10 Items You Should Clean More Often + FREE Cleaning Checklist!
I know many of us follow cleaning schedules, but I wonder if any of these 10 items make the list, or are cleaned regularly. This post will show you the 10 items you should clean more often.
10 Items to Clean More Often
Pillows
Pillows should be washed every 3-6 months. Check the label to see how to care for yours. A way to help your pillows last longer is to use a protective pillow case and wash it weekly. This pillow case not only protects your pillow, but also helps to prevent acne.
Sheets
I was amazed to learn that many people don’t even think about washing their sheets! However, sheets should be washed weekly to get rid of any dirt, dust, or dust mites. Wash your sheets in hot water and dry them in the dryer to kill any germs and mites. This premium, waterproof mattress protector will help keep your mattress in tip top shape and will not change the feel of your mattress.
Jeans
Jeans can be worn 2-3 times between washings. Turn them inside out, wash with cold water and hang them to dry. A fabric refresher spray helps to keep your jeans fresh between washings. I like this particular spray because it is made with plant-based ingredients and does not contain phosphates, parabens, or dyes.
Bras
Bras should not be worn 2 days in a row because the elastic needs time to reshape. Rotating them will help them last longer. Washing your bras in a lingerie or bra bag will keep them from getting tangled and damaged in the machine.
Washing Machine
The washing machine should be sanitized once a month with hot water and bleach. This is easiest done when you are washing your whites. You can also clean the machine by running it empty with hot water and adding 2 cups of white, distilled vinegar.
While you wait, clean the lid and the outside of the machine with vinegar or your favorite cleaner. Don’t forget about the top and knobs. Depending on how dirty your machine was, you may need to run it again with an additional 2 cups of vinegar.
Put the vinegar in the detergent dispenser if you have a front loading machine, and follow the above instructions. (Be sure to read your manual!)
If you don’t want to go through all of those steps, you can use a product specially made to clean washing machines. Just pour the contents into the washer, run a cycle, and you’re done. It also includes a wipe for you to clean the outside of your washer while you wait!
**Click here (or the image below) to download a FREE weekly cleaning checklist to help you keep your cleaning on track. It also works great as a chore chart!
Dishwasher
The dishwasher should be cleaned once a month. Make sure all dishes are out of the dishwasher, then pour 1 cup of white, distilled vinegar into the bottom of the dishwasher and run a full cycle on the hottest setting.
This natural diswasher cleaner works in the same way. Just pour the contents of the package into the bottom of the dishwasher and run a hot cycle.
Sinks
Clean your sink daily to avoid spreading germs. Put your strainer in the dishwasher at least once a week. The Scrub Daddy sponges do an excellent job of getting your sink sparkly clean!
Drains
Once a month pour 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. Wait a few minutes, then pour boiling water down to sanitize and clear the drain.
Computer
I like to clean my computer on a weekly basis to keep germs at bay and to help it last longer. Brush the keys with a soft paintbrush, then wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe (it’s best to do this when you turn it off and unplug it!). These pre-moistened wipes are designed to safely clean your computer screen and contains no ammonia.
Purse/Handbag
Your purse or handbag should be cleaned weekly with a cleaner made for leather or vinyl, or in the washing machine if it is made of cotton.
Have you been cleaning these items regularly? If not, will you start to clean these items more often?
Don’t forget to download your free cleaning checklist here!
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Oops you got me on the purse thing. I don’t think I’ve ever cleaned my purse. maybe I should get a cleaning in before the end of the year.
That would be a great way to start the New Year! Thanks for stopping by! ~Leigh
Oops… I don’t do most of these nearly enough.
🙂
Great tips! I know some things need to be washed more often than they are, that’s for sure. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome Bonnie. Thanks for your comment! 🙂 ~Leigh
Terrific ideas and nice to have them all in one place! I have enjoyed surfing your blog 🙂
Thanks! I appreciate the feedback! It lets me know that all this typing is not in vain.
Great post. I learned a lot of great tips. I had never even thought about cleaning the dishwasher.