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The Best Tools and Techniques for Cleaning the Most-Overlooked Surfaces
No matter how thorough you clean your home, there are always those sneaky spaces where dirt and dust hide. Those hard-to-reach areas can be quite the challenge, often left untouched because they seem nearly impossible to clean.
We’ll show you the best tools and techniques to get into all the nooks and crannies that often get overlooked when cleaning. Let’s dive in…
Contents
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- Behind and Under Appliances
- Ceiling Corners and Light Fixtures
- Under Furniture
- Baseboards and Molding
- Vents and Ducts
- Window Tracks and Blinds
- Behind the Toilet
- Inside Cabinets and Drawers
- Underneath Sink Fixtures
- Behind Electronics
- Closet Corners and Shelves
- Behind Wall Hangings
- Staircase Nooks
- Garage and Attic Corners
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1. Behind and Under Appliances
Appliances are magnets for dust, grease, and sometimes even stray crumbs. A microfiber high duster is ideal for reaching the tight spaces beneath these heavy items without having to move them. The flexible nature of the wand allows you to slide it under appliances, attracting dust and debris with ease.
For the sides and backs of appliances, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any sticky residue or dust build-up. You may also need to use an All-Purpose Cleaner and a scrubbing sponge for more stuck-on messes.
Cleaning these areas often not only improves hygiene but can also enhance the efficiency of your appliances by preventing overheating caused by dust accumulation.
2. Ceiling Corners and Light Fixtures
Ceiling corners, light fixtures, and chandeliers are often overlooked during routine cleaning, allowing cobwebs and dust to settle. A microfiber duster with a telescoping handle is perfect for reaching high corners without the need for a ladder.
The soft magnetic fibers of the microfiber duster trap dust and cobwebs without scattering them into the air. This is especially great for those with allergies.
For light fixtures and chandeliers, use a microfiber Fluffy Duster to gently reach into any detailed crevices. Periodically dusting these areas not only keeps your home looking fresh but also improves the brightness of your lights by removing the dust that can dim their shine.
3. Under Furniture
Cleaning under heavy furniture like beds, sofas, and cabinets can be a daunting task, but the right tools make it manageable. A microfiber duster with a slim profile can easily glide under these pieces, grabbing dust and allergens that settle over time.
For deeper cleans, consider using a microfiber flat mop, which can cover a larger area under furniture with minimal effort. Moving furniture periodically for a more thorough vacuuming is also recommended, as dust and dirt can accumulate in layers.
For particularly heavy items, a furniture jack can be used to safely move pieces without scratching your floors. By maintaining a clean space under your furniture, you reduce the presence of dust mites and improve indoor air quality.
4. Baseboards and Molding
Baseboards and moldings, especially those behind large furniture, tend to collect dust and scuffs that can make them look worn over time. A baseboard mop is perfect for cleaning baseboards without breaking your back. Alternatively, you can use a damp microfiber towel to wipe down baseboards.
For intricate molding and trim work, use a smaller microfiber cloth or a damp microfiber duster to get into the grooves and corners. For areas behind large furniture, the baseboard mop already mentioned, or an extendable microfiber duster can reach these spots without the need to move the furniture.
Cleaning baseboards and molding frequently not only keeps them looking fresh but also prevents the build-up of dirt that can be harder to remove over time.
5. Vents and Ducts
HVAC vents, dryer vents, and bathroom exhaust fans are essential for maintaining good air circulation but can become clogged with dust and debris. Use the baseboard mop without the slider attachment to clean vents and remove accumulated dust.
For deeper cleaning, remove the vent covers and use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clear out any trapped dirt. In dryer vents, lint build-up can be a fire hazard, so using a specialized vacuum attachment is a quick and easy way to remove lint from deep within the duct.
Regular maintenance of these areas not only improves air quality but also ensures the efficiency and safety of your home’s ventilation systems.
6. Window Tracks and Blinds
Window tracks and blinds are notorious for trapping dust, dirt, and even insects. A microfiber cloth is excellent for wiping down blinds, as it can be used dry or slightly dampened to capture dust without smearing.
For window tracks, use a thin, firm brush to loosen and remove debris. For a deeper clean, a vacuum with a crevice tool compatible with your vacuum can effectively suck out dirt from the narrow tracks.
Sliding windows and doors often have grime build-up in their tracks that can impede smooth operation, so regular cleaning not only keeps them looking clean but also ensures they function properly. Don’t forget to dust behind and above curtains and drapes, as these areas can also collect dust over time.
7. Behind the Toilet
The area behind the toilet is often neglected during regular cleaning, leading to the build-up of dust, hair, and grime. A flexible microfiber duster wand can reach behind the toilet to remove dust and debris without the need to maneuver around the fixture.
For a more thorough clean, use a microfiber cloth dampened with a disinfectant cleaner to wipe down the area, paying special attention to the base and under the toilet tank where dust and moisture can accumulate. Or if the surface is especially grimey, use disposable microfiber cloths to prevent cross contamination.
Regular cleaning of this area not only maintains hygiene but also prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which can thrive in damp environments.
8. Closet Corners and Shelves
Closet corners and shelves can collect dust, especially in high or low areas that are out of reach. A microfiber duster wand with an extendable handle is perfect for reaching into these tight spaces without disturbing your stored items.
For shelves, a microfiber cloth can be used to wipe down surfaces, removing any dust or dirt that may have settled. Periodically, it’s a good idea to empty out closets to thoroughly clean all surfaces, ensuring that no dust is left behind.
Keeping closet corners and shelves clean not only maintains the freshness of your stored items but also prevents the build-up of allergens like dust mites.
9. Underneath Sink Fixtures
The area underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks can be a magnet for grime, leaks, and mold. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the pipes and fixtures, paying close attention to any areas with visible build-up.
For tight spaces around pipes, a small, flexible duster or brush can help dislodge dirt and dust. Inspect for any signs of leaks or water damage regularly, as these can lead to more serious problems like mold growth.
Keeping this area clean not only improves the appearance of your sink fixtures but also helps to prevent potential plumbing issues down the line.
10. Behind Electronics
Dust can quickly accumulate behind electronics such as TVs, computers, and gaming consoles, which can affect their performance and longevity. A microfiber cloth is ideal for dusting the surfaces and screens of these devices without scratching them.
For the areas behind and underneath, use a microfiber duster wand to reach into tight spaces where dust gathers. Pay special attention to ventilation areas on electronics, as dust build-up can cause overheating.
Regularly dusting behind and around your electronics not only keeps them looking clean but also helps maintain their efficiency and extends their lifespan.
11. Inside Cabinets and Drawers
Cabinets and drawers, especially those in the kitchen and bathroom, can quickly become cluttered and dusty. Start by removing all items and using a microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior surfaces, including the corners and edges where dust tends to settle.
For high or deep cabinets that are difficult to reach, an extendable microfiber duster wand can make the task easier. In kitchen cabinets, pay special attention to areas where crumbs and food particles might collect.
A damp microfiber cloth with an All-Purpose Cleaner can help remove any sticky residue.
Cleaning the inside of your cabinets and drawers often not only keeps them organized but also prevents pests and mold from taking hold in hidden corners.
12. Behind Wall Hangings
Dust can accumulate behind pictures, paintings, mirrors, and other wall-mounted decor, dulling their appearance over time. Use a microfiber cloth to gently dust the front and back of wall hangings, as well as the wall behind them.
For larger items, an extendable microfiber duster can help you reach behind without needing to take them down.
Regularly cleaning behind wall hangings not only keeps them looking sharp but also prevents dust from settling and causing discoloration on your walls.
13. Staircase Nooks
The nooks and crannies of staircases, especially under stairs and along railings, can be challenging to clean but often collect dust and debris. A microfiber duster wand is ideal for getting into these tight spaces without having to maneuver awkwardly.
For the sides and underneath railing spindles, use a small microfiber detailing brush to remove dust that has settled in crevices.
Dusting these areas often not only keeps your staircase looking pristine but also prevents the build-up of allergens that can affect indoor air quality.
14. Garage and Attic Corners
The remote corners of garages and attics are often neglected, allowing dust, cobwebs, and sometimes pests to accumulate. A microfiber duster with an extendable handle is perfect for reaching high shelves and tight corners without having to move heavy boxes or items.
For areas under stored items, use a flat microfiber mop to clean without disturbing your storage.
Frequent checking and cleaning of these areas not only keeps your garage and attic tidy but also prevents the potential for pest infestations and mold growth.
Leave No Stone Unturned
Keeping your home clean and dust-free requires attention to the often overlooked areas behind and under furniture, appliances, and fixtures. By using the right tools like microfiber duster wands, cloths, and specialized cleaning brushes, you can effectively tackle these hard-to-reach spots without a lot of effort.
Regular cleaning of these areas not only enhances the overall appearance of your home but also contributes to better indoor air quality, prevents the build-up of allergens, and prolongs the life of your appliances and fixtures. Whether it’s behind the refrigerator, under the bed, or in the high corners of a closet, staying on top of these tasks ensures a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
With the right techniques and tools, even the most hidden spaces in your home can remain spotless and well-maintained.
The Ultimate Clean for Your Home
The Ultimate Microfiber Cleaning Kit paired with our Genie Sheets creates the perfect cleaning duo for maintaining a spotless home from ceiling to floor. The kit includes microfiber towels, dusters, glass cloths, and a mop.
Genie Sheets are a revolutionary product that redefines convenience in cleaning. These detergent-style sheets that dissolve in water. Includes three professional-grade cleaning solutions: all-purpose, bathroom, and glass and mirror.
Together, the Ultimate Microfiber Cleaning Kit and Genie Sheets make it easier than ever to keep every corner of your home sparkling clean.