We all know that cleaning is essential, but some household items often get either too much attention or far too little. From bedding to kitchen sponges, understanding the right cleaning frequency can keep items in better shape, save time, and even improve hygiene. Let’s take a look at which items might be over-washed—and which need a bit more TLC!
Dishwashers
If you have a dishwasher, congratulations—it’s a game-changer! The shift from hand-washing to having a dishwasher (or vice versa) can be quite an adjustment. However, many people with dishwashers are so accustomed to hand-washing that they still prewash, often wasting extra water. For most dishes, a gentle rinse to remove food bits is all that’s needed; the dishwasher can handle the rest. Of course, if you’re working with an older or less efficient model, some hand-washing may still be necessary. But as a rule, there’s no need to wash twice if the dishes will only be used once.
Doorknobs
When cleaning our homes, most of us tackle specific tasks one by one—bathroom, then kitchen, and so on. By the time we’re done, though, smaller details like doorknobs can easily be overlooked. Every visitor touches the doorknob, and without a quick wipe now and then, their bacteria can stick around too. While this isn’t something to stress over, it’s a helpful habit to add to your routine every couple of weeks.
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Trashcan
Trash bags are incredibly useful—not least because they help keep your garbage can clean. But sometimes, a particularly smelly load or a torn bag can leave the bin itself messy. At these times, it’s essential to give the garbage can a wash. Just think of the odor of rotting garbage lingering at the bottom of the bin! A quick rinse with soap and water usually does the trick. And if the bin is small enough, you can even wash it in the kitchen sink (after doing the dishes, of course).
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Windows
Of course, you want clean windows, but there’s a limit to how often they need attention. Beyond spot cleaning and a couple of deep cleans each year, there’s not much you need to do to keep them looking great. In fact, overdoing it—especially on outdoor glass—can make windows too shiny, which may attract birds and cause them to accidentally fly into your patio doors. Adding window cleaning to your spring or winter checklist is a simple way to stay on top of it without going overboard.
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Pillows
When changing your sheets, it’s essential to swap out your pillowcases too. However, the actual pillows can stay fresh much longer, as pillowcases act as a barrier between your skin and the pillow. Washing pillows too frequently can compress the filling, making them less comfortable. Generally, washing pillows a few times a year is plenty. If you tend to sweat heavily, though, consider washing them about four times a year to prevent buildup and keep them in good shape.
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Denim
This may sound familiar, but it’s surprising how many people still wash their jeans after every wear! Denim is a tough fabric designed to last, and frequent washing can wear it down, making jeans lose their shape. Plus, wet jeans are quite heavy, adding more weight to your laundry load than most other pants. If you’re working up a sweat on a construction site, that’s different—those jeans definitely need a wash. But for everyday wear around town, you can go longer between washes.
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Winter Coat
If you’re from the Northeastern or Northwestern US, Canada, Northern Europe, or any snowy region, you know that winter brings plenty of cold weather! To manage it, a good winter coat is essential. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about washing it too often—snow will help keep it clean naturally. Washing winter coats frequently can wear down the fabric, potentially causing rips that release the inner lining, which reduces warmth. Plus, since the coat doesn’t typically touch your skin, the inside stays relatively clean unless it’s worn over dirty clothes.
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Vacuum more often
We might get on someone’s bad side for this, but the truth is, the more you vacuum, the better! In high-traffic areas like the living room or kitchen, daily vacuuming can make a big difference in cleanliness. Hardwood floors collect dust, and carpets trap dirt like no other, so giving your floors a quick pass each day after coming home can keep things fresh. Just be mindful of timing—save vacuuming for after everyone’s up or before neighbors go to bed. It’s a simple habit that will keep your home looking its best.
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Keyboards
You’ve probably heard that a telephone can harbor more germs than a toilet seat—mainly because our phones pick up everything our hands touch throughout the day, while a toilet seat only deals with, well, our covered rear ends. The same goes for our keyboards. When was the last time you cleaned yours? Keyboards are especially tricky since dirt and dust can get stuck between the keys, but a quick wipe-down with a disinfectant wipe once a week will keep germs in check.
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Kitchen sink
There seem to be two types of people when it comes to kitchen sinks: those who clean the sink every time they do dishes, and those who forget about it for weeks. We get it—it feels odd to clean the sink with soap and water after you’ve just used it for the same purpose. But it really makes a difference! Once you get into the habit, it’ll become second nature. A quick wipe-down after doing the dishes is enough to keep your sink clean and your kitchen smelling fresh.
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Towels
Do you remember when hotels introduced that policy where you could hang up a towel if you planned to reuse it, and room service would only replace the others? Not only was it convenient, but it was also cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and something that can be applied at home. Towels don’t need to be washed after every single use, especially if they’re given time to dry properly. Depending on how often you shower, bath towels can often last up to a week. Just be careful not to overload your washer when it’s time to clean them.
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Antique Furniture
Furniture isn’t made like it used to be, and that’s probably a good thing—those old upholstered couches at grandma’s house were often uncomfortable, and you weren’t allowed to eat or have any fun on them. Now we understand that was to protect the fabric from excess moisture, which can damage upholstered furniture. It’s a good idea to vacuum your furniture occasionally, but unless you’re hiring a professional, it’s best not to attempt cleaning it yourself. The frequency of cleaning should match how often the furniture is used; if you have many visitors, consider cleaning it once a year.
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Sponges
Stick with us—while we know sponges don’t last forever, some people still don’t clean them properly between uses, which can result in putting more grease back on the dishes they’re trying to clean. This happens when a sponge is left un-rinsed and filled with dirty water and food particles. By rinsing and wringing out your sponge after you finish the dishes, you’ll not only extend its lifespan but also make the next round of dishwashing quicker and easier for the next person.
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Cast iron pan
This one’s a tough pill to swallow—we love cooking, too—but we know that countless cast iron pans have been ruined by cooks who aren’t familiar with the proper cleaning method. If you’re wondering what we mean, listen up: never, ever wash a cast iron pan with soap. Soap strips away the protective oil layer and causes rust to form rapidly. Instead, rinse the pan, use a scrubbing brush to remove any stuck-on bits, and then dry it on low heat on a burner. Once it’s dry, add a small amount of your preferred cooking oil and heat it up to reseason the pan.
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Rubber duck
Back in the day, Ernie from *Sesame Street* was the coolest guy around with his rubber ducky. These days, it seems like everyone has one—kids, adults, muppets, and everyone in between. They come in all sorts of fun designs, with different hats and characters, which is awesome. But the best part about rubber ducks (and other bath toys) is that they rarely need to be washed! If you make sure to squeeze out any excess water after use, it’ll help them last for a long time.
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Bed sheets
Chances are, if you love your bed, it’s because you’ve got a cozy comforter to sleep under every night. It’s one of those items we splurge on because we use it daily and want it to last. However, no matter how high-quality your comforter is, it won’t last long if you’re washing it every week. Unless you sweat heavily or don’t use a cover, we recommend following the same rule as with pillows: wash your comforter once every three to four months.
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Dogs
Most dogs aren’t fans of baths, and that’s lucky for you, because many owners tend to bathe their dogs too frequently. Unless you have a super adventurous pup who’s constantly covered in mud and water, you can typically bathe your dog once a month. Of course, this varies by breed, but on average, that’s a good guideline. If your dog struggles with bath time, consider reaching out to a professional groomer. They can help make the experience more comfortable and ensure your dog gets a proper cleaning.
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Phones
On a daily basis, you touch doorknobs, keyboards, pens at the post office, and other shared items that likely haven’t been sanitized. When you then slip your hands into your pockets and start texting on your phone, you’re transferring those germs onto your device. That’s why, at the end of each day, it’s a good idea to wipe down your phone with a simple disinfectant wipe. This doesn’t need to be a big effort, but it’ll help prevent those outside germs from making their way into your home.
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Jerseys
If you’re a professional athlete, we understand—you probably wash your jersey after every game (though, someone is likely handling that for you). But for casual fans or kids, your jersey doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. It all depends on how much you use it, so feel free to enjoy your team colors until it starts to smell. A good tip when washing jerseys with iron-on decals (like numbers or nameplates) is to turn them inside out. This helps protect the decals from the washing machine, preventing the glue from melting.
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Pajamas
How often you wash your pajamas depends on your sleeping habits. For most people, pajamas don’t get very dirty and can be worn for four to six days. However, if you’re an active or sweaty sleeper, you might need to wash them sooner. If you’re dealing with acne, you might want to change your pajamas more frequently, as the oils from your skin can transfer to the fabric and be pressed back into your skin the next time you wear them.
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Winter gloves and hats
Winter gloves and hats generally clean themselves as they get wet from snow, but proper drying is key to keeping them fresh. If not dried properly, they can become damp, mildewy, and unpleasant. A good rule is to wash them once a year, either at the start or end of the winter season. Throughout the season, make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent any moisture buildup.
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Bathroom mirrors
Overwashing mirrors can damage their backing over time, causing peeling and compromising their integrity. Instead of using detergent every week, wipe the mirror with paper towels for routine cleaning. You can use detergent once every two months to give the mirror a nice shine, but avoid making it a regular habit.
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Kitchen towels
While a clean kitchen is essential, many people overdo it with washing kitchen towels. If the towel doesn’t smell, it’s probably still good to use. Avoid washing them after every spill or hand-drying; instead, keep a separate towel for drying dishes and another for general use. This helps reduce unnecessary washes and saves water.
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Bath mats
Having extra bath mats on hand is a great way to maintain a clean and comfortable bathroom. They protect from slipping, catch water, and keep your feet warm. However, they should still be washed about once a week. With a rotation of fresh mats, you’ll always have one ready to use, ensuring both cleanliness and comfort.
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Stove
Cleaning your oven depends on how much you use it and how messy you get while cooking. When moving into a new place, it’s a good idea to give it a deep clean, but after that, just clean as you go. If you’re someone who enjoys maintaining a spotless kitchen, feel free to clean it more often, but it’s not necessary unless there’s a mess. Regular upkeep is fine, and as long as you use proper cleaning materials, your oven’s stainless steel and glass surfaces won’t be damaged.
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Jackets
Jackets often don’t need to be washed as frequently as other clothes since they don’t make direct contact with your skin and generally don’t pick up body odors. Unless there’s a spill or visible dirt, you can typically wash them once or twice a year. Since jackets are bulky, washing them in regular loads isn’t ideal, so it’s best to wash them separately when needed.
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Hair and scalp
Shampooing every day can dry out your scalp and damage your hair over time. A good rule of thumb is to shampoo twice a week, followed by conditioning if needed. Since everyone’s hair has different moisture levels and needs, it’s helpful to consult a stylist for personalized advice to develop a routine that works best for your hair type.
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Your car
It’s easy to let car cleaning slide, but regularly washing your car is important to prevent dirt and moisture from building up, which can cause rust over time. This is especially crucial in colder climates where road salt accelerates rusting. Even if you can’t wash it frequently, giving your car a quick rinse every now and then can help protect it from long-term damage.
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The fridge
A biweekly fridge inspection is a great habit to adopt. It helps ensure that expired items or foods that have gone bad don’t sneak by unnoticed. Checking expiration dates on dairy products, looking for any wilting vegetables, and tossing out anything that’s no longer fresh will keep your fridge clean and prevent unnecessary waste.
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Pillows and sheets
Fresh, clean sheets can make all the difference in how comfortable and restful your sleep is. Since sheets and pillowcases come in direct contact with our skin, they can collect sweat, oils, and dirt, which can lead to unpleasant odors if not washed regularly. Washing them once a week, or at least every two weeks, will help keep them fresh and ensure a more comfortable night’s sleep. Plus, it gives your room a fresh, rejuvenated feel, much like staying in a hotel!
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Curtains
Curtains don’t require frequent washing like other household fabrics. After initially cleaning them when moving into a new place to remove previous owners’ odors or germs, you can typically get by with just dusting them or using the tumble dryer every few months. A full wash once a year, perhaps as part of your spring cleaning routine, is usually sufficient to keep them fresh and free from dust. This way, you can refresh your living space without the need for constant upkeep.
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Ceiling fan
It might seem surprising, but ceiling fans collect dust just like any other household item. To keep your home clean and improve air quality, it’s essential to dust the fan blades and body at least once a month. This helps prevent dust buildup and ensures proper air circulation. Just a reminder: always turn off the ceiling fan before attempting to clean it for your safety!
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Microwave
When reheating food in the microwave, the popping and bubbling can cause food to splatter onto the walls and ceiling. If not cleaned up quickly, it can harden and become more difficult to remove later. To keep your microwave in good condition, wipe it down after cooking something messy, and do a full cleaning once a week to prevent buildup. This will help keep it clean and functioning well!
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Bathroom
The more frequently you clean your bathroom, the easier it is to maintain. By cleaning it once a week, you prevent the buildup of bacteria and grime, making it less overwhelming and time-consuming. A regular cleaning routine keeps the bathroom looking fresh and avoids the need for deep, intense scrubbing later on, which can be more labor-intensive, like cleaning the stove.
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Washing machine
Just like your kitchen sink, your washing machine can accumulate dirt and soap scum over time. To keep it clean and running efficiently, it’s a good idea to run an empty cycle on high heat once a month. This helps clear out any buildup and ensures that your washing machine stays fresh. The same principle applies to dishwashers; running an empty cycle on high heat will clean the water jets and the inside of the machine, keeping everything in working order.
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Mattresses
While most people remember to wash their bed sheets regularly, mattresses often get overlooked. Since mattresses are too large for most washing machines, you’ll need a different approach. Every six months or so, consider vacuuming your mattress to remove dust and dirt. If you’ve purchased a used mattress or haven’t cleaned yours in a while, steam cleaning can be a great option. However, don’t overdo it—steam cleaning is typically only necessary once per year. Regular maintenance will help keep your mattress fresh without excessive cleaning.
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Lint filter
It’s important to clean the lint filter after every load, but don’t stop there. Lint can accumulate in other parts of the dryer over time, so it’s a good idea to periodically check the machine itself for any buildup. If left unchecked, this lint can cause the dryer to overheat and potentially burn out prematurely. Taking the time to remove lint from the internal components every couple of years can help ensure your dryer continues to run smoothly and safely.
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Electric fans
If you rely on a desk fan for cooling or white noise, it’s easy to forget that it needs cleaning too. Over time, dust builds up on the blades, which can affect both air quality and fan performance. Regular cleaning can help improve airflow and reduce allergens in the air. If you’ve been sneezing more than usual, it could be due to dust accumulation on the fan. Take a moment to clean it, and you’ll likely notice a difference in both air quality and your comfort.
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TV screen
Unlike phone screens, TV screens don’t usually need frequent cleaning, as we rarely touch them directly. TVs do, however, attract dust from static electricity. Every few months, a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth and a little water will keep the screen clean. Don’t forget the vents on the back; keeping them clear is essential for proper airflow. Clogged vents can lead to overheating, which risks damaging the TV’s internal components and shortening its lifespan.
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Bike chain
Experienced cyclists are well aware of this maintenance must, but if you’re new to biking, it’s an essential tip: clean and oil your bike chain once a month. Start by spraying it with degreaser to break down old grease and dirt, then follow up with oil to ensure smooth movement. This simple routine can extend your bike’s lifespan and improve its performance. Skipping chain maintenance can lead to rust and wear, especially if you forget the oiling step, which keeps the chain lubricated and protected from corrosion.
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