Though we’re still experiencing the snow, ice, and cold temps of winter, spring is not that far in the future. It may be tempting to wait until the first mild days to plan your spring cleaning, but why not get ahead of the game and start now? That way, your home will be fresh and clean by the time you can open up the windows and welcome in the warm spring air. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of spring cleaning tips that will jumpstart your spring-cleaning routine.
Make a Schedule
All your spring cleaning tasks do not have to be done in one day. In fact, if you try to get everything done at once, you’ll likely get overwhelmed and avoid the task altogether. Come up with a schedule so you can tackle a few projects every weekend or when you have time off. This will help you gain momentum as you see tasks marked off your list (and your home getting cleaner) and set you up for success.
Declutter
It’s impossible to clean your home thoroughly and keep it clean when it’s filled with clutter. Not only is clutter a nuisance, but it also adds to your family’s stress levels. While you’re still stuck inside, take the opportunity to declutter closets, home offices, drawers, and areas of the house where stuff tends to accumulate. If you haven’t used it in the past year, it’s a good sign you don’t need it and you can either sell, donate, or toss it.
Deep Clean Pillows, Blankets, Rugs, and Carpets
Cold temps mean stuffy houses with people and pets hunkered down on pillows and covered with blankets. This leads to dirt, dust, skin particles, and other gross things collecting in your household fibers. Start the season anew by washing whatever you’re able to in the washing machine or by hand and having the rest professionally dry cleaned.
Clean Doors and Cabinets
There have been plenty of dirty hands on your doors, cabinets, knobs, and handles this winter. Now is the perfect time to create a solution with water and castile soap and wipe down all sides and fronts of doors and cabinets and all knobs and handles.
Check Smoke Alarm Batteries
Although checking the smoke alarm batteries may not fall exactly into the “spring cleaning” category, it makes sense to designate certain times of year to make sure it’s in working order. To check the alarm, push the button and ensure the alarm will sound. Remember to wait until small children or animals that are bothered by loud noises are out of the house when you check off this item!
Change Air Filters
Changing the filters in your HVAC unit is a good job to do several times a year. The change of the season is an ideal time as you’ll be switching over from heat to A/C and want to make sure the air that comes out is fresh and clean. This is especially important if you have allergies.