The one kitchen spot you're always forgetting to clean (and it's dirtier than you think)

Luxury kitchen with a central island unit and herringbone pattern wooden floor

(Image credit: Lusso)

When it comes to deep cleaning our kitchen, we all have our usual routine, be it wiping down surfaces, cleaning the oven, or vacuuming floors. But, there is one common spot that often gets overlooked in our list of cleaning chores.

In fact, experts say this is the dirtiest spot in the kitchen, full of bacteria, that you should wash every week — but don’t. And while the obvious thought would be inside our trash bins, or smelly drain, the real answer is a lot more surprising.

Your light switches

Smart Light Switch (Image credit: Shutterstock)

While you might switch on your lights every day without any thought, when was the last time you actually cleaned them?

According to experts, our light switches are a hotbed for bacteria after being touched countless times by members of your household each day. This cycle of contamination is further made worse if we’ve been handling or eating food, or have touched other dirt-ridden surfaces (phones and remote controls are another culprit). Once this bacteria gets transferred onto light switches, it results in an invisible grime buildup over time.

“While not an obvious cost concern, light switches and door handles are some of the germiest spots in your home,” states Rossella Marzocchella, Interior Expert and Kitchen Designer at Decor & Decor.

“Bacteria and grime accumulate quickly, especially on metal handles, which can lead to tarnishing and discolouration over time. Not only does this make them look worn out, but replacing handles prematurely due to neglect is an avoidable expense.”

How to clean light switches in 2 minutes

Cleaning a light switch (Image credit: Shutterstock)

The good news is, cleaning your light switch is a simple task, and doesn’t take any time at all.

First, turn off the light before gently wiping over switches and switch plates with a damp microfiber cloth or a cleaning wipe. Never soak the cloth and never spray directly.

“Use disinfectant wipes or a diluted vinegar solution to remove bacteria and grime,” adds Marzocchella. “For metal handles, ensure you’re using a non-corrosive cleaner to protect the finish. The smallest details, when maintained properly, can make the biggest difference in both style and practicality - so next time you clean, don’t forget the spots you can’t always see.”

So, the next time you’re freshening up your kitchen don’t forget to include light switches in your weekly cleaning routine.

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As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features.

Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.

With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!

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Your light switches

How to clean light switches in 2 minutes

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