- Mattresses
Like pillows, mattresses need to be cleaned. They are home to allergy-causing bacteria and dust mites, and owners should clean them at least once a year.
This is done by vacuuming or turning it over. Plastic covers are also effective in keeping mites away.
- Underlayment of appliances
Dust and dirt naturally accumulate under large appliances such as refrigerators and ovens because they can hardly be cleaned. Once a year, pull out the large machines and clean this space thoroughly.
Use a refrigerator coil brush to remove dust particles and a vacuum cleaner to suck up excess debris. Cleaning the refrigerator coils not only makes it look better, but also improves the overall efficiency of the appliance.
- Shower curtains
Shower curtains can become covered with soap scum and sometimes mildew after repeated use. The solution to this problem is to throw them in the washing machine (if they are machine washable).
In addition to detergent, a cup of baking soda can be used to remove hard-to-wash dirt and soap scum. Shower curtains that cannot be put in the washing machine should be wiped clean.
- Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposal cannot just be rinsed with regular water to reduce odors. First, turn off the disposer. Next, pour in a mixture of half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar.
You will see bubbles, but you can cover them with the stopper in the sink. When the bubbles stop coming out, rinse with hot water. If the garbage disposal still smells, consider cleaning it further with a sponge.
- Baseboards
Baseboards should be added to your cleaning rotation, especially in high-traffic areas, where dust and dirt can easily accumulate.
Use a vacuum cleaner extension brush or a damp rag to quickly clean along dirty baseboards.
- Washing Machine
Clean your washing machine at least once a month to prevent the buildup of debris and odors. Without proper cleaning, soap scum can encourage bacterial growth and make clothes smell bad.
To keep it clean, wipe down the interior with an all-purpose cleaner and run the appliance on the clean setting or hot water cycle with 2 cups of vinegar in hot water.
- Light fixtures
Like ceiling fans, light fixtures are often overlooked when cleaning.
Lamps can harbor a significant amount of dust and cobwebs. Don’t ask me how I know this. To clean, wipe each light fixture individually with a microfiber cloth.
If you haven’t cleaned them in a while, you may find dust and debris under tables and furniture, so it is best to clean them first.
- Air Vents
The air vents are another area that is often forgotten to clean. Check both the air intake regulator and the heating vent.
If you have a brush vacuum attachment, this is a good time to use it. This is also a good time to replace the furnace filter for better air quality in your home.
It is also a good idea to have a professional clean your dryer vent from time to time. Not only will this improve the efficiency of your dryer, but lint buildup can eventually cause a fire.
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