15 Places in Your Home That Are Dirtier Than You Realize

This post may contain affiliate links.

Do you consider your home clean and tidy? When cleaning, you may vacuum, dust, and wipe down surfaces regularly but still overlook many places. These hidden areas can harbor germs, bacteria, and allergens without us even realizing it.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 dirtier places in your home than you realize. By becoming aware of these often neglected areas, you can take the necessary steps to keep your home cleaner and healthier.

Kitchen Sink

Your kitchen sink probably gets a lot of use, from washing dishes to rinsing produce or hand-washing. These functions make it an ideal environment for pathogenic bacteria like E. coli and salmonella to flourish. The ultimate way to keep it clean is simple: make sure it does not end up in a sorry state and spruce it with a disinfectant cleaner.

Behind the Toilet

From above of crop anonymous person in rubber gloves using soapy sponge while cleaning toilet bowl — Photo Credit: Pexels

Scrubbing the toilet bowl and seat is part of routine bathroom maintenance, but what about behind your toilet? This overlooked area becomes a breeding ground for dust, hair, and bacteria. Clean and disinfect this area every day to get rid of germs.

Inside Your Couch

For all you know, your couch may seem comfortable and clean on the outside, but rest assured, it would be quite a scare if you were to look inside. Dust, food crumbs, and even pet hair that can collect in the crevices can create a place for dust mites to live. Vacuum your couch regularly and use slipcovers that can be easily tossed in the wash.

Toothbrush Holder

You might think that your toothbrush holder is already clean, only to find out that it contains a lot of bacteria from when it houses your toothbrushes. When you flush the toilet, germs are fired into the air and all over your toothbrush holder. Wash it in hot, soapy water or the dishwasher often to ensure you are not infecting yourself.

TV Remote

Everyday Household Items Most People Forget to Clean Regularly — Photo Credit: Pixabay

The TV remote is a high-touch item; we probably touch it with dirty hands more often than anything else in the house. Use disinfectant wipes on your remote often, and ask everyone in your living area to do the same.

Doorknobs

Another frequent bacteria-loving spot is the doorknobs. Disinfectant wipes or sprays are always recommended to clean these spots periodically. Alternatively, keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer near the doorknob to sanitize your hands instantly.

Light Switches

Cheap Things That'll Help Your Entire Home Look Fancier Than It Really Is — Photo Credit: Pexels

You may ignore the light switches when it comes to cleaning, but many people in your household touch them multiple times daily. You should clean them at least once a week with a disinfectant cleaner to remove any germs that may be present.

Refrigerator Top

Parts Of Your House That Will Always Fail a Home Inspection — Photo Credit: Pixabay

Your refrigerator top may be out of sight, but it should not be out of mind when cleaning. While it can be a useful place for extra small appliances, items, and storage, it is prone to dust and grime. Clean the top of your fridge from time to time.

Dish Washer

Your dishwasher is also an appliance that seems clean but is slightly gross, as food remnants and filth can build up inside. Try to clean the inside of your dishwasher monthly or even weekly so that you know your dishes are being properly cleaned.

Grout Lines

Learning how to clean grout between tiles will help keep every room in your home tidy and hygienic. Imagine the fresh look only a sparkling white grout line can provide around tubs, sinks, and countertops. A toothbrush or small scrub brush with baking soda mixed with vinegar will clean these areas.

Under the Bed

Underneath your bed may be a place for dust bunnies, but it can collect other debris and pests. Vacuum under the bed regularly and consider using storage containers to keep items from collecting dust in this hidden area.

Cabinet Top

DIY Home Renovation Ideas Under $5000 — Photo Credit: Flickr

The tops of cabinets can become a dusty, greasy mess. Regularly wipe them down with a cleaning solution to ensure no buildup. You can also line the tops of your cabinets with a shelf liner for easier cleaning.

Baseboards

Baseboards are usually not obvious, but they do collect dust and pet hair. Wipe them down during your cleaning routine with a damp cloth, or use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to prevent dust buildup.

Laundry Baskets

Our clothes are clean after they have been washed and dried, but what about those laundry baskets holding them? These containers can retain the bacteria and germs from your dirty clothes. As you do your laundry, wash the baskets occasionally or use disposable liners, making cleaning out much easier.

Vents and Air Filters

We may not see them, but our vents and air filters can collect dust, pet hair, and allergens. To ensure cleaner air quality in your home, change your air filters regularly, vacuum out visible debris from vents, and consider professional duct cleaning every few years.