10 Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
When you think of home improvement and interior design, cleaning isn’t usually the most glamorous topic that comes to mind. But trust me, a sparkling clean space is the ultimate finishing touch to your eco-home dream!
Now, if you’re anything like me, you have your regular cleaning routine down pat — floors mopped, bathrooms scrubbed, kitchen wiped down — and then you kick back with a cuppa feeling like an absolute domestic goddess.
But (and it’s a big but) — there are some sneaky little spots that even the most seasoned homemakers accidentally overlook. And no judgement — we’re all friends here. Let’s uncover those forgotten corners and hidden grime traps so your home can look as fresh as your new throw pillows.
Hi there👋, I’m Jacqueline, founder of The Glade Design! I specialize in residential interior design. Visit my service page for details or email me to chat!
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Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
1. Behind the Toilet
Out of sight, out of mind — and, unfortunately, a hotbed for dust, grime, and, well… other things.
Quick Tip:
- Use a thin mop or an old cloth with a flexible handle to shimmy behind there once a fortnight.
- Natural cleaning sprays (like ones made with white vinegar and essential oils) work a treat!
Extra Tip:
Sprinkle a little bicarb soda on the floor around the toilet before mopping — it’ll absorb odours and help lift grime.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
2. Light Switches and Door Handles
They’re some of the most-touched surfaces in your entire home — and yet they’re often left out of the cleaning party.
Quick Tip:
- Wipe them down weekly with a cloth sprayed with a gentle, eco-friendly disinfectant.
- For sticky spots, a little diluted bicarb soda paste will lift grime without damaging finishes.
Extra Tip:
Pop a reminder in your phone every Sunday night. It takes two minutes but keeps the whole home feeling fresher!
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
3. Under the Couch Cushions
It’s basically a treasure trove under there — coins, crumbs, your dignity…
Quick Tip:
- Make a monthly date with your vacuum’s crevice tool and see what surprises await.
- If you spot stains, spot-clean with a natural fabric cleaner.
Extra Tip:
If you’re rearranging your lounge room as part of a little home improvement project, it’s the perfect excuse to give the entire couch (and under it) a deep clean.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
4. Air Vents and Exhaust Fans
You might not see them every day, but trust me, they see you. And they’re quietly hoarding dust, pet hair, and goodness knows what else.
Quick Tip:
- Use your vacuum’s brush attachment or a damp microfibre cloth.
- For exhaust fans, a little soapy water works wonders — just remember to turn off the power first (safety first, legends).
Extra Tip:
Invest in a reusable dust filter for your vents — they’re easy to rinse and dry, and they’ll help keep your indoor air fresher for longer.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
5. Skirting Boards
Skirting boards: the wall’s fancy little shoes — and a magnet for dust and scuffs.
Quick Tip:
- Run a damp cloth or mop head along the boards once a month.
- For stubborn marks, a soft sponge and a bit of natural laundry detergent diluted in water can do wonders.
Extra Tip:
After cleaning, run a dryer sheet lightly along your skirting boards. It’ll help repel dust and keep them cleaner for longer.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
6. The Top of the Fridge
Ah yes, that Great Dusty Plateau. It’s easy to forget when you can’t see it.
Quick Tip:
- Keep a small duster handy and run it over the top whenever you’re cleaning the kitchen.
- Bonus: popping a bit of newspaper up there makes next time even easier — just toss and replace!
Extra Tip:
If your kitchen design allows, store lightweight, attractive baskets up there to keep it tidy and give a little interior design flair while you’re at it.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
7. Inside the Washing Machine
It’s supposed to clean your clothes — but who cleans it?
Quick Tip:
- Run an empty hot cycle with white vinegar once a month to keep things fresh.
- Don’t forget to wipe down seals and dispensers too!
Extra Tip:
Leave the washing machine door ajar between loads to allow it to dry out fully — goodbye, musty smells!
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
8. Reusable Shopping Bags
They’ve been everywhere: the farmer’s market, the gym, the backseat of your car… and they’re carrying more than just veggies.
Quick Tip:
- Toss them in the washing machine with a splash of natural laundry detergent every few weeks.
Extra Tip:
Rotate your bags — while some are in the wash, others can be ready for action. It’s a simple way to keep your eco-home lifestyle hygienic too!
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
9. Remote Controls
When was the last time you cleaned your TV remote? Yeah, thought so.
Quick Tip:
- Wipe it down with a lightly damp cloth or alcohol wipe.
- Use a cotton bud for those tiny button crevices.
Extra Tip:
Pop a regular calendar reminder for tech cleaning — think remotes, phones, tablets, and keyboards. A clean tech zone = a happier, healthier home.
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
10. Window Tracks
You open your windows to let in fresh air — and unwittingly collect dust, bugs, and muck.
Quick Tip:
- Vacuum loose dirt first, then scrub with an old toothbrush dipped in soapy water.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent mould.
Extra Tip:
Finish with a spritz of tea tree oil spray to discourage mould regrowth — and enjoy that fresh scent every time you catch a breeze!
Spots in Your Home You May Be Forgetting to Clean
Check list:
| Spot to Clean | How Often | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Behind the Toilet | Fortnightly | Use a flexible mop or cloth; sprinkle bicarb soda first. |
| Light Switches and Door Handles | Weekly | Wipe with natural disinfectant; set a reminder on Sundays. |
| Under Couch Cushions | Monthly | Vacuum with a crevice tool; spot clean stains. |
| Air Vents and Exhaust Fans | Monthly | Vacuum dust; wipe with damp cloth. |
| Skirting Boards | Monthly | Wipe with a damp cloth; rub with a dryer sheet to repel dust. |
| Top of the Fridge | Monthly | Dust or wipe down; use newspaper for easy maintenance. |
| Inside the Washing Machine | Monthly | Run a hot vinegar cycle; wipe seals and dispensers. |
| Reusable Shopping Bags | Every Few Weeks | Wash with natural detergent; rotate your bags. |
| Remote Controls | Weekly | Wipe with damp cloth or alcohol wipe; clean crevices. |
| Window Tracks | Monthly | Scrub with toothbrush and soapy water; spritz tea tree oil. |
How to Use This Checklist
- Print it out and stick it to your fridge or cleaning cupboard door
- Save it to your phone or tablet and tick each spot off as you go
- Set calendar reminders based on the “How Often” column to stay on track
By working through these hidden areas a little at a time, you’ll keep your eco-home looking fabulous without feeling overwhelmed — and you’ll have more time for the fun parts of home improvement and interior design (like picking out cute throw rugs and perfecting your shelf styling)!
Why Forgotten Spots Matter for Your Eco-Home
Keeping these hidden nooks clean isn’t just about flexing your domestic skills — it’s about supporting a healthier, happier, more eco-friendly home. Dust and grime can affect indoor air quality, and mould can trigger allergies. Plus, regular maintenance means your interiors (and your investment) stay looking fab for longer!
And if you’re trying to create an eco-home (like the true Earth warrior you are), using natural cleaning products wherever possible means:
- Less chemical exposure for your family
- Kinder practices for the planet
- Longer-lasting furniture, appliances, and decor
Pro Eco Tip:
Set aside a mini “deep clean day” once a month. Pop on your favourite playlist or podcast, set a timer for 2 hours, and blitz through the spots you usually forget. It’s surprisingly satisfying — and it keeps your home improvement journey humming along smoothly.
Ready to Take It to the Next Level?
If you’re dreaming of a home that’s not just clean but truly dazzling (and sustainably stunning too), why not book an interior design consultation with us? Whether you need help choosing eco-friendly materials, designing better storage for your clutter, or just creating a jaw-dropping space you’re proud of, I’m here for it.
👉 Book Your Consultation Today!
Because you deserve a home that looks good, feels good, and smells like eucalyptus oil instead of forgotten gym socks.
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