Homeowners: Have You Cleaned These 5 Things Lately?

Cleaning can be a tedious chore, and some areas are easy to overlook. In fact, our REALTORS® find that many Mansfield and Ashland homes for sale aren't as clean as they seem. Over time, the neglected areas in your home get grimier as they accumulate dust, mold, pet dander, and mildew. Explore the five things in your home that require a deep clean below.

1. Garbage Disposal
   If your kitchen sink gives off foul smells, the garbage disposal is the likely culprit. Since the appliance stays concealed under the sink, many homeowners don't give it much thought. However, food particles often get stuck in the grinding chamber and splash guard and start to decay.
   
   Turn off the power before cleaning the garbage disposal to prevent it from turning on accidentally. Then, scrub the splash guard's crevices and grooves with dish detergent and a scrubbing brush or toothbrush. The grinding chamber also accumulates a lot of grime, and you can use an abrasive sponge to rid it of food particles.
   
   You can use household necessities like vinegar, baking soda, salt, and ice to clean the garbage disposal and lemon peels to refresh the smell.
   
   
2. Lampshades
   It's easy to overlook lampshades during routine cleaning, but they accumulate dust and pet hair over time and may even turn yellow. Regular dusting isn't adequate to keep your beautiful lampshades in good shape.
   
   The cleaning method depends on the fixture's material. For fabric lampshades, soak them in warm water with a gentle detergent and use a microfiber cloth to remove accumulated debris. Then, rinse and dry the lampshade entirely before attaching it to the lamp base. 
   
   Don't soak parchment or paper lampshades but use a microfiber cloth to wipe them gently. When wiping plastic lampshades, ensure you don't leave streaks behind.
   
   
3. Baseboards
   Baseboards can accumulate a surprising amount of dirt. Even if your floors are sparkling, dirty baseboards leave your home looking shabby and unwelcoming.
   
   It's best to clean baseboards after dusting the ceiling fan and other areas above them to prevent dust from falling on the clean baseboards. A microfiber cloth will thoroughly dust baseboards before you scrub the stuck grime with a small brush and cleaning solution. A vacuum attachment can help you maintain clean baseboards during weekly cleanings.
   
   
4. Toothbrush Holder
   The toothbrush holder is among the dirtiest things in your household. While you may be diligent in replacing toothbrushes every three months, it's easy to overlook the holder. Tiny drops from a wet toothbrush collect at the bottom of the holder and create a breeding ground for germs. 
   
   Fortunately, you can place toothbrush holders in the dishwasher. If the holder has too much buildup, pre-soak it in water and a cleaning solution and scrub away the grime. Disassemble the holder if it has several parts and clean each individually.
   
   
5. Dishwasher
   Many homeowners run a washing cycle on an empty chamber and assume that the dishwasher is clean. However, bits of grease, food, and soap accumulate on the appliance's crates, filters, and cartridges. Over time, this buildup reduces the dishwasher's efficiency and leads to foul odors.
   
   Cleaning a dishwasher isn't hard as you can use everyday items like baking soda and vinegar. Don't forget the filter because particles and grease easily get stuck in its crevices. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub the filter before rinsing and putting it back. Scrub the seal as well and unclog the water sprayers.
   
   A water and baking soda mixture make a gentle washing solution for the dishwater's door. Once the door is clean, use a soft cloth to keep it fingerprint-free.

The next time you give your home a deep clean, pay attention to these commonly overlooked areas. Contact us to speak to our friendly agents for any real estate opportunities.