Spring is almost here, and that means blooming flowers and trees, cute baby animals, and warmer temperatures. The spring season also means it's time to start preparing for spring cleaning. The mild temperatures are the perfect time to put away heavy winter coats and blankets, so many people take the opportunity to combine the change of the seasons with freshening the house up. If you've never done a spring cleaning before, this guide will help you prepare for a hassle-free home cleanup.What is Spring Cleaning?Spring cleaning is something of an unofficial yearly event where families do a thorough cleaning of their home. Many people take the opportunity to get rid of clutter while they are freshening things up, making this project an efficient way to get your home ready for a new season and a new year.When is Spring Cleaning?There is no set date for spring cleaning. In fact, spring cleaning can happen at any time of year and in any type of weather. Many people like to clean while temperatures are mild, there are fewer bugs, and pollen and other allergens have not become problematic.This ideal time varies from region to region, so use your best judgment on what's the right weekend for you. Fall is also a great time to do spring cleaning since the temperatures are cool and you can leave the windows open to keep air circulating, which is a must when it comes to dusty rooms!Supplies for Spring CleaningYou probably already have many of the following supplies. It's best to collect all your cleaning goods before you start. There's nothing more frustrating than getting started on a project and having to keep running out to collect additional supplies throughout the day.Spring cleaning supplies include:VacuumMop and bucketBroomDusterCarpet cleanerSpray sanitizers (window, all-purpose, disinfectant, degreasers, bath and tile)Specialized cleaners, as appropriate (Oven, granite, wood, teak, marble, silver)Reusable cleaning towels or paper towelsStiff-bristled brushesSpongesLarge trash bagsBoxes for donating old clothes or linensFace mask (if you are sensitive to dust)You can rent carpet cleaners from your local tool shop if you're preparing for an extremely thorough cleaning. With a full stock of supplies, you'll be able to make short work of cleaning your home!A Complete Spring Cleaning ChecklistBelow, you'll find a spring cleaning checklist by room. Print this list and cross off the items as they are completed so you don't accidentally forget anything!The BedroomAir out the roomDust all electronicsDust all flat surfaces (shelves, book cases, window sills, doorframes, side tables, night stands, window blinds)Vacuum or mop the floorSteam clean the floor, if applicableWipe down all walls with a damp clothRemove any drapes or hanging linens and wash or take outside to shake dust out of themRemove all bed linens and washClean mirrors, windows, and other glass surfacesRemove and cull old clothing and linens to free up spaceThe Living RoomAir out the roomDust all electronicsDust all flat surfaces (shelves, book cases, window sills, doorframes, side tables, night stands, window blinds)Vacuum or mop the floorSteam clean the floor, if applicableWipe down all walls with a damp clothRemove any drapes or hanging linens and wash or take outside to shake dust out of themRemove all couch and chair covers, if possible, and washRemove all couch and chair cushions and let them air out in the sunClean mirrors, windows, and other glass surfacesThe BathroomVacuum or sweep the floorMop the floorSpray bath and tile cleaning solutions in tub, on shower walls, in sinks, and in the toilet and follow manufacturer's instructions on the packageRemove and wash bathroom rugs and towelsClean the bathroom mirrorRemove old or empty bathroom products and discard themThe KitchenClean out refrigerator and wipe down interiorClean out freezer and wipe down interiorClean out the ovenRemove burners from the stove and wash as appropriateDegrease cooking appliances (toasters, toaster ovens, coffee makers, kitchen hoods, blenders, food processors, and suchlike)Sweep or vacuum the floorMop the floorRemove utensils and items from drawers and vacuumRemove items from pantry and vacuumWipe down walls and cabinets with a damp clothRemove window treatments and wash, if applicableDust the tops of cabinets and the refrigeratorIf you have a garage or laundry room, spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to give these places a good cleaning too!Spring Cleaning TipsSpring cleaning may take a day or two depending on how large your home is, so be sure to plan ahead. The following spring cleaning tips will help speed along the process.If your home is large, tackle this project in small parts to avoid getting overwhelmedDownload a spring cleaning app! These apps also usually have regular cleaning schedules to help you keep your home clean year-round.Gather supplies before you start; there's no frustration like having to stop and start because you ran out of cleaning solvent or paper towels.Sponges and reusable towels can help you minimize on waste.Donate old, usable clothes and home linens to your local charity instead of throwing them away.Create a spring cleaning playlist to keep yourself entertained. This project is a good opportunity to catch up on podcasts, audiobooks, or just listen to a favorite music album or few.
