Spring cleaning is the perfect time to refresh your home, but even the most thorough cleaning sessions often miss some hidden grime traps. While floors, countertops, and bathrooms get regular attention, dust, dirt, and bacteria lurk in places we don’t always think to clean.
Today we will walk you through the most commonly forgotten areas, why they matter, and how to clean them quickly and efficiently. Let’s make this spring clean your freshest one yet!
1. Ceiling Fans & Light Fixtures
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Ceiling fans and light fixtures collect dust, pollen, and pet dander, which then circulates through the air every time they’re turned on.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Slide a pillowcase over fan blades to trap dust and wipe it off.
-
Use a damp microfiber cloth with a mix of water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio) to clean fixtures.
-
For glass light covers, soak them in warm, soapy water with a little baking soda, then rinse and dry.
2. Air Vents & Filters
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Dusty vents reduce air quality and make your HVAC system work harder, leading to higher energy use.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Remove vent covers and wash them with castile soap and warm water.
-
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean inside vents.
-
Replace or clean air filters every 3 months to improve air circulation.
💡 Eco Tip: Place a baking soda sachet near vents to naturally absorb odors.
3. Under & Behind Appliances
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Food crumbs, grease, and dust build up, attracting pests and reducing efficiency.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Move your fridge, oven, and washer/dryer slightly to vacuum and mop underneath.
-
Wipe down the backs and sides of appliances with a cloth dipped in vinegar and baking soda paste.
-
Use a coil brush to clean refrigerator coils—this improves efficiency and reduces energy use.
4. Inside Kitchen Drawers & Cabinets
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Crumbs, dust, and spills accumulate, making cabinets less hygienic.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Empty drawers and vacuum out debris.
-
Wipe down surfaces with a mix of vinegar and lemon essential oil for a natural antibacterial clean.
-
Replace old drawer liners with washable fabric liners instead of disposable ones.
💡 Eco Tip: Use recycled glass jars for storage instead of plastic containers to reduce waste.
5. Behind & Under Furniture
🔹 Why Clean Them?
These areas collect dust, pet hair, and allergens, affecting air quality.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Move couches, chairs, and beds to vacuum behind and underneath.
-
Use a long duster or a dry microfiber mop for hard-to-reach spots.
-
Rotate mattresses and sprinkle baking soda with lavender essential oil to freshen them before vacuuming.
6. Door Handles, Light Switches & Remote Controls
🔹 Why Clean Them?
These high-touch surfaces harbor bacteria and germs, but standard disinfectants can contain harsh chemicals.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
-
Spray onto a cloth (not directly onto electronics) and wipe down surfaces.
-
Use a toothpick or cotton swab to clean between remote buttons.
💡 Eco Tip: Switch to rechargeable batteries for remotes to reduce waste.
7. Baseboards & Molding
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Baseboards collect dust and pet hair, making a room look dirtier than it is.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Wipe down with a damp microfiber cloth and a dash of castile soap.
-
For scuff marks, use a baking soda paste (baking soda + water) and wipe clean.
-
Follow up with a dryer sheet (preferably biodegradable) to repel dust.
8. Under the Sink
🔹 Why Clean It?
The cabinet under the sink can hide old sponges, spills, and potential leaks, leading to mold growth.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Remove everything and wipe down with a mix of vinegar and baking soda to eliminate smells.
-
Check for leaks or mold, and replace anything expired.
-
Organize items in reusable bins instead of plastic bags.
💡 Eco Tip: Switch to compostable sponges and natural fiber scrubbers for an even greener under-sink setup.
9. Shower Curtains & Bathroom Fans
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Mold and mildew thrive on damp shower curtains, and bathroom fans collect dust and moisture, reducing efficiency.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Toss fabric shower curtains in the washing machine with baking soda and vinegar instead of chemical detergents.
-
Scrub plastic liners with castile soap and warm water or replace them with a PEVA (non-toxic) liner.
-
Remove and vacuum bathroom fan covers to improve airflow.
10. Trash Cans & Recycling Bins
🔹 Why Clean Them?
Even with a liner, trash cans absorb odors and bacteria from spills and leaks.
🌿 Green Cleaning Method:
-
Rinse with hot water and castile soap.
-
Scrub the inside with a baking soda and vinegar mix to neutralize odors.
-
Let dry in the sun for a natural disinfectant effect.
💡 Eco Tip: Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of your trash can with a drop of tea tree or lemon oil to keep it smelling fresh naturally.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about the obvious spots—it’s about tackling those hidden dirt traps that can make a big difference in the freshness and air quality of your home.
By giving attention to these often-overlooked areas, you’ll enjoy a truly deep clean that lasts. Plus, staying on top of these tasks throughout the year will make next spring’s cleanup even easier!
Now, grab your supplies, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to refresh your space like never before! 🌿✨
