We clean our floors and wipe down surfaces regularly, but what about the things we touch every day? Remote controls, light switches, phones, and kitchen appliances can harbor bacteria and dust if left uncleaned. Keeping these high-use items fresh and sanitized not only improves hygiene but also extends their lifespan.
Follow this step-by-step guide to keep your most-used items clean without causing damage. Plus, grab your free Monthly Deep Cleaning Planner to stay on track! View it here.
1. How to Clean Your Remote Controls 🎮📺
Why It Matters:
TV and gaming remotes are handled daily and can collect dust, crumbs, and germs over time.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Microfiber cloth
✅ 70% isopropyl alcohol or disinfectant wipes
✅ Cotton swabs
✅ Toothpick (for tough debris)
Cleaning Method:
1️⃣ Remove the batteries to avoid damage.
2️⃣ Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the remote.
3️⃣ Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean between the buttons.
4️⃣ For tough debris, gently use a toothpick to remove crumbs or dirt.
5️⃣ Let it dry completely before reinserting batteries.
2. How to Clean Light Switches & Door Handles 💡🚪
Why It Matters:
Light switches and door handles are high-touch areas that accumulate germs and fingerprints daily.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Disinfecting wipes or a cloth with mild soapy water
✅ Microfiber cloth
✅ Vinegar (for non-metal handles)
Cleaning Method:
1️⃣ Turn off the power if cleaning electrical switches.
2️⃣ Gently wipe switches with a damp microfiber cloth (avoid excess moisture).
3️⃣ Use disinfecting wipes or a soapy cloth to clean door handles.
4️⃣ For metal handles, dry immediately to prevent corrosion.
3. How to Clean Your Phone & Tablet 📱💻
Why It Matters:
Phones and tablets touch our hands, faces, and different surfaces, making them a breeding ground for bacteria.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Microfiber cloth
✅ 70% isopropyl alcohol or screen-safe disinfectant
✅ Cotton swabs
Cleaning Method:
1️⃣ Power off the device before cleaning.
2️⃣ Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the screen and back.
3️⃣ Use a cotton swab for small crevices like the charging port.
4️⃣ Avoid excess moisture to prevent damage.
4. How to Clean Kitchen Appliances 🍽️☕
Why It Matters:
Appliances like coffee makers, microwaves, and toasters build up grease, food residue, and bacteria.
What You’ll Need:
✅ White vinegar
✅ Baking soda
✅ Dish soap
✅ Soft sponge
Cleaning Method:
🔹 Coffee Maker:
1️⃣ Fill the water reservoir with equal parts vinegar and water.
2️⃣ Run a brew cycle and discard the solution.
3️⃣ Run two more cycles with water to remove vinegar residue.
🔹 Microwave:
1️⃣ Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside.
2️⃣ Heat for 3 minutes, then let it sit for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Wipe down with a soft sponge.
🔹 Toaster:
1️⃣ Unplug and remove crumbs from the tray.
2️⃣ Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the inside.
3️⃣ Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.
5. How to Keep These Items Clean Long-Term
📆 Make it a habit! Set a reminder to clean these high-use items once a month.
🧼 Use safe cleaning products to prevent damage to electronics and appliances.
👨👩👧👦 Get the family involved—assign different cleaning tasks to everyone in the household.
Need a printable checklist to stay on top of your monthly cleaning? Create your FREE Monthly Deep Cleaning Planner! Click here
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