Door knobs often get neglected during regular cleaning routines, but they are some of the most frequently touched surfaces in your home. In Canberra’s urban homes and suburban areas, from the bustling streets of Civic to the peaceful neighbourhoods of Tuggeranong and Belconnen, your door handles can quickly accumulate dust, oils, and germs. With the changeable Canberra weather—ranging from frosty winter mornings to hot, dry summers—door knobs are prone to collecting grime and wear. So, it’s not just about appearance; keeping your door handles clean helps create a healthier environment and preserves their shine for years to come. And if you are facing difficulty in cleaning your entire house then our ultimate guide to residential cleaning will help you to learn every tips and tricks.
Let’s dive into how you can quickly clean your door knobs and keep them sparkling in every corner of your home.
Step by Step Door Knob Cleaning Guide
Prepare Your Cleaning Materials
Before diving into cleaning, gather the necessary supplies. You don’t need anything fancy, just some basic materials that work wonders:
- Microfiber cloths (these are soft, absorbent, and won’t scratch)
- All-purpose cleaner or dish soap
- Disinfectant spray or rubbing alcohol
- Baking soda (for brass or tarnished knobs)
- White vinegar (an excellent natural disinfectant)
- Cotton swabs (for hard-to-reach places)
Step 1: Dust and Wipe Down
Start by using a microfiber cloth to remove any surface dust or dirt from your door knobs. Whether you’re in inner-city Canberra or a quiet suburb like Weston Creek, dust can accumulate quickly. A good dusting will make the next steps more effective, allowing you to clean without smearing dirt around.
Step 2: Clean the Knob
Once the surface is dusted, spray a small amount of all-purpose cleaner or dish soap onto a clean microfiber cloth (never spray directly onto the door knob). Wipe the knob gently, focusing on the areas that receive the most contact. In places like Woden Valley or Griffith, where homes often have modern or vintage door hardware, this step will remove oils and grime left behind by frequent use. For an eco-friendly option, a vinegar-water solution (equal parts) works just as well.
Step 3: Tackle Tough Stains
If your door knob has developed tarnish or stubborn stains—especially common in older homes around Kingston or Belconnen—baking soda can help. Sprinkle a small amount onto a damp cloth and gently scrub the tarnished areas. Brass and other metals can lose their shine over time, so this step is crucial for restoring their luster. For stubborn stains, let the paste sit for a few minutes before wiping it off.
Step 4: Disinfect for Germs
Now that the knob is looking cleaner, it’s time to disinfect. With all the traffic in and out of homes in suburban Canberra, especially during flu season, it’s a good idea to use a disinfectant spray or rubbing alcohol to kill germs. Simply spritz it on the knob and let it sit for a minute or two. Wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
Step 5: Clean the Crevices
This is the step most people miss! Use a cotton swab or a small brush to clean the hard-to-reach areas around the edges of the knob and near any screws. These tiny crevices are prime places for dirt, dust, and grime to hide. This is particularly important in homes like those in Belconnen and Dickson, where door hardware may have intricate designs that trap debris.
Step 6: Buff and Polish
If you’re dealing with a metal knob, give it a final polish with a clean cloth to restore its shine. In areas like Acton or Barton, where the weather can range from humid to dry, metal knobs may dull more quickly. A quick buffing will prevent this and keep your doors looking fresh.
Conclusion
Cleaning your door knobs might seem like a small task, but in Canberra homes, where the weather fluctuates and door handles are constantly in use, it makes a huge difference in keeping your space clean and hygienic. Whether you live in the heart of the city or in a peaceful suburb like Queanbeyan or Gungahlin, a clean door knob can help prevent the spread of germs and extend the life of your door hardware.
By incorporating these simple cleaning steps into your routine, you’ll maintain both the beauty and functionality of your door knobs for years to come. And next time you open the door to your home—whether you’re coming back from a sunny walk through the National Botanic Gardens or just entering from a Canberra coffee run—you’ll appreciate the cleanliness and shine of those often-forgotten but crucial handles.