We all love a clean, welcoming home, but even the most dedicated cleaning routines can overlook hidden corners that silently accumulate dust and bacteria. For Indian households, where everything from festival gatherings to everyday cooking leaves its mark, these neglected spots can quickly gather dirt and grime. Beyond aesthetic cleanliness, these areas are vital to hygiene, contributing to a fresher, healthier living space. Today, there is a wide variety of cleaning products to help you tackle these hidden nooks and crannies, ensuring every part of your home is spick and span.
1. Underneath Large Appliances
From the fridge to the washing machine, large appliances are often ignored when it comes to cleaning underneath them. This can lead to a build-up of crumbs, dust, and sometimes even a few long-lost items! In Indian homes, where kitchens see a lot of action with regular cooking and frying, cleaning beneath appliances is especially important to avoid grease and grime buildup.
Start by unplugging the appliance, then carefully pull it forward to expose the floor underneath. Use a broom or vacuum to sweep up dust and crumbs, and mop with a disinfectant solution for a thorough clean. Wiping down the sides and back of each appliance is also a good idea to prevent layers of grease from forming. Regularly cleaning underneath appliances will not only improve hygiene but also keep your kitchen smelling fresh.
2. Inside The Dishwasher Filter
If your home includes a dishwasher, it's essential to remember that this cleaning appliance also needs regular maintenance. The filter, in particular, is a common spot for food particles and soap residue to build up, leading to unpleasant odours. Regular cleaning of the filter ensures your dishwasher runs efficiently and keeps dishes spotless.
To clean the filter, locate it at the base of your dishwasher and remove it according to the manual. Rinse it under warm water to remove food particles, and use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn residue. This simple step can help keep your dishwasher working like new, saving you the time and effort of rewashing dishes that haven't come out clean.
3. Ceiling Fans And AC Vents
In most Indian households, ceiling fans and AC vents work overtime, especially during the summer. But these often-forgotten areas collect dust over time, which then circulates throughout the home, potentially affecting air quality. Regular cleaning of fans and vents is particularly crucial for households where family members have allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
For ceiling fans, use a damp cloth or a fan-cleaning tool to wipe down each blade thoroughly. For AC vents, first turn off the appliance, then carefully dust the grilles using a microfiber cloth or a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Every few months, you can also clean the AC filter for optimal airflow. Taking time to keep these areas dust-free will improve your home's air quality significantly.
4. Under The Sofa Cushions
In Indian homes, the living room is often a hub of activity, and sofas tend to hide all sorts of things—from crumbs to stray bits of spice and dust. Checking under the sofa cushions not only keeps your furniture clean but also prevents dirt and allergens from building up in your living room.
To clean under the cushions, remove them completely and use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to pick up dust and crumbs. If your sofa has a fabric cover, washing it occasionally is also helpful. A clean sofa not only looks fresh but also enhances comfort when family or guests visit.
5. The Tops Of Doors And Windows
It's easy to miss the tops of doors and windows during routine cleaning, but they can accumulate a surprising amount of dust, especially in Indian cities with high pollution. This dust often falls onto surfaces below, affecting indoor air quality and potentially triggering allergies.
To clean these areas, use an extendable duster or microfiber cloth to reach the tops without a ladder. Pay extra attention to doors and windows in the kitchen, where they're prone to collecting oil particles along with dust. Regularly wiping these areas helps reduce the dust in your home and keeps your windows and doors looking pristine.
6. Exhaust Fans In The Kitchen And Bathroom
Exhaust fans are essential in Indian homes for ventilating spaces like the kitchen and bathroom, but they often get clogged with grease, dust, and even smoke residue. When exhaust fans aren't cleaned regularly, they don't work as effectively, leaving your home vulnerable to odours, humidity, and even mould growth in the bathroom.
To clean the exhaust fan, switch off the power and unscrew the cover. Dust the fan blades with a cloth, or use a vacuum attachment if the buildup is light. For more stubborn grime, wash the cover in soapy water. Regularly cleaned exhaust fans maintain airflow and remove unwanted odours effectively, keeping your kitchen and bathroom fresh.
7. Baseboards And Skirting Boards
Baseboards, or skirting boards, may be at ground level, but they tend to gather dust from all directions—especially in busy households. In areas like the hallway or the living room, these boards often attract dirt from shoes and pet fur, making regular cleaning necessary to keep the house tidy and inviting.
Dust these areas with a cloth or use a dry duster to remove loose dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a sponge or cloth dipped in a mild detergent solution to scrub away tougher grime. A quick pass with a dryer sheet can also help repel future dust, ensuring a cleaner look for longer. Regularly cleaning skirting boards makes a big difference in maintaining a polished, well-kept home.
8. The Washing Machine Detergent Tray
With frequent laundry routines in Indian homes, the washing machine sees plenty of use, but the detergent drawer often goes unnoticed. Detergent and fabric softener residues can accumulate in the tray, creating a breeding ground for mould and mildew. This can eventually lead to odours in both your machine and clothes.
To clean the detergent tray, remove it from the machine and soak it in warm soapy water. Use a toothbrush or a small brush to scrub away any stubborn residue, especially in corners. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reinserting. Regular cleaning of the detergent tray ensures your washing machine remains fresh and helps your clothes come out truly clean and fragrant.
Also Read: Best Techniques For Using A Vacuum Cleaner On Different Surfaces
Top-Rated Cleaning Supplies From Flipkart You May Want To Consider
1. MAGICBUYS Combo Household Using Cleaning Bucket Mop Set with 3 Refills Mop Set
Discount: 68% | Price: ₹799 | M.R.P.: ₹2,499 | Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars
For all those overlooked areas like corners or underneath furniture, the MAGICBUYS Mop Set is a must-have. This mop set includes a spin bucket that lets you dry your mop effortlessly, a key feature when you're tackling floors in those hard-to-reach spots. The set also includes a super absorbent microfiber refill, making it easy to clean floors quickly and efficiently. Whether you have wooden floors or tiles, the rotating head ensures every corner is thoroughly cleaned. Plus, its lightweight design makes it portable, ensuring no area is left behind.
2. GALA ROD+REFILL Floor Wiper
Discount: 18% |Price: ₹649 | M.R.P.: ₹799 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
The GALA Rod+Refill Floor Wiper is designed for those tight corners and edges that you often miss when cleaning. Its sleek steel design allows it to easily slide into places like behind cabinets or under appliances. The wiper's extended reach ensures even the most hidden spaces get cleaned, leaving your floors spotless. Whether you're wiping down walls or cleaning up spills, this tool is reliable, sturdy, and made for long-lasting use.
3. Scotch-Brite Multi-purpose Microfiber Flat Mop with 1 Extra Refill for Dry & Wet Cleaning Mop Set
Discount: 23% | Price: ₹1,499 | M.R.P.: ₹1,949 | Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
This versatile flat mop from Scotch-Brite makes cleaning quick and easy. With its 360-degree rotating head, it's perfect for cleaning those difficult-to-reach areas such as the back of the couch or beneath kitchen counters. The microfiber mop head is highly absorbent and traps dust and dirt with ease, making it ideal for deep cleaning. Plus, the included refill ensures you always have a fresh mop head ready for use, saving time and effort during your cleaning routine.
4. SeaRegal Spin Floor Cleaning Easy Advance Tech Bucket PVC Mop Mop Set
Discount: 4% | Price: ₹2,199 | M.R.P.: ₹2,299 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
The SeaRegal Spin Mop Set is a game changer when it comes to cleaning hidden spaces. This mop set includes an advanced bucket that allows for easy water filling and filtration, so you can clean more efficiently while saving water. Its 360-degree rotating head makes it easy to reach every nook and cranny, including areas behind the toilet or under furniture. Additionally, the microfiber pads are perfect for trapping both wet and dry dirt, ensuring no area is left untouched.
5. BAGILO Microfiber Floor Cleaning Spray Mop Floor Cleaner Wet & Dry Mop Mop Set
Discount: 23% | Price: ₹689 | M.R.P.: ₹899 | Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
The BAGILO Spray Mop offers a simple yet effective solution for those forgotten spaces. Its easy-to-use spray mechanism allows you to clean efficiently without needing a bucket. The 360-degree mop head ensures that you can reach under the bed or behind the fridge, while the microfiber pads pick up dirt and debris with ease. Perfect for all floor types, including hardwood and tiles, the mop's lightweight design and refillable spray bottle make it a convenient choice for quick cleaning.
6. UPC Upgraded Hands-Free Squeeze Microfiber Flat Spin System 360° Flexible Head Mop Set (Pink)
Discount: 54% | Price: ₹1,139 | M.R.P.: ₹2,499 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Cleaning hard-to-reach spaces is a breeze with the UPC Upgraded Mop Set. Featuring a self-squeeze mechanism, this mop lets you clean your floors without getting your hands dirty. Its 360-degree rotating head ensures that even areas under furniture or shelves can be easily cleaned. The microfiber pad is gentle on floors but tough on dirt, making it ideal for everyday cleaning. With its hands-free operation, this mop saves both time and effort, making it an essential tool for any cleaning routine.
7. AMIGOS STORE Heavy Duty Upright Standing Long Handle Broom Set Plastic Dustpan (Beige)
Discount: 56% | Price: ₹649 | M.R.P.: ₹1,499 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
While most people focus on mopping, sweeping those neglected corners is equally important. The AMIGOS STORE Broom Set makes it easy to clean under furniture and in tight spaces. With a long handle and ergonomic design, you can stand upright and sweep efficiently, reducing back strain. The dustpan features a rubber lip, which helps collect even the tiniest dust particles. This broom set is great for quickly cleaning up messes and getting rid of dust in those spots that often get overlooked.
Giving these often-forgotten areas the attention they need can make a world of difference in the cleanliness and comfort of your home. For Indian households, where each room sees its share of family activities, thorough cleaning helps in maintaining a fresher, healthier environment. From high-traffic areas like the kitchen to overlooked nooks like under the sofa cushions, a little extra effort goes a long way. So, the next time you plan your cleaning routine, don't skip these hidden spots. And for all your cleaning needs, browse Flipkart for the best supplies to make each corner shine. Shop now on Flipkart
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