Cleaning Tips: 6 Easy-to-miss areas

Just because you can’t see the dirt, that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. In fact, it’s those hidden areas in each room of your home that are often the dirtiest of all. I have listed here a few areas that even I miss when doing my cleaning. Enjoy!

1. Inside drawers

Empty each drawer in your kitchen and bathroom one at a time and vacuum out what remains. If necessary, use a damp cloth to clean up any spills and allow to dry before replacing the contents. Keep drawers smelling fresh by adding a little bag of lavender.

2. Cooker-hood fan

Place your filters in a clean sink filled with very hot or boiling water and add a large spoonful of bicarbonate of soda. Soak for 30 minutes, then carefully remove and rinse with clean water. Allow the filters to dry before replacing.

3. Sliding door and window tracks

Remove loose debris by vacuuming and use an old, dry toothbrush to dislodge the rest. If necessary, sprinkle with a light dusting of bicarbonate of soda and spray with a mixture of white wine vinegar and water. Leave for 5 minutes, then wipe away the grime with a clean microfibre cloth.

4. Air filters and vents

Replace your air filter every 6–8 weeks, as needed. Remove vent covers and vacuum dust and debris from inside the vents before replacing the covers.

5. Indoor plants

Cleaning methods will depend on the type of plant – this can range from a gentle wipe of the leaves with a soft, damp cloth, to giving plants a light spray with a shower head or garden hose.

6. Underneath furniture

Dust and dirt love to hide under beds, sofas, and other large pieces of furniture. A long-handled dust mop works well on hard surfaces. For carpeted areas, you may need to use your vacuum cleaner or move the furniture to access the dirt.