7 Hidden Places You Always Forget to Clean, Advice from Experts

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Cleaning your home can feel like a never-ending chore, and even when you think you’ve covered every corner, there are sneaky spots that often get overlooked. Don’t worry, you’re not alone—most of us miss these hidden places without even realizing it! From forgotten corners to neglected surfaces, these tricky areas tend to collect dust, grime, and bacteria over time. That’s why we’ve rounded up advice from cleaning experts to help you tackle the spots you always forget to clean.

Keeping your home spotless isn’t just about what’s visible; it’s about reaching those hidden nooks that make a big difference. Whether it’s the dust hiding behind your appliances or the grime building up in your bathroom fixtures, these overlooked spots could be keeping your home from feeling truly clean. Ready to uncover the top seven areas you’re probably skipping? Let’s dive into expert-recommended cleaning tips that will leave your home sparkling and healthier than ever!

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1. Hidden Messes in Your Closet

Closets are great for keeping things out of sight, but they’re also where dust and dirt love to hide. When was the last time you cleaned the floor under your hanging clothes or wiped down those shelves? Odds are, it’s been a while! Closets often trap lint, cobwebs, and even forgotten items like old shoes or that scarf you haven’t touched in years. Don’t forget to give the inside of your closet doors a good wipe and vacuum those hard-to-reach corners where dust bunnies like to camp out.

While you’re at it, take a moment to declutter. Too many items packed into a closet not only make it hard to find things but also leave no room for proper air circulation, which can lead to musty odors. Go shelf by shelf, dust every surface, and consider using storage bins or organizers to keep things tidy. A clean and organized closet isn’t just functional—it makes your entire room feel fresher!

2. The High-Up Areas You Always Miss

When was the last time you looked up while cleaning? Chances are, those high-up areas in your home—like the tops of cabinets, door frames, light fixtures, and ceiling fans—haven’t seen a dust cloth in a while. Dust and grime love to settle where you rarely glance, and before you know it, those spots are hosting their own dust parties! These hidden places might not be in your line of sight, but they can make your home feel dirtier than it looks.

Grab a step stool or a sturdy ladder and get to work! Wipe down those forgotten surfaces with a microfiber cloth or duster, and don’t forget to tackle the ceiling corners where cobwebs like to hang out. A quick swipe can make a huge difference and bonus—it’ll help improve the air quality in your home too. Remember, just because it’s out of sight doesn’t mean it should stay out of mind!

3. Handles, Switches, and Knobs

Think about how many times you touch your door handles, light switches, and cabinet knobs every single day. Now think about how often you clean them. If the answer is “rarely” or “never,” you’re not alone! These high-touch surfaces are some of the germiest spots in your home, but they’re also the easiest to overlook. From sticky fingerprints to invisible grime, handles and switches collect a surprising amount of dirt.

The good news? Cleaning them is super quick! Just grab a disinfectant wipe or a cloth with a bit of cleaning solution and give each one a good wipe down. Don’t forget the less obvious ones, like closet handles, fridge doors, and even the knobs on your stove. A few minutes of attention here can go a long way in keeping your home fresher and healthier—and maybe even stop those mystery smudges from reappearing!

4. Don’t Forget Your Mattress

Your mattress might be out of sight under those cozy sheets, but it’s definitely not out of mind for dust, sweat, and even dust mites. Think about it—you spend hours every night on your bed, yet it’s one of the most neglected spots when it comes to cleaning. Over time, it can trap dead skin cells, allergens, and who knows what else! If you’re not giving it regular TLC, your mattress could be a hidden culprit for allergies or bad odors.

Cleaning your mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. Strip off the bedding and give it a good vacuum with an upholstery attachment to suck up dust and crumbs. Sprinkle on some baking soda, let it sit for an hour, and then vacuum again to freshen things up. Don’t forget to flip or rotate your mattress if possible—this helps it wear evenly and stay comfy. A clean mattress equals better sleep, so show it some love!

5. Walls and Baseboards

It’s easy to focus on cleaning the floors and furniture, but have you ever thought about the dirt that hides on your walls and baseboards? Over time, these surfaces can collect dust, fingerprints, and even splashes from cooking or kids. You might not see the grime, but it’s definitely there—especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Not to mention, baseboards are the perfect place for dust bunnies to gather!

Cleaning walls and baseboards is a quick task that can make a big difference. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the walls, focusing on areas that get touched the most, like light switches or door frames. For the baseboards, grab a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to dust off the dirt. It’s a small effort that will make your entire room feel fresher and cleaner, and you’ll be surprised by how much brighter your walls can look!

6. Within the Range Hood

If you’re like most people, your range hood is probably the last place you think about when it comes to cleaning. But this kitchen appliance is constantly working to filter out smoke, steam, and cooking odors, so it’s bound to collect grease, dust, and grime over time. The inside of the range hood can get pretty gunky without you even realizing it. Left unchecked, it can lead to unpleasant smells or even a potential fire hazard.

Cleaning the inside of your range hood is simple but so worth it! First, check the filter and give it a good wash with warm, soapy water. If it’s really greasy, consider using a degreaser for a deeper clean. Once the filter is fresh, wipe down the inside of the hood with a damp cloth to get rid of any built-up grime. Regular cleaning will not only improve the efficiency of your range hood but also keep your kitchen smelling fresh and safe!

7. Water Supply Lines Under the Sink

When was the last time you checked out the water supply lines under your sink? We’re talking about those pipes that bring water to your faucet or dishwasher. They’re not the most glamorous part of your kitchen, but they sure can get dirty, dusty, and sometimes even leaky! Over time, mineral deposits, grime, and dust can build up, and if you don’t clean them, it could lead to a bigger mess—or even a plumbing issue.

Cleaning the water supply lines under the sink is easier than you think. Start by wiping down the visible pipes with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grime. If you notice any leaks or dampness, it’s a good idea to call a plumber to check for any issues. Regularly cleaning and inspecting these lines can help prevent problems down the road and keep your kitchen in tip-top shape. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your water supply is working just as it should!

Wrapping It Up!

Cleaning your home is about more than just wiping down the obvious spots—it’s those hidden areas, like the ones we’ve covered, that make a big difference in keeping your space fresh and tidy. By taking a few extra minutes to tackle spots like the inside of your range hood, the water lines under the sink, and those high-up corners, you’re not just making your home look cleaner, you’re also improving its air quality and functionality.

So, next time you do a deep clean, remember these forgotten spots and make them part of your routine. It might take a little extra effort, but the results are totally worth it—your home will feel fresher, safer, and more inviting. Happy cleaning!