Top 10 Most Forgotten Cleaning Tasks
- Handley Place Living
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
Even the tidiest homes have their secrets- those hidden, high-touch, or just plain overlooked spots that quietly collect dust, grime, and bacteria. The good news? Once you know where they are, keeping them clean is quick and easy.
Here are 10 forgotten cleaning tasks you might be skipping, and exactly how to tackle each one.
1. Reusable Grocery Bags
Why they need cleaning: Studies have found reusable bags can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli, especially after carrying raw meat or produce.
How to clean:
Cloth bags: Machine wash in hot water with regular detergent. Tumble dry on high or air dry completely.
Polypropylene bags: Hand wash in warm, soapy water or wipe with disinfecting wipes; air dry.
Insulated bags: Wipe the inside with warm, soapy water or a vinegar solution; air dry fully.
How often: After carrying raw meat/seafood or every 2–3 uses.
2. Light Switches & Door Handles
Why they need cleaning: High-touch = high germ count.
How to clean: Wipe with a disinfectant wipe or cloth dampened with soapy water; dry immediately.
How often: Weekly.
3. Remote Controls & Game Controllers
Why they need cleaning: Everyone touches them, few ever clean them.
How to clean: Use a disinfecting wipe (not dripping wet) or 70% isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth. Avoid letting liquid seep into buttons.
How often: Weekly.
4. Ceiling Fan Blades
Why they need cleaning: Dust builds up quickly and circulates every time the fan is on.
How to clean: Slip an old pillowcase over each blade and wipe inward, trapping dust inside. Wipe with a damp cloth to finish.
How often: Monthly.
5. Mattresses
Why they need cleaning: Dust mites, sweat, and allergens build up over time, even with a mattress protector.
How to clean: Strip bedding, vacuum the surface with an upholstery attachment, spot clean stains with a mild fabric cleaner, and sprinkle with baking soda before vacuuming again to freshen.
How often: Vacuum every 3 months; deep clean every 6 months.
6. Dishwasher Filter
Why they need cleaning: Food particles and grease build up, causing odors and poor performance.
How to clean: Remove filter, rinse under warm water, scrub gently with dish soap, and reinstall.
How often: Monthly.
7. Shower Curtain & Liner
Why they need cleaning: Mildew and soap scum love damp environments.
How to clean: Machine wash with a few towels (to scrub without tearing) and mild detergent. Add vinegar for extra mildew-fighting power. Don’t forget the outer curtain, it collects dust and mildew too.
How often: Monthly.
8. Range Hood & Filter
Why they need cleaning: Grease buildup can be a fire hazard and trap cooking odors.
How to clean: Soak filter in hot, soapy water with a bit of baking soda; scrub, rinse, and dry completely. Wipe down the hood itself with degreaser or soapy water.
How often: Monthly.
9. Pet Beds
Why they need cleaning: Traps pet hair, dander, and odors.
How to clean: Wash covers in hot water with pet-safe detergent; vacuum inserts if not washable.
How often: Monthly.
10. Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Why they need cleaning: Dust buildup reduces efficiency and traps humidity, which can lead to mold growth.
How to clean: Turn off power, remove cover, vacuum dust, wipe with damp cloth, replace cover.
How often: Every 6 months.
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