When it comes to cleaning your home, it’s easy to focus on the obvious: countertops, floors, bathrooms, and maybe the occasional deep-cleaning of the fridge. But there are many areas that often go unnoticed and unfortunately, these overlooked spots can harbour a surprising amount of dust, grime, and bacteria. If you're looking to truly freshen up your space, here are 10 commonly forgotten areas of your home that deserve a good cleaning.
1. Light Switches and Door Handles
These high-touch surfaces are used daily but rarely get the attention they need during routine cleaning. Light switches and door handles can accumulate a lot of germs and oils from our hands. Over time, this grime builds up and can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Cleaning tip: Use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth with mild soap and water. Be sure to wring out excess liquid to avoid moisture damage to electrical components.
2. Baseboards
Baseboards collect dust, pet hair, and dirt from foot traffic. Despite being literally around every room, they’re often missed because they’re low to the ground and not always in your line of sight.
Cleaning tip: Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust. For deeper grime, a damp cloth with a gentle cleaning solution will do the trick.
3. Remote Controls and Game Controllers
Think about how often your remote gets used—and by how many different hands. Crumbs, dust, skin oils, and germs can all collect in the small crevices, especially if you snack while watching TV.
Cleaning tip: Remove batteries, then use a lightly dampened cloth or disinfecting wipe. Use a cotton swab or toothpick to clean between the buttons.
4. Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Out of sight, out of mind. But if you’ve ever looked up and seen dust bunnies clinging to your ceiling fan blades, you know how quickly they can get filthy. That dust can then circulate every time the fan is turned on.
Cleaning tip: Use a pillowcase to cover each blade and gently pull off the dust. For light fixtures, turn off the power and wipe them down with a damp cloth or glass cleaner.
5. Behind and Under Appliances
The spaces behind your refrigerator, stove, washer, and dryer can be shockingly dirty. Dust, food crumbs, and even small lost items can end up back there.
Cleaning tip: If possible, pull out the appliance (carefully) and vacuum or sweep the area. Use a damp cloth with all-purpose cleaner to mop up anything sticky or greasy.
6. Air Vents and Filters
Dusty air vents not only reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency but can also circulate allergens throughout your home. Filters that aren't regularly cleaned or replaced can even affect air quality.
Cleaning tip: Remove vent covers and wash them with soap and water. Vacuum the inside of the vent if reachable. Replace or clean filters as recommended by the manufacturer—typically every 1 to 3 months.
7. Trash Cans
Even if you regularly take out the garbage, the inside of the bin can still harbour bacteria and bad odours. Spills, leaks, and residue can create a gross layer of grime at the bottom.
Cleaning tip: Take the trash can outside and rinse it with a hose. Use dish soap or a disinfecting spray and scrub with a brush. Let it dry completely before using it again.
8. Under Furniture
You may be surprised at what’s lurking beneath your sofa, bed, or dining table. These areas accumulate dust, crumbs, pet hair, and even lost items like socks or toys.
Cleaning tip: Use a vacuum with a long hose or attachment to reach underneath. If possible, move the furniture occasionally to give the floor a full sweep or mop.
9. Shower Curtain and Liner
Shower curtains and especially liners can develop mould, mildew, and soap scum over time. While it’s easy to focus on scrubbing the tub, the curtain often gets ignored.
Cleaning tip: Toss your fabric curtain and plastic liner in the washing machine with some towels (to help scrub them) using a gentle cycle and mild detergent. Let them air dry afterward.
10. Houseplants (Real or Fake)
Plants can collect a surprising amount of dust, especially the ones with broad leaves. Dusty leaves can affect the plant’s ability to photosynthesise, and artificial plants just end up looking dull and neglected.
Cleaning tip: For real plants, gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use a soft brush. For artificial plants, use a microfibre duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment.
Bonus: Digital Clutter and Cleaning
While not a physical part of your home, your digital spaces—like phones, tablets, and keyboards—often go unnoticed too. These devices get touched constantly and are magnets for germs.
Cleaning tip: Power off devices and wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or an electronics-safe disinfectant wipe. Use compressed air to clean keyboards.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your home thoroughly doesn’t just make it look better—it helps maintain your health and the longevity of your belongings. These forgotten areas may not be front and centre, but they contribute to the overall hygiene and comfort of your space.
By adding these spots to your monthly or seasonal cleaning routine, you’ll be ahead of the game—and your home will feel truly clean, not just surface-level tidy. Next time you're doing a deep clean, grab this list and tackle those neglected nooks and crannies!