Tuesday, March 24, 2020 / by Ashley Yates
9 Spring Cleaning Tasks That Homeowners Tend to Overlook
By: Amy Howell Hirt

No matter how hard you try, it's easy to overlook some spots when you spring clean — because you're blind to what you see and use every day in your own home.
So before you say you're done with your spring cleaning, check to see if you missed any of these tasks:
#1 Clean and Inspect Your Vacuum

Best to clean it first:
- Change the bag and wipe down the bag's holder or empty and thoroughly wash the bagless container with a soapy damp rag.
- Wipe down the entire vacuum.
- Pull debris from the vacuum's brushes and wipe out the underside as much as you can.
- Change the filter.
Inspect the hose for holes.
This goes for your wet/dry vacuum, and handheld one, too, if you have them.
#2 Clean the Undersides of Surfaces
While you're at it, if your table has leaves, wipe down those alarmingly icky cracks, too. Don't question what the mystery gunk is: Just clean it and forget it.
#3 Dispose of Dried-Out Paints, Adhesives, Etc.
#4 Pitch Outdated Pantry Staples

To bring a bigger bang to your recipes, also replace any dried spices that have been open longer than a year. Going forward, you can buy smaller portions where bulk spices are sold, so you always have a fresh supply.
#5 Clean the Crevices in Kitchen Appliances
You shouldn't need more than some baking soda and soapy water — along with an old toothbrush to reach into crevices — to banish the eww factor.
#6 Give Houseplants a Shower (and Clean the Spots Where They Live)

#7 Sanitize Trash Cans
Sanitize with a mixture of soap and bleach (don't forget to wear gloves!) and, if your can is stowed in a cabinet, use a vacuum attachment to suck up dust and crumbs inside the cabinet box. And wash the cabinet, too. There's almost always yucky stuff there.
#8 Disinfect Door Knobs and Light Switches

Light switches, door knobs, cabinet handles, and remotes are some of the germiest places in your house. You almost can't clean them enough.
#9 Wash Grocery Totes
Throw them in the washer or wash by hand with hot, soapy water.
Related:
The Most Common Spring Cleaning Mistake (Plus 8 Others)