Use detergent and follow the towel’s care instructions. Make sure towels are completely dry before folding or storing them.
Helpful tip: Hang towels spread out rather than leaving them in a heap, allowing air to circulate and moisture to evaporate.
3. Curtains: Clean Every Six to Twelve Months
Curtains are easy to overlook during routine cleaning, yet they can collect dust, airborne particles, and cooking or household odours over time.
For many homes, cleaning curtains every six to twelve months is a reasonable starting point. However, curtains in kitchens, homes with pets, or rooms exposed to heavy dust may need attention more frequently.
Before washing them, check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some fabrics can be machine washed, while others require gentle cleaning or professional dry cleaning.
Helpful tip: Vacuum curtains occasionally using a suitable upholstery attachment to remove surface dust between deeper cleans.
4. Pillows: Wash Regularly and Replace When Needed
Even with clean pillowcases, pillows can gradually accumulate sweat, body oils, and dust. Over time, they may also lose their shape and support.
Check the care label to determine whether your pillows can be machine washed. Many washable pillows benefit from cleaning every few months, although the ideal frequency depends on their material and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replacement timing varies considerably. Some pillows last a few years, while others need replacing sooner if they become lumpy, flattened, damaged, or difficult to clean properly.
Helpful tip: Use a washable pillow protector beneath your pillowcase to help keep your pillow cleaner for longer.
5. Toothbrushes: Replace Every Three to Four Months
Your toothbrush plays an important role in maintaining oral hygiene, but its bristles gradually wear down with regular use.
Dental guidance commonly recommends replacing toothbrushes approximately every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
After brushing, rinse the toothbrush thoroughly and store it upright in a position where it can air-dry. Avoid routinely covering a wet toothbrush or storing it in a closed container, as this can slow drying.
