If you’re like most people, you probably stick to a cleaning routine that covers the basics: vacuum the floors, wipe the counters, and clean the bathroom. But even the tidiest homes have spots that get overlooked, and those areas quietly collect dust, grime, and germs over time. It’s no wonder your home sometimes still feels a little less fresh than you’d like.
We’re local London cleaners who’ve seen it all, and here are ten surprising places you might be forgetting to clean, plus why they’re important and some easy tips to tackle them. If you’d rather leave the hard work to professionals, our deep cleaning services cover all these nooks and crannies for a truly spotless home.
1. Light Switches: The Germ Hotspots
You probably touch your light switches dozens of times a day. That makes them an easy place for germs and dust to build up. Wipe them with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth sprayed with cleaner, and remember to clean around the edges too.
2. Remote Controls: Germs Hiding in Plain Sight
Your TV remote, sound system remote, and gaming controllers get touched all the time but are rarely cleaned. They quickly collect fingerprints, crumbs, and oils from your hands. To clean them, take out the batteries first. Use a cotton bud with rubbing alcohol to clean between the buttons, then wipe the whole surface with a slightly damp cloth.
3. Skirting Boards: The Forgotten Dust Catchers
Skirting boards sit low and are easy to forget, but they gather dust, pet hair, and scuff marks from shoes and furniture. Vacuum them with a brush attachment to get rid of loose dirt, then wipe with warm, soapy water. For stubborn marks, use a magic eraser or a gentle scrubbing sponge.
4. Under Sofa Cushions: Where the Lost Things Hide
Ever found coins, pens, or even missing remotes under your sofa cushions? These little crevices are magnets for crumbs, dust, and small debris. Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to reach underneath and between cushions. For extra freshness, sprinkle some baking soda before vacuuming again, it helps absorb any lingering smells.
5. Fridge Door Seals: Small Detail, Big Impact
The rubber seals around your fridge doors are essential for keeping cold air in and energy costs down. But they also trap crumbs, spills, and moisture, which can lead to mould buildup if neglected. Mix a little baking soda with water to make a paste, then gently scrub the seals with a cloth or toothbrush. Wipe clean afterward, and take a moment to check for any cracks or damage, a broken seal means your fridge has to work harder, hiking up your energy bills.
6. Shower Curtains: The Mould Magnets
If you have fabric shower curtains, they can become a breeding ground for mould and mildew. Wash them every month or so on a gentle cycle with some white vinegar to keep them fresh. Plastic curtains need regular wiping with a diluted bleach solution to remove soap scum and prevent mould growth. A clean shower curtain makes your whole bathroom feel fresher.
7. Door Handles: Constantly Touched, Rarely Cleaned
Door handles get touched many times a day, making them one of the germiest spots in your home, especially during cold and flu season. Wipe them with disinfectant regularly, and don’t forget both sides and the area where the handle meets the door.
8. Ceiling Fans: Dust Spreaders in Disguise
It might seem easy to just wipe your ceiling fan blades, but if you do it the wrong way, you can just blow dust into the air and all over your furniture. A trick is to slip an old pillowcase over each blade, then wipe backward, the dust gets trapped inside the pillowcase instead of flying everywhere.
9. Bin Lids: Germ Hotspots You Don’t Think About
You probably clean your bins regularly, but how often do you focus on the lids? These get touched a lot and can collect grime and bacteria. Use a disinfectant spray and a scrubbing brush to clean the lids thoroughly, paying attention to the edges and hinges. It helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh and reduces germs.
10. Window Tracks: Hidden Dirt Traps
Window tracks aren’t exactly front and centre in your cleaning routine, but they collect dirt, dust, and sometimes even mould. Start by vacuuming out loose debris, then scrub with an old toothbrush dipped in a mixture of vinegar and warm water. Wipe them dry afterward to prevent mould returning. It’s a small job that makes your windows open and close smoothly and improves hygiene.
Why These Spots Matter More Than You Think
Leaving these areas neglected can lead to more than just a dusty home. Dust and allergens can worsen allergies or asthma, mould growth can damage your property and health, and hidden bacteria can increase illness risk. By including these often-forgotten spots in your cleaning routine, you’ll create a healthier, fresher, and more pleasant living environment for your family.
Let Us Take Care of the Hard Stuff
If life gets busy or you want a truly deep clean without lifting a finger, our professional deep cleaning services in London cover all these tricky spots and many more. We tailor our service to your home’s needs, ensuring every corner shines.
Book your deep clean today