As the leaves change and the air crisps, it’s the perfect time to launch my Fall home intensive series to help you tackle deep cleaning tasks around the home (i.e. dusting) that are may be safety risks or costing you money! This series will offer expert how-tos, tips I’ve learned along the way, checklists, and practical hacks to help you tackle every nook and cranny in your home.
Dusting is often a chore that gets overlooked during standard cleaning, but it is a crucial part of home maintenance and while we’re transitioning seasons, now’s a better time than ever! Follow along for a checklist and 9 key areas that you should be dusting to keep your home fresh and inviting this season!
Supplies
- Retractable Dust Cleaner for Gaps
- Dust Sponge
- Microfiber Feather Duster with Extension Pole
- Refill Dusters
- Microfiber Cloths
- Dyson V12 with Attachments
- Degreaser Cleaning Spray
- Lint Roller
Light Fixtures
Your light fixtures are not just functional; they also contribute to your home’s aesthetic. Dust can accumulate on chandeliers, pendant lights, and ceiling fans, dimming their brilliance.
To Clean: Use a microfiber cloth and a duster brush to gently wipe down these surfaces, ensuring that your home shines brightly all season long. I like this duster brush because it comes with an extension pole that makes it easy to tackle hard-to-reach areas!
Faux Trees
Faux trees and stems are my favorite way to spruce up my home decor, especially during seasonal changes! But they also can collect dust over time, and since these are centerpieces in my home it’s important to keep them in great condition!
To Clean: Use a duster sponge to gently swipe down the stems, leaves and in between the crevices! Be careful as to not damage any delicate pieces!
Curtains & Window Treatments
Curtains and window treatments are often neglected during cleaning, especially because they can be hard to reach! However, these are especially important to clean and often the “dirtiest” as dust can easily gather on fabric which can impact air quality. Especially as we’re entering the season of sniffles, it’s extra important to keep your curtains nice and clean!
To Clean: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to reach the top of the curtains, and continue vacuuming downward paying extra attention to getting inside the creases! For pesky dust that doesn’t come right off with a vacuum, I like to go back in with a lint roller!
Decor and Art
Picture frames, wall art, and decorative items can quickly gather dust!
To Clean: Use a duster or a dust sponge for the top, sides and bottom of the frames and wall art. For the face of the picture frames, especially if it’s glass, I like to use glass cleaner on a microfiber cloth to make sure the glass is nice and clear!
Moulding
Baseboards and crown moulding can accumulate dust and dirt over time, especially in high traffic areas!
To Clean: I go in for a quick sweep using this 60″ flat dusting mop to make sweeping these areas a breeze. I also have a dedicated baseboard cleaning post that I’ll have up on my blog shortly to follow along with!
Kitchen Cabinets and Shelves
Kitchen cabinet tops and shelves are prime spots for dust accumulation, especially if you have high cabinets and open shelves. Make sure to use a sturdy step stool to reach these areas safely.
To Clean: Use your extension pole duster to run over the tops of kitchen cabinets and shelves. For individual cabinets, I like to use a microfiber cloth with a gentle cleaning spray to wipe down any dust! When using a cleaning spray or solution, be sure to check that it’s safe for use based on your cabinet / shelf materials.
Ceilings and Corners
Ceilings and corners are notorious for collecting cobwebs and dust. Use an extendable duster to reach these high areas as well as a vacuum.
To Clean: For ceilings, start from one corner and work your way around, ensuring you catch any hanging cobwebs. For corners, a vacuum attachment can help pull dust and debris away from edges.
Lamp Shades
Lamp shades can accumulate dust, lint, and even attract bugs, which is not a fun sight to see when you want to create a soft glow in the room!
To Clean: Use a dust sponge to gently wipe them down, starting from the top and working your way down. For fabric shades, a lint roller can be effective in removing dust. If the shade is particularly dirty, check the care instructions for additional cleaning options.
Under Fridge and Stove
These often-neglected areas can hide dust, crumbs, and spills which is a recipe for attracting ants! First, carefully move your fridge and stove (if possible) to clean behind them, being careful not to damage any cables or plumbing.
To Clean: I like to use my flat, flexible dusting mop made for addressing gaps like under the stove or fridge as well as a vacuum with a flexible attachment that can help with those hard-to-reach areas. For under the front of the fridge and stove, use a narrow vacuum attachment.
By dedicating some time to tackle these frequently-overlooked spots, your home will be sparkling, especially going into the holiday season! Happy cleaning!
