3. Declutter as You Go
Spring cleaning isn’t just about shining up the brass on the door and dusting. It is just as important to declutter your space as you go! Before you start cleaning the room, it is a good idea to pinpoint items that can be discarded, such as old magazines and papers, as well as to go through closets and cupboards for anything that you can donate (like that sweater you bought and never wore). This will clear up space for new clothing and items and will make you feel that much more accomplished!
4. Think Green
The idea of Spring cleaning is starting the season off on a fresh, clean note. Don’t muddy that up with harsh chemical cleaners. In today’s ecofriendly environment, there are many eco-friendly and safe alternatives to regular cleaners. Vinegar is a great substitute in the bathroom or kitchen as well as combining vinegar, baking soda and water as a deep clean alternative. You can also opt for a steam cleaner to manage tile, hardwood floors, appliances and even outdoor areas as they only use hot water and vapor. While not everything can be cleaned this way, it is best to minimize chemical cleaners as much as possible.
5. Work From Top to Bottom
The exterior of the home is the first impression you have to make potential homebuyers fall in love!
6. Save Windows for a Cloudy Day
Washing your windows after the build-up of winter grime is one of the biggest parts of Spring cleaning as you’ll want to wash them on the inside and outside. However, washing windows in direct sunlight (or using paper towel) can cause streaks. To minimize this and maximize your cleaning efforts, use a microfiber cloth and save this task for a cloudy day!
7. Plump Up Those Pillows
Fresh linens is one of the most rewarding things about cleaning, period. There is nothing quite like your face hitting a fresh, plumped up pillow and settling into a freshly flipped mattress. Washing your pillows with ½ cup of baking soda added to the detergent cycle will really get them extra clean! You can fluff them up even more by putting them in the air cycle of your dryer with two tennis balls in socks.
8. Master Your Closety
Most of us are guilty of hanging onto old clothes that we haven’t worn in three years or a pair of jeans that we know we will never fit again, but just can’t let go of. Now is the time to say goodbye to those worn out, ill-fitting or stained clothes! There are many opportunities to donate old clothes that are still in good shape too. Not only does that lend a helping hand to individuals who may greatly benefit from them, but it frees up space in your closet for new items that you absolutely LOVE!
9. Don’t Forget The Fridge & Freezer
The best time to clean out your fridge and freezer is right before you do your grocery shop, so they will be at their most empty. Take everything out and dispose of anything that is past its expiration date and any almost-empty items you won’t use. Before you restock be sure to wipe down the interior of the fridge with disinfectant and a damp cloth. The same can be done for the freezer but you’ll have to defrost it first!
10. Clean Air Reduces Allergies
Replacing furnace and HVAC filters is one of the most overlooked parts of Spring cleaning. Going as far as replacing your standard filter with a more robust one with a higher rating will help keep you even healthier (and allergy free!) this year as they catch smaller particles to ensure your home is void of allergens, chemicals and even odors.
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