When it comes to cleaning, most of us have a checklist of tasks we tackle regularly, but what about the areas we don’t think about often? These commonly forgotten items can accumulate dust, dirt, and germs over time. Below I’ll highlight 10 frequently overlooked objects that might need a little extra attention than you’re currently giving. Let’s find out if these items are on your radar.
Cell Phone
Time reports that your cell phone is 10 times more dirty than a toilet seat1 , which is pretty gross. This is likely because Americans tend to check their phones approximately 47 times a day, exposing their devices to situations where they would typically wash their hands first, such as in the bathroom.
How to clean:
Use a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth such as a lens cloth. Avoid getting moisture in openings. Using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe, 75 percent ethyl alcohol wipe, or disinfecting wipe, gently wipe the exterior surfaces of your phone. *Do not use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide or compressed air.
How often:
Cleaning daily is optimal, but once per week is admissible.
Shower Curtain Liner
Shower liners come in contact with many germs that you are washing off your body, but also tend to collect mold and mildew, which can become a huge health concern if left unattended.
How to clean:
Run your washer on cold and add ½ cup baking soda and ¼ cup vinegar in the rinse cycle. Let the liner air dry. Tip: Adding towels to the load will help absorb some of the water during the wash cycle.
How often:
Every 3 months or as needed.
Broom
Failing to regularly clean your broom can reduce its effectiveness in sweeping and may result in spreading dirt and debris throughout your home instead of collecting it.
How to clean:
Get rid of any big pieces stuck in the bristles. Next, dip the brush into a container of warm water with a little soap and swish it around. Rinse with water and leave it to air dry for 24 hours before using again. When the bristles start to lose their shape, become bent, or fray, carefully cut the tips with scissors.
How often:
Every 2-3 weeks.
Vacuum Cleaner
Regularly cleaning your vacuum cleaner is crucial in order to ensure optimal performance and avoid the accumulation of harmful bacteria, molds, and mildew.
How to clean:
Ensure the vacuum is off, then eliminate any hair tangled in the rolling brush. Numerous vacuums are equipped with a storage area for dirt and lint. Search for a small opening that can be unlocked or taken off. Take out any lint, dirt, or hair that could be stuck inside. Separate all components of the vacuum that are not motorized, such as the tools, filters, hoses, and brush heads. Place the detached vacuum parts in a basin of warm, soapy water. Immerse and rinse all parts thoroughly with hot water. If necessary, scrub them with a sponge or microfiber cloth. Allow the vacuum parts to air dry. While the parts are drying, spray an all-purpose cleaner on the exterior of the vacuum and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. Once all components are dry, reassemble your vacuum cleaner.
*Robot vacuums: Make sure to prevent liquid cleaners from entering any tiny crevices that may lead to the electronic parts. The majority of robotic vacuums simply need you to clear out hair and dust from the container and filter, and then use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the outside and sensors.
How often:
Once per month.
Pillows
Pillows have a tendency to gather dust mites, fungi, sweat, drool, and oils from your body which can cause respiratory issues or allergies, particularly if you are already susceptible.
How to clean:
Put the pillows in the washing machine and select a gentle cycle with warm water. Use a mild detergent and a small amount of soap. It is best to wash two pillows together to ensure an evenly balanced load. To speed up the drying process and prevent clumping, throw a couple of clean tennis balls in the dryer with the pillows.
How often:
Every four months or so.
Outside AC Unit
Regularly cleaning your AC unit will prevent dust and dirt from circulating through your vents and house. Maintaining good air quality is vital for the well-being and comfort of you and your loved ones. In addition, keeping your unit clean will minimize wear and tear, extend its lifespan, and lower energy expenses.
How to clean:
First, switch off the air conditioning system at the thermostat. Disconnect the power to the external condenser by either unplugging it or switching off the power at the breaker. Get rid of any debris surrounding the unit, such as leaves or plants. Make sure to maintain a distance of at least one foot between plants or bushes and the unit to prevent any obstructions or overcrowding. Take off the top of the condenser unit and carefully unscrew it as per the manufacturer’s guidelines to access the coils inside. Eliminate any debris inside the unit, such as large leaves or clumps of grass, using your hands. Then, utilize a shop vacuum to clean out any remaining dirt and dust from inside the unit. Use a soft bristle brush to remove the dirt that has built up on the coils, making sure to brush in an up and down motion rather than side to side. Apply an air conditioning coil cleaner onto the coils until they are completely covered. Allow the cleaner to sit on the coils for the recommended duration stated on the product, usually around 5-10 minutes. After that, rinse off the coil cleaner by spraying the air conditioner with water from a garden hose. Be careful not to spray water on the electrical components. It is important to note that using a power washer on your AC unit may cause damage. Put back the top of the unit onto its base and let it air dry. Remember to switch the unit back on, both at the thermostat and by plugging it back in.
How often:
Once per year.
Bathroom Fan
The bathroom provides ideal conditions for the development of mold, mildew, and bacteria due to the combination of moisture and humidity. If the exhaust fan is not regularly cleaned and maintained, it will not effectively stop the spread of mold.
How to clean:
Take off the covering of the motor by removing the grill and bulb housing/plate. If there is a full-sized bulb, take it out. Disconnect the plate from the fan motor and unplug any cords nearby. Clean the plastic grill and/or light cover in soapy water and remove any loose dust by vacuuming all accessible surfaces. The plastic fan rotor is usually secured to the motor shaft with a C-clip. If possible, detach and clean the rotor. Avoid getting the motor wet. If you are unable to remove the rotor, use gentle scraping tools to clean it, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. Wipe everything dry. Check all parts for any signs of damage. Ensure the flapper moves freely and closes properly before reassembling.
How often:
Once a year.
Synthetic Hairbrushes
Hairbrushes accumulate residue from hair products, along with bacteria, pollution, dust, sweat, oils, and dead skin cells present on your hair and scalp. Regularly cleaning your brush can prevent these contaminants from being reintroduced to your hair and scalp.
How to clean:
Start by getting rid of most of the hair on the brush bristles. Prepare a generous amount of warm water in a big bowl and mix in approximately two teaspoons of shampoo. Gently move the brush around in the mixture to generate some lather and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Use a toothbrush to clean in between the bristle rows and on the handle. If there is a lot of buildup, dip the moist toothbrush in dry baking soda and continue scrubbing. Thoroughly rinse the brush with warm water and remove any excess water by shaking it out. Place the brush on a towel with the bristles facing down to air dry.
How often:
Once per month.
Handbags
Many women place their handbags on the floor when using the restroom. (Really, ladies? Yuck!) Germs that are present on handbags may contain bacteria such as E. coli, a type of coliform that can lead to food-related sickness. Another common bacterium, Staph aureus, is known to cause issues like gastrointestinal troubles, skin infections, vomiting, and diarrhea2. Let’s avoid taking the public restroom bacteria home with us, shall we?
How to clean:
Before you start cleaning, make sure to empty out all the contents of your handbag. Identify the material of your handbag, whether it is leather, fabric, or another type, so that you can select the correct cleaning technique. Combine equal amounts of water with either rubbing alcohol or white vinegar. Prior to applying the cleaning mixture, do a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of the handbag to confirm that it won’t cause any damage. Utilize a gentle, moistened cloth to cleanse the entire surface of the handbag, both outside and inside. Allow the handbag to air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated spot.
*Leather care: If your handbag is leather, apply a leather conditioner to maintain its condition.
How often:
Weekly
Reusable Shopping Bags
Regularly washing your environmentally-friendly shopping bags can help to prevent the growth of germs and mold, as well as reducing the risk of cross-contaminating your food.
How to clean:
Firstly, it is important to review the instructions provided on the label of the bag. The majority of cloth bags can be laundered in a washing machine using a delicate cycle, cold water, and a mild detergent, followed by air drying. If the bag is made of different materials, it should be hand washed in warm, soapy water; remember to turn it inside out during the process. After washing, ensure to rinse the bag thoroughly and then hang it up to dry.
How often:
After each use.
By incorporating these commonly neglected items into your usual cleaning schedule, you will be able to maintain true cleanliness and health. Keep in mind that a cleaning routine goes beyond the visible spots; it involves fostering a truly sanitary setting. So, the next time you begin your cleaning session, make sure to include these overlooked items on your list.
