Keeping your home in great shape doesn’t have to be a huge hassle. With a few regular tasks each month, you can prevent big problems and keep your place looking fabulous. In this article, I’ll walk you through 18 monthly chores that’ll help your home stay in tip-top condition.
Clean your dishwasher
Run an empty cycle with a cup of vinegar to remove buildup and odors. Wipe down the seals and edges to prevent mold. Check and clean the filter if your model has one. This keeps your dishes cleaner and your dishwasher running smoothly.
Vacuum under furniture
Move couches, beds, and other large items to vacuum underneath. You’ll be surprised at how much dust collects there. This helps reduce allergens in your home and keeps your carpets in better condition.
Wipe down kitchen cabinets
Use a damp cloth to clean the outside of your cabinets, paying extra attention to areas near the stove. This removes grease and grime build-up. Don’t forget the tops of cabinets where dust can collect.
Clean your washing machine
Run an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of bleach or washing machine cleaner. Wipe down the drum and door seal. This prevents mold and keeps your clothes smelling fresh.
Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
Use an extendable duster or step ladder to reach high spots. Dust accumulates quickly on fans and lights. Cleaning them monthly prevents dust from spreading when you turn on the fan.
Check and replace air filters
Look at your HVAC filters and replace them if they’re dirty. Clean filters help your system run more efficiently and improve air quality. This is especially important if you have pets or allergies.
Clean refrigerator coils
Vacuum the coils at the back or bottom of your fridge. Dust on these coils makes your fridge work harder. Cleaning them can help your refrigerator run more efficiently and last longer.
Descale coffee maker and kettle
Run a cycle with equal parts water and white vinegar to remove mineral buildup. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. This keeps your coffee tasting great and your appliances working well.
Clean range hood filter
Remove the filter and soak it in hot, soapy water. Scrub gently if needed. A clean filter works better at removing cooking odors and grease from your kitchen air.
Sanitize garbage cans
Wash indoor and outdoor trash cans with soap and water. Spray with a disinfectant. This prevents bad smells and keeps pests away.
Clean drains
Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drains, followed by hot water. This natural cleaner helps prevent clogs and eliminates odors. Do this for kitchen and bathroom sinks.
Wipe down door handles and light switches
Use a disinfectant wipe on these high-touch areas. It’s an easy way to reduce germs in your home. Don’t forget less obvious spots like garage door openers and TV remotes.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test all alarms and replace batteries if needed. This simple task could save your life. Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do if an alarm goes off.
Clean out the dryer vent
Remove lint from the vent hose and outside vent cover. This prevents fire hazards and helps your dryer work better. You might need a special brush to reach deep into the vent.
Inspect and clean gutters
Remove leaves and debris from the gutters, check for damage or leaks, and clean the gutters to prevent water damage to your home’s foundation and walls.
Deep clean one area of your home
Focus on a different room or zone each month. This might mean cleaning windows, shampooing carpets, or organizing closets. Breaking it up makes deep cleaning less overwhelming.
Check for leaks
Look under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters for any signs of leaks. Catching leaks early can prevent costly water damage. Don’t forget to check outdoor faucets too.
Maintain your yard tools
Clean and oil garden tools, sharpen lawn mower blades and check for any repairs needed. Well-maintained tools last longer and work better. This is especially important before and after the busy gardening season.
15 Unique Male Experiences Women Often Overlook
15 Unique Male Experiences Women Often Overlook
15 Food You Should Never Reheat In A Microwave
15 Food You Should Never Reheat In A Microwave
15 Deadly Toxins Lurking In Your Home
