9 Household Items You Might Be Forgetting To Clean

Although it is a tedious task, a deep, thorough clean can be very rewarding. It feels like everything is new again, and it gives you the satisfaction of a job done well. There are always a few things that get overlooked when you do a post-renovation cleaning. Or they just seem too difficult. These are the nine areas of the house that often go unnoticed and the best ways to clean them.

Yellowed Pillows

Your pillowcases are probably washed enough. But what about your pillows? Because sweat, hair products and other substances can get through pillowscases, old pillows can turn yellow. Pillowcases are very easy to clean.

1. All covers should be removed from pillows
2. Two at a time into the washer
3. Use liquid detergent and bleach to wash your clothes on a hot cycle, with an additional rinse
4. Dry the tags as directed. To get all surfaces exposed to heat, place tennis balls in dryer.
5. If you notice any dampness in the pillowcases, let them dry thoroughly before you put them back on.

Window Blinds

Blinds can quickly become dusty, but they take so long to clean. This simple trick will change your perception of blinds.

1. To make two narrower strips, cut a dusting cloth in half.
2. Each strip should be wrapped around the end of the kitchen spoons and secured with rubber bands. If the cloth strips become too bulky, trim them.
3. Clean the blinds by grabbing one slat between the cloth-wrapped tngs and sliding it horizontally.
4. Once you are done, simply take the cloth off and return the tongs back to the kitchen. Before you pick up food, wash them!

Vent Covers

You’d be surprised at how much dust and grime vent covers can collect from the exhaust. While these covers can be hard to remove from the vents, it’s much easier to take them off.

1. Remove the vent cover. Make sure you keep track of the exact location of the screws
2. Use a paper towel to wipe the slats clean.
3. Put the vent cover on the top rack of the dishwasher. Then, run a water-only program.
4. To test it, wipe the cover with a towel.
5. Do you remember those screws? These screws can be used to attach the vent cover.

Cloth Couches

Because the fabric is porous, dirt, stains and odors can seep into it and cannot be simply wiped away. Couches are a popular place to relax and gather in your home so any deep cleaning should include them. Some couches have removable covers that can easily be machine washed. Follow the instructions on the tag to clean your couch. Baking soda can be used to remove stains from your couch and eliminate the lingering smell.

1. To remove all hair from the fabric-covered couches, use a stiff brush
2. Use baking soda to sprinkle fabric surfaces, paying particular attention to stains and soiled areas.
3. Allow to sit for 20 minutes
4. To suction up baking powder, use a handheld vacuum cleaner or a hose attachment
5. Use a mild, all-purpose cleaner to clean a cloth and rub the fabric. You should see a decrease in the appearance of stains.

Electric Stove Burners

It can seem impossible to clean the burner rings of an electric stove. They can quickly turn dark brown with rust and grime. You can get rid of all that in a few simple steps.

1. Place the burner on a towel or another work surface.
2. To remove as much grime and grease as possible, use degreasing dish soap or a paper towel
3. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the burner’s top surface
4. Allow to sit for 20 minutes
5. Use a sponge to scrub the baking soda paste
6. Rinse, then pat dry

Glass Cooktop

What happens if there are no burners on your stove? Unsightly rings of grime and rust can form on the cooking surface. To clean a glass stovetop, you can use the exact same ingredients as before.

1. Spread baking soda liberally on stained areas.
2. Use a hand towel or washcloth to soak in water and dish soap.
3. Place the baking soda in a bowl and pour the water and soap mixture over it. Then, place the towel on top of the stove.
4. Allow to sit for 20 minutes
5. Grab a towel and scrub the grime off with it
6. To remove any excess baking soda paste, use a paper towel and give it a shiny look.

Area Rugs

Most homeowners rent a steamer to clean their carpets at home. However, most rugs can be cleaned using soap and water. If you find any stains on your favorite area rug, go outside and clean them.

1. You can hose the rug down and get it evenly wet.
2. Use OxiClean, or another similar cleaner to clean the rug. Scrub with a stiff-brimmed brush, focusing on stained areas. Make sure you read the labels to ensure that no substances are allowed on your rug.
3. Allow to sit for 2 to 3 hours
4. Rinse the rug using the hose or a sprayer attachment.
5. You can roll up the rug and squeeze out any water or cleanser as you go.
6. Continue with step 5. Squeeze out more water.
7. To dry the rug, hang it up. When the rug is dry, place it on its indoor surface.

Toilet Siphon Opening

The siphon in your toilet keeps the water level constant and stops it from overflowing. It is located near the rim of the bowl and can sometimes show rust or hard water stains. These steps will remove those stains:

1. Take off the lid from the toilet tank
2. Turn off the water tap to the toilet
3. To empty the tank or bowl, flush the toilet.
4. Use one or more strips duct tape to cover the opening of the toilet siphon. The goal is to create a seal.
5. In the tank, add several cups of white vinegar
6. Let the vinegar sit for a night before rinsing. The duct tape will keep the vinegar in its siphon opening, so that it can dissolve the stain.
7. Turn off the water supply, remove the duct tape and flush the toilet as usual.

Broom

How often do your cleaning supplies get cleaned? Your broom can become quite dirty over time, even though you might not notice it. After you’re done with sweeping, give your broom some love. You can use any of these methods to make your broom as clean as you can.

1. Use the broom to sweep away pet hairs and dirt.
2. Vacuum the bristles of a handheld vacuum, or vacuum with hose attachments.
3. To clean the bristles, use a disposable disinfecting wiping wipe
4. Add a small amount of dish soap to some water. Stir to make foam. Place the broom with the brush side down in the bucket. Let it soak for at least one hour.
5. Don’t forget to bring your dustpan while you’re at work! You can do the job with a little multipurpose cleaner and a quick wipedown.