When preparing a home for sale, most of us clean all the hot spots – vacuuming the carpets, scrubbing the tub and shower, wiping down messy countertops, and cleaning mirrors and windows. But what about these five forgotten places in your home where dirt and grime are likely lurking?
Trash cans
Have you ever taken a good look at the inside bottom of the can? Those plastic liners often leak, which can lead to a gooey mess that might lead to unpleasant odors. Once a month, do yourself a favor and wipe down the inside of the trash can with warm, soapy water. Once dry, insert a new bag.
Clean computer keyboards
Think about all the time spent with your hands all over the keyboard. Then think about everyone who shares that keyboard and the extra-curricular activities, such as eating, that are performed while using the computer. Time for another once-a-month chore. First, shut down your device. With a slightly damp lint-free cloth, gently wipe down each key. Keys such as “enter” and the spacebar that receive more use than others might need more attention. Be careful not to allow any liquid to drip into the crevices of the keyboard. Finish by drying with a lint-free cloth.
Wipe down touchscreens
Our everyday lives involve touch screens – from our phones to computers to tablets, even GPS displays in cars. To reduce the number of germs sitting on these (waiting to make you sick!), wipe them down periodically. Turn the device off first, then wipe using the cloth that came with your device. Washcloth periodically. As an alternative, use a microfiber cloth and a little bit of distilled water, squeezing as much of the excess out as possible.
Drains and underneath sinks
Sink drains may wash away a lot of things from soap to dirt, but they clog over time. Do a quick cleanup by removing the stopper and using a bottle scrubber to get the job done. You can also remove the P-trap below and clean it out to ensure your drain flows freely. Take care in kitchen sinks to not damage the disposal. Bonus: By regularly checking below the sink, you won’t be surprised by leaky pipes.
High places
The tops of tall furniture, built-ins, light fixtures and fans, and crown moldings typically get passed over in house cleaning. However, all these places accumulate dust and allergens over time, affecting the air quality in your home. Using a tall ladder, wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth.
Related – Squeaky Clean Tips for a Successful Open House
