How to: Clean Hard to Reach Spaces
Not all cleaning tasks are created equal, and, sometimes those hard to reach spaces are a pain to just get clean. Check out these simple tips and tricks on how to effectively clean hard to reach spaces without making the job harder than it needs to be.
Computer Keyboards
It’s safe to say that most of us use a computer regularly, and, over time, our keyboard tend to harbor bacteria, food particles, and dust that seems to get stuck in between the keys. Thankfully, there are several effective methods to cleaning your keyboard.
A soft bristled paint brush can be used to remove the dust in between the keys.
A cotton swab damp with rubbing alcohol can be used to clean and sanitize sticky areas.
Compressed air can be used to blow dust away from the small crevices.
You can also use the sticky side of a post-it note to help pick up and remove the dust between your keys.
While you’re cleaning your electronics, don’t forget about your cell phone. Learn more about how to clean your phone here.
Air Vents
Keeping the air vents in your home clean is important as they are known for collecting pet hair and dust that can be later kicked up into the air significantly increasing the number of allergens.
Take a microfiber cloth and wrap it around a butter knife, securing it with a rubber band.
Using the knife, wiggle it in-between the slates of your air vent covers to remove the dirt and grime.
If you are able to remove the vent it can also be cleaned by spraying the covers off using a garden hose, or soaking them in soapy water and scrubbing them in your sink.
Prevent excess build up on your air vents by using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean the vent covers monthly.
Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures
Ceiling fans and light fixtures can be cleaned using a disposable duster made with a material that the dust will cling to. A long vacuum attachment can also be used to clean the loose dust from the fixture.
After the loose debris is cleaned off, dampen a microfiber cloth with soapy water and secure it to a broom handle using a rubber band.
Wipe the fixture down with the cloth, then dry the fixture.
Depending on the height of your fixtures, this process may be easier for you to do while on a ladder.
Tops of Cabinets
Much like cleaning your ceiling fans and light fixtures, disposable dusters can also be used to clean the tops of your cabinets.
If you have dust particles and grease build up on your cabinets, it's best to wipe them down using warm, soapy water and a microfiber cloth.
You may have to repeat this process multiple times depending on the severity of the build up.
Window Blinds
Window blinds can be dusted using a feather duster, or wiped down with a damp microfiber cloth wrapped around a pair of kitchen tongs.
Remember to wipe down both sides of the slats for a deep clean.
When cleaning blinds, it’s best to start from the top and work your way down to make the job more efficient.
Sliding Door and Window Tracks
Sliding door and window tracks accumulate dust and dirt quickly and it can be difficult to get into the tiny crevices to clean them efficiently.
Start by removing as much loose dirt and grime from the area using a vacuum and a small attachment.
After vacuuming, mix a few droplets of dish soap with warm, soapy water and, using a flexible bristled brush, begin to scrub out the tracks.
Proceed by rinsing the area with warm water.
If cleaning the track of your shower door, white vinegar can also be used to help eliminate soap scum and built up grime.