5 Things You Should Clean Every Month

There’s nothing like the feeling of finishing up a cleaning and knowing your house is spotless from top to bottom. But is it really? You could be missing a spot or two. While you might be nailing your daily or weekly cleaning tasks, there are a few things that you should be cleaning every month, but might be missing. Want your home to be the cleanest it’s ever been? Here are five things you should be cleaning every month.

The Washing Machine

Have you noticed your clothing is dingy or simply isn’t getting as clean as it did in the past? Your washing machine probably needs a deep cleaning. If there’s an option to run a tub cleaning cycle—do it. If not, you can use either a cup of baking soda or vinegar and run a hot cycle. 

You can also use a product specifically formulated to clean washing machines, like TrulyFree Laundry Machine Cleaner.

If you have a front loader, don’t forget to manually clean the rubber ring by scrubbing it with baking soda and vinegar, especially underneath the ring, because this space can be a breeding ground for mold.

The Dryer Vent

Of course, you clean out the lint trap between cycles to keep your dryer running optimally. However, it’s important to go the extra mile and deep clean your dryer monthly. This not only ensures your clothing doesn’t come out of the dryer damp, but it’s also crucial for safety, because dirty and clogged dryer vents are a fire hazard.

The easiest way to do this is with a kit that includes a manual tool as well as an attachment for your vacuum. You can also use a bottle brush or disposable duster.

The Garbage And Recycling Bins

Can’t identify the source of that unpleasant kitchen odor? It could be coming from your recycling bin or garbage can. The best way to deep clean these bins is with water and dish soap. If you can, take them outside and use a hose. If there’s mold or mildew, don’t be afraid to add some bleach and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. 

After you rinse, make sure the inside and outside are completely dry before bringing them indoors and replacing the bags.

If you don’t have the space to take the bins outside, you can always use the bathtub instead and just give them a good scrub down with your favorite multi-purpose cleaner.

Inside the Microwave

From food splatters to spills, the inside of our microwaves can get very dirty and stinky. First, remove the glass turntable and clean it in your dishwasher or sink. Then, put a mixture of vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl (Pyrex always works) and heat it up for five minutes. Then, leave the steaming bowl in the microwave for five to fifteen minutes. You want to make sure the bowl has cooled down when you remove it from the microwave. Then, wipe down the inside.

Your Dishwasher

It’s a good idea to deep clean your dishwasher every month. Start by removing the filter and cleaning it. Remove any large debris, then rinse it off.

Next, fill a mug with vinegar and place it on the top rack. Run a sterilization cycle so it cleans with the hottest water possible.

Alternatively, you can consider a product like Affresh, which is formulated to deep clean dishwashers by washing away limescale and other mineral buildup.