10 Overlooked Spots
to Tackle During
Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up-it’s about tackling those hidden, often-forgotten spots where dirt and grime build up over time. Here are the 10 messiest places in your home that deserve a deep clean this season:

1. Ceiling fans and light fixtures – Dust and cobwebs collect on fan blades and light covers, spreading allergens when in use. Wipe them down with a microfibre cloth or a vacuum brush attachment.

2. Behind and under appliances – Crumbs, grease, and dust accumulate behind your fridge, stove, and washer/dryer. Move them out carefully and scrub the floors and walls with warm, soapy water.

3. Air vents and filters – Dust and pet dander clog air vents, reducing efficiency and air quality. Vacuum vents and replace filters to keep the air in your home fresh.

4. Baseboards and door frames – These areas collect layers of dust and scuff marks over time. Use a damp cloth or a magic eraser to remove buildup, especially in high-traffic areas.

5. Kitchen cabinets and drawers – Grease and food particles stick to cabinet doors and drawer interiors. Wipe them down with warm, soapy water, and don’t forget to sanitize handles and knobs.

6. Under furniture – Dust bunnies, pet hair, and stray objects gather under sofas, beds, and dressers. Use a vacuum extension or a long-handled duster to reach these hidden spots.

7. Shower curtains and bathroom fans – Mold and mildew thrive in humid spaces. Wash fabric curtains in the machine, wipe down plastic ones, and remove dust from exhaust fan covers.

8. Window tracks and blinds – Dirt, pollen, and grime settle into window tracks, making them sticky and hard to open. Use an old toothbrush to scrub tracks and a damp cloth for blinds.

9. Mattress and pillows – Dead skin cells and dust mites build up over time. Vacuum your mattress, wash pillows on a gentle cycle, and let them dry completely in the sun if possible.

10. Trash cans and recycling bins – Even with liners, bacteria, food residue, and odours accumulate. Scrub the inside and outside with disinfectant and let them air dry before using again.

St. Patrick’s Day: Behind the Shamrocks and Celebrations

Every March 17, people around the world wear green, decorate with shamrocks, and raise a glass in honour of St. Patrick’s Day. But how did this Irish holiday become such a global celebration—including here in Canada?

St. Patrick’s Day dates back over 1,000 years to honour St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Though originally a religious holiday, it has evolved into a cultural celebration of Irish heritage. The shamrock became a symbol of the day because legend says St. Patrick used it to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity.

Canada’s connection to St. Patrick’s Day
goes way back—Irish immigrants played a
huge role in shaping the country. Cities
like Montreal, Toronto, and St. John’s
have strong Irish roots, and Montreal
even hosts one of the longest-running
St. Patrick’s Day parades in the
world, dating back to 1824.

While the day is best known for
parades, music, and festivities, it’s
also a time to recognize Irish
contributions to Canada’s history.

So, whether you’re Irish by
heritage or just for the day, grab
some green and join the fun!

3 Spring-Inspired
Dressings to
Elevate a Green Salad

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your salad with fresh,
seasonal ingredients like crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and cool
cucumber. To make your salad even more exciting, try these three light, flavorful dressings:

1. Lemon basil vinaigrette
Zesty and aromatic, this dressing pairs beautifully with lettuce. Blend 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, a handful of fresh basil, salt, and pepper to taste.

2. Honey mustard dressing
A sweet and tangy kick to your greens! Mix 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Avocado lime dressing
Creamy and refreshing, this dressing adds a smooth texture and vibrant flavor. Blend 1 ripe avocado, the juice of 1 lime, 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper

Winter Fruits You’re Probably Not Eating (But Should)

When you think of winter fruits, chances are you’re picturing apples and citrus—but there are plenty of other delicious fruits in season that often go overlooked. Here are a few you might want to add to your winter menu:

Persimmons: These vibrant orange fruits are sweet and honey-like when ripe, with a texture similar to a soft tomato. They’re perfect in salads, baked goods, or just eaten on their own.

Blood oranges: With their striking red fresh and tangy, slightly floral flavor, blood oranges are a beautiful addition to winter dishes. Use them in salads, salsas, or make a refreshing juice.

Quinces: Often overlooked, quinces have a tart, fragrant flavor that softens when cooked. They’re fantastic in jams, jellies, or roasted alongside winter vegetables for a savory-sweet dish. Pomegranates: These jewel-like seeds are packed with antioxidants and add a burst of colour and sweetness to winter salads, smoothies, and desserts.

Kiwis: While often associated with warmer months, kiwis are actually in season through the winter. Their tangy-sweet flavor is great for fruit salads or as a topping for yogurt and cereal.

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