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Oops, Did You Miss These? Common Things That Need a Cleaning Fix

by Any Hour Cleaning and Organizing on August 12, 2025

We all do our best to keep our homes clean. We sweep the floors, wipe down counters, and scrub the bathroom. But even the tidiest people have a few things they forget about. Those small, everyday items can collect dust, germs, and grime without us even noticing.

Let’s take a look at some common things around the house that often get missed—and learn how giving them a little extra attention can make your whole home feel fresher and healthier.

Door Handles and Light Switches

Think about how many times you touch door handles or flip a light switch each day. Now think about how often you clean them. These are some of the most-touched spots in any house, but they’re easy to forget during your regular cleaning. Use a disinfectant wipe or a little soapy water to wipe them down at least once a week. It only takes a few seconds, but it helps keep germs away.

Remote Controls

TV remotes, game controllers, and other handheld gadgets are handled by everyone in the house. They’re a cozy spot for crumbs, fingerprints, and bacteria to gather. Wipe them down with a lightly damp cloth (you can use rubbing alcohol for extra cleaning power), making sure you get around the buttons.

Kitchen Sponges and Dish Rags

We trust our sponges and dish towels to keep things clean, but they can be some of the dirtiest items in the house. Bacteria love to grow where things are wet and warm. Change your sponges often (once a week is a good rule), and pop cloths in the washing machine with hot water after a few uses.

Toothbrush Holders

It’s easy to forget about the thing that holds your toothbrush, but it can get splashed with toothpaste, mouthwash, and water every day. Every week or so, wash your toothbrush holder with warm, soapy water to keep it clean.

Reusable Shopping Bags

Reusable bags help save the planet, but they can harbor dirt and germs from groceries. Toss fabric bags in the washing machine often, and wipe down sturdy plastic ones with a disinfectant wipe.

Trash Cans

It’s easy to think “I use trash bags, so the can doesn’t get dirty”—but drips and odors can sneak through. Take your cans outside and rinse them with soapy water every month or so, depending on how often you use them. This will keep smells under control and make your kitchen or bathroom feel fresher.

Smartphone and Tablet Screens

We touch our phones and tablets all day long, but most of us never clean them. Swipe down your device’s screen with a soft microfiber cloth and a little rubbing alcohol every few days. This keeps germs (and fingerprints) away.

Coffee Makers

Your coffee maker works hard every day, but over time, mineral deposits, old coffee oils, and even mold can build up inside. Once a month, run a cycle with vinegar and water (check your machine’s instructions), and don’t forget to clean the basket and carafe regularly.

Ceiling Fans

Have you ever looked up at your ceiling fan and noticed a layer of dust on the blades? This dust can get scattered around the room when the fan is on. Use a damp cloth or a duster on the blades every month—or whenever you remember to look up!

Shower Curtains and Liners

Shower curtains and plastic liners can collect soap scum and mildew. Once a month, toss your fabric curtain in the wash and wipe down the liner with a gentle cleaner. If your liner gets really gross, they’re easy and cheap to replace.

Take Cleaning Off Your To-Do List!

Keeping up with all these small cleaning tasks can feel overwhelming. That’s where Any Hour Cleaning And Organizing comes in! Our team loves tackling all the little places dirt and germs hide—so you don’t have to worry. We’ll help make your home sparkle, from top to bottom, with friendly and thorough service.

Visit us at AnyHourCleaningAndOrganizing.com to learn more, see our full list of services, and schedule your next cleaning.