Inside: Think your home is clean? Think again. Discover the most common things you’re forgetting to clean, why they get so dirty, and easy tips to deep clean your home fast.
Think your home is clean? You might want to think again. 😳
Even if you stay on top of your regular cleaning routine, there are hidden spots all around your home collecting dust, grime, bacteria—and in some cases… mold. The worst part? These are things you use every single day without even realizing how dirty they’ve become.
From your washing machine to your toothbrush holder, these often-overlooked items can make your home feel (and smell) less clean than you think. The good news? Most of them only take a few minutes to clean once you know where to look.
In this list, you’ll discover the most common things you’re forgetting to clean—and exactly how to clean them quickly and easily. Trust me… a few of these might surprise you. Check out these 20 things you're forgetting to clean.
Hidden Gross Spots You Are Forgetting To Clean
Just pick one or two of these items a week and you will be on your way to a clean house!
Windows & The Tracks
➤ Window Tracks
Why it gets dirty: Dirt, bugs, and debris collect in the narrow tracks.
How often to clean: Every 2–3 months
Quick cleaning tip: Use a vacuum, then scrub with a toothbrush and soapy water.
Reusable Water Bottles
➤ Reusable Water Bottles
Why it gets dirty: Moisture creates bacteria buildup, especially in lids and straws.
How often to clean: Daily or every use
Quick cleaning tip: Use a bottle brush and clean all removable parts thoroughly.
Dryer Vent
➤ Dryer Vent
Why it gets dirty: Lint escapes the trap and builds up inside the vent, reducing efficiency and creating a fire hazard.
How often to clean: Every 6–12 months
Quick cleaning tip: Use a dryer vent cleaning brush or vacuum hose to remove built-up lint from the vent and duct.
If your dryer is clogged it will take more time to dry your clothes or even start a fire. You should be cleaning the dryer vents out every few months to prevent fires and quicken drying times on clothes. I am always amazed at all the lint that I find trapped in the dryer vent. You can see all the details of this super easy job here. Of all the things you never clean but should, this is #1. Prevent fires and clean that dryer vent.
Garbage Cans
➤ Garbage Cans
Why it gets dirty: Leaks, food residue, and bacteria collect at the bottom and along the sides—even with liners.
How often to clean: Every 1–2 weeks
Quick cleaning tip: Rinse with hot water, spray with disinfectant or vinegar, and let it air dry completely.
Garbage cans are covered with germs and dirt, yet if you are like me you probably don't clean them very often. After getting all the garbage out of your cans spray them down with warm water. Then add a squirt or two of dawn soap depending on the garbage can size. I like to use a cheap toilet brush from the dollar store to scrub down the inside and outside of the trash can to make sure it gets really clean. Then just rinse out the garbage cans and let it dry in the sun. Germs and dirt are gone!
Washing Machine
Washing Machine Rubber Seal
Why it gets dirty: Moisture gets trapped inside the seal, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
How often to clean: Once a month
Quick cleaning tip: Wipe it down with a cloth soaked in vinegar and pull back the seal to clean hidden grime.
My sister was dealing with a smelly washing machine that left her clothes smelling funky too. I was so excited when I learned this easy tip on how to clean a front load washer. I was amazed at the difference it made. Her clothes now smell better. Washing machines can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria so make sure you clean them every 6 months or so. If you have a top load machine you can see how I clean the washing machine here.
Makeup Brushes
➤ Makeup Brushes
Why it gets dirty: Makeup residue, oils, and bacteria build up on the bristles and can transfer back onto your skin.
How often to clean: Once a week (at least every 1–2 weeks)
Quick cleaning tip: Wash with gentle soap or baby shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and lay flat to dry.
Makeup brushes can get germy and dirty. By cleaning them regularly you help keep the germs from getting all over your face and spreading illness. You can clean your makeup brushes every couple of months, or after being sick. You can buy cleaners in the store to do this or you can make your own homemade makeup brush cleaner. It not only keeps them clean but helps prolong the life of your brushes.
Dishwasher
➤ Dishwasher Filter
Why it gets dirty: Food particles and grease build up over time, causing odors and poor cleaning performance.
How often to clean: Once a month
Quick cleaning tip: Remove the filter and rinse it under hot water with a little dish soap.
The dishwasher is another one of those things you never clean because they clean things for us. But, the dishwasher needs to be cleaned occasionally too. If you haven't cleaned your dishwasher before it is pretty easy. I use citric acid to keep my dishwasher clean and free from hard water buildup. You can see all the details on how to clean your dishwasher here.
Sink Overflow Hole
➤ Sink Overflow Hole
Why it gets dirty: It traps moisture and bacteria from daily sink use.
How often to clean: Once a month
Quick cleaning tip: Use a small brush or pipe cleaner with vinegar to scrub inside.
Cleaning Air Vents & Returns
➤ Air Vents
Why it gets dirty: Dust circulates through your HVAC system and settles on vents.
How often to clean: Every 2–3 months
Quick cleaning tip: Vacuum with a brush attachment and wipe with a damp cloth.
Laundry Hamper
➤ Laundry Hamper
Why it gets dirty: Dirty clothes transfer sweat, bacteria, and odors to the inside of the hamper.
How often to clean: Once a month
Quick cleaning tip: Wipe down with disinfectant or toss fabric liners in the washing machine.
The laundry hamper needs to be cleaned regularly to keep away germs and bacteria. We fill it with our dirty clothes and the germs can easily be transferred to the hamper. If you have a hamper with a cloth liner the easiest way to clean it is by washing the liner in hot water. If you have a plastic hamper then you can spray them down with warm water. Then add a squirt or two of dawn soap. Scrub down the inside and outside of the hamper with a sponge or scrub brush. Then just rinse it out and let it dry.
Cell Phones
➤ Cell Phone
Why it gets dirty: It collects bacteria from your hands, surfaces, and even your face throughout the day.
How often to clean: Daily or a few times a week
Quick cleaning tip: Wipe with a microfiber cloth and a small amount of rubbing alcohol (avoid excess moisture).
We carry our phones with us everywhere these days. Of all the things you never clean this may be one of the most important to clean. I don't know about you, but I think nothing of setting the phone down in public where it picks up germs. Then, later I may grab a snack and play on my phone while I am eating. I have heard that phones often have more germs than a toilet, so gross! You can see how to clean your iPhone to keep it free from germs.
Light Switches (Especially During Flu Season!)
Why it gets dirty: They’re touched constantly but rarely wiped down.
How often to clean: Weekly
Quick cleaning tip: Wipe with a disinfecting wipe or a cloth with rubbing alcohol.
Fridge Coils
➤ Refrigerator Coils
Why it gets dirty: Dust and pet hair build up on the coils, making your fridge work harder.
How often to clean: Every 3–6 months
Quick cleaning tip: Use a vacuum or coil brush to gently remove dust buildup.
When was the last time you cleaned your refrigerator coils? It may not be something you think of cleaning that often, but you should clean them occasionally. Cleaning your fridge coils helps keep your fridge running longer and helps it use less power and can save you money. I have heard that you save approximately $5-$10 dollars a month by keeping your fridge coils clean. That's easy money! You can see how I clean the fridge coils like a pro.
Computer
➤ Computer (Keyboard & Mouse)
Why it gets dirty: Dust, crumbs, and oils from your hands build up in crevices and on surfaces.
How often to clean: Weekly
Quick cleaning tip: Use compressed air for the keyboard and wipe surfaces with a disinfecting cloth.
Just like phones, computers tend to be really dirty and germy yet not get cleaned that often. I recommend using electronic wipes to wipe down your computer every month or so. During cold and flu season you can also usually use some Lysol wipes on the keyboard. It really helps to keep everything clean and free from germs.
Garbage Disposal
➤ Garbage Disposal Splash Guard
Why it gets dirty: Food and grease get stuck underneath where you can’t see it.
How often to clean: Every 1–2 weeks
Quick cleaning tip: Flip it inside out and scrub with dish soap and an old toothbrush.
The garbage disposal is often overlooked in regular cleaning until it becomes smelly. You can keep it from becoming smelly and gross by regularly cleaning it. It doesn't take a lot of time to keep the disposal clean. I like to wipe it down once a week and use some garbage disposal drops. You can see the homemade ones that I make here. In just a few minutes, you can tackle this smelly and germ-filled spot of your home.
Coffee Maker
➤ Coffee Maker Reservoir
Why it gets dirty: Mineral deposits and bacteria build up from standing water.
How often to clean: Monthly
Quick cleaning tip: Run a cycle with equal parts vinegar and water.
Mattress
➤ Mattress
Why it gets dirty: Sweat, dead skin cells, and dust mites accumulate over time.
How often to clean: Every 3–6 months
Quick cleaning tip: Sprinkle with baking soda, let sit, then vacuum thoroughly.
I have heard that your mattress doubles in weight from dead skin and dust mites. That is just so disgusting. Cleaning your mattress and those stains from the mattress are easy!
Next time you wash your sheets on the bed take a few minutes to really clean your mattress too. You can see all the details on how I clean the mattress.
Bathroom Fan Cover
➤ Exhaust Fan Cover
Why it gets dirty: Dust and moisture stick to the fan over time.
How often to clean: Every 2–3 months
Quick cleaning tip: Remove and wash with warm soapy water.
Are you dealing with mold and mildew in the bathroom? Your bathroom exhaust fan may need cleaning. It doesn't take long to clean, see all the details on cleaning bathroom fan covers.
Throw Pillows
➤ Throw Pillows
Why it gets dirty: They collect dust, oils, and everyday grime from frequent use.
How often to clean: Every 1–3 months
Quick cleaning tip: Check the tag—many covers can be machine-washed, or spot-cleaned as needed.
Throw pillows aren't usually thought of as something we need to clean a lot. Usually, they just sit there and look pretty.
If your throw pillows are machine washable toss them in every couple of months. If not, vacuum them well and spray them down with some Lysol spray to kill off germs.
Microwave
➤ Microwave Ceiling
Why it gets dirty: Food splatters rise and stick to the top surface.
How often to clean: Weekly
Quick cleaning tip: Heat a bowl of water and vinegar, then wipe clean easily.
Cleaning your microwave doesn't have to take a lot of time and can be so satisifying to clean. Check out my tips on cleaning a microwave fast.
So get cleaning on these things you never clean and get rid of germs and dirt. It's easy to add these 20 things to your regular spring cleaning schedule.
Need some more cleaning help? Don't forget to check out my daily cleaning schedule to help you find a routine that works for you.
Myrtle Oberly says
Hello, I printed your Spring Cleaning Calendar but because it's in pastel colors. I can barely see it. Could I possibly get this in black print? Many thanks, kindest regards, Myrtle
Julie says
Hi Myrtle, I created it in pastels so I don't have a black print version. However, you could try to print it in black and white instead of in color. You would just need to change the print settings on your computer before you print. Hope this helps.