10 Things You Forgot to Do For Your House This Month

Owning a home is a constant balancing act. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day chaos and forget about the little things that keep your house running smoothly. I get it—life is busy, and monthly maintenance doesn’t exactly scream fun. But here’s the thing: knocking out a few small tasks each month can save you from huge headaches down the road.

I’m not talking about spending hours on end. These are quick, manageable things that make a big difference. Plus, there’s something satisfying about knowing you’re staying ahead of the curve.

Vacuum Refrigerator Coils

Your fridge keeps everything cool, but those coils hidden in the back or underneath can get dusty fast. A quick clean every few months helps it stay efficient and last longer. Grab a vacuum with a brush attachment and gently clear away the buildup. It only takes a few minutes, and your fridge will thank you by working better (and maybe even saving you some money on your energy bill).

While you’re at it, make sure there’s enough space around the fridge for air to circulate. It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters don’t need your attention every month, but checking them every season is a smart move. If leaves, twigs, or gunk pile up, water can overflow and wreak havoc on your home. Use a ladder, some gloves, and a garden hose to get things flowing smoothly again.

If you’ve got a lot of trees nearby, you might need to do this more often. A little effort now can save you from a soggy yard or water damage later. Plus, it’s a satisfying way to keep your home in tip-top shape.

Take a Quick Look at Your Finances

Money management doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal. At the end of the month, take 10 minutes to glance over your spending. Did you stick to your budget? Did a few too many coffee runs sneak in? This is your chance to course-correct before things get out of hand.

If you’re saving for a big project or just trying to cut back, this habit is a game changer. It’s less about being perfect and more about staying aware. Trust me, it feels good to know exactly where your money’s going.

Lubricate Garage Door Parts

Garage doors take a lot of wear and tear, so a little maintenance goes a long way. Once a month, grab a lubricant that’s suitable for the type of rollers you have—metal or plastic—and apply it to the hinges, tracks, and rollers. This helps the door open smoothly, reduces noise, and prolongs its life.

Skipping this step can lead to creaking sounds or even uneven movement, which could stress the motor. It’s a simple task that takes just a few minutes and keeps your garage door working like it should.

Clean the Refrigerator Grille

Your fridge works hard to keep your groceries cold, and a dusty grille makes it harder to do its job. The grille, usually at the base or back of the fridge, collects dust that can block airflow to the cooling coils. Over time, this buildup can cause your fridge to overheat or even burn out.

Once a month, pop off the grill (check your manual if you’re unsure how) and use a vacuum or cloth to clear away the dust. This quick clean-up helps your fridge run efficiently and prevents costly repairs down the line.

Declutter and Organize Your Fridge

It’s easy for your fridge to turn into a chaotic mess, especially if you have a busy household. Once a month, pull everything out and take inventory. Toss anything expired, questionable, or that’s been pushed to the back and forgotten.

If you’re feeling ambitious, give the shelves a quick wipe before putting things back. An organized fridge is easier to navigate, cuts down on food waste, and makes meal prep a whole lot smoother. Plus, it feels good to open the door and actually know what’s in there!

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are lifesavers—literally. Make it a habit to test them every month to ensure they’re in working order. Press the test button and listen for the beep. Even if the batteries are fine, it’s better to double-check than to find out the hard way they’re not functioning.

While you’re at it, check the expiration dates on the detectors. Yes, they expire! Detectors typically last 7-10 years, and an expired one isn’t reliable.

Freshen Up the Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals do the dirty work, but they can start to stink if you don’t clean them regularly. Once a month, toss in some ice cubes and coarse salt, then run the disposal to help knock off food buildup. For a fresh scent, follow up with a lemon peel or a splash of vinegar and baking soda.

This not only keeps the smell at bay but also sharpens the blades slightly, helping your disposal work better.

Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

Light switches, doorknobs, and appliance handles are hotspots for germs. Sure, they get some attention during regular cleaning, but a monthly deep clean helps keep them truly germ-free. Use a disinfectant wipe or spray and give each surface a thorough once-over.

This is especially important during cold and flu season when everyone’s immune systems could use a little backup. It doesn’t take long, but it can help keep your household healthier.

Check Your Attic for Leaks on Rainy Days

Rainy days might seem perfect for staying cozy indoors, but they’re also ideal for catching attic leaks in action. Take a flashlight and head up there during a rainstorm to look for any water seeping in. Leaks can go unnoticed for ages, and by the time you spot them, the damage to insulation or wood might already be extensive. Plus, that damp environment? Prime real estate for mold.

While you’re up there, it’s also smart to check insulation and airflow. Poor insulation can hike up your energy bills, and insufficient ventilation can cause moisture to linger even when it’s dry outside.

Swap or Clean HVAC Filters

Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable, but dirty filters can slow it down and even mess with your air quality. Pop open the filter compartment once a month to see how things look. If you see a layer of dust or debris building up, it’s time to clean or replace the filter. A clogged filter forces your system to work overtime, which isn’t great for efficiency—or your wallet.

Test Garage Door Safety Features

Your automatic garage door is a huge convenience, but if the safety shutoff isn’t working properly, it could also be a hazard. Take a moment once a month to test the safety beams. Place an object, like a broomstick, in the door’s path to ensure it stops closing when something’s detected. If it doesn’t, you’ll want to have the system inspected or recalibrated.

This is especially important for households with kids or pets who might run under the door without thinking.