healthy as possible, it’s important to remember these often-overlooked areas and know how frequently they should be cleaned. Below, we’ve compiled a list of such spots along with recommended cleaning schedules to help you maintain a truly spotless home.
1. Baseboards: Every 3 Months
Baseboards may not be at eye level, but they are still a magnet for dust and grime. The horizontal surfaces collect dust, while dirt can splatter up from the floor. Every three months, take a vacuum with a brush attachment and run it along your baseboards to remove loose dust. Follow up with a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt. If your baseboards are painted white, you might want to use a gentle cleaning solution to remove scuff marks and stains.
2. Ceiling Fans: Every 2 Months
Ceiling fans are fantastic for circulating air, but they also collect dust quickly on their blades. To clean them, use an extendable duster or a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down each blade. A pillowcase works well for this task; slip it over each blade and wipe to trap the dust inside. Doing this every two months will prevent dust from dispersing into the air when the fan is on.
3. Dishwasher Filter: Monthly
The dishwasher filter is out of sight, out of mind, but it traps food particles and debris. A clogged filter can lead to less effective cleaning and unpleasant odors. Once a month, remove the filter—typically located at the bottom of the dishwasher—and rinse it under hot water. Use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn bits of food. This simple task ensures your dishwasher runs efficiently and your dishes come out sparkling.
4. Mattress: Every 6 Months
Your mattress is a significant investment and deserves regular care. Every six months, strip the bed and vacuum the mattress surface to remove dust mites, dead skin cells, and other allergens. Sprinkle baking soda evenly across the mattress, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up to deodorize. Rotate or flip the mattress if applicable to ensure even wear.
5. Light Switches: Weekly
Light switches are some of the most touched surfaces in your home, making them prime spots for bacteria. Once a week, wipe them down with a disinfecting wipe or a cloth dampened with a gentle cleaning solution. Pay attention to the surrounding wall area, as fingerprints and smudges often extend beyond the switch itself.
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