When it comes to keeping a clean, comfortable home, there are some spaces that we simply can’t afford to ignore.
You’re already probably in a routine of vacuuming, dusting and doing the dishes on a regular basis; otherwise, such messes can completely take over your home if neglected.
However, what about the “problem” areas that perhaps only get your attention once in a blue moon?
Chances are, those “hard to reach” spaces could be impacting your family’s health if you’re not staying on top of them. For example, the dangers of dust that’s likely lingering around your living room include the following potential complications for your family:
- Exposure to bronchial and sinus infections
- Irritation of allergy related symptoms (sneezing, coughing, runny nose)
- Skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or eczema
In addition to consistent dusting and vacuuming, consider the following three “hard to reach” spots where dust may be hiding in your home. By understanding how to quickly tackle these problem areas once and for all, you can make them part of your regular cleaning routine.
Blinds
Blinds are often an afterthought since they’re busy blocking out the sun while we’re simply sitting at home; however, some fabrics and materials are prone to collecting dust that can become airborne if it’s allowed to accumulate over time.
Don’t assume that you need to give your blinds a bath: depending on the material of your blinds (think: faux wood, fabric, plastic), a simple dusting will do. In the case of most roller blinds, a low setting on a vacuum attachment is more than sufficient at sucking up dust.
Lampshades
Not unlike blinds, lampshades are relatively easy to forget about until they’re absolutely filthy. Fear not, as lampshades don’t take long to keep clean:
- Fabric shades can be washed in the sink with a mild soap and cool water; after you’ve washed it thoroughly, dry with a blow-dryer
- Paper shades obviously can’t be washed; therefore, use a low setting on a vacuum attachment
- Plastic shades can be treated with soap and warm water, dried with a cloth
If you regularly clean your shades, the less likely they are to attract messes that require a wash.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fixtures such as fans can be a pain if you don’t have the right tools as your disposal, right? Thankfully, there’s a common home hack that can save you time and cash when it comes to cleaning your ceiling fan.
The solution? Pillowcases.
That’s right.
After reaching the fan with a stool or step-ladder, simply take a pillowcase and cover each blade of the fan. Then, slide the pillowcases off of the blades one at a time, keeping the dirt, dust and crime contained within each case. When you’re finished, empty the grime outside and throw the dirty pillowcases into the wash. Additionally, you can spruce up especially dirty fans with a homemade cleaning solution after you’ve dusted them.
Eliminating dust from your home is an on-going process: by understanding where allergens might be hiding and how to get rid of them, you can keep your home clean and your family’s health in check.