Keeping the home clean and tidy is easier said than done. It is especially challenging with little kids around – you have a sense that your house is a constant mess. Love it or not, cleaning chores have to be done. Spring cleaning is a great way to refresh your home, declutter, and get rid of stuff you don’t need.
Spring is already here, meaning many people want to clean their homes from top to bottom. Such cleaning usually includes tasks you don’t do every day. Every successful cleaning requires organization and tips that can save you time and energy.
1. Start With the Ceilings
The great place to start your spring cleaning is the ceiling. It is the place where dust and cobwebs accumulate over time. Use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment to clean everything thoroughly. Also, if you have ceiling fans, you can use an old pillowcase to clean them from both sides.
2. Let’s Focus on Windows
Windows can also get neglected during the year, especially in winter when the weather is bad. However, when the windows are dirty, the entire room can have a gloomy overtone.
You can experiment with a proven mixture for window cleaning – simply mix white vinegar, baking soda, and water in a spray bottle.
3. Don’t Forget the Blinds
Blinds can get pretty dirty, and you won’t even notice. Every few months clean blinds. You can vacuum them with the upholstery attachment or damp rag. You can also put them in the bathtub; just make sure not to wet them too much.
4. Avoid Sunny Days for Window Cleaning
Even though you may think sunny days are perfect for cleaning your windows, in reality, it is not like that. Sun heating can cause window cleaners to dry quickly, making streaks more problematic. Instead, pick the time of the day when your windows don’t receive direct sunlight.
5. Clean Doormats
Your doormats present a first line of defense regarding dirt and dust. So, when they get dirty, you can expect even more dirt to come into your house. Periodically, you can shake the doormat off and spray them with a hose to dislodge the dirt. If you have inside mats, throw them in the washing machine.
6. Wash the Curtains
Curtains can be such a magnet for dirt and dust. If you have pets, it can be even worse. They should be washed regularly, but don’t forget them during your spring cleaning. Depending on the fabric, you can throw your curtains in a machine or wash them by hand.
7. Vacuum Your Furniture
Vacuuming your furniture regularly will keep it clean and free of allergens. Use different attachments on your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly clean all the nooks. You can also use a lint roller to remove the pet’s hair.
8. Don’t Forget To Clean Under the Bed
Many people don’t think about moving the furniture and cleaning under the bed. However, this is one of the dirtiest places, collecting all the dirt, mold, and pet hair. Start by removing everything beneath. You can then vacuum it with or without an attachment. Finally, use a damp rag to wipe everything down.
9. Remove Marks on Wooden Furniture
The blend of lemon oil and white vinegar should clean and restore the shine of wooden furniture. If you have ink marks on your furniture, use toothpaste and gently rub it over.
10. Use a Lint Roller for Speakers
While you have a lint roller by your side, run it over the speaker material. This type of mash material on speakers for your TV can become as filthy as your floors or lampshades. Clean the speakers every time you wipe the dust around them.
11. Fridge Cleanout
Your fridge is yet another area that can get pretty dirty, especially if your kids spill things over and leave their tiny fingerprints everywhere.
To clean the fridge, start by removing all the stuff from it. Use a mild mixture of vinegar and water to clean the inside of the fridge. You can also clean the freezer by using warm water and soap. Spring cleaning is a great time to throw away the food from the freezer that has been in the freezer for more than six months.
12. Deodorize Your Garbage
A garbage disposal can develop horrible smells over time. It is fine since it has a tough and smelly role in your kitchen. You can deodorize it and freshen it. For this, use a few drops of lemon essential oil or orange peels.
13. Polish Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel has a gorgeous shine in many kitchens. However, it can lose its shine and develop stains. If you wish to avoid chemicals, use hot water with a mild detergent and clean everything. You can also add white vinegar to the mixture for extra shine.
14. Clean Your Microwave
It is hard to believe some people clean their microwaves after every use. The unpleasant result of not cleaning it for some time is baked-on grease and splattered sauces. You may notice they are hard to wipe away with soap and a dishcloth. Take a natural approach and combine water, a few tablespoons of white vinegar, and a few lemon, orange, or lime slices. Microwave the mixture until it boils.
15. You Can Improve Water Flow at the Tap
Spring cleaning is a perfect time for all those things you don’t think about cleaning, just like a tap in your kitchen. If you experience problems with water flow, white vinegar can come to your rescue. Remove the fixture heads and soak them in warm vinegar for a few minutes or more.
16. Degrease Kitchen Surfaces
Even though it is mostly very effective, store-bought degreasing products can be harsh. You can switch to natural options, even for the very persistent grease. Combine a half cup of ammonia and a gallon of hot water. Use this in the oven and counters. It is also safe to use on most kitchen cabinet surfaces.
17. Take Care of Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are used daily, so they deserve a proper cleaning from time to time. Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda or salt, then run a lemon wedge or half over the surface. Rinse over with water.
18. Freshen Drains in Your Bathroom
Drains in the bathroom sink and tub can get filthy after everyday use. They accumulate filth and create an odor that can be very unpleasant. To remove the filth, combine two parts baking soda and one part salt and pour it down the drain. Allow the solution to bubble for about 15-20 minutes. Run hot water to clean the filthy mess.
19. Change Your Bathtub Curtains
Your shower curtain can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it is smart to change it or clean the mildew. If you own a fabric curtain, you can simply remove it from the hanger and toss it into the washing machine.
20. Scrub Sink and Tub
Make your solution for scrubbing the sink and tub. You need baking soda and a half of lemon. Dip half of the lemon into the baking soda and clean the surfaces. They will be sparkly clean.
21. Clean the Mattress
Dust mites are usually found around mattresses. They can live inside mattresses, and all the attempts to clean the bedding can only be worthwhile if you also clean the mattress.
There are a few different methods to clean mattresses. One is to run a hot steamer over the mattress. Another option is to use vacuum extensions to suction dust mites.
22. Freshen the Washing Machine
Usually, people don’t think about cleaning their washing machine until it starts to smell weird. You should, however, clean it before it comes to that point. Start by running an empty cycle with white vinegar and hot water. After the cycle is finished, wipe it inside with a damp rag, and remember to clean the detergent dispenser.
23. Categorize Clothes Seasonally
You should categorize your clothes and switch to spring/summer pieces as the weather gets warmer.
Before you put them in your closet, it is good to see what you will wear, sell, donate, or recycle. Let’s declutter your wardrobe and make space for new things.
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