When was the last time you cleaned the top of your refrigerator? What about behind your couch or under your bed? It is easy to focus on the obvious areas when cleaning, such as vacuuming the floors, wiping down counters, and scrubbing the bathroom. But many spaces in your home go unnoticed. These forgotten areas collect dust, dirt, and even bacteria over time. If you want a truly clean home, it is time to pay attention to those neglected spots.
Here are some places you forget to clean in your home and practical ways to tackle them.
Behind and Under Large Furniture
Your couch, bed, and other large furniture pieces are excellent at hiding dust, crumbs, and lost items. Because these pieces are heavy and difficult to move, they often get skipped during routine cleaning.
To clean this area, move the furniture (as best as you can) away from walls or lift it carefully to access hidden debris. Use a vacuum with an extension hose to remove dust and dirt, then wipe down baseboards and walls behind it to prevent buildup.
This may require more than one person to complete, so plan accordingly and make it a habit to do this at least once a month.
The Tops of Cabinets, Doors, and Appliances
Out of sight often means out of mind, and that is exactly the case with high-up surfaces. The tops of kitchen cabinets, door frames, and large appliances like refrigerators and ovens collect a surprising amount of dust and grease.
Use a step stool to reach these high-surface areas safely. Wipe away any dust or grime that has collected with a microfiber cloth or duster. For sticky residue, use a gentle cleaner.
Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans and light fixtures gather dust quickly, and when they are turned on, that dust spreads throughout the room.
Before cleaning, turn off the light and allow the bulbs to cool. Take a microfiber duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment and give it a general surface clean first. You will also want to remove the glass covers and wash them with soap and water for a deeper clean.
Behind and Beneath Kitchen Appliances
Your stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher may look clean on the outside, but what about the space behind and underneath them? Food crumbs, grease, and dust accumulate in these hidden areas.
To clean these spaces, carefully pull appliances away from the wall, then sweep or vacuum any debris and mop if necessary. Wipe down the sides and backs of appliances before pushing them back into place.
Like with heavy and bulky furniture, you might want to ask for help and plan to do this once a month.
Inside Drawers and Cabinets
It is easy to assume that the inside of drawers and cabinets stays clean, but dust, crumbs, and spills often build up inside.
For these areas, you want to first empty the drawer or cabinet completely. Then wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth. If your aim is to also organize the contents, use drawer organizers to keep items tidy and prevent debris buildup.
Baseboards and Door Frames
Baseboards and door frames collect dust, scuffs, and grime, especially in high-traffic areas. To clean them, use a damp microfiber cloth or a magic eraser to wipe away dirt. For stubborn grime, mix warm water with a little dish soap. You will also want to vacuum along the edges to remove loose dust before wiping.
Under the Sink
The space under the sink is often cluttered with cleaning supplies and other household items, making it easy to overlook spills and leaks.
First, remove everything from under the sink and discard any expired or unused items. Use this time to check for leaks or water damage. Then, wipe down the inside of the cabinet and use bins to organize the remaining supplies.
Remote Controls, Light Switches, and Door Handles
These high-touch areas are some of the germiest places in your home, yet they are often neglected during routine cleaning.
For these items, you will want to use disinfecting wipes or a cloth with rubbing alcohol. Wipe down switches, handles, and remotes regularly, about once a week. During flu season, you will want to do this more often to prevent the spread of germs.
Window Tracks and Blinds
While windows get cleaned occasionally, their tracks and blinds are often left out. Dust, dead bugs, and dirt collect in these areas, affecting air quality.
You can use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose debris first. Then, wipe down tracks with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Make sure to dust your blinds as well with a microfiber cloth or duster. If you have curtains, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to give them a solid wash.
Mattresses and Pillows
You wash your sheets regularly, but when was the last time you cleaned your mattress or pillows? Over time, they collect dust mites, sweat, and bacteria.
First, vacuum your mattress using an upholstery attachment. Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for thirty minutes, then vacuum it up. You could add essential oils to the baking soda like lemongrass, lavender, or pine for some aromatherapy. Finally, wash pillows according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Air Vents and Filters
Dust and allergens build up in air vents and filters, impacting your home’s air quality. To clean them, remove the vent covers and wash them with warm, soapy water. Vacuum inside the vents with a hose attachment and the area around it to collect any fallen debris. Replace HVAC filters regularly to maintain clean airflow throughout your home.
Behind the Toilet and Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Bathrooms get regular cleaning, but the space behind the toilet and the exhaust fan is easy to overlook.
You will want to first use a disinfectant wipe or a mop to clean behind the toilet. This space can be tricky, so be patient. Then, remove dust from the exhaust fan with a vacuum brush attachment and finish up by wiping the fan cover and replace it if necessary.
Trash Cans and Recycling Bins
Even with a liner, trash cans develop unpleasant odors and residue over time. To clean them, take the bin outside and rinse it with a hose. Scrub them with dish soap or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar for tough stains. Let it dry completely before inserting a new liner.
Pet Areas and Toys
If you have pets, their beds, toys, and food dishes need regular cleaning to prevent bacteria buildup. First, wash pet beds and blankets according to their care labels. Then, clean toys with warm, soapy water. You will also want to sanitize food and water dishes once a week using pet-friendly cleaning products.
Taking the time to clean these forgotten areas will make your home feel fresher and more inviting. When you incorporate these tasks into your cleaning routine, you can prevent buildup and maintain a healthier living environment. So, the next time you clean, remember these places you forget to clean in your home and give them the attention they deserve.
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