Have You Cleaned These Dirty Areas Lately?

We all know a clean home can bring great peace of mind. But how do you know if your home is truly clean? Believe it or not, there are many nooks and crannies we regularly forget about.

For a truly clean living space, it’s time to really think about where the dirt and grime is hiding—and how often you clean those areas. We’ve outlined some of the biggest culprits, how often they should be cleaned, and how to do it. So grab your rubber gloves and get cleaning!

Garbage can (every week)

 
Make sure your garbage can is clean by washing it with a diluted solution of bleach and water. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda in the bottom, and let sit for ten minutes. This will help to absorb any residual odors that may lurk around. Be sure to wipe it out with a paper towel and let dry completely before putting in a new bag.

Light switches (every week)

Think about how often you and your family touch the light switches in your home. Now think about how often you clean them. Once a week, spray a household cleaner or rubbing alcohol onto a paper towel and wipe down the switch. Don’t spray the cleaner directly on it, as too much cleaner could get behind the switch.

Window blinds (every week)

Window blinds might help filter sunlight, but they also collect dust. If you don’t want a really big chore on your hands, dust your blinds weekly with a microfiber duster in the direction of the slats. For heavier dust, you can use your vacuum—with brush attachment—on its lightest setting.

Ceiling fan (every two weeks)

Ceiling fans are notorious for collecting dirt and dust. Hello allergies! To clean a ceiling fan, put an old pillowcase over one of the blades. (Make sure the fan is off first.) Hold the blade through the pillowcase, and slide off the pillowcase to collect dust. Repeat for each blade, and then toss the pillowcase in the wash to use again next time.

Washing machine (every month)

Set your front-loading washer to its hottest water setting, add two cups of white cleaning vinegar to the machine, and run the cycle. Repeat with half a cup of baking soda. Wipe clean.

Garbage disposal (every month)