When it comes to cleaning, most of us have a routine. We vacuum the carpets, wipe down the kitchen worktops and scrub the bathroom. But even the most thorough cleaners can miss certain areas that tend to collect dust and grime over time. Here are some of the most commonly overlooked spots in your home and why you should pay them a little extra attention.

Light switches and door handles 

Think about how often you touch these surfaces every day. Now think about how often you clean them. Light switches and door handles can harbour bacteria and grime, yet they are rarely included in regular cleaning routines. A quick wipe with an antibacterial cleaner can make all the difference.

Behind and under furniture 

Out of sight, out of mind. It’s easy to forget about the areas behind sofas, under beds and beneath cabinets, but these spaces accumulate dust, pet hair and lost items. Moving furniture occasionally and giving these spots a proper clean can help improve indoor air quality and keep your home feeling fresh.

Skirting boards 

Skirting boards are prone to collecting dust, yet they’re often overlooked because they blend into the background. Running a damp cloth or a microfibre duster along them every now and then will prevent a build-up of grime and make your home look instantly cleaner.

Remote controls and electronics 

TV remotes, gaming controllers and even keyboards are some of the most touched items in any home, yet they rarely get a proper clean. Wiping them down with a disinfectant wipe can help prevent the spread of germs, especially during cold and flu season.

The tops of doors and cupboards 

When was the last time you looked at the top of your door frames or kitchen cupboards? These surfaces gather a surprising amount of dust over time, which can be disturbed and fall onto your freshly cleaned surfaces below. Giving them a wipe down every so often can make a big difference.

Behind appliances 

We clean our kitchen worktops regularly, but what about behind and under the appliances? Crumbs, grease and dust can build up behind the toaster, microwave and fridge. Moving these appliances and giving the area a quick clean will help prevent bad odours and keep your kitchen hygienic.

Bathroom extractor fans 

Extractor fans work hard to remove moisture from the air, but over time they can get clogged with dust. A quick vacuum or a wipe with a damp cloth can keep them working efficiently and help prevent mould from forming in your bathroom.

Houseplants 

Your indoor plants might be thriving, but have you checked their leaves? Dust can settle on plant leaves, blocking sunlight and affecting their health. A gentle wipe with a damp cloth or a quick shower under lukewarm water can keep them looking their best.

Behind the toilet 

Most people clean their toilet bowl and seat regularly, but the area behind the toilet often gets neglected. Dust and grime can build up there quickly, so giving it a good scrub now and then can make a big difference to your bathroom’s cleanliness.

Under the sink 

The cupboard under the sink is often a dumping ground for cleaning products and random household items. It’s worth taking everything out once in a while to wipe down the surfaces and check for leaks or unwanted pests.

Final Thoughts

A thorough clean doesn’t just make your home look good, it also helps maintain a healthier living environment. By paying attention to these often-forgotten areas, you’ll create a cleaner, fresher space for you and your family to enjoy. So next time you do a deep clean, take a moment to check these spots – you might be surprised at what you find!