(NC)- When making your annual spring-cleaning to-do list, don't neglect the appliances that help you clean. A clean washing machine and organized laundry room will make chores less time-consuming all year round.

Here are five commonly overlooked areas in the laundry room:

1. Dusting and cleaning

Dust and lint often collects in the laundry room, so be sure to dust both the top and bottom surfaces of shelves and under appliances. Use warm water, mild soap and a clean cloth to wash the surfaces of the washing machine and dryer. Pay attention to knobs, switches and dials as well. Remove lint from the lint trap of the dryer and dust lighting fixtures, light bulbs and windowsills.

2. Clean the washing machine

High-efficiency (HE) washers use less water and seal more tightly than older, less-efficient appliances. As a result, these machines are more prone to odour-causing residue, mold and mildew stains. Once a month, run your washing machine at the highest temperature with one tablet of Affresh washer cleaner to remove odour-causing residue.

3. Organize and re-stock cleaning products

Keep products that are used regularly for laundry and cleaning in an easy to reach location. Store the remaining cleaning products in a spot that is accessible - but not in the way. A lazy Susan makes items, such as spot removers and washer cleaning tablets, easy to find when needed. If you have small children in your home, store cleaning products higher up or in a locked cupboard.

4. Keep irons looking hot

Cleaning your iron is essential since it is prone to occasional build up. Begin with an unplugged, cold iron. Use a mild laundry detergent to create a sudsy solution and wipe off the soleplate with a sponge. Clean off remaining suds with a damp cloth or rag.

5. Laundry bin help

To keep your laundry room more organized, keep an extra laundry bin near the dryer for odd socks. This way, when one lone sock appears, it is easy to reunite the missing pair.

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