You might be missing some of the dirtiest spots in your home – one cleaning expert reveals 5 hidden areas Brits forget to wipe plus how to tackle them in seconds.
We all know to scrub the kitchen and bathroom but a cleaning expert says the grimiest areas in your home are the ones you’re not even thinking about.
When we think about cleaning our homes, we tend to stick to the obvious: mopping floors, wiping counters and scrubbing bathrooms. But experts warn that some of the dirtiest places in UK homes are the ones we barely notice.
From hidden corners to over-touched surfaces, these neglected spots can harbour grime, bacteria and bad smells, making your home feel less hygienic – even when it looks clean on the surface.
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According to Andrew Haydon, home cleaning expert at Simply Plastics, giving these areas a quick wipe once a week can make a huge difference. “Cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive,” he says.
“By focusing on these overlooked hotspots just once a week, you’re making a big difference to your home’s health with very little effort.”
Behind your kitchen bin
That little corner is a breeding ground for bacteria. Bits of food, spills, and splashes build up quickly and can cause serious odours. “This hidden corner often gets neglected, yet it can turn into a hotspot for bacteria and unpleasant smells,” explains Andrew.
However Andrew explains it’s an easy fix – just pull our your bin once a week and wipe down the wall and floor with warm soapy water or a mild disinfectant – that quick wipe down can stop the grime building up,
Light switches and knob
“These little buttons get handled dozens of times a day, so they’re definitely worth a wipe-down.” Similar to the above the fix is easy – using a antibacterial wipes or a damp cloth with soapy water to kill germs and keep them looking clean.
Cupboard backsplashes
Cooking splashes and drips can build up unnoticed behind your cupboards – especially in areas where bottles or mugs are stored. “Over time, these spots develop sticky patches and stains that can be tough to remove if left too long,” he said.
A warm soapy cloth should do the trick, or use a soft brush for stubborn marks.
Bathroom corners
Mould and mildew thrive in bathroom corners and between tiles places that often get missed in a quick clean. “Ignoring these areas can lead to hidden mould spores that affect air quality and overall hygiene,” Andrew points out.
Use a grout cleaner or a baking soda paste once a week, and make sure the area is properly dried afterwards.
The inside seals of your fridges
The rubber seals around your fridge can collect food bits and sticky residue that smell bad and affect performance. “Neglecting these parts can cause unpleasant smells and even reduce your fridge’s efficiency,” added Andrew.
Wipe with warm soapy water, and make sure the seals are dried properly. “Be sure to dry the seals well to prevent mould growth and keep your fridge working smoothly,” he adds.
To stay ahead of the grime without spending hours cleaning, Andrew recommends a “little and often” approach. Use washable mats or liners behind bins to catch spills. Keep wipes near light switches for daily use. Add splash guards behind cookers and sinks.
Make sure bathrooms are well-ventilated. Wipe fridge seals weekly to stop mould. “Regular, light cleaning prevents build-up and keeps your home feeling fresher and healthier,” Andrew says.