Experts Reveal the No. 1 Thing Almost Everyone Forgets to Clean Weekly
Wash Sheets Every Week
Sheets and pillowcases collect germs, dead skin, sweat, body oils and dust mites during the night. Washing them in a machine about every seven days is recommended. Wash them more often if pets sleep in the bed, someone has dust or pollen allergies, sweats excessively or has an infectious illness. Duvet covers, comforters, mattress protectors and mattresses can go longer between cleanings.
Wipe Appliance Handles
Refrigerators, cooktops, microwaves and coffee makers have high-touch surfaces that benefit from regular cleaning. Wipe handles and knobs with a disinfecting wipe.
Care for Carpets and Floors
Vacuum rugs and carpets weekly to collect dirt, debris and pet hair tracked indoors. Reserve carpet cleaner for stains and aim for professional carpet cleaning once a year.
Clean Bathroom Touchpoints
Clean bathroom countertops, sinks and other high-traffic areas weekly. Spray disinfectant bathroom cleaner around the sink, then wipe the area with a cloth or sponge. Remember to disinfect faucet handles as well. Keep each surface wet for the contact time specified on the cleaner’s package so it can kill germs.
Key points
- Wash sheets and pillowcases about every seven days, or more often in certain circumstances.
- Disinfect appliance handles and knobs regularly.
- Vacuum rugs and carpets weekly, and sweep hardwood floors every few days.
- Clean bathroom sinks, countertops and faucet handles weekly.