Maintaining a clean and healthy home environment is crucial for your well-being. While we often focus on high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom, there are numerous hidden spots and items that accumulate dirt, dust, and germs over time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 things in your home that you might overlook but should clean regularly to ensure a hygienic living space.

1. Remote Controls
Why Clean It?
Remote controls are handled frequently and often end up being dropped on the floor. They can become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, especially if they are shared among several people.
How to Clean It?
Remove the batteries and wipe the remote with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dipped in a solution of water and mild dish soap. Make sure to dry it thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Keep a small container of disinfectant wipes near the TV to make it easier to clean the remote after use.
Steps to Clean a Remote Control |
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1. Remove the batteries. |
2. Wipe with a disinfectant wipe. |
3. Dry thoroughly. |
4. Replace the batteries. |
2. Door Knobs and Handles
Why Clean It?
Door knobs and handles are touched every day, making them one of the most frequently contaminated surfaces in your home. Regular cleaning can help prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
How to Clean It?
Use a disinfectant spray or wipe to clean door knobs and handles. Pay special attention to the areas that are frequently touched.
Pro Tip: Use a microfiber cloth to trap and remove more dirt and bacteria.
Steps to Clean Door Knobs and Handles |
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1. Apply disinfectant spray or use wipes. |
2. Wipe thoroughly with a microfiber cloth. |
3. Dry with a clean cloth. |
3. Toothbrush Holder
Why Clean It?
The toothbrush holder is a prime spot for mold and bacteria to grow due to the constant exposure to water and moisture.
How to Clean It?
Rinse the toothbrush holder in hot water, then soak it in a solution of water and vinegar for a few minutes. Rinse again and allow it to air dry.
Pro Tip: Replace your toothbrush holder every six months to ensure it remains hygienic.
Steps to Clean a Toothbrush Holder |
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1. Rinse with hot water. |
2. Soak in water and vinegar. |
3. Rinse again. |
4. Air dry. |
4. Blinds and Curtains
Why Clean It?
Blinds and curtains can accumulate a significant amount of dust and allergens over time, which can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues.
How to Clean It?
For Blinds: Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to dust them regularly. For Curtains: Check the care label and either wash them in the machine or have them professionally cleaned.
Pro Tip: Vacuuming your blinds and curtains once a month can help keep them dust-free.
Steps to Clean Blinds and Curtains |
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1. Dust blinds with a microfiber cloth. |
2. Vacuum curtains with a brush attachment. |
3. Wash curtains according to care label. |
4. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. |
5. Switch Plates
Why Clean It?
Light switch plates are another high-touch surface that can harbor germs and bacteria. They are often overlooked during cleaning routines.
How to Clean It?
Turn off the power to the switch, remove the plate, and wash it with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching.
Pro Tip: Keep a small bottle of rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs handy to quickly disinfect switch plates.
Steps to Clean Switch Plates |
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1. Turn off power to the switch. |
2. Remove the switch plate. |
3. Wash with soap and water. |
4. Rinse and dry thoroughly. |
5. Reattach the switch plate. |
6. Coffee Maker
Why Clean It?
The coffee maker can accumulate mold and bacteria, especially in the water reservoir and the coffee pot. Regular cleaning ensures that your coffee tastes fresh and is safe to drink.
How to Clean It?
Run a cycle with equal parts water and white vinegar, followed by a rinse cycle with plain water. Use a soft cloth to wipe the exterior and the coffee pot.
Pro Tip: Clean your coffee maker after every 10 uses to prevent buildup.
Steps to Clean a Coffee Maker |
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1. Mix water and white vinegar. |
2. Run a cycle through the machine. |
3. Run a rinse cycle with water. |
4. Wipe the exterior and pot. |
7. Sponges and Scrub Brushes
Why Clean It?
Sponges and scrub brushes can harbor a lot of bacteria, especially if they are used frequently and not dried properly.
How to Clean It?
Soak sponges in a solution of water and bleach for a few minutes, then rinse and dry. For scrub brushes, wash with hot water and dish soap, then rinse and air dry.
Pro Tip: Replace sponges every two weeks and scrub brushes every few months to maintain hygiene.
Steps to Clean Sponges and Scrub Brushes |
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1. Soak sponges in water and bleach. |
2. Wash scrub brushes with hot water and soap. |
3. Rinse both thoroughly. |
4. Air dry. |
8. Refrigerator Seals
Why Clean It?
The seals on your refrigerator can become sticky and dirty, which can lead to mold and a bad odor. Regular cleaning ensures that your fridge remains fresh and efficient.
How to Clean It?
Wipe the seals with a solution of water and baking soda. Rinse with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Clean the seals once a month to prevent mold buildup.
Steps to Clean Refrigerator Seals |
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1. Mix water and baking soda. |
2. Wipe the seals with the solution. |
3. Rinse with a damp cloth. |
4. Dry thoroughly. |
9. Showerhead
Why Clean It?
Limescale and mineral deposits can build up on your showerhead, reducing water flow and potentially causing health issues.
How to Clean It?
Soak the showerhead in a solution of water and white vinegar for a few hours, then scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Clean your showerhead every three months to maintain water flow.
Steps to Clean a Showerhead |
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1. Soak in water and vinegar. |
2. Scrub with a brush. |
3. Rinse thoroughly. |
10. Pillowcases and Bed Linens
Why Clean It?
Pillowcases and bed linens can accumulate sweat, oils, and dead skin cells, which can lead to acne and other skin issues.
How to Clean It?
Wash pillowcases and bed linens in hot water and a mild detergent. Dry them completely to prevent mould and mildew growth.
Pro Tip: Wash your pillowcases at least once a week and your bed linens once a month.
Steps to Clean Pillowcases and Bed Linens |
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1. Wash in hot water and mild detergent. |
2. Dry completely. |
11. Hairbrushes and Combs
Why Clean It?
Hairbrushes and combs can accumulate hair, dirt, and oils, which can lead to scalp issues and hair damage.
How to Clean It?
Remove any loose hair, then soak the brush or comb in a solution of water and mild shampoo. Rinse and allow to air dry.
Pro Tip: Clean your brushes and combs once a week to keep them hygienic.
Steps to Clean Hairbrushes and Combs |
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1. Remove loose hair. |
2. Soak in water and shampoo. |
3. Rinse and air dry. |
12. Mattress
Why Clean It?
Mattresses can accumulate dust, sweat, and dead skin cells, which can lead to allergies and respiratory issues.
How to Clean It?
Vacuum the mattress thoroughly, then sprinkle baking soda on it and let it sit for a few hours. Vacuum again and air out the mattress.
Pro Tip: Clean your mattress every six months to maintain hygiene.
Steps to Clean a Mattress |
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1. Vacuum thoroughly. |
2. Sprinkle baking soda. |
3. Let it sit for a few hours. |
4. Vacuum again. |
5. Air out the mattress. |
13. Carpet and Rugs
Why Clean It?
Carpets and rugs can trap dirt, dust, and allergens, which can affect your health and the longevity of the fabric.
How to Clean It?
Vacuum carpets and rugs regularly. For deep cleaning, use a carpet cleaner or have them professionally cleaned.
Pro Tip: Steam cleans your carpets and rugs at least once a year to remove deep-seated dirt and allergens.
Steps to Clean Carpets and Rugs |
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1. Vacuum regularly. |
2. Use a carpet cleaner for deep cleaning. |
3. Professional cleaning once a year. |
14. Air Vents and Registers
Why Clean It?
Air vents and registers can accumulate dust and debris, which can affect the air quality in your home.
How to Clean It?
Remove the vent covers and wash them with a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Clean the interiors of the vents with a vacuum or a brush attachment.
Pro Tip: Clean air vents and registers every six months to ensure good air circulation.
Steps to Clean Air Vents and Registers |
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1. Remove vent covers. |
2. Wash with soap and water. |
3. Clean interiors with a vacuum or brush. |
4. Reattach the vent covers. |
15. Dishwasher
Why Clean It?
The dishwasher can become dirty and emit a bad odor if not cleaned regularly. Clean it to ensure that your dishes come out spotless and germ-free.
How to Clean It?
Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar in the bottom of the machine. Clean the filter and the rubber seal with a brush.
Pro Tip: Clean your dishwasher every month to maintain its performance.
Steps to Clean a Dishwasher |
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1. Run an empty cycle with cleaner. |
2. Clean the filter with a brush. |
3. Wipe the rubber seal. |
16. Garage Floor
Why Clean It?
The garage floor can accumulate oil, dirt, and other debris, which can be tracked into the house.
How to Clean It?
Sweep or vacuum the floor, then wash it with a solution of water and a degreaser. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry.
Pro Tip: Clean your garage floor every three months to keep it looking its best.
Steps to Clean a Garage Floor |
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1. Sweep or vacuum the floor. |
2. Wash with water and degreaser. |
3. Rinse thoroughly. |
4. Allow to dry. |
17. Ceiling Fans
Why Clean It?
Ceiling fans can accumulate a significant amount of dust, which can be distributed into the air when the fan is in use.
How to Clean It?
Turn off the fan and use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from the blades and the body of the fan.
Pro Tip: Clean your ceiling fans every three months to prevent dust accumulation.
Steps to Clean Ceiling Fans |
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1. Turn off the fan. |
2. Use a microfiber cloth or vacuum. |
3. Clean the blades and body. |
4. Wipe down the motor housing. |
18. Toaster
Why Clean It?
The toaster can accumulate crumbs and food particles, which can lead to a fire hazard and affect the performance of the appliance.
How to Clean It?
Unplug the toaster and allow it to cool. Shake out any loose crumbs, then use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove the remaining debris. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
Pro Tip: Clean your toaster every month to keep it in good working condition.
Steps to Clean a Toaster |
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1. Unplug and cool the toaster. |
2. Shake out loose crumbs. |
3. Clean with a soft brush or vacuum. |
4. Wipe the exterior. |
19. Window Track and Sills
Why Clean It?
Window tracks and sills can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, which can affect the operation of the window and the overall cleanliness of your home.
How to Clean It?
Remove any loose debris, then wash the track and sills with a solution of water and mild dish soap. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Clean window tracks and sills every six months to maintain smooth operation.
Steps to Clean Window Tracks and Sills |
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1. Remove loose debris. |
2. Wash with soap and water. |
3. Rinse thoroughly. |
4. Dry completely. |
20. Closet Organizers and Shelving Units
Why Clean It?
Closet organizers and shelving units can accumulate dust and dirt, which can affect the appearance and longevity of your storage spaces.
How to Clean It?
Remove items from the shelves, then wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment. Dust corners and hard-to-reach areas.
Pro Tip: Clean closet organizers and shelving units every three months to keep them looking fresh.
Steps to Clean Closet Organizers and Shelving Units |
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1. Remove items from shelves. |
2. Dust with a microfiber cloth or vacuum. |
3. Clean corners and hard-to-reach areas. |
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a clean and hygienic home is essential for your health and well-being. By regularly cleaning these often-overlooked items, you can create a more pleasant and safer living environment. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in keeping your home clean and fresh.
For more cleaning tips and tricks, visit Home Cleaning Tips and stay updated on the latest ways to keep your home clean and healthy.
Happy cleaning!