Buzz
Photo: Maskot/Getty Images1. Pillows and Bedding
You might wash your sheets every week, but don’t forget that your blankets, duvet, and pillows also collect dead skin cells and dust from the night before (yikes). Not to mention, your bed is a hotspot for dirt and germs: you place your suitcase on it when unpacking, and flop down after a day out in your outdoor clothes. Every time you wash your sheets, make sure to toss in your blankets, pillow covers, and duvet as well.
2. Furniture
It's a fact: sofas and armchairs gather a surprising amount of dust. Make it a habit to vacuum the cushions regularly and wipe down the backs and arms of any furniture that has a cleanable surface. Don’t forget to lift the cushions and tackle the dust bunnies and mites hiding underneath. Also, remember to clean under your chairs and sofa—dust hides there too!
3. Undersides of Furniture
When you peek under the bed or couch, you're likely to spot dust tumbleweeds, which can be easily swept away with a vacuum or a quick dust mop. But have you ever checked the actual underside of your furniture? You might be shocked to find layers of dust, cobwebs, and even eggs (gross!) clinging to your bed frame, tables, and sofas. Use a handheld vacuum or dust wand to clear it all out.
4. Walls
Next time you're at home, take a moment to examine your walls closely. Do they have a slightly furry texture? Dust loves to cling to all types of surfaces, especially those small crevices found in textured wallpaper. Also, if you’ve recently moved into a new home, you may notice a faint layer of sawdust that causes your white walls to take on a yellowish tint. To clean fuzzy walls, begin at the top and work your way downward using a dust mop. Be sure to wipe down light switches and door knobs as well.
5. Ledges
Even the most dedicated cleaners may overlook the tops of door frames, cabinets, picture frames, and ceiling corners. Combat dust buildup by using a disposable duster with an extendable handle — it's the most convenient way to reach high, difficult-to-clean areas.
6. The Inside of Drawers
Make sure you're cleaning the insides of drawers, whether they're in your vanity or refrigerator. For plastic bin drawers in the fridge, use a cleaning wipe to scrub them clean, while for wooden drawers that store your intimates or folded clothes, use a damp cloth to wipe them down.
7. Lampshades
Lampshades tend to gather fuzz, but cleaning them is simpler than you'd imagine. Use a vacuum with a small brush attachment or gently wipe them down with a damp cloth.
8. Books
That sleek bookshelf you bought from your favorite home store may have been a great deal, but maintaining it requires more effort. Pick up each book individually and use a dust rag to clean all sides, paying special attention to where the book rests on the shelf.
9. Window Treatments
Vacuuming your blinds, shades, and curtains regularly is an effective method for removing dust. To make this task easier, aim to do it once a month. If your vacuum doesn't reach all areas, try covering your hand with a damp sock and wiping between the slats.
10. Air Filters and Vents
Air conditioning filters collect dust and can release dust mites back into your home’s air. If you use reusable filters, wash them by hand in the sink. However, replacing them entirely is often the better choice. You can purchase affordable customizable filters that can be trimmed to fit your window air unit.
11. Electronics
Televisions, computers, keyboards, phones, and speakers often attract dust. Use a damp cloth, microfiber cloth, or a screen cleaner to wipe them down. Don’t forget to lift them up and clean behind and underneath as well. One often overlooked electronic? The electric toothbrush charging station. It's not only coated with toothpaste and grime but also gathers a lot of dust. Give it a good wipe with a damp cloth or wash it in the sink.
12. Indoor Plants
Just like any other surface, the leaves of your houseplants can accumulate dust, which can attract pests, bacteria, and obstruct photosynthesis. Erin Marino of The Sill, a trendy plant shop in New York City, advises dusting plant leaves monthly. “Take a soft cloth dampened with warm water and carefully wipe both sides of the leaves,” Marino suggests. Be sure to avoid cold water, as it can shock tropical plants. Also, don’t saturate the leaves—excess moisture can lure pests and promote the spread of fungal infections, she adds.
13. Cleaning Tools
Remember to clean your cleaning tools! Use a vacuum’s handheld attachment to remove dust and hair from broom bristles, wash your dust rags, and be sure to empty vacuum bags regularly.
