This deep cleaning routine will show you all the areas of your home that most people forget to clean! Look I know that deep cleaning isn’t something most of us look forward to, but it’s necessary to maintain a healthy and fresh home. If you’ve been putting off deep cleaning, now’s the time to roll up your sleeves and tackle those neglected spots in your house. Let’s dive into the essential areas to deep clean, complete with tips and tricks to make the process easier.
Behind the Stove: The Hidden Horror
When was the last time you pulled out your stove to clean behind it? Chances are, it’s been a while. Food, dust, and grease accumulate back there, making it one of the dirtiest areas in the kitchen. Here’s how to tackle it:
– Pull out the stove carefully (get help if it’s too heavy).
– Wipe down the sides, vacuum any debris, and give the floor underneath a good clean.
– Don’t forget to wipe down the stove’s sides and back as well as the wall behind it.
Cleaning Your Dishwasher Filter
Did you know your dishwasher has a filter that needs regular cleaning? If your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, it’s likely because food and grime are clogging the filter. Follow these steps:
- Empty the dishwasher (even if it means using a laundry basket to temporarily hold your dirty dishes).
- Remove the filter and rinse it under warm water.
- Sprinkle baking soda and vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher for a deep clean.
Pro Tip: Clean your dishwasher filter at least once a month to prevent buildup and improve its efficiency.
Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance: Yes, You Need to Clean the Vacuum
A clean vacuum will make your floors even cleaner – seriously, your vacuum can’t do its job if it’s clogged with dirt and hair. Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove the vacuum’s filter and clean it (some, like Dyson, can be washed with water—check your vacuum’s manual for best way to clean it).
- Use a butter knife or scissors to cut out any hair wrapped around the beater bar.
- Wipe down the inside of the vacuum and any attachments.
Refrigerator Coils: Often Forgotten but Important
When was the last time you pulled out your fridge? Don’t wait too long because food crumbs and dust accumulate underneath and around the coils, affecting your fridge’s performance. If you can’t pull it out, use a long, thin tool to reach under and scoop out debris.
Quick Tip: Make it a habit to clean behind and under your fridge once a year .
Top of Cabinets and Fridge: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
The tops of cabinets and the fridge are often overlooked. Here’s a quick fix for removing the dust and grease that tends to collect there over time. Start by using a vacuum first to remove loose dust. Next, wipe the area with a cloth soaked in hot, soapy water.
*Warning: If the dust is mixed with cooking oil, it may turn into a sticky mess—so be ready to scrub and try working it with degreasing dish soap!*
Don’t Forget Your Toaster (Yes, It’s Gross)
If you’re like most people, you probably haven’t cleaned your toaster in a while, if ever. Start by shaking out the crumbs and removing the crumb tray to wash it. If crumbs are stuck, use a tool to gently scrape them out.
Important Tip: Make sure to unplug the toaster before cleaning!
Garbage Cans: Inside and Out
Emptying the trash is routine, but deep cleaning the garbage can itself is often neglected. You’ll be surprised how much better your kitchen smells when the garbage can is truly clean!
Here’s what to do:
- Wash the inside and outside of the garbage can with hot, soapy water.
- Don’t forget to clean the area where the can sits as well—food splatter and grime can build up there.
Kick Plates Under Cabinets: The Sneaky Spots
The kick plates under your kitchen cabinets accumulate dust, food particles, and grime. Wipe these down with a damp cloth, and if they’re really bad, give them a good scrub with hot, soapy water.
Cold Air Return Vents: The Dust Collectors
Your cold air return vents and other HVAC vents collect dust and hair, circulating them throughout your home. It’s time they get a deep clean so you can reduce allergens and improve your home’s air quality. Here’s how: First remove the vents and vacuum, then give them a rinse in the sink and then dry them really well before placing them back (so you don’t end up with water dripping down your walls) .
Sofa Cushions: The Hidden Crumbs
You may not eat on your couch, but trust me, crumbs still find their way underneath the cushions. Give this spot a good clean by removing the cushions and vacuuming underneath them. Making this a monthly habit will help keep your living room fresh and clean.
Deep Clean Your Coffee Maker and Kettle
Your coffee maker and kettle need regular cleaning to prevent buildup of minerals and residue. Check your coffee maker’s manual for cleaning guide but here’s a few ways I keep our coffee maker clean: I start by cleaning the coffee maker pot and running a cleaning cycle with water. I then wash the removable parts and give the maker itself a good wipe down. running
Bonus Tip: Use baking soda and water for a natural cleaning solution to remove build up!
Bathroom Drains and Vents: The Forgotten Places
Don’t neglect your bathroom drains and vents! Hair and soap scum accumulate in drains, while vents collect dust and debris. Here’s what to do: Remove the drain stoppers and clean them and for the bathroom vent, either wipe it down or remove it and wash it in the sink.
Mattresses and Pillows: Keep Them Fresh
Did you know you should be washing your pillows every three months? You should also vacuum your mattress and sprinkle it with baking soda to keep it fresh.
Tip: Use tennis balls or wool dryer balls when drying pillows to keep them fluffy.
Deep cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. By tackling one area at a time, you can ensure your home stays fresh, clean, and healthy.
Need a checklist to help make sure you don’t miss any of these commonly neglected spots – download my Fall Deep Cleaning Checklist HERE.
Happy cleaning!
OTHER DEEP CLEANING RESOURCES
Learn how to deep clean your washer and dryer here
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