Turn off your TV and make sure it’s completely cooled down before you start cleaning. When dust accumulates in the vents, nooks, and crannies in the rear, it can keep a TV from performing at its prime.

It probably doesn’t get much exposure to the elements, but it’s still important to keep it clean. The same goes for behind the TV, though, and “just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean dust won’t accumulate on it,” says San Angelo. When it comes time to clean your TV, the first thing you probably think to tackle is the TV screen, which is prone to unsightly smudges and dust. Dry the lightbulb before putting it back into the socket. Dust the lightbulb using a duster, but if the dust is stuck on (“It happens sometimes in kitchens where there is a lot of grease accumulation,” says San Angelo”), remove it from the socket of the fixture and carefully wipe the bulb down with a damp rag. Turn off the lightbulb and allow it to cool before cleaning. To see if you have one and how to remove it, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your model. She notes that older models don’t typically have these, but in newer models, it’s a mesh container located in the bottom of your dishwasher. “If you notice your dishes aren’t coming out clean, it’s a good indicator that you need to clean your filter,” Maker says.

You’d think that your dishwasher would clean itself, but a dirty dishwasher filter can prevent it from doing its job well. After removing the plastic bag from the faucet head, remove loose debris with a cleaning solution like the Clorox Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner ($4) and a small scrub brush or soft-bristle toothbrush. Let it soak in place for up to 30 minutes.

Submerge the faucet head with the solution and use rubber bands to secure the bag to the fixture. Fill a plastic bag with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water.

Cleaning outside windows