Keeping your home clean is essential for health, comfort, and peace of mind. While daily and weekly cleaning tackle visible dirt and clutter, some household items need a deeper clean on a monthly basis to maintain their functionality and prevent buildup of grime, dust, and bacteria.
If you want to maintain a truly fresh and hygienic living space, here are 10 things in your home you should clean monthly.
1. Refrigerator Coils
Refrigerator coils collect dust over time, which forces the appliance to work harder, increasing energy consumption and reducing its lifespan.
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Locate the coils (usually at the back or underneath).
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Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush.
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Gently remove dust and debris to improve efficiency.
2. Underneath and Behind Appliances
Dust bunnies and crumbs accumulate under and behind kitchen appliances like ovens, refrigerators, and microwaves.
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Pull appliances out carefully if possible.
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Sweep or vacuum the floor and wipe down the appliance bases.
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This reduces allergens and pest attraction.
3. Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
Light fixtures can collect dust and dead insects, dimming the light output and spreading allergens.
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Turn off lights and remove covers if possible.
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Use a microfiber cloth or duster to clean bulbs and fixtures.
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For ceiling fans, use a pillowcase or a fan duster to trap dust while wiping blades.
4. Showerheads
Mineral deposits and bacteria can build up in showerheads, affecting water flow and hygiene.
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Soak showerheads in vinegar for several hours or overnight.
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Scrub gently with a toothbrush to remove residue.
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Rinse and reinstall.
5. Trash Cans
Trash cans often harbor bacteria and odors.
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Empty and rinse your trash cans.
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Scrub with warm water and soap or a disinfectant.
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Dry thoroughly before replacing liners.
6. Mattresses
Dust mites, dead skin cells, and allergens collect in mattresses over time.
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Vacuum your mattress thoroughly.
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Spot clean stains with mild detergent.
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Rotate or flip mattresses if applicable to ensure even wear.
7. Window Treatments
Curtains, blinds, and shades collect dust, allergens, and sometimes pet dander.
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Wash curtains according to care labels.
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Dust blinds with a microfiber cloth or use a vacuum attachment.
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Spot clean or steam as needed.
8. Air Vents and Filters
Dust and debris in air vents reduce air quality and strain HVAC systems.
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Remove and vacuum vent covers.
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Replace or clean HVAC filters monthly.
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This helps maintain a healthy indoor environment.
9. Cabinet and Drawer Interiors
Crumbs, dust, and spills can accumulate inside cabinets and drawers, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
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Empty contents and wipe interiors with a damp cloth.
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Dry thoroughly before replacing items.
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This prevents pest infestations and keeps items fresh.
10. Electronics and Remote Controls
Electronics harbor germs and dust that can affect performance.
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Unplug devices before cleaning.
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Use microfiber cloths and gentle cleaning solutions.
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Wipe remote controls with disinfectant wipes or alcohol-based cleaners.
Bonus Tips for Monthly Cleaning
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Create a checklist: Keep track of monthly tasks for consistency.
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Set reminders: Use calendars or phone alarms.
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Involve family members: Delegate tasks for faster completion.
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Use natural cleaners: Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon work wonders.
Final Thoughts
Monthly cleaning of these often-overlooked items keeps your home healthier, extends the life of your appliances, and maintains a comfortable living environment. Incorporate these tasks into your cleaning routine for a fresher, more organized home.
Ready to tackle your monthly cleaning checklist? Start with one or two items and build momentum!