7 Dirty Things In Your Home You Should Clean (and Why)

With the multitude of household chores you’re already faced with on the daily, we know the last thing you want is to add more items to the list. But, taking on these few extra projects won’t just contribute to your overall health and happiness, they can save you a lot of time, money and stress in the long run!

Take a look at these 7 Dirty Things In Your Home You Should Clean (and Why). You’ll be glad you did! 

1) Your Washer… 

Have you ever left your clothes in the washer too long? That wet, mouldy smell is a result of soap and other laundry product build up. If you want to keep your clothes smelling their best (and extend the life of your washer) it’s important to clean it periodically. See your machine’s cleaning instructions or check out these simple steps for cleaning your washer.  

2) ….and Dryer 

Dirty dryers won’t just take forever to dry your clothes – they’re also dangerous! Even if you empty your lint trap regularly, lint still has a tendency to build up inside the dryer and the exhaust hose. Over time, this can become a fire hazard. While it can be a little tedious to dismantle parts of the dryer to give it a good clean, it’s definitely worth the effort. See your machine’s cleaning instructions or these 12 easy steps on how to clean your dryer.  

3) Switch Plates, Door Knobs and Cupboard Handles 

Lights switch plates, door knobs and handles are a breeding ground for bacteria. They also tend to look dingy over time. Using a disinfectant wipe, give them a good scrub to remove any excess dirt and grime. Experts recommend doing this weekly or more frequently if a family member has a cold or flu. 

4) Filters and Fans

Cleaning your filters and vents is especially important because they circulate (or remove) air in your home. Over time, dirt, grime and pet dander can accumulate in these areas, impairing their ability to function properly. Check your furnace filter and stove hood filter to see if they need replacing. Bathroom vents are essential for removing excess humidity, so be sure to give them a good clean with this easy guide on how to clean a bathroom exhaust fan. Lastly, give the blades of your ceiling fans a good wipe to remove excess dust. 

5) Your Dishwasher 

Think of all the old food particles just sitting around in your dishwasher. Yuck. Keep your dishes spotless and your dishwasher in good running shape by giving it a solid clean now and then. Depending on the last time you cleaned it, it may not be the most pleasant job but it certainly tops paying for a new one! If you’re unsure of where to start, begin with these simple instructions on how to clean your dishwasher. 

6) Your Drains  

From food and soap to shampoo and toothpaste, your drains take in a lot. And, here again, gunk and grime have a tendency to build up over time, reducing your drain’s efficiency – leading to smells, slow drainage, clogs and even bugs. If you’re not too keen on using chemical-based liquid cleaners, try using baking soda and vinegar to help keep things running smoothly. 

7) Your Freezer

Did you know, it’s recommended you defrost and clean your freezer every year (or when the ice becomes more than a quarter-inch thick)? Not only does built up frost make it harder for you to store items, it affects your freezer’s ability to function. This makes it less energy efficient and therefore, more expensive. It can also lead to bad odours and alter the taste of your food. If you notice things are getting a little frosty (or if you’ve never even attempted to clean your freezer before), now might be a good time. P.S. It’s also a great opportunity to get rid of those year-old frozen veggies. 

For more great tips, advice or resources for home owners, check our blog or visit our website. We have lots to share!

Photo credits: freepik.com

Categorised in: Lifestyle

This post was written by Terry Paranych Real Estate Group