7 Apartment Cleaning Chores That Are Easy to Forget

This article originally appeared on the Springs "You're Home Blog."

It may be hard to believe right now, but spring is just around the corner. Along with it comes the traditional cleaning of all the dirt and debris that's accumulated while your Springs Apartments home was closed up in the winter. 

No matter how thorough you are, chances are you'll forget some areas that need TLC just as much as the rest of your home. Add these chores to your checklist and you'll be surprised what a difference they make.

1. Baseboards

Baseboards are a major repository for dust, but since they are well below eye level they are frequently overlooked. As dirt accumulates over time, it can actually cause the finish to become discolored. Make sure you dust them a few times a year.

2. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are attractive as well as practical, but when it comes to removing dirt and dust, it's often a case of out of sight, out of mind. Cleaning ceiling fans is particularly important if you tend to suffer from allergies. Don't want to scatter dust on the objects below? Place an old pillowcase over the blade and use it to slide the dirt off into the cover.

3. Dishwashers

While the dishwasher is a great time and work saver, it's easy to forget that it needs cleaning as well. There are a number of commercial products available, or you can use an eco-friendly method by pouring a cup of vinegar or baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and running it on an empty cycle.

4. Hand-Held Electronics and Accessories

When you think of how often remote controls, computer mice and cell phones are handled even in a single day, how could you not want to clean them? A mix of water and rubbing alcohol will help keep them germ-free, and cotton swabs or an old toothbrush can access the smaller crevices. Take care to avoid getting any liquid into the works.

5. Doorknobs and Light Switches

These areas are more ideal germ-breeding grounds. In addition, dirt and oil from hands have them looking grimy in no time. A trusty mix of water and rubbing alcohol works well on these areas also.

6. Light Fixtures and Light Bulbs

Are you wondering why your rooms look so dim? It's probably from a build-up of dust and grime on light fixtures and light bulbs. For safety's sake, wait until the lights have cooled down before cleaning and avoid using a damp rag on bulbs.

7. Underneath Couch Cushions

Many jokes are made about buying items with money found in the couch, but the amount of debris that ends up under the cushions is no laughing matter. Use the crevice tool of a vacuum to get into the recesses and corners.

We have probably missed a few places ourselves. Let us know what other overlooked areas should be added to this list.