Between juggling our work, family commitments, and social lives, we often don’t have time to clean as thoroughly as we know we should, and it’s easy to miss those hidden nooks and crannies in your home that collect dirt and germs. However, overlooking these areas can lead to more than unsightly messes—affecting your health.
Melissa Caverly, founder of Imagine Maids, reveals the dirtiest spots hidden in your home and provides expert advice on tackling them effectively.
1. Underneath Kitchen Appliances
Why It’s Overlooked: Melissa says, ‘The spaces under the refrigerator, oven, or dishwasher are out of our regular sightlines, so we might not notice when they’re getting dirty. Also, these appliances are heavy to move, meaning cleaning underneath them is a pain.’
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: Use a dolly or other lifting device to move the appliance safely. Sweep the area, then use a cleaning solution and mop to remove grime. If you don’t have the space or equipment to move the appliances, a long-handled duster or vacuum attachment works well to get into small gaps.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Food particles and dust under appliances can attract pests and contribute to poor indoor air quality.
Cleaning Frequency: Deep clean every four months.
2. Behind The Toilet
Why It’s Overlooked: This tight space is difficult to reach, and so is often skipped in routine bathroom cleaning.
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: ‘Using a disinfectant and a slim mop or microfiber cloth can effectively clean and sanitize behind the toilet,’ notes Melissa.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Accumulation of grime and bacteria can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Cleaning Frequency: Clean weekly as part of your bathroom routine.
3. Ceiling Fans
Why It’s Overlooked: Fans are usually above eye level and can easily be forgotten if not in constant use.
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: Use an extendable duster to reach the blades. ‘Wiping the blades with a damp cloth will prevent dust from resettling,’ recommends Melissa.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Dust accumulation inside your home can worsen allergies, and when the fan blades spin, they will spread dust across the room.
Cleaning Frequency: Dust monthly and deep clean twice a year.
4. Window Tracks And Frames
Why It’s Overlooked: Windows are often closed for long periods, especially in winter, hiding the dirt built up in the tracks.
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: Use a small brush to loosen debris, then vacuum up the dirt. Wipe down with a vinegar-water solution for a thorough clean.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Dirt and mold in window tracks can degrade the mechanism and quality of the window.
Cleaning Frequency: Clean every 3-6 months, or more frequently in dusty areas.
5. The Top Of Cabinets And Refrigerators
Why It’s Overlooked: Out of sight, out of mind. The tops of these surfaces are not at eye level for most people, so it’s easy to forget they need cleaning, too.
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: ‘A handheld vacuum or damp cloth can be used regularly to prevent dust buildup,’ advises Melissa.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Dust accumulated on top of cabinets or the refrigerator could fall into cooking and eating areas.
Cleaning Frequency: Check and clean monthly.
6. Garbage Disposal
Why It’s Overlooked: It’s hidden in plain sight, but many don’t consider it a spot that needs regular cleaning.
Melissa’s Cleaning Tips: To clean the disposal blades, run ice cubes and coarse salt through it. Then, add lemon peels for freshness.
The Dangers Of Neglect: Failing to clean the disposal can lead to foul odors and clogged pipes.
Cleaning Frequency: Clean bi-weekly or as needed to maintain freshness.
Melissa says, ‘Overlooking these critical yet easily missed areas can contribute to a less hygienic, less comfortable home environment. Take the time to incorporate these areas into your cleaning routine and feel confident that your home is immaculate, from top to bottom.’
About Imagine Maids
Imagine Maids is a professional cleaning service based in Chicago, serving residential and commercial clients. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, they offer various cleaning services tailored to individual needs, including house, office, and deep cleaning. Their certified cleaners bring all necessary supplies and equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience for their customers.
