How Often Should You Clean These 10 Forgotten Household Items?
Aug 25, 2025
Keeping a clean home isn’t just about vacuuming, dusting, and wiping down surfaces. Many items we use daily are overlooked in our cleaning routines, and while they may not seem dirty, they often harbor dust, bacteria, and allergens. Knowing how often to clean these forgotten items can make a big difference in your home’s hygiene and overall freshness.
Below are 10 commonly forgotten household items and the right cleaning frequency for each.
1. Light Switches and Door Handles
Frequency: Weekly
Light switches and doorknobs are some of the most frequently touched surfaces in your home. They can quickly accumulate germs and bacteria, especially during flu season. Wipe them down weekly with a disinfectant to keep them clean and safe.
2. Remote Controls
Frequency: Weekly
TV remotes, gaming controllers, and even smart home devices get touched by everyone but rarely get cleaned. Use disinfectant wipes or a soft cloth with rubbing alcohol to clean them at least once a week.
3. Reusable Grocery Bags
Frequency: After Each Use
Reusable bags are great for the environment, but they can easily trap bacteria from raw foods. Wash fabric bags in the laundry after each use and wipe down plastic or insulated bags with disinfectant.
4. Kitchen Sponges
Frequency: Replace Every 1–2 Weeks
Sponges are one of the dirtiest items in the home. They absorb food particles and moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Disinfect sponges daily by microwaving them damp for one minute, and replace them every 1–2 weeks.
5. Pillows
Frequency: Every 3–6 Months
While pillowcases get washed regularly, pillows themselves often go neglected. Dust mites and allergens can build up inside them. Wash pillows every few months according to care instructions, and replace them every 1–2 years.
6. Shower Curtains and Liners
Frequency: Every 1–2 Months
Shower curtains and liners are prone to mold and mildew buildup. Wash fabric curtains in the washing machine and scrub or replace plastic liners every couple of months.
7. Ceiling Fans
Frequency: Every 1–2 Months
Ceiling fans accumulate dust quickly, which spreads into the air when the fan runs. Wipe blades down every 1–2 months with a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment.
8. Trash Cans
Frequency: Monthly
Even with liners, trash cans can collect bacteria and unpleasant odors. Wash them out with warm, soapy water and disinfectant at least once a month.
9. Coffee Maker
Frequency: Every 1–2 Months
Coffee makers can build up mold, yeast, and bacteria inside the water reservoir. Run a cycle with a mixture of vinegar and water every month or two to keep it fresh and safe to use.
10. Curtains and Drapes
Frequency: Every 3–6 Months
Curtains trap dust, allergens, and even odors. Vacuum them regularly and wash or dry-clean every few months to keep your home’s air cleaner.
Conclusion
Even with regular cleaning, it’s easy to miss these commonly forgotten household items. By incorporating them into your routine, you’ll enjoy a healthier, fresher, and more inviting home.
While you can manage many of these tasks yourself, deep cleaning and sanitizing the entire home often requires professional expertise. That’s where Sweep Cleaning Services Burnaby comes in. Our team ensures your home is spotless, tackling both the obvious messes and the hidden dirt.
Ready to keep your home cleaner and healthier than ever? Contact Sweep Cleaning Services Burnaby today and request a quote to experience a professional clean tailored to your needs.
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