Keeping your home clean and fresh can sometimes feel like a juggling act, especially when it comes to deciding what needs regular cleaning, what should be
disinfected, and when it’s time to toss things out.
To simplify the process, I’ve put together a handy guide that breaks down the seven key things to clean, disinfect, and replace—along with how often you should do it.
Clean
Coffee Maker Reservoir – Clean monthly with vinegar and water to prevent mold and mineral buildup.
Pillows – Wash every 3 to 6 months to get rid of dust mites and allergens. Some pillows are also dryer safe; if yours is, toss it in the dryer with tennis balls or dryer balls to hold the shape. Showerhead – Clean every 3 months with a descaling solution or vinegar to remove mineral deposits.
Curtains and Drapes – Wash or vacuum every 6 months to remove dust, pet hair, and allergens.
Mattresses – Vacuum and spot clean every 3 to 6 months to remove dust
mites and keep it fresh.
Oven – Clean every 3 months to remove food spills and baked-on grease. Use the self-cleaning function (open your windows first) or an oven cleaner.
Carpets and Rugs – Deep clean every 6 to 12 months to remove embedded dirt and allergens. More often if you have pets or allergies.
Disinfect
Refrigerator Handles – Disinfect weekly to avoid the spread of bacteria, especially after handling raw food.
Light Switches and Door Handles – Disinfect weekly (or
more often if someone is sick) as these are high-touch areas.
TV Remotes – Disinfect weekly to remove germs and oils that accumulate from frequent use.
Cell Phones – Wipe down with a disinfectant cloth daily. Phones can harbor bacteria from constant handling.
Kitchen Counters – Disinfect daily, especially after preparing meals, to prevent cross-contamination.
Bathroom Faucets – Disinfect weekly to keep bacteria and mold at bay, particularly around the base.
Toilet Bowl and Flush Handle – Disinfect daily to avoid the spread of germs.
Toss
Kitchen Sponges – Toss every 2 weeks (or sooner if they smell)
since they harbor bacteria. Alternately, switch to Swedish Dish Cloths that can be tossed in the washing machine or the top rack of the
dishwasher. Toilet Brushes – Replace every 6 months due to
bacteria and mildew buildup. Old Makeup Sponges – Toss every 3 months (or sooner with daily use) to prevent bacteria from affecting your skin. Buy a value-pack of makeup sponges so you have them "in stock" when you need them. Loofahs – Toss every 3 months (or sooner if it starts to unravel) to avoid bacteria buildup.
Water Filters – Replace every 2 to 3 months or as indicated by the manufacturer to maintain clean, fresh-tasting
water.
Shower Curtains or Liners – Replace every 6 to 12 months (or sooner if mold or mildew appears) to keep the bathroom fresh. Get a shower curtain liner that resists stains and gunk.Maintaining a clean and disinfected home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing what to clean, disinfect, and toss on a regular schedule, you’ll create a healthier living space with less
effort.
Staying on top of these tasks keeps germs at bay and ensures that your home looks and feels fresh. So, grab your calendar and set those reminders—your clean and clutter-free home awaits.
