Most people think they’ve got their house cleaning routine down: floors mopped, counters wiped, bathrooms scrubbed. But if you’re like most Orlando homeowners, there are hidden spots and everyday items you use constantly that rarely — if ever — get a good scrub.
Over time, these neglected areas can collect dust, bacteria, allergens, and grime, affecting your home’s cleanliness and even your health. Whether you tackle these yourself or bring in a house cleaning service Orlando residents trust, knowing where to focus can make a big difference.
Here are 10 surprising items you’re probably forgetting to clean — and tips on how to handle them like a pro.
1. TV Remotes and Game Controllers
Think about it: you grab the remote multiple times a day, maybe while eating snacks, touching your phone, or after coming in from outside. Yet most remotes get cleaned… well, almost never.
Why it matters: Remotes and controllers can harbor bacteria and viruses, especially if multiple family members use them.
How to clean:
- Remove batteries.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth dampened (not soaked) with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
- Use a cotton swab for buttons and crevices.
If you use home cleaning services Orlando companies offer, you can request electronics to be sanitized regularly.
2. Light Switches and Door Handles
These are high-touch areas that easily transfer germs from person to person, yet they’re often skipped during quick cleans.
Why it matters: Light switches can have more bacteria than your toilet seat. Enough said.
How to clean:
- Spray disinfectant on a cloth, not directly on the switch.
- Wipe gently to avoid damaging the electrical components.
- Include cabinet pulls, fridge handles, and other small hardware.
A good house cleaning Orlando plan should have these on the checklist every visit.
3. Ceiling Fans
If you can’t remember the last time you cleaned your ceiling fan, look up — you’ll probably see a layer of dust that’s just waiting to scatter across your room when the blades spin.
Why it matters: Dust on fan blades can trigger allergies and respiratory irritation.
How to clean:
- Use a pillowcase: slide it over the blade and gently pull dust inside.
- Wipe remaining grime with a damp cloth.
Many house cleaning service Orlando teams bring extendable dusters for safe and efficient fan cleaning.
4. Dishwasher
Yes, the appliance that cleans your dishes needs cleaning too. Over time, food particles, soap scum, and hard water deposits build up inside.
Why it matters: A dirty dishwasher can make your dishes smell or even leave residue.
How to clean:
- Remove and clean the filter.
- Run a hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
- Follow with a sprinkle of baking soda on the bottom and another hot cycle.
5. Reusable Grocery Bags
They’re great for the environment, but if you’re tossing them in your trunk after carrying raw meat or produce, they can become germ magnets.
Why it matters: Bacteria from food can linger on fabric and transfer to other items.
How to clean:
- Cloth bags: machine wash in hot water.
- Plastic-coated bags: wipe with a disinfecting cloth.
If you hire home cleaning services Orlando residents recommend, remember to include bag sanitizing in your special requests.
6. Shower Curtains and Liners
Mildew and soap scum build up fast here, especially in humid Orlando bathrooms.
Why it matters: Mold can aggravate allergies and asthma, and it’s not pleasant to look at.
How to clean:
- Fabric curtains: machine wash with gentle detergent and a towel for scrubbing action.
- Vinyl liners: wash gently with baking soda, then hang to dry.
7. Throw Pillows and Upholstery
Your couch and decorative pillows are home to dust mites, pet dander, and body oils.
Why it matters: These allergens can build up and affect air quality in your home.
How to clean:
- Check care labels: many pillow covers can be machine washed.
- Vacuum upholstery regularly with an upholstery attachment.
- For deeper cleaning, consider a professional upholstery service.
Many house cleaning Orlando companies offer add-on upholstery cleaning, so you don’t have to lug cushions to the laundromat.
8. Coffee Makers
Inside your coffee maker, warm, damp conditions can create a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
Why it matters: You could be drinking more than just coffee.
How to clean:
- Fill reservoir with equal parts vinegar and water.
- Run a brew cycle halfway, let sit 30 minutes, then finish the cycle.
- Run two full cycles with fresh water to rinse.
9. Air Vents and Registers
Out of sight, out of mind — until your HVAC starts blowing dust around your home.
Why it matters: Dirty vents reduce air quality and can make your home smell stale.
How to clean:
- Turn off your HVAC.
- Remove vent covers, wash with warm soapy water, and dry before replacing.
- Vacuum inside ducts as far as your hose will reach.
For thorough duct cleaning, pair your regular house cleaning service Orlando appointments with a seasonal HVAC cleaning.
10. Toothbrush Holders
Moisture, toothpaste residue, and poor airflow make toothbrush holders a germ hotspot.
Why it matters: Studies have found they can be one of the top three dirtiest items in a bathroom.
How to clean:
- Run through the dishwasher if safe.
- Otherwise, soak in hot soapy water, scrub, and rinse.
Making Sure Nothing Gets Missed
The truth is, life is busy — and while these items aren’t hard to clean, they’re easy to overlook. That’s where a house cleaning Orlando professional can make all the difference.
At Dina Enterprises, our home cleaning services Orlando checklist goes beyond the obvious. We pay attention to these often-forgotten spots so your home doesn’t just look clean — it actually is clean from top to bottom.
Whether you need a one-time deep clean to catch up or ongoing visits to keep things spotless, a professional touch ensures your family enjoys a healthier, fresher home every day.
Final Tips to Stay on Top of These Items
- Make a rotation list: Focus on 2–3 overlooked items each week.
- Combine tasks: Clean remotes while watching TV, or vents when changing air filters.
- Outsource strategically: Let a trusted house cleaning service Orlando team handle the big jobs while you maintain daily tidiness.
These 10 surprising items may not be on your regular chore list, but cleaning them regularly can improve your home’s hygiene, air quality, and overall comfort. Don’t let germs and grime hide in plain sight — address them now, and you’ll breathe easier knowing your home is truly clean.
Book your professional cleaning today at Dina Enterprises and enjoy a fresher, healthier home starting now.
