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Yes, we know it’s spring cleaning season, so your to-do list is probably already filled with a lot of deep cleaning tasks. But while you're chasing dust bunnies out from under the couch or washing down walls, you might be missing a few key areas and items that'll make life so much easier this summer.

1. Wool sweaters and outerwear

Before you pack away your heavy sweaters and outerwear (hats, mittens, and scarves, too), make sure to give them a good cleaning. If you put them away dirty, any food or body oil that’s in the fibers could become set-in stains or attract pests that could damage the garment.

2. Doormats

“Winter boots usually bring in a lot of dirt and salt,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and CEO of AspenClean. “Spring cleaning is an ideal time to shake out and deep clean your doormats.”

3. Duvets and bedding

You're probably going to be ready to switch out your flannels and big fluffy duvet for cooling sheets and summer-weight blankets, says Cian Ballentine, owner of Cannonball Cleaners. Even if you are planning to keep the duvet in service, spring is the perfect time to launder it and leave it out on a sunny day to fluff up.

4. Windows and screens

Windows are often a big part of any spring-cleaning plan, but we just wanted to make sure you don't neglect them after a season of winter grime. A deep clean both inside and out ensures you can enjoy every bit of that late spring sunshine.

Don’t forget the screens — and they could use a good cleaning with a hose and a scrub brush to remove built-up dirt, Sokolowski says.

5. Throw pillows and blankets

Your throw pillows and blankets have likely faced some food and drink stains as you enjoyed a little cocooning on your couch this winter. Give them a thorough laundering (make sure to hand-wash any that have embroidery or beading that could get thrashed in the washing machine). The pillow inserts can be washed and dried separately, then let them spend a few hours out in the sunshine.

6. Outdoor furniture and accessories

Now’s the time to give your outdoor furniture a good cleaning, so any winter grime or spiderwebs are washed away. And don’t forget your outdoor cushions, especially if you’ve left them out in the elements all winter long or put them away somewhere where they’ve gotten a little musty or dusty.

7. Grill

Even if you deep-cleaned your grill before winter started (or never stopped using it all winter long), spring is a good time for a reset. Clear away any cobwebs or left-on ick before barbecue season hits full swing.

8. Ceiling fans

The ceiling fan is an often-neglected spot that attracts plenty of dust and dirt. “I recommend cleaning your ceiling fan every time you switch it from winter to summer and back again,” Ballentine says. (Yes, you need to change your ceiling fan's direction as the seasons change!)

9. Beach towels and gear

Gear up for the season by hosing off any dirt and grime on pool floats and beach chairs, giving your tote a good clean, and running your beach and pool towels through a laundry cycle so you’re ready to go.

(Real Simple magazine provides smart, realistic solutions to everyday challenges. Online at www.realsimple.com.)

©2026 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.