Chances are, you aren’t looking to add more chores to your to-do list. However, these important household chores you may be forgetting or delaying can impact your health and safety and that of your family. Try to make a habit of checking and cleaning these areas of the home to protect your children from allergens, stop fire hazards early, and even reduce your electricity bill.
Removing Lint Behind the Dryer
If you peak over your washer and dryer and notice a dense collection of lint, dust, and dirt, it’s time to make a habit of cleaning back there. This in-home allergen is also a significant safety hazard if you don’t sweep it regularly, as dryer lint is an effective fire starter. Typically, if you notice an excessive amount of dryer lint buildup, the indoor or outdoor dryer vent also needs cleaning or replacement.
Washing the Shower Walls
Cleaning your shower walls may seem weird, but it’s crucial to preventing mold growth in the frequently damp bathroom environment. Leaking faucets, poor drainage, and hard water can all mar your shower’s aesthetic with black mold or scaling. Taking the time to wash the shower on a weekly or monthly basis can stop mold growth in its tracks. Some people even use a daily shower spray on the walls, curtains, and handles to make deep cleanings less frequent.
If you only see a small amount of mold, don’t brush it off for tomorrow. Mold can also grow beneath tile or in areas with unseen leaks. Do some investigating in your shower to decide if a mold remediation specialist is necessary to keep you and your family safe.
Cleaning Your Fridge, Inside and Out
Admittedly, cleaning the fridge is always a hassle. It’s part of why we tend to save that chore for tomorrow—or the next day, or never. However, if you’re looking for the motivation to finally get it done, here it is: a clean fridge saves you money. Dust and dirt often build up on the difficult-to-reach coils, limiting their ability to release heat and making your fridge work overtime to keep the contents cool. While you’re in there, don’t forget to wash out your ice cube trays and vegetable crisping drawers to get rid of any stagnant water, bacteria buildup, or even mold.
Luckily, many of the important household chores you may be forgetting aren’t necessary every week. If you prefer to schedule a big family extravaganza cleaning day once a month, just be sure to include these three tasks on your list and check in on them as you go. Ensuring that these safety hazards aren’t present in your home is certain to give you some peace of mind.
