If you have lived in your home a long
time, chances are you’ve become so
comfortable that you no longer see
the buildup of dirt and dust that has
accumulated. According to Merry
Maids, a national home cleaning
service, here are some commonly
overlooked areas and a few solutions
to fix them.
Pay attention to the stuff above your
head. The ceiling, ceiling fans, light
fixtures, and the tops of curtains and
window treatments attract dust,
cobwebs and remnants of dead insects,
so make sure you dust them frequently.
If you’re not organized, clutter will take over. Recycle thosemagazines
stacked on the desk, store books on bookshelves, and toss the half-dead
houseplant or give it away to a more caring friend.
The kitchen is another hotbed of clutter. The refrigerator door may seem
like a logical place to keep shopping lists, recipes, coupons and school
notices, but the exterior needs to be cleared so it can be properly cleaned.
Remember to clean appliance handles too, which can be a breeding ground
for germs.
When you’ve lived in one place long enough, it’s easy to become
desensitized to odors from pets, kids, cooking, cigarettes or mustiness. A
deodorizer, usually available as a spray or in crystal form, can neutralize
odors without chemicals or fragrances.
If you still have a hard time seeing the dirt in your home, call a trusted friend
who can give you an honest assessment. Just be ready to listen to the truth
— and take action.