16 Cleaning Jobs To Do Every Month That Will Keep Your Home Spick and Span

We all love a clean and cozy home, right? Well, keeping our living spaces fresh and inviting is not only great for the eyes but also for our overall well-being.

In this article, we’re diving into a complete guide on essential monthly cleaning tasks that will help you maintain a clean, hygienic, and organized home sweet home.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and make our homes the clean, comfy havens we deserve!

Heads up: I sometimes use affiliate links. When you click these links and make a purchase, I may get a small commission. It won’t cost you anything but it helps me to run this site.

1. Run a Washing Machine Maintenance wash

When you wash mainly with cold or warm temperatures is it necessary to run a monthly hot maintenance wash on your machine. This will keep your machine smelling fresh and free of gunk.

Add one cup of baking soda or washing soda crystals directly to the drum. Or add half the amount of detergent you would normally use.
Add a cup of distilled white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment (or however much will fit in)
Run your hottest wash.

Here’s more on - how to clean your washing machine with natural ingredients.

2. Unclog Your Tumble Dryer Filter

Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in the filter, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of fire.

To clean your tumble dryer filter:

Remove it from the dryer
Carefully remove any lint or debris by hand or with a soft brush.

3. Clean Out Rubbish/Garbage Cans

Regularly cleaning the inside of your rubbish/garbage bin will help to keep it fresh and sanitary. This is especially important during hot summer months.

Start by emptying the bin.
Use a mixture of water and mild detergent to scrub the interior thoroughly.
Rinse and dry.

4. Wipe Kitchen Doors

Dust, grease, and food splatters can accumulate very quickly on the cupboard doors. Sometimes you don’t notice it until the light catches it!

Wipe down with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust.
Make up a solution of mild detergent and warm water and wash with a microfiber cloth being careful not to soak the cloth too much.
Wipe over again with a dry cloth to remove streaks.

Have glossy kitchen units like me? Here’s how to keep them clean.

5. Run a Dishwasher Maintenance Cycle

Keeping your dishwasher clean means that you always get a good wash, plus it stops it from smelling.

Start by removing any debris from the filter and spray arms.
Place a dishwasher-safe cup of white vinegar on the top rack.
Run a hot water cycle.
Additionally, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to further freshen and clean the interior.

Here’s more help on cleaning your dishwasher.

6. Clean Out Your Refrigerator

Cleaning out your refrigerator is a much easier job if you do it monthly!

Start by removing all the food items and placing them in a cooler to keep them fresh.
Next, remove the shelves, drawers, and any removable components to wash them with warm, soapy water.
Wipe down the interior of the fridge with a mixture of water and baking soda to remove stains and odors. Or some diluted dish soap.
Once clean, dry the surfaces thoroughly and return the items to the fridge, discarding any expired or spoiled food.

Here’s more help on how to clean and deodorize your fridge.

7. Deep Clean Your Microwave

Food splatters and spills can quickly accumulate inside your microwave. Getting into the habit of cleaning it monthly makes it a much easier job.

Here’s how:

Start by placing a microwave-safe bowl filled with water and a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of vinegar inside your microwave.
Cook the mixture for a few minutes on full power until the steam softens the residue.
Carefully remove the bowl, then wipe down the interior with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge, making sure to pay attention to any stubborn spots.
Additionally, remove and clean the turntable and any other removable components with warm, soapy water.
Once clean, dry the interior thoroughly before using the microwave again.

Here’s more help on how to clean your microwave.

8. Degrease Your Air Fryer

Food residue, grease, and oil can accumulate inside the air fryer, impacting its efficiency and potentially causing odors.

Start by unplugging it and allowing it to cool completely.
Then, remove the basket and any other removable components, and wash them with warm, soapy water.
Use a non-abrasive sponge to gently scrub away any stuck-on food particles.
Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth, and use a small brush or toothpick to clean any hard-to-reach areas.
Once clean, dry all components thoroughly before reassembling the air fryer.

9. Dust Your Blinds

I love my blinds, but unfortunately you need to keep on top of the dust otherwise it can turn into a bigger cleaning job later on!

Start by using a duster, microfiber cloth, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dust and dirt.
For more stubborn stains or grime, dampen the cloth with a mixture of water and mild detergent and gently wipe down each slat.
Alternatively, you can remove the blinds and soak them in a bathtub filled with soapy water, rinse, and allow them to dry before rehanging.
To prevent dust from coming back too soon, wipe over with a dryer sheet.

Here’s more on how to keep your blinds dust free

10. Clean Your Windows

Dirt, dust, and smudges can accumulate on the glass, affecting the overall appearance of your living space.

Start by using a solution of water and mild detergent or a specialized glass cleaner.
Apply the solution to the windows using a sponge or cloth, then use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution, working from top to bottom in a continuous motion.
Wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth after each stroke to avoid streaks.
Finally, use a microfiber cloth or some scrunched up newspaper to dry and polish the edges of the windows.

Here’s more on how to clean your windows with newspaper.

11. Wash Your Vacuum Filter

Your vacuum’s filter can become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, which can hinder the suction power and performance.

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model. In general, most filters can be removed and either washed with water and mild detergent or gently tapped to dislodge trapped particles.

Allow the filter to air dry completely before reinserting it into the vacuum.

Here’s how to remove pet smell from your vacuum cleaner.

12. Wash Duvets and Comforters

Unwashed bedding is a haven for dust mites and allergens.

If you suffer from allergies, washing your duvet/comforter and pillows is an important monthly task.

Start by checking the care label for specific washing instructions.

In general, most duvets and comforters can be machine washed in a large capacity washer with a mild detergent on a gentle cycle. It’s important to ensure that the bedding is thoroughly rinsed to remove all detergent residue.

After washing, tumble dry on low heat or air dry to avoid damaging the filling.

Here’s more on cleaning comforters.

13. Clean Your Shower Door

Shower doors are difficult to clean if you let them get covered in soap scum and hard watermarks.

I recommend you clean your shower door at least once per month, or more often if you can.

Start by using a commercial cleaner specifically designed for removing soap scum and hard water deposits. Alternatively, a mixture of white vinegar, dish soap and water can be used as a natural cleaning solution.
Apply the cleaner to the door, let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the buildup, and then scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the door with a clean, dry cloth to prevent streaking.

Here’s how hotels keep their shower doors sparkling.

14. Clean and Deodorize Pet Beds

Pet beds can accumulate pet dander, fur, dirt, and odors, which can impact the cleanliness and comfort of the bed.

Start by removing the cover or any removable components, and washing them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use a pet-safe detergent and wash on a gentle cycle to ensure the bed remains in good condition.
For non-removable parts, vacuum thoroughly to remove any loose debris.
Additionally, consider using a pet-safe fabric freshener to eliminate odors and keep the bed smelling fresh.

Here’s a natural pet bed spray you can make at home

15. Dust Baseboards

Baseboards can accumulate dust, pet hair, and dirt, impacting the overall cleanliness of the room.

Start by dusting with a dry microfiber cloth
Then use a damp cloth or a sponge with a mild cleaning solution to wipe down the baseboards, paying attention to any visible dirt or marks.
For hard-to-reach areas or stubborn spots, a soft-bristled brush can be used to dislodge debris.
After wiping, dry the baseboards with a clean, dry cloth to prevent any moisture damage.

Here’s more on how to clean baseboards without having to bend down!

16. Dust Light Fittings and Ceiling Fans

Dust and debris can accumulate on light fixtures and ceiling fan blades, affecting both their appearance and functionality. This is an easy job when done monthly.

Start by turning off the power and allowing the bulbs to cool.
Remove any glass or plastic coverings and wash them with a mild detergent and water.
Wipe down the light bulbs and fixtures with a soft, dry cloth.
For ceiling fans, use a long-handled duster or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust from the blades and motor housing.