We all know spring cleaning is important but it can easily feel overwhelming. Where should you start? What things need to be cleaned? Do you have to clean everything you own? To save you from getting caught up in your list of questions, we’ve put together a list of 10 household items you want to ensure you clean this spring. Start at the top and work your way down this list. This way you’ll have a fresh and clean home you can enjoy all year long.
1. Bedding and Mattress
While you probably wash your sheets regularly, items like your pillows and comforters are cleaned less often. Now is the perfect time to refresh these items that aren’t cleaned as regularly. Check the care instructions first, but you’ll most likely find that these items can be washed in your washing machine. Simply throw them in during your next load and sleep better on freshly washed bedding.
Remember that your mattress also needs to be cleaned. Take the time while you’re washing your bedding to tend to your mattress. One easy way to clean it is by sprinkling some baking soda, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up. You can use the various attachments on your vacuum to help get into the little nooks and crannies. You never know what kind of crumbs and dirt could be hiding inside the crevices.
2. Washer and Dryer
Your washer and dryer will be used a lot while spring cleaning, so it’s important to keep it functioning. Be sure to run a cleaning cycle in your washer and always clean out the lint trap. You should also give the sides and fronts of your units a wipe down so they look cared for.
3. Curtains/Blinds/Shutters/Shades
While window dressings are beautiful, you wouldn’t believe the amount of dust that sticks to them. Now is the time to either wipe clean or launder your window dressings. For curtains, depending on the fabric, it might be as easy as throwing them in the wash. If they require a little more care than your washer allows, consider sending them out to be professionally cleaned. You can also opt to vacuum or steam them while they’re still hanging for a refresh.
Your blinds and shutters should ideally be dusted regularly, but we understand that doesn’t always happen. Take the time now to use a microfiber duster to tackle the first layer and a damp rag to remove any grime. You can clean your shades with either a vacuum cleaner or slightly damp cloth.
4. Windows
Now that your window dressings are clean, it’s time to focus on your windows. Keep in mind that cleaning windows on the outside of your home can be dangerous, so we do recommend hiring a pro, especially if you live in a multi-story home. When it comes to the inside of your windows, this is a DIY task you can safely handle. Start by cleaning the tracks and sills as these are often the dirtiest parts of your windows. Next, you’ll want to clean the screens if you have them. Make sure to clean your windows until they’re sparkling. Finally, wash the window panes.
Tip: a cloudy day is best for window washing. This way your glass won’t have spots or streaks.
5. Doors
Do you remember the last time you cleaned your doors? Probably not. For the amount they’re used, they actually receive very little care. Cleaning your doors can help give your home that fresh and clean look from room to room. Begin by dusting (remember the top of the door frame!) and then wipe clean with a damp cloth. For really dirty doors, you can spray an all-purpose cleaner and give them a good wipe down. Be sure to do both sides and the bottom of your doors. Make sure to disinfect your doorknobs as these are easily the dirtiest part of your doors.
6. Cabinet Doors
Just like your regular doors, we bet your cabinet doors are rarely cleaned as well. With the amount they’re touched, they should be cleaned more often. Start in your kitchen where the dirtiest cabinet doors likely are. Use a cleaning solution meant for grease to ensure a thorough cleaning. Next, move on to your bathroom and other cabinet doors. They should all be wiped down to remove fingerprints and grime.
7. Ceiling Fans
Your ceiling fan has been sitting dormant collecting dust for who knows how long. To make sure you don’t get an unpleasant surprise of dust flying everywhere when you turn them on for the first time this year, be sure to dust them. If you can’t reach with your regular duster, invest in an extendable one that will help you reach high up places.
8. Countertops
While you probably clean your countertops regularly, it’s important to seal them as well. This is especially important for granite or other stone material countertops and should be done once a year. If you notice water is no longer beading up on your countertop, it’s a clear sign they need to be resealed. Once resealed, your countertops will not only be protected but they will shine like they’re brand new!
9. Walls and Baseboards
Another set of forgotten items to clean in our homes are our walls and baseboards. To keep that fresh and clean feeling going throughout your whole home, give your walls a good wipe down. It’s likely all you’ll need is a damp microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and other marks. If you need a little more help, add a spritz of an all-purpose cleaner.
For your baseboards, make sure to dust off and clean all of them. Move your bed and big furniture pieces to ensure no boards are left behind. This will help carry the freshness of your spring cleaning throughout your entire home.
10. Cleaning Tools
Last but not least, you’ll want to ensure you clean your cleaning tools at the end of this. That way when you go to take them out next spring (or ideally sooner), they’ll be ready to go. Depending on their size and material, you may be able to put some brushes, small brooms and dustpans into the dishwasher. For larger items, soak them in the tub with some soapy water. Look into cleaning your vacuum filter if possible. Wipe down all cleaning equipment and put them away for next time.
Now that you have a jumping-off point, the only thing left to do is get started. Pick a room or a project and start cleaning. You’ll breathe easier in a freshly cleaned home that’s free of dirt, dust and grime. Happy cleaning!
