When it comes to cleaning our homes, most of us have a routine set in stone: hoover the carpets, dust the shelves, and mop the floors. However, even the neatest of households may be overlooking some areas that can harbour dust, germs, and grime. Today, let's explore four key areas in your house that likely need your attention but are frequently forgotten during the cleaning process.
Firstly, the baseboards may not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they certainly deserve a good scrub now and then. Running along the bottom of your walls, they quietly collect dust and dirt, which can build up over time. Overlooking them not only allows this grime to accumulate but can make your walls appear dull and unclean from the ground up. To clean your baseboards, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or use a microfibre duster. For the more stubborn scuffs and marks, a gentle solution of warm water and dish soap usually does the trick. However, take care with painted surfaces, as harsh scrubbing can remove or dull the finish.
Venturing into the depths of your home, we find our second overlooked area – behind the appliances. Refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens are heavy, difficult to move, and cleaning behind them can be easily disregarded. Yet, it's one of the most important cleaning tasks. Over time, a surprising amount of debris, food particles, and dust can gather behind these appliances, not to mention the potential for mould growth and unwanted pests. Once every few months, enlist some help to pull the appliances away from the wall and do a thorough vacuum and wipe down. Doing so can also improve the efficiency of your appliances, as clear vents and coils prevent overheating and reduce energy consumption.
The third area, high up and often unnoticed, is above eye level. Tops of cabinets, door frames, and picture frames are prime areas for dust accumulation. If these areas are left unchecked, they can spread dust to lower levels every time a door slams or a gust of wind comes through. An extendable duster is your best friend for reaching these lofty heights. A few swipes now and again can prevent the need for more intensive cleaning later on.
Hidden in clear sight, window tracks and window blinds often languish on the "I'll get to it eventually" list. Window tracks, those narrow grooves where your window slides open and shut, can become repositories for all manner of filth, including dead insects, mould, and mud. Use an old toothbrush and a soapy water solution to loosen the grime, followed by a rinse with a damp cloth to restore them to their former glory. For window blinds, regular dusting is key to preventing build-up. Use a duster or a cloth, and consider a quick vacuum with an attachment for a more thorough clean.
Leaving these areas unclean can contribute to poor indoor air quality and can create a living environment that feels less than sparkling. Although tackling them may require a little extra effort and perhaps a step ladder, the result is a truly clean home that you can be proud of, from top to bottom and in every nook and cranny. So next time you break out the cleaning supplies, remember these hidden corners. A little extra time spent on these forgotten spots can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy, happy home.