Grossest things in a house most people never bother to clean

FALLBROOK – Quick question: What do you think is the grossest thing in your house? Whatever your answer is, just the thought of it likely made you scrunch your face. Thinking about cleaning it likely seems like a nightmare. We get it – life happens, you lack the time and energy to keep everything spic and span at home.

Fret no more, we're here to help you identify where to look, and how to handle the mess. Here are the dirtiest spots in your home, plus we're sharing tips on how to make cleaning them up easier to stomach.

Care tips for the dirtiest things in your house

Cutting boards

With the worst offenders being those made of wood, the germs in food transfer to your chopping boards. At least once a week, wash them thoroughly. Use different boards for meat than fruits and vegetables so you don't cross-contaminate.

Behind and under the fridge

Cleaning the coils greatly increases energy efficiency, which translates to energy savings. About every six months, vacuum and wipe down the wall behind the fridge, the coils and back sides of the refrigerator, and also the floor where it sits.

Trash cans

Never wait until your garbage bins smell like old food that attracts all kinds of germs, pests, and animals. Clean indoor trash cans with soapy water and hose down using strong water pressure about every two months; about every three months for the outdoor bins.

Toothbrush holders

Toothbrush holders are the third highest in yeast and mold per square centimeter. All you need is to apply heat and pressure so running them in the dishwasher once a week should do the trick.

Bath rugs

Don't wait until they stink! The bathroom rug absorbs all sorts of gunk – water, dust, hair, lotions, and others, which can be attractive to germs. It is recommended to wash these in hot water at least twice a week.

Faucets

Tap water can contain minerals, like calcium, which will cause a hard, crusty buildup on the faucet screen and surrounding components. Clear the buildup by scrubbing under the faucet with a grout brush. You can also put some orange essential oil on an old toothbrush, apply it to the bottom of the faucet and allow it to sit for 15 minutes to break up the buildup. Then scrub with a stiff grout brush. Rinse the area thoroughly. Do this weekly.

Dishwashers and washing machines

You assume that things that are clean are clean. In fact, it might be the opposite, as these areas develop buildup. Clean them with warm water, mild soap, and a cleaning cloth every month. Use an old toothbrush to get into all the grooves and crevices.

Dirt and dust can pile up fast behind and under washers and dryers and this might cause electrical fires. To avoid this, about every couple of months, vacuum the surroundings of the washing machine, especially near electrical outlets and cording.

Bedding

We spend almost a third of our lives in our beds. You wash yourself and your clothes regularly but we forget bedding, which can get moist when we sweat, catch dead skin cells, saliva, and hair. Change your sheets weekly. Give your mattress a deep clean once at least every six months.

Handles

Things you are in contact with multiple times a day – we are talking about doorknobs, cabinet handles, keyboards, remote controls, and light switches. These are some of the dirtiest places in your home for the fact that you get your hands, and other family members on these things a lot of times. Make a mixture of ⅓ parts water and ⅔ parts rubbing alcohol lightly sprayed on a cloth, rub these items to clean daily.

Outdoor grill

A clean grill allows for you to have better-tasting food and a grill that can last longer. Use a grill brush or scourer to scrub off debris. Avoid using toxic chemicals as they can cling to your food. If you barbecue often, clean at least once a week. Thoroughly clean the grates every two months.

This article first appeared on Broadpoint Properties' website, https://servingsandiegocounty.com.

Submitted by Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo, broker associate, who can be reached at 760-532-1057, [email protected] or http://www.ehlentulo.com. CalBRE #01904564