Why these spots deserve attention
Clean handles for their finish, keep switch covers dry and follow remote-control instructions. Never spray liquid directly onto electrical parts.
Door handles, light switches, remote controls, cupboard knobs and the fridge handle are touched several times a day by everyone in the household. Skin oils, dust and visible fingerprints build up on them. Because these surfaces are small, they are easily overlooked in a normal cleaning routine.
A short, regular clean is usually enough. You do not need to treat every surface constantly. What matters more is including them in your cleaning plan at all and handling electrics and sensitive materials safely.
Cleaning versus disinfecting
Cleaning means removing dirt and grease. For a normal household this is sufficient in most cases. Disinfecting is an additional step with special products that only makes sense on particular occasions, for example when someone in the household is ill and professionals recommend it.
If you use a disinfectant, use only one product, follow the contact time and instructions on the pack, and never mix it with other cleaners. Also check that the surface is suitable for it.
Further reading
Frequently touched surfaces: control moisture
Never spray liquid onto switches, sockets or controls. Start with a soft dry cloth on intact exterior covers. A barely damp cloth is an option only if the manufacturer permits it; avoid all openings and gaps. Do not clean inside socket holes.
Make sure no liquid gets into gaps, openings or socket holes. Do not clean damaged, loose or warm switches and sockets; report them to the property management or an electrician. Do not open any covers.
- Never spray cleaner directly
- Moisture only if the manufacturer permits
- No liquid in openings
- Do not touch damaged switches – report them
| Situation | Appropriate action |
|---|---|
| Door handle | Use a material-suitable soft cloth; apply cleaner to cloth, then dry. |
| Switch cover | Clean exterior dry; barely damp only if manufacturer permits, avoiding openings. |
| Remote control | Remove batteries as instructed; wipe casing appropriately, clean gaps dry. |
Door handles and cupboard knobs
Clean door handles made of stainless steel, brass, plastic or painted metal with warm water, a little mild washing-up liquid and a soft cloth. Also wipe the rose, the area behind the handle and the door surface around it, where fingerprints often collect. Then wipe dry.
Coated or antique finishes react sensitively to abrasives and aggressive products. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and test new products on an inconspicuous spot.
Remote controls and small devices
Where possible, remove the batteries from remote controls before cleaning. Wipe the casing with a barely damp cloth, never with a dripping one. A dry cotton bud or a soft dry brush works well for the gaps between the buttons.
For remote controls, tablets, phones and other devices, read the manufacturer's care instructions. Some manufacturers state explicitly which products are allowed and which damage the screen or coating. Never immerse devices in water, and let everything dry completely before putting the batteries back.
- Remove batteries if possible
- Use a barely damp cloth
- Clean between buttons dry
- Let dry fully before use
Further reading
Building it into your routine
Simply include frequently touched surfaces in your weekly clean, for example at the end of each room. A round through the apartment with a cloth and mild solution only takes a few minutes. Use separate cloths for the bathroom and kitchen and wash them regularly.
With PUTZIO you can book regular apartment cleaning in the supported municipalities around Zurich and Rapperswil-Jona for CHF 40 per hour. Door handles and switches are cleaned as part of normal cleaning. Electrical work or special disinfection services are not included.