A sparkling home requires attention to detail, but even with regular cleaning, some areas often escape notice. These overlooked spots can harbour dust, bacteria, and grime, detracting from the cleanliness you work so hard to maintain. By addressing these hidden corners, you can achieve a truly spotless home. This guide covers the most commonly forgotten places to clean and how to tackle them effectively.
The Forgotten Undersides of Furniture
While the tops of tables and shelves receive regular attention, the undersides of furniture often get overlooked. Dust and cobwebs can gather here, especially under coffee tables and chairs.
To clean these areas, flip lightweight furniture if possible. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a crevice attachment to remove debris. A diluted Zoflora solution can disinfect these surfaces and leave a refreshing scent behind.
Forgotten Places in The Kitchen
It’s easy to forget what lies behind or underneath large appliances such as refrigerators and ovens. These spaces can accumulate crumbs, grease, and grime.
Move your appliances away from the wall, taking care not to damage the flooring. Sweep or vacuum debris and then mop the area with a floor cleaner. For a deeper clean, use a degreasing agent and sanitise with a solution like Zoflora to eliminate odours.
Skirting Boards and Door Frames
Skirting boards and door frames can collect a surprising amount of dust and dirt over time. Their position near the floor or at eye level leads to neglect.
Use a duster or vacuum attachment to remove loose dust. Follow up with a damp microfibre cloth and a mild cleaning solution to wipe away stubborn marks. Regular attention to these areas prevents build-up and keeps your home looking pristine.
Light Switches and Door Handles
These high-touch areas are some of the dirtiest surfaces in any home but are forgotten during routine cleaning. Bacteria and fingerprints can linger on these surfaces.
Use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with an antibacterial cleaner to sanitise switches and handles. Pay particular attention to areas around light switches where smudges are common. Dry thoroughly to prevent streaks.
Inside Cupboard Handles and Drawers
The insides of cupboards and drawers may seem clean at a glance but can hide crumbs, dust, and grease, particularly in the kitchen.
Empty the contents periodically to clean these spaces thoroughly. Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and a gentle cleaner to remove residues. Consider lining drawers with washable mats for easier maintenance in the future.
Underneath Sink Basins
The cupboard under the sink often becomes a forgotten storage space, filled with cleaning supplies or household odds and ends. Moisture in this area can lead to mould growth.
Empty the cupboard completely and inspect for any leaks or damp spots. Use an antibacterial spray to clean the surfaces and dry thoroughly before replacing items. Ensure proper ventilation to minimise moisture build-up.
Forgotten Blinds and Curtain Rods
Blinds and curtain rods are notorious for collecting dust but rarely get the attention they need during regular cleaning routines.
For blinds, use a duster or specialised cleaning tool to remove surface dust. A damp cloth with a diluted cleaning solution can handle tougher spots. Curtain rods can be wiped clean with a cloth or dusted using a long-handled tool.
The Forgotten Areas of Bathrooms
Bathrooms require frequent cleaning, but certain spots like showerheads, plugholes, and extractor fans can be forgotten.
Descale showerheads by soaking them in a vinegar solution, then scrub gently to remove mineral deposits. Clean plugholes with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down grime. For extractor fans, remove the cover and vacuum the dust, followed by wiping with a damp cloth.
Electronics and Remote Controls are Always Forgotten
Electronics like remotes, keyboards, and game controllers see constant use but are rarely cleaned. These devices can harbour bacteria and dirt.
Turn off and unplug the electronics before cleaning. Use a slightly damp microfibre cloth with an alcohol-based solution to sanitise surfaces. Use a cotton bud for hard-to-reach crevices.
Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Ceiling fans and light fixtures are easily forgotten because they are out of sight. However, these areas attract dust, which can circulate through the air.
Turn off the power before cleaning. Use a duster or a soft, damp cloth to wipe the blades and fixtures. For intricate designs, a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment can help.
Mattresses and Bed Frames
While bedding gets regular washes, mattresses and bed frames are often ignored. Dust mites and allergens can thrive here, affecting air quality and health.
Vacuum your mattress using an upholstery attachment, and spot-clean stains with a fabric-safe cleaner. Wipe down the bed frame with a damp cloth to remove dust and residue. Flip or rotate your mattress periodically for even wear.
Behind Radiators
Radiators can collect a surprising amount of dust and dirt, particularly in hard-to-see areas behind them.
Use a long-handled duster or a radiator cleaning brush to access these spots. Vacuum any loosened dust and wipe down the front of the radiator with a damp cloth.
Pet Areas and Accessories
Pet beds, toys, and feeding areas can become dirty quickly but can be forgotten areas. Regular cleaning here is essential to prevent odours and bacteria.
Wash pet beds and fabric toys in the washing machine if they are machine-washable. Scrub feeding bowls with warm, soapy water and disinfect them weekly. Wipe down areas where pets frequently rest or play.
Final Thoughts – Keeping Your Home Spotless
Incorporating these forgotten areas into your cleaning routine ensures every corner of your home remains spotless. Tackle one area at a time or assign specific days to focus on these overlooked spots.
Using products like Zoflora not only disinfects but also leaves your home smelling fresh. By being mindful of these commonly forgotten places, you’ll create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.
