When we clean, we tend to aim for the things that are at eye-level, the part that guests are likely to lay their prying eyes on first. Then we expand into all the nooks and crannies, but even despite our best efforts there are still those things and places in our home that we forget to clean, and we REALLY should. We’re not just talking about the dust bunnies in those hard to reach places, we’re talking down right, in your face, use everyday kind of stuff that contains a ton of germs and bacteria. That saying, “out of sight, out of mind” just won’t cut it after you’re through with these 10 places in your home that you always forget to clean:
1. Your remote controls and gaming controls
Humans carry an alarming amount of bacteria on their hands on a daily basis. On average we carry 3,200 bacteria from 150 different species on our hands. After all our hands are our most used asset on our body. We do everything with them from peeling an orange to stoop and scooping after walking the dog. It’s no wonder the remote control is virtually swarming with bacteria as we speak. Don’t forget to disinfect the remote control as often as possible!2.
2. Throw pillows
Pretty on the eyes sure, but not so pretty for our noses. For allergy sufferers, the very same throw pillow you’re resting your head on could just be the cause for your worsened allergies. Throw pillow are prone to holding dust, dirt, and pet dander - all of which is torturous for allergies. If you’re able to remove the covers, throw them in the wash every week or bring them outside to fluff out the dust.
3. Under your bed
This is where we go back to out of sight, out of mind. It’s going to be really hard to ignore the build up of dust mites under the bed when you start experiencing respiratory problems. Run the vacuum under the bed weekly and that should help you breathe better all night.
4. Window pane, sills, and sash
Window panes can work like a fly trap but more like a glass version for dust, dander, and even human skin cells Through our day-to-day living these microscopic pieces of debris can go airborne and land right on your window pane. Problem is, when left on the window combined with condensation and warm weather, it becomes a breeding ground for mould and other viruses. Have you ever seen tiny black specks appear on your window pane, sill, or between the sash? That is mould and needs to be cleaned quickly with an antibacterial cleaning agent like, warm water and vinegar.
5. Door frames
The same goes for door frames as it does for the dirt, dust and debris caught in the crevices of your window. These areas are more susceptible to mould and rotting if not cleaned properly as it is more exposed to the moisture and hot weather than any other part of the home. Not to mention the front entryway door probably being a high traffic area in most homes.
6. Under the rug
When all is clean and tidy, you can trust that dirt and debris has made its way safely to it’s hiding place under the rug! It’s not necessary to go through the trouble of moving the rug every week, but definitely a monthly task especially if you are prone to dust allergies.
7. Light switches
This goes back to how much germs humans carry on their hands everyday. Just think about how often and how many hands touch the same light switch everyday and every week. Light switches are so easily forgotten about. The accumulation of germs and bacteria that can be found on light switches is alarming. Disinfect the light switches as often as you can to stop the spread of germs, flus, and other viruses in your home.
8. House plants
House plants are lovely, but are also could be a breeding ground for mould, insects, and could carry a ton of dust. Every week, clean around the pot for any moisture or dirt spills as well as take a duster or a damp cloth to wipe down the leaves of larger plants that may be harbouring a layer of dust or worse, spider webs!
9. Computer keyboards
Another area of the home that constantly being riddled by our hands and
10. Kitchen cloths, rags, and sponges
Saving the best for last, kitchen sponges, cloths, and rags probably have the highest germ count of any other item in the home. Not only are the more commonly used to clean dirty things, it sits in water and moisture, creating the perfect place for bacteria to flourish. Not to worry, this is easily remedied, here’s how:
- Keep your sponges on a drying dish or rack when you’re not using them.
- Don’t leave them soaking in a wet sink
- Before you reuse the sponge or cloth, soak them in boiling water and a dash of white vinegar to kill any bacteria on them.
Keeping your home clean is needed not only for perception, but for your ability to breathe better and live healthier in your own home. Remembering to clean the easily forgotten places like your windows and doors will help keep them well maintained and functioning well for many years to come.
