As the days grow longer, the arrival of spring brings with it a sense of renewal and freshness. It's the perfect time to shake off the winter dust and give your home a thorough cleaning. But beyond the usual suspects like windows and floors, there are several often-overlooked items that can benefit from a good scrub. Here's a list of the top 10 things you should clean around your home this spring to ensure a healthier, happier living space.

1.    Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: Over the colder months, ceiling fans and light fixtures accumulate a surprising amount of dust. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster with an extendable handle to remove dust. For light fixtures, a gentle wipe with a damp cloth can also help remove bugs and grime.

2.    Behind and Underneath Major Appliances: The spaces behind and underneath your refrigerator, oven, washing machine, and dryer can harbor dust, crumbs, and lost items. Pull these appliances away from the wall (safely and with help, if necessary) to vacuum and mop the area thoroughly.

3.    Closets: Spring is the perfect time to declutter and reorganize your closets. Remove everything, wipe down shelves, and vacuum the floor. Consider donating items you no longer need or use.

4.    Curtains and Blinds: Curtains and blinds can trap dust, pet hair, and odors. Check the cleaning instructions for your curtains, as some may be machine washable, while others might require professional cleaning. For blinds, a damp cloth can remove dust effectively.

5.    Air Vents and Filters: Air vents and filters in your heating and cooling system can get clogged with dust and allergens, reducing air quality. Remove vent covers and use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean them, and replace any disposable filters or clean reusable ones according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6.    Mattresses: Your mattress can accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells, and body oils. Vacuum the surface with an upholstery attachment, and consider using a mild detergent for any stains. Flipping or rotating your mattress can also promote even wear.

7.    Outdoor Furniture: Before the outdoor living season begins, give your patio furniture a good clean. Mix mild soap with water to wipe down surfaces and cushions. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific care tips, especially for materials like wicker or metal.

8.    Garbage Cans: Take the time to clean out your indoor and outdoor garbage cans to prevent odors and pest infestations. A hose, scrub brush, and disinfectant cleaner can make this task easier.

9.    The Pantry and Refrigerator: Empty your pantry and refrigerator, check expiration dates, and wipe down shelves with a food-safe cleaner. This is also an excellent opportunity to organize your food storage areas, making meal prep more efficient.

10. Door Mats and Area Rugs: These items trap a lot of dirt and pollutants that can be tracked into your home. Shake out, vacuum, or wash door mats and area rugs according to their care instructions to keep your home cleaner.

Tackling these tasks can brighten and freshen your home for the season and create a healthier living environment. Happy spring cleaning!