When we think about house cleaning, we usually think about vacuuming, wiping countertops, mopping floors and scrubbing the bathtub. These five cleaning tasks are often overlooked but are just as important to maintain a clean, organized and happy home.
De-grime Appliances
Washing machines, ovens and refrigerators deserve a good cleaning at least once a month. However, it’s not just the insides and the parts we can see that require attention. Dust and grime can build up underneath and behind large appliances. Clean inside, behind and around large appliances to keep them working well and grime-free. It’s up to you how often you clean behind and under large appliances but you should do it at least once or twice a year. Don’t forget to regularly clean your small appliances too.
Wipe Down Door Knobs and Handles
It’s easy to overlook the germs and dirt that can build up on door handles around the house. It’s not just our hands, but the neighbor’s kids and other visitors who are leaving behind dirt, sweat, oils and bacteria. Wipe door knobs and door handles regularly to reduce bacteria from spreading around the household. Pay particular attention to the door handles that get the most use such as the front door, kitchen doors — including cabinets and appliances — and bathrooms. Mix together equal parts water and vinegar and wipe handles down with a clean cloth to do the job using an Eco-friendly cleaning solution.
Freshen Up Curtains
Curtains are magnets for dust, pollen, mold, pet hair and a variety of household odors that leave them dirty and less than fresh-smelling. Dirty curtains can have a negative impact on your health and also on the general fragrance of the room. Freshen your curtains by brushing or vacuuming them regularly top to bottom. You should also consider periodically washing them. Most lightweight curtains can be machine washed, but some curtains may require hand or steam cleaning.
HVAC Filters
As your HVAC system pumps warm or cool air throughout your home, it also pumps a variety of particles and contaminants, including mold, pollen, dust and bacteria. Contaminants can affect the system’s performance as well as the quality of the air you and your family breathe. HVAC filters trap these contaminants, stopping them from entering the home. But air filters get dirty, so you should change them at least once a month to help keep your HVAC system running efficiently and the air in your home clean.
Regularly Clean the Trash Can
Whether from missed free throws, splatter, or liquids that seep through the trash bag, the kitchen garbage container can end up as filthy and smelly as the trash you put in it. To prevent the trash can from collecting residue, give it a regular cleaning using a disinfectant cleaning solution, paper towels and a scrubbing brush. Don’t forget to put on rubber gloves!
Adding these few tasks to your regular home maintenance routine will improve the cleanliness and air quality of your home. And in turn, you will improve the quality of life for you and your family.
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Nice! This was a great write-up. Good recommendations as well. Thanks!
I am very terrible with the HVAC filters. Mine are pretty dusty ?. Thanks for these tips now I can’t stop staring at them. Looks like I know how I am spending the evening lol
Maya
IG: @justmeomaya
This was such an interesting post and really made me think about the places I overlook in my cleaning regime. I think it’s time to go around and clean door handles this week!
I always forgot to clear door knobs and handles! Thanks for the great reminder. This weekend I’ll be doing the cleaning of my entire apartment and remember all your points!
I have to admit that I am guilty of not washing my curtains regularly. It’s like once they went up they just stayed up and I have not touch them since.
Hi,
Cleanliness is next to Godliness!!
This site is awesome!! The products mentioned may not be available where i live, but never mind, I am gonna check behind refrigerator tomorrow morning for sure…:-)