September 08, 2024

17 Everyday Items You're Probably Forgetting to Clean (But Shouldn't Be)!

When it comes to cleaning, most of us focus on the obvious tasks-vacuuming the floors, scrubbing the bathroom, and wiping down kitchen counters. However, some of the dirtiest items in our homes often go unnoticed. These items, although they may not appear grimy, can harbor a surprising amount of dirt, germs, and bacteria. Regularly cleaning these often-overlooked items can help maintain a healthier and more pleasant living environment. Here are 17 of the dirtiest things most people forget to clean:

1. Remote Controls
Remote controls are among the most touched items in the home. Whether it's the TV, air conditioner, or game console, everyone in the household handles them. This frequent use means they accumulate oils from your skin, food particles, and bacteria. To clean, use a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol, making sure to get into the crevices around the buttons.

2. Light Switches
Light switches are another high-touch area that often goes unnoticed. Just like remote controls, they're touched multiple times a day, often with dirty hands. Wipe them down with a disinfectant regularly to prevent the buildup of grime and bacteria.

3. Door Handles and Knobs
Door handles and knobs are touched countless times a day by different people, making them prime spots for germs and bacteria to linger. It's important to clean these with a disinfectant spray or wipes, especially during flu season or if someone in the household is sick.

4. Cell Phones and Tablets
Your cell phone is probably one of the dirtiest things you own. Studies have shown that cell phones can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat. Tablets are no better, especially if multiple people use them. Clean your devices regularly with a microfiber cloth and a solution specifically designed for electronics.

5. Kitchen Sponge
The kitchen sponge is notorious for being a breeding ground for bacteria. It's used to clean everything from countertops to dishes, often without being properly sanitized. To keep it clean, regularly microwave a damp sponge for a minute or soak it in a solution of bleach and water. It's also a good idea to replace your sponge every week or two.

6. Refrigerator Handles
Refrigerator handles are often overlooked during routine kitchen cleaning. These handles are touched multiple times a day, often with dirty hands, transferring bacteria and food particles. Use a disinfectant spray or wipe to clean them regularly, ensuring you also clean around the edges where grime can accumulate.

7. Toothbrush Holders
Toothbrush holders are one of the dirtiest items in the bathroom. They're often placed close to the toilet, where bacteria from flushing can settle on them. Additionally, the moisture from toothbrushes creates an ideal environment for mold and bacteria. Clean your toothbrush holder by washing it with hot, soapy water and disinfecting it regularly.

8. Bathroom Faucets
Bathroom faucets are touched before and after washing hands, making them a hotspot for bacteria. Soap scum and toothpaste residue can also build up around the handles and spout. Wipe down your faucets with a disinfectant daily to keep them clean and shiny.

9. TV Remotes
TV remotes are used by everyone in the household, often while eating or after handling other dirty items. They're rarely cleaned, making them a prime location for bacteria to thrive. Clean your TV remotes regularly with a disinfectant wipe, being careful not to let moisture seep into the electronic components.

10. Computer Keyboards and Mice
Your computer keyboard and mouse are used daily, often while eating or touching other items. These devices can accumulate crumbs, oils, and bacteria. To clean them, turn off your computer, and use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris. Wipe down the keys and mouse with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.

11. Purses and Wallets
Purses and wallets are constantly being handled and placed on various surfaces, from countertops to the floor. They pick up dirt, bacteria, and even viruses as you go about your day. Clean the outside of your purse or wallet with a disinfectant wipe, and make sure to regularly clean out the inside as well.

12. Pet Toys and Beds
Pet toys and beds can become incredibly dirty over time, harboring pet hair, saliva, and even fecal matter. Wash pet toys in hot, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they're dishwasher-safe. Pet beds should be vacuumed and washed regularly to keep them free of dirt and bacteria.

13. Laundry Baskets
Laundry baskets hold dirty clothes, which means they can accumulate bacteria, sweat, and dirt. Even if you're putting clean clothes in them after laundry, the bacteria can transfer back onto the clean items. Wipe down your laundry baskets with a disinfectant or wash them with soapy water to keep them clean.

14. Shower Curtains and Liners
Shower curtains and liners can develop mold, mildew, and soap scum over time, especially if they're not regularly cleaned. To keep them fresh, wash your shower curtain and liner in the washing machine with a little detergent and vinegar. Be sure to hang them up immediately to dry thoroughly.

15. Coffee Makers
Coffee makers are a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, especially in the water reservoir where moisture tends to linger. Run a cycle of vinegar and water through your coffee maker every month to clean out any buildup. Don't forget to clean the outside and any removable parts as well.

16. Trash Cans
Even though they're meant to hold garbage, trash cans themselves can get pretty dirty. Spills, leaks, and general grime can accumulate inside, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean your trash cans regularly with hot, soapy water, and disinfect them to prevent unpleasant odors and contamination.

17. Blinds and Curtains
Blinds and curtains are often overlooked during routine cleaning. Dust, pet hair, and even mold can accumulate on them over time. To clean blinds, use a duster or a microfiber cloth. Curtains can be vacuumed or laundered according to the manufacturer's instructions. Regularly cleaning these items will help improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens.

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining a healthy and pleasant living environment, but it's easy to overlook some of the dirtiest items in our homes. By incorporating these 17 often-forgotten items into your cleaning routine, you can reduce the buildup of germs and bacteria, contributing to a cleaner, healthier home for you and your family. Remember, it's not just about keeping things looking clean; it's also about eliminating the unseen dirt that can affect your health. So, next time you're doing your cleaning, don't forget to give these items the attention they deserve.