Kitchen Expert Reveals Six Overlooked Cleaning Spots That Attract Pests
As summer arrives, many households are still completing their spring cleaning routines, with kitchens often being a primary focus. However, a kitchen expert has highlighted that certain critical areas are frequently missed, potentially leading to hygiene issues and pest problems.
Daniel Beadle, a kitchen expert at Kitchen Warehouse UK Ltd, explains that while most people diligently clean visible surfaces like floors and worktops, they often neglect hidden spots that accumulate the most dirt and grease. "People tend to clean what they can see straight away, like surfaces and floors," he said. "But it's the hidden or less obvious areas that often collect the most dirt, grease, and bacteria. Once the weather warms up, any buildup you've missed can start to smell, attract pests, or simply make the whole kitchen feel less fresh."
Top of Cupboards and Cabinets
One of the most frequently neglected areas is the tops of cupboards and cabinets. Daniel notes that these spots often go untouched for months or even years. "Grease particles from cooking rise and settle there over time, mixing with dust," he explained. "What you end up with is a sticky layer that's much harder to clean if it's left too long. Because it's out of sight, many people don't think to check it. But once you do, it's usually one of the dirtiest places in the kitchen."
Beneath and Behind Appliances
The space beneath and behind appliances such as the fridge and washing machine is another common oversight. Not only does this area become filthy and potentially attract pests, but the accumulation of dust and grease can also hamper the efficiency of your appliances. Daniel warns, "Any food debris left behind can become a magnet for pests, especially as we head into warmer months."
High-Contact Areas
High-contact areas like cupboard handles require a thorough clean, but many people only give them a cursory wipe. Daniel stresses that this is insufficient. "These are some of the highest-contact points in the kitchen. They're touched constantly throughout the day, often with hands that have been handling food."
Inner Edges of Cupboards and Drawers
Similarly, the inner edges of cupboards and drawers need a thorough scrub. Daniel points out that while people might reorganise items, they don't always clean the actual surfaces thoroughly. "Crumbs, spills, and packaging residue can build up in corners and along edges. It's those small areas that are easy to overlook, but they make a big difference to how clean your kitchen actually is."
Extractor Fan
Your extractor fan also requires proper cleaning. As it continuously draws in grease and particles from cooking, its efficiency can diminish over time. Grease may drip from it, or you might notice the kitchen smelling stronger or remaining steamy for longer after cooking. These are all telltale signs that your extractor fan is overdue a thorough clean. Daniel said, "A greasy extractor can make the whole kitchen feel less clean, even if everything else is spotless."
Rubber Seals on Appliances
Daniel's final tip is to clean the rubber seals on your fridge and washing machine, describing these as "classic blind spots." He explains, "Because they're slightly hidden, people don't always notice buildup there. But over time, it can affect hygiene and even how well your appliance functions."
By addressing these six commonly overlooked areas, homeowners can ensure a more thorough spring clean, reducing the risk of pests and maintaining a fresher, more hygienic kitchen environment as temperatures rise.
