We all lead busy lives, and deep cleaning every corner of your home weekly is rarely practical. We advocate for simplifying our cleaning routine to the essentials - because washing and using less is actually better for the environment.
However, maintaining a healthy and hygienic home is important, and there are some general guidelines you should follow. As Japanese cleaning guru Marie Kondo says, “The object of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness living within that environment.”
Here is our realistic advice on how often you should wash everything in your home to keep a clean and fresh space, without overdoing it.
Bed linen — once a week
It's universally agreed that bedding should be washed weekly. This is important to prevent a build-up of dead skin cells, dust and sweat. Plus, there's nothing quite like the feeling of stepping into freshly laundered sheets. Doonas should also be washed periodically to remove dust and allergens—every six to twelve months does the job.
Towels — twice a week (or after every third use)
While they might look and smell clean, towels absorb moisture and can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria. Face towels should be cleaned after each use.
Door handles, laptops and handheld devices — once a week
These surfaces gather a lot of germs from frequent contact. Wiping down surfaces once a week will prevent the spread of germs.
Kitchen benches — every day
It’s no surprise we recommend wiping your countertops daily. These areas frequently come into contact with food, water, and germs that can lead to bacteria growth. A quick 2-minute wipe down with the Bench Spray is one of the easiest ways to make your space feel and smell fresh again - for immediate satisfaction!
The sink — once a week
To keep bacteria from building up, give your sink some proper love each week (especially if raw meat or dirty veggies have been involved). A scrub with hot water and Dish Wash does the trick (or add bi-carb soda for tough grime). Don't forget your kitchen sponges; these should be properly washed once a week.
Floors — once a week
Floors, especially in the kitchen, entryway or living area, tend to get dirty fast. A daily vacuum is ideal but not always feasible. Aim for a weekly sweep, vacuum and mop - bi-weekly is okay too. Don't forget to give those areas under couches and beds some love every few weeks. For carpets and rugs, it's recommended to clean these with a steam mop every 6-12 months.
Bathroom — once a week
Germs thrive in a wet environment. In general, your entire bathroom should get a deep clean once a week — wipe all surfaces, clean mirrors and disinfect toilets. Don’t forget to empty the bins and swap out the towels. For easy maintenance, we suggest storing a clean cloth and mini Bench Spray under your bathroom sink for quick touch-ups throughout the week.
Showers and tub — every two weeks
To keep on top of mould and dirt buildup, your shower and bathtub should be washed thoroughly every few weeks.
Dishwasher — once a month
It's easy to forget, but an important one. Even if you're diligent about scraping excess food off your dishes, some bits inevitably find their way into the depths of your dishwasher. Locate your filter and rinse it of food build-up with Dish Wash and warm water every few weeks.
Microwave — once a month
It's also good practice to wipe down your microwave immediately after a spill or food explosion to avoid the mess. A cloth and Glass Spray are all you need.
Fridge — once every 3 to 4 months
Many of us avoid cleaning the fridge, but it can be quite simple - and incredibly satisfying. It just needs a thorough clean every 3-4 months. Use it as a chance to dispose of expired foods, take out the removable parts and wipe everything with down with a damp cloth and Glass Spray or diluted Dish Wash mix.
Washing machine — once every 3 months
It might seem strange to clean an appliance that cleans other things, but it is crucial. Over time, dirts and debris can accumulate, leading to unpleasant odours and mould, causing laundry to smell. Aim to give your washing machine a proper rinse every 2-3 months (or sooner if it's starting to smell funky). To clean it, wipe down all surfaces with a Bench Spray and inspect for unwanted gunk. Then run it empty on a hot wash with a small amount of vinegar.
Oven — once every 3 to 4 months
While it depends on how much you're using it, your oven will generally want a deep clean every few months of use (with regular wiping after roasting or broiling). To avoid needing to use any harsh chemicals, you can lightly wipe down the inside of your oven with a Glass Spray every few uses.
Curtains and furniture — every twelve months
It is generally recommended to wash upholstery at least once every 12 to 18 months. If the item is unable to be thrown in the machine, you can wipe them down with diluted Floor Wash. Regular cleaning maintains indoor air quality and prolongs the life of this furniture.
