9 things you shouldn't clean at home but should do ASAP - CNET

This story is part of 12 days of tips to help you get the most out of your tech, your home and your health this holiday season.

Your house might look great after a quick cleaning, but that doesn't mean your house is really clean everywhere. It's easy to overlook certain features and areas of your home that you don't use often. Sure, it's easy to think about cleaning your Keurig coffee maker or washing machine, but are you also thinking about cleaning that delicate space between your oven and kitchen cabinets ?

Hidden germs and dirt can linger in unexpected places, but I've listed nine spots in your home that you may have overlooked that you should put an effort into next time you deep clean. (See How to Clean Workout Clothes and How to Clean a Yoga Mat for more cleaning tips .)

1. Microwave Blanket

Microwaves get a lot of spatter, and even if you clean the sides and glass top regularly, you might be missing another important part: the roof.

Vera Peterson, President of Molly Maid, said the best way to cleanse this delicate area is to add 1/4 cup vinegar to 1 cup water and microwave the solution for three minutes. The walls inside the oven become coated in hot, acidic moisture, so you can simply scrub away stuck food with a sponge.

2. Dryer openings

You may know that you should empty the lint trap after every load of laundry you dry, but did you know that you should also give your dryer vents a thorough cleaning at least once a year? Scott Thomas, systems manager at Dryer Vent Wizard, says you need to take an extra step if you use dryer sheets frequently.

"Dryer towels leave a wax buildup on the lint filter and can start fires," Thomas said.

The vents are best cleaned with warm, soapy water and an old toothbrush. Thomas recommends cleaning the air vents every three to six months.

3. TV screen

Many people watch TV every day but don't consider it part of their weekly dusting routine. Peterson recommends keeping your TV cleaning routine simple: just quickly run a feather duster or microfiber cloth over the vents, speakers, and other crevices.

If the screen itself needs additional cleaning, use a mild cleaning solution labeled safe for electronic screens. Also pay attention to the amount of cleaning solution you use.

"Your television is an electronic [device], so it should never be overloaded with products," Peterson said. "Always spray onto your cloth, never directly onto the device."

Many people watch TV every day but don't make it a part of their weekly cleaning routine.

Emilie Manevska/Getty Images

4. Space between your oven and cabinets or walls

Because it's usually quite small, most people are unaware that the space between the oven and kitchen cabinets or walls can create a huge mess. Because you cook and prepare meals in this area, crumbs, spills and splashes can quickly accumulate, which can lead to odors.

5. Ceiling fan blades

You only have to look up to see the dust and dirt that can collect on your ceiling fan blades. However, there is a simple solution.

Simply disconnect the power supply to the fan and place a ladder or step stool underneath. Slide a pillowcase over each sheet in turn, using the top to clean the sheet and the bottom to catch dirt. Then use a lint-free cloth sprayed with an all-purpose cleaner to remove any remaining dirt and wipe the base and lamp.

Read more: Take extra care of your ceiling fan. could save you money

If you regularly use small kitchen appliances like a blender, food processor, or coffee grinder, you know how difficult it can be to clean every nook and cranny. This set of cleaning brushes is designed to get into even the hardest-to-reach places on virtually any device you own. As a bonus, you can also use them for general cleaning in the bathroom or kitchen.

OXO Good Grips Kitchen Utensil Cleaning Kit .

You will receive price alerts for professional cleaning tips!

6. Cutlery drawer

There are many surfaces in the kitchen where heavy dirt can accumulate. Your cutlery tray may seem like a surface that stays clean since you only place freshly cleaned cutlery on it after rinsing, but that's not really the case.

Peterson says that many utensils are not completely clean after a wash, which in turn soils the cutlery tray.

The good news is that you only have to take care of this task once a month. Simply remove all your cutlery from the tray and dispose of the waste in your bin or sink. Using a mixture of two parts water and one part distilled vinegar, dampen a clean cloth and wipe down the bowl. If the tray is dishwasher safe, you can also run it in a cycle.

Many utensils are not completely clean after a wash cycle.

Saint Isra/500px/Getty Images

7. Mosquito nets

Dirt can easily transfer from a dirty window screen to your glass and make your window dirty no matter when you've cleaned it.

"A clean window's worst enemy is a dirty screen," said Ken Fisk, Window Genie Technical Services Manager.

However, you don't have to do much to clean a screen. Remove the screens, use a dry brush to remove any obvious dirt from the screen, then simply rinse with a hose. Allow the screens to dry by spreading them out on a towel in your yard, then reinstall the screens on your windows.

8. Remote Controls

A remote control is used so often in most homes that it doesn't get a chance to collect dust. However, frequent use is exactly why you should clean them frequently, as remote controls can pick up germs from your hands. Try to clean it with disinfectant wipes at least once a day or as needed.

9. Sides of the refrigerator

The front and sides of your refrigerator should be cleaned regularly. Germs outside the fridge can easily get onto your hands, which then touch the foods you eat.

To clean the outside of a fridge, simply close the door and wipe the outside of the fridge with a sudsy cloth. If you have a stainless steel appliance, use a store-bought stainless steel spray to remove fingerprints and dirt.

Peterson recommends a nifty trick if you don't have a stainless steel sprayer: apply baby oil to a microfiber cloth and wipe in the direction of the grain. And as a bonus, baby oil costs next to nothing compared to store-bought cleaning products.

Baby oil is a practical alternative to stainless steel cleaner.

s-cphoto/fake pics

For more tips on cleaning your fridge, read what foods to throw away when you give your fridge a deep clean and how often you should clean it.

More cleaning tips and tricks

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How mouthwash is the key to a happier, bloated stomach and 8 tips to get you there

WE are always looking for ways to make sure our stomachs are happy and our digestions stay in good shape.

While probiotics, fermented foods, and stress relief are just a few of the ways we can take care of our gut, it turns out that taking care of the microbiome in our mouth also plays a big part.

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What you eat and drink can affect both your teeth and your gut . Photo Credit : Getty

The nutritionist Dr. Pamela Mason of the Dietary Supplements and Health Information Service says your oral microbiome (the bacteria that live in your mouth) affects dental health, but just like your gut microbiome, it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain and heart.

She says, "The oral and gut microbiomes work synergistically to maintain health."

In fact, the mouth can mirror what's happening in the gut.

WHAT IS A MICROBIOME?

dr Tariq Mahmood, Medical Director of Concepto Diagnostics , explains that microbiomes are collections of microorganisms that live inside us.

He says: "Humans have four main microbiomes: the oral microbiome, the digestive tract microbiome, the skin microbiome and the urogenital microbiome.

"They all work in symbiosis and contribute to almost everything to do with the body, from aging, our mood and our cognitive abilities to digestion and the immune system , to name a few."

INDICATIONS OF AN IMBALANCE IN THE MICROBIOME

Bio-Kult nutritionist Claire Barnes explains that the prevalence of pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms can lead to a variety of oral health problems.

These include tooth decay, bad breath and bleeding gums.

The most read in health

Other signs of imbalances in our body's microbiomes include heartburn, thrush, gas , and lack of sleep.

Claire says, "Plaque build-up on teeth is a buildup of unwanted bacteria.

"In recent years there has been a lot of interest in using probiotics to maintain good oral health and treat oral infections."

Of course, just like in the gut, there are many good bacteria that are helpful in protecting the health of our mouth.

But the problems stem from an imbalance between good and bad bacteria.

8 WAYS TO KEEP BAD BACTERIA AT LOW

1. ENJOY DAIRY

"Calcium is needed for healthy teeth and bones (like the bone that supports your teeth)," explains Claire.

"Calcium deficiency has also been linked to gum disease and softening of the teeth.

"While calcium-rich foods and beverages like cheese and milk appear to have potential protective effects, they increase the mineral content of the teeth and help prevent tooth decay."

Dairy products are good sources of calcium, as are green leafy vegetables, unsweetened soy milk, tofu, and tahini.

2. INCREASE YOUR VITAMIN C

"Vitamin C deficiency is associated with gum disease .

"Gum disease is related to an increased production of free radicals, which are molecules that damage our cells.

"Antioxidants like vitamin C help reduce free radical damage," explains Claire.

Therefore, vitamin C is important for maintaining healthy gums.

Enjoy foods like broccoli, peppers, citrus fruits, berries and kiwi.

3. MAINTAIN ORAL HYGIENE

dr Mahmood explains: "Good oral hygiene is very important as it controls the bacterial load and some of the bacteria in the mouth that spread to other parts of the body can be very dangerous.

"For example, one study found that Porphyromonas gingivalis, which causes periodontitis, a serious infection of the gums, causes inflammatory changes in various organs and tissues."

dr Mason recommends a twice-daily brushing routine, adding that it's important to make sure you're brushing your teeth for two minutes at a time.

"You can also floss to loosen objects stuck between your teeth and reduce the risk of gum disease."

4. LOOK FOR EGGS

This simple, high-protein food contains vitamin A, which plays an important role in maintaining the cells that line your mouth and gums.

"In fact, a deficiency can lead to inflammation of the gums, overgrowth of gum tissue around teeth, and weakening of the bone on which teeth rest," explains Claire.

Additionally, he adds, deficiencies in vitamin A, vitamin D, and protein can cause salivary glands to shrink, which can mean less saliva and less saliva-cleansing effectiveness.

Other foods with vitamin A are grass-fed meats, orange fruits and vegetables, dark green leafy vegetables.

5. BE CAREFUL WITH ANTIBIOTICS

dr Mason says it's important to avoid unnecessary antibiotics because they can deplete healthy gut bacteria.

"If you need antibiotics, take a probiotic supplement at the same time."

6. EAT FERMENTED FOODS

An easy fermented food to include in your daily diet is plain yogurt.

Others include kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso.

These fermented foods have the potential to contain beneficial bacteria.

But don't overdo it; too much too soon can lead to digestive problems.

7. ELIMINATE BALTAL BREATH

"Oral problems such as poor dental hygiene, gum disease, or a coated tongue are commonly considered the leading causes of bad breath," says Claire.

"However, other factors, such as the overgrowth of non-beneficial microorganisms in the digestive tract, can also contribute to the problem."

An easy way to support your gut flora is to take a live bacteria supplement.

"A 2019 review of available evidence recommended live bacterial supplements to combat bad breath, particularly those containing friendly Lactobacillus species," reveals Claire.

You can try the Bio-Kult Advanced Multi-Strain Formulation, which contains 14 different bacterial strains (including 7 Lactobacillus species) to support the intestinal flora.

8. CUSTOMIZE YOUR LIFESTYLE

From smoking? dr Mason recommends quitting smoking while increasing your water intake and eating more high-fiber foods like whole grain breads, fruits, and vegetables.

Reduce your intake of foods high in fat and sugar, as these can impair healthy bacterial diversity.

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Bigshot's pool table needs cleaning - Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Oven Cleaning Tip: All Natural Way to Keep Your Oven Shining | Expresses

Focused on "all-natural and affordable sustainability," Kasha wows her fans with her cleaning ideas on TikTok and on her Instagram account @kasha.cabato . She uses all non-toxic ingredients to clean her oven.

The content creator said, "Want to get the inside of your oven sparkling clean but also avoid the toxic chemicals found in oven cleaners? Then you will love this cleaning hack. Totally natural.

"All you need is half a cup of baking soda and a quarter cup of water. Then mix everything together to form a batter that should be the consistency of pancake batter."

"Put on gloves and remove your oven racks. Spread the paste over the metal and glass parts of your oven, but be careful to avoid heating coils like the ones on my roof. Then leave it on for about 20 minutes."

READ MORE: Wife's oven cleaning solution means she only has to manage the 'once a year' chore

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How to clean kitchen cabinets for a fresh new kitchen | dream home

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the home and needs to be tough against bumps, spills and grease build-up while cooking, but it's easy to keep kitchen cabinets in pristine condition with a little effort to prevent mess spills

"Kitchen cabinets need easy and frequent cleaning," says Ben Burbidge, General Manager of Kitchen Makers (opens in a new tab) . "Wipe down the exterior surfaces at least every two weeks to remove dirt and grease buildup. Every two months you should give your cabinets a thorough cleaning to remove the thickest layers of grease and dirt.

But choosing the right cleaning product is important, advises Ben. 'Check with the retailer exactly which products will go best with your cabinets, especially doors and fronts.'

How to clean kitchen cabinets

The type of material your kitchen cabinets are made of will determine what they should be cleaned with, but below are some of the most common kitchen cleaning tips .

How to clean painted cabinets

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Once you've chosen the best color for your kitchen cabinet , you need to keep it clean so the color still shines.

What will you need:

• Microfiber clothing
• Hot water
• Non-abrasive cleaning solution (dishwashing liquid works well)

1. Check which cleaning agent to use

Paint comes off easily if you use the wrong type of cleaner. Therefore, before you start cleaning, ask your kitchen manufacturer which cleaners they recommend.

2. Make a test patch

Before cleaning painted cabinets, test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it does not affect the finish. A good option is to use a microfiber cloth that has been dipped in warm, soapy water and wrung out to remove excess water.

3. Clean out your closets

For painted cabinets, daily cleaning will prevent the build-up of stubborn grease stains, thereby avoiding the need for harsh detergents.

How to clean wooden cabinets

(Image credit: Future PLC)

It's pretty easy to make your own cleaning solution from things you have in your kitchen cupboard.

"When it comes to wooden kitchen cabinets, make a vinegar solution to clean them," advises Sarah Dempsey, MyJobQuote (opens in a new tab) . "Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of water. This creates a gentle cleaning solution that is perfect for wooden kitchen cabinets. The solution will not warp the wood or affect the finish.

What will you need:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup of water
• Microfiber clothing
• spray

1. Mix

In a clean spray bottle, combine white vinegar and water to make your cleaning solution.

2. Remove excess water

Spray your cleaning solution on the cabinets and gently wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove stains and spills.

How to clean laminate cabinets

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Laminate is probably one of the easiest surfaces to clean in the kitchen.

"You can clean laminate kitchen cabinets with an all-purpose cleaning spray," says Sarah Dempsey of MyJobQuote. "Simply spray an all-purpose cleaner onto a microfiber cloth, then wipe away any grease splatters, fingerprints, and other stains from the cabinet surfaces."

What will you need:

• All-purpose cleaning spray
• Microfiber clothing

1. Spray the surface

With an all-purpose cleaner, spray a little on the cabinet doors, one at a time, and wipe them down with the microfiber cloth. Do this once a week to avoid dirt build-up.

2. Mirror polished cabinets

If your cabinets have a shiny finish, wipe them down with a dry microfiber cloth to avoid unsightly streaks.

how to clean windows

(Image credit: Amelia Thorpe)

It's easy to make your own glass cabinet cleaning solution, says Ben Burbidge of Kitchen Makers. Glass fronts and shelves can be cleaned with a solution of four parts distilled water and one part distilled vinegar. You can even add a drop of essential oil to make the solution smell nice.

What will you need:

• Distilled water
• distilled vinegar
• Volatile oil
• spray
• Microfiber clothing

1. Prepare a natural cleaning solution

Mix four parts distilled water with one part distilled vinegar in a clean spray bottle and add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.

2. Use a little at a time

Spray some cleaning solution on the glass and quickly work with the microfiber cloth to clean the surface. Polish well to avoid scratches.

How often should kitchen cabinets be cleaned?

When you have decided what to look for in your kitchen furniture and made a decision. Cleaning your kitchen cabinets every week or two is a good start, but clean them more thoroughly every few months.

Empty cupboards and wipe up any crumbs or spills, and take the opportunity to look for expired items. Cabinets near the stove will need to be cleaned more regularly if a lot of food is spilled while cooking.

What is the best way to clean kitchen cabinets?

You don't need fancy cleaning products to clean your kitchen cabinets. "The interior of the units can be cleaned with a soft cloth dampened with soapy water," says Elizabeth Sherwin, creative director of Naked Kitchens (opens in a new tab) .

"You may need to use an antibacterial surface spray in food stores, but again try not to use bleach-based products or excessive amounts of moisture. Make sure cabinet doors and drawers are left open to air dry before filling.'

(Image credit: Future PLC)

What is the best way to clean grease from kitchen cabinets?

Many of us have white vinegar in a kitchen cupboard, and it's great for removing grease.

"White vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that has excellent degreasing properties due to its acid base." says Sarah Dempsey of MyJobQuote.

"Some stubborn grease stains may require special care and attention. In these cases, scrub the grease stain with an old toothbrush and then use your washcloth to clean the area.

Fill an empty spray bottle with equal parts water and white vinegar and use it to degrease the cabinets. Use a clean, slightly damp cloth to wipe up the solution.

How to remove stains from kitchen furniture?

Before attempting to remove stubborn stains, check with your kitchen manufacturer to see if they have any advice. Otherwise, you could accidentally make the stain worse if you don't know how to remove it properly.

One way that can help is to use baking soda to remove stains. "Make a paste of baking soda and water to apply to stains," advises MyJobQuote's Sarah Dempsey.

Use a damp sponge or soft-bristled toothbrush to apply the paste to the stains. Gently rub the spots and then leave the paste on the stain for a few minutes. Then wipe it with a clean cloth.

But before you try anything, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it won't damage the surface.

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