While spring cleaning might not be a highly anticipated event, you have to admit that there is nothing better than the knowledge that your home is squeaky clean. Or is it? To really clean your home, we’ve put together a list of things that you probably don’t think about cleaning but should. How many are already on your to-do list?
Large Appliances
Just because we use detergent and water to wash our clothes, doesn’t mean these hard-working machines are clean. They are just as prone to mold as anything else. Once a month, run an empty load with just hot water and bleach. Dishwashers are another large appliance we don’t think about. Hard water deposits, soap scum and other build-ups can cling onto the racks, and food can clog the drains. Scrub these places thoroughly, then run a cycle on hot with white vinegar to clean and disinfect.
Small Appliances
Warm, moist environments are breeding grounds for germs. Sound like your coffee maker? Every once in awhile, brew up a pot consisting of half vinegar and half water. Brew plain water to clear out the last of the vinegar. Toasters aren’t much better. The crumbs that fall to the bottom of the toaster can start to burn and even catch on fire. Don’t just dump them out. Clean it with soapy water and a toothbrush to keep it in tip-top shape.
Electronic Devices
We use our computers, cell phones, remotes and tablets on a daily basis but how often do we think about cleaning them? Bacteria and viruses can survive for days on these devices. Most can be cleaned with disinfecting cloths. For keyboards, use compressed air to get all the crumbs out. Use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab to get between the keys.
Around the House
We dust, we vacuum and we wash but do we clean doorknobs, light switches and toothbrush holders? They are all breeding grounds for germs. Don’t forget to wipe them down with disinfecting cloths when you clean. Reusable grocery bags should hit the washing machine regularly.
Bedrooms and Baths
We change sheets and blankets regularly but when was the last time you washed your pillows and mattress. Dust mites, a major trigger of allergies and asthma, and their droppings accumulate by the millions in your pillow, as can multiple kinds of fungus. Wash them in hot water on the gentle cycle. Periodically vacuum your mattress and spot clean any stains that may appear. Wash bathmats and cloth shower curtains to prevent mold. Use baking soda and vinegar to wipe down plastic curtains.
Wondering what else could use a deep clean? Check out these articles in Family Handyman and The Active Times.
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