Spring Cleaning Checklist: Tips for a Successful Spruce-Up

The weather is warming up, the birds are chirping and the spring flowers are starting to bloom — yay, spring! It’s time to open the windows, breathe in some fresh air and enjoy the smell of…bleach?! Along with the warmer weather comes something else we may not anticipate quite so eagerly — spring cleaning. While having a freshly deep-cleaned home can bring a wonderful feeling of relaxation and joy, it can also be a time-consuming task added to our already long to-do lists.

According to a 2022 American Cleaning Institute survey, the average U.S. household will spend at least 7-8 hours on interior home spring cleaning…and that’s not including the garage, basement or other exterior living areas. Typically, this is spread out over a few days, with the national average being six days. To help get a head start on your spring cleaning, below are some often-overlooked tasks you’ll want to include in your spruce-up this spring.

Dusting and Polishing Surfaces:

• Wipe down surfaces, shelves, and furniture – don’t forget the tops of picture frames, ceiling fans and light fixtures and baseboards.
• Polish wooden furniture to restore its shine.
• Use appropriate cleaning products to polish your stainless steel, granite or quartz surfaces in the kitchen.

Vacuum and Mop Floors:

• Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly – be sure to get into the often-neglected corners!
• Move furniture and appliances to dust and clean underneath.
• Mop hard floors to remove any built-up grime.
• Wash pet bedding to give your furry family members a springtime lift too!

Clean Windows and Window Treatments:

• Wipe down windowsills, frames and tracks if applicable.
• Clean window treatments, such as blinds or curtains.
• Wash window glass using a streak-free cleaner and lint-free cloths.

Organize and Declutter:

• Sort through belongings and declutter. Don’t forget kids’ or dogs’ toy baskets!
• Organize closets, drawers, and storage spaces, including the dreaded junk drawer.
• When organizing linen closets, evaluate towels and sheets for signs of wear; is it time to replace your linens?

Deep Clean Kitchen:

• Clean appliances inside and out, and clean under and behind refrigerator.
• Scrub countertops and backsplash; if natural material such as granite or stone, use appropriate products.
• Clean out the refrigerator and freezer, and organize so you can find items easily.

Refresh Bedrooms:

• Change bedding and pillowcases.
• Evaluate bed and throw pillows; clean, wash or replace if necessary.
• Dust and vacuum bedroom furniture, including dusting or vacuuming under bed.

Deep Clean Bathrooms:

• Clean and disinfect the toilet, bathtub, and shower.
• Deep clean class and fixtures, using appropriate cleaner if hard water scale is an issue.
• Clean mirrors and countertops.
• Clean out and organize drawers, discarding any expired or unnecessary products or cosmetics.

Check and Replace Filters:

• Change HVAC filters.
• Replace water filters in faucets or appliances.
• Change or clean humidifier or dehumidifier filters if applicable.
• This is a great time to turn on your AC to confirm it works well before you really need it!

Clean Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans:

• Dust and wipe down light fixtures.
• Clean and dust ceiling fans.
• Replace light bulbs as necessary.

Inspect and Replace Batteries:

• Check and replace batteries in smoke detectors and other devices.
• If you have a home security system, this is a suitable time to test it.
• Charge any small rechargeable lights in closets or attic.

Outdoor Cleaning:

• Clean patio or deck furniture.
• Sweep and wash outdoor spaces, including power-washing home exterior if necessary/appropriate.
• Clean and replace bulbs in outdoor lighting as necessary.
• Put away the snow shovels and salt if applicable (yay, finally!).

Garden and Yard Cleanup:

• Prune bushes and trees.
• Rake mulch or consider adding new if necessary.
• Organize your gardening tools and supplies; take stock of new supplies needed.
• Remove debris and dead plants from the gardens.

When spring cleaning, remember to stop and smell the flowers! It's always a good idea to break down tasks over several days if necessary and tackle them systematically. While spring cleaning is essential, finding a balance that includes enjoying outdoor activities during the beautiful spring season can contribute to both physical and mental well-being.

By embracing the spring season with a thoughtful and systematic approach to cleaning, you can create a refreshed living space that promotes a sense of harmony. So, open the windows, let the fresh air in, and embark on the journey of spring cleaning to welcome the season of renewal. But also remember, sometimes the best thing that you can do is seek help so that you can focus on what really matters, such as spending quality time with your family or relaxing.