In the age of smart cars and smartphones, here are three ways spring cleaning has become smarter as well, according to LG.

Breathe easy. One of the most important parts of your home to clean is the part you can't see. We're talking about air quality — get yourself a good air purifier.

Multitask like never before. Over the years, robot vacuums have advanced so that now these nifty cleaning assistants are quieter than ever before — some even come equipped with a camera to monitor your home while you're away.

Use the power of light. A UV sanitizing wand uses a powerful ultraviolet light to kill odor-causing bacteria and germs on hard surfaces. It's the same technology used in many hospitals.

Let your appliances do more work. Have you ever wondered whether your oven, dishwasher and refrigerator could be doing a little more to reach their full potential? If so, you probably have yet to use the new generation of smart appliances. Many appliances, like LG's SmartThinQ line, are now Wi-Fi enabled, allowing you to monitor dishwashing and laundry cycles, remotely clean the oven or even check the air quality at home from your phone or computer while you are out of the house.

Tip of the week

The secret places pests are hiding in your home

Terminix shares details on the "secret" places pests can hide: 

Sinks and drains: When not properly sanitized, drains can become a breeding ground for pests. Ceiling light fixtures: Pests are attracted to the warmth and light.  Electrical outlets: Ants, beetles and bed bugs have been known to hide in electrical outlets and behind the outlet plate. The kitchen pantry: To keep them out, keep cabinets clean, buy smaller quantities and use airtight containers.  Trees

Reasons to plant a tree on Arbor Day

Planting a tree is one of the easiest and most powerful things you can do for the environment. And it's a snap! With Arbor Day just around the corner in April, there's no better time to give Mother Nature a little TLC by planting a tree. Here are 10 reasons why, according to www.arborday.org: 

Trees fight climate change.  Trees clean the air and help you breathe. Trees prevent soil erosion and rainwater runoff. Planting trees is easy. You'll save money. Trees increase your home's value. You'll attract birds (and critters). Trees are good for your mental and physical health. You'll be giving your descendants a gift. Free trees! Wood floors

The best way to clean wood floors might surprise you

Try the following tips from Bona to keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful:

Regularly: Dust/sweep. While using a broom can be effective, it also just pushes the dirt around, so using a microfiber mop or cloth is the best daily defense against scratches and surface damage. Often: Dust and mop. After a quick spin around the floor to grab dust, use a microfiber pad mop and residue-free, neutral cleaner. Look for third-party certified cleaners that will be healthier for your floors and family. As needed: When scratches pop up or the finish looks dull, consider a recoat or refinish to keep floors durable and beautiful. Ask an outside contractor for a water-based finish and dust containment system to ensure the job is VOC and toxin free. Things to avoid: Water and vinegar, soap-based cleaners, wax and steam cleaners.