3 spring cleaning tasks you’re probably skipping that are actually crucial

1. The washing machine

It might seem counterintuitive, but the machine that cleans your clothes needs cleaning too — and skipping it means every wash cycle is running through built-up limescale and bacteria.

To clean your washing machine, run two hot cycles: the first with two cups of white vinegar, the second with one cup of baking soda. This double whammy will eliminate limescale and odours.

Next, scrub the door seal, the detergent drawer, and the drum with a scrub brush or toothbrush and a mixture of vinegar and dish soap. Leave the door open on the washing machine to allow it to dry.

2. Your dishwasher

The same logic applies to your dishwasher, a machine doing daily heavy lifting that should be cleaned periodically.

To clean your dishwasher, remove and scrub the filter in warm, soapy water, and wipe down the seals with white vinegar.

Next, run two hot cycles on your unit. In the first cycle, place a bowl of white vinegar in the top rack before starting as this will help remove grease and odours.

Before the second cycle, sprinkle baking soda lightly throughout the interior before starting. This step will sanitize the dishwasher thoroughly.

3. The vacuum cleaner

A clogged, dirty vacuum doesn't just clean less effectively, it actively redistributes the dust and debris you're trying to get rid of.

Always begin cleaning your vacuum cleaner by unplugging it. Empty the canister or replace the bag. This will improve the cleaner’s suction.

If the filters of your cleaner are washable (HEPA or foam), rinse the filters under cold water until the water runs clear. Don’t use any detergent, as that can damage the filter’s fibers and any coating. Detergent can also leave behind residue that block the filter’s pores. Leave the filters to air dry for 24 hours.

Then remove the brush roll to remove any tangled hair or string, clear hoses of any debris, and wipe down the whole of the exterior of the vacuum cleaner.

Your cleaning tools need cleaning too!

And the bit most people skip entirely: the tools themselves.

Clean your broom by removing all debris from the bristles, first by tapping it then removing resistant bits by hand. Next, wash the broom head in soapy water, rinse it thoroughly, and allow the broom to dry upside down. In fact, you should always store your broom upside down, to prevent bristles from bending and losing their shape.

While you should rinse microfiber cloths regularly to keep them clean, for a deeper clean machine wash them in cold or warm water with a mild washing liquid. Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or softeners which can damage their soft fibres, then either dry on a low heat or leave them to air dry.

You’ll also want to rinse sponges and squeeze out excess water after each use to prevent bacteria from growing. To disinfect sponges, microwave them on high heat for 1-2 minutes, or run them through a dishwasher.

To clean your toilet brush, mix bleach and water in the holder or a bucket and soak the brush for at least an hour. To clean the brush holder, use disinfectant. Rinse both items thoroughly in hot water, and allow them to air dry.