Most of us stick to the basics when cleaning—vacuuming the floors, dusting, and cleaning the bathroom. But there are plenty of spots around the house that don’t get the attention they need. These forgotten areas collect dust, grime, and germs, which make your home feel less fresh over time. Let’s look at some of the most commonly missed cleaning spots and how to tackle them.
The Tops of Door Frames and Cabinets
Out of sight, out of mind, right? That’s especially true for the tops of door frames and cabinets. These areas are like magnets for dust and cobwebs. Even if the rest of your house is spotless, these hidden spots will get dirty over time. Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum attachment to wipe them down every couple of months.
Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans are Common Missed Cleaning Spots
Have you ever noticed a little dust flying off your ceiling fan when you turn it on? That’s a sign it’s overdue for a cleaning. Light fixtures and fans collect dust fast, and it’s not just about appearances. That dust circulates around your living spaces and affects your air quality. Use a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to wipe them down every 1-2 months.
Missed Cleaning Spots Behind and Under Furniture
When was the last time you moved your couch or bed? These spots hide an amazing amount of dust, dirt, and random little items you thought you’d lost. It’s not the easiest task, but cleaning these areas every few months will make a big difference.
Remote Controls and Light Switches
Think about how often you touch your remote control or light switches. Now, think about how frequently you clean them. These are some of the germiest spots in your home, and they’re so easy to forget. A quick swipe with disinfectant wipes will keep them clean and safe.
Shower Curtains and Liners
Bathrooms are damp and humid, perfect for mold and mildew. Shower curtains and liners are especially prone to mold. To keep your bathroom fresh, throw fabric curtains in the washer and wipe down or replace plastic liners regularly.
Kitchen Appliances and Handles
The kitchen sees a lot of use, and some areas don’t get cleaned as often as they should. Refrigerator handles, microwave buttons, and oven knobs are touched frequently but often overlooked. Even the inside of your toaster or coffee maker might need attention. A regular wipe-down will keep everything hygienic and germ-free.
Air Vents and Filters
When was the last time you cleaned your air vents or replaced a filter? Dust and debris build up fast and can impact the air quality in your home. Cleaning vents and swapping out filters every month will help you breathe easier.
Missed Cleaning Spots Around Baseboards and Moldings
Baseboards and moldings are like dirt magnets. They catch dust, pet hair, and all kinds of grime, but they’re easy to forget during regular cleaning. A quick wipe with a damp cloth will keep them looking great without much effort.
Trash Cans
Even with liners, trash cans will get gross over time. Spills and leaks create a grimy mess that’s both smelly and unhygienic. Give your trash cans a good scrub inside and out now and then to keep odors and bacteria in check.
The Inside of Washing Machines and Dishwashers
Your washing machine and dishwasher do the cleaning, but they also need cleaning. Soap scum, food particles, and even mold can build up inside. Run an empty cycle with a cleaner designed for these appliances to keep them in top shape.
FAQs on Commonly Missed Cleaning Spots
How often should I clean these spots?
It depends. Remote controls and light switches should be wiped down weekly, while vents and ceiling fans can go a couple of months between cleanings.
What tools do I need for these tasks?
The most used items are a microfiber cloth, disinfectant wipes, and a vacuum with attachments. For deeper cleans, you might need a gentle cleaning solution or appliance cleaner.
Can ignoring these spots affect my health?
Yes! Dust and germs can build up in these areas, leading to allergies or even illnesses. Keeping these spots clean helps create a healthier home.
By tackling these commonly missed cleaning spots, you’ll make your home look and feel much cleaner—and you might even improve your health.
House Doctor Home Inspection provides home inspections to customers in Rhode Island. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule our services.