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Spring is finally here! If you’re ready to shed those winter blues, start by giving your home a spring refresher. By doing a little spring cleaning, updating your décor, and getting your outdoor space in order, you’ll be ready to welcome those warmer and longer spring days ahead.
Here are some of the best spring cleaning tips (in addition to your regular weekly cleaning) we’ve found to spruce up your indoor space for spring.
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INSIDE YOUR HOME
Air it out
When was the last time you opened your windows? Chances are it’s been months since you’ve had any real fresh air in your home. Choose a day where the temperatures will be moderate and open your windows to let in the cool breeze. It will recharge all the stale air in your home, remove dust, and even help to inhibit the growth of mold. While it may not be quite warm enough yet to get outside and tend to your garden, you can bring nature inside. Add some fresh decorative touches to you home with houseplants, forced bulbs, or cut flowers. Plants and flowers will help to clean the air and make your home smell fresh.
Clean up the fireplace
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, then it’s time to put it to rest for the season. Clean up the ash and close the damper. You might even consider having it professionally cleaned now instead of in the fall. Your chimney sweep will be less busy and you may even get a break on the price.
Change out linens
Now that the days are getting longer, you’ll want to let some of that lovely sunshine in. Change out heavy winter drapes with lighter versions for spring. It’s also time to switch out your bedding for lighter sheets and blankets for warm weather. Now is the perfect time to clean and rotate your mattress as well.
Add pops of color
One of the best ways to embrace the spring season is to add some pops of color around your home. You can do this very simply with the addition of colorful pillows, throw blankets or art. Think about ways to use what you already have – whether it’s a colorful vase full of spring flowers or a stack of books with vibrant colors on the coffee table.
Set your table
Finally, set the tone by setting your table with some pretty spring placemats and napkins. Add some lightly scented candles and a colorful table runner. Then, invite friends and family over to help you celebrate the coming of the spring season!
Walls and blinds need love too
People almost always clean their floors, but they typically forget about walls and windows. Not all dust settles on the floor and other surfaces. Just use a damp towel to wipe down walls and blinds (starting from the top).
Don’t be scared of the kitchen
Here are a few common trouble areas to focus on:
- Wipe down your cabinets.
- Wash the fan blades, housing and screen on your range hood.
- Go through your pantry and refrigerator. Wipe down the shelves, and throw away any old items. Vacuum the coils for maximum efficiency.
- If you have stainless steel appliances, be sure to use gentle cleaners or a steam cleaner to avoid scratching or other issues.
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Focus on the bathroom
- Change your shower curtain.
- Replace your towels to transform your bath for spring and warm weather ahead.
- Go through your cosmetics drawer or medicine cabinet and throw away any expired items.
- Consider installing or upgrading your bathroom fan. Replacing an existing fan or adding a new one can help to ensure your bathroom remains in top notch condition. They are great for ventilating moisture during showers and removing odors.
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Don’t forget about your air conditioning system
Replacing furnace and HVAC filters is one of the most important and overlooked parts of spring cleaning. In fact, replacing a standard filter with a more robust one with a high MERV rating will help keep you healthier as you enter spring. It will catch smaller, irritating particles. Air conditioner ducts build up dust during winter, and upgraded filters catch unwanted particles so they don’t enter your space. It’s an inexpensive way to make sure you’re breathing clean, healthy air.
If you have window units, clean filters and install. If you have central air, have it serviced by a professional. Change your air conditioner filters monthly.
And last but not least, your clothes dryer!
Vacuum lint from the dryer ducts and surrounding areas to prevent fires.
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OUTSIDE YOUR HOME
The outside of your home also needs attention now that the snow and winter chill is gone.
Update your entryway
Your home’s exterior provides the first impression to visitors or potential buyers. Make your home stand out in a positive way by getting the entryway ready for spring. Consider painting your front door a distinctive color and decorate with a tasteful spring wreath. Once the weather is warm enough, you can add some pots of spring flowers on your stoop next to the door and switch out your doormat.
Inspect your roof, gutters and downspouts
Repair any damage that may have occurred over the winter to your roof and gutters, and check for proper drainage. Make sure all your downspouts drain water away from the foundation of your home.
Clean your windows and screens
Remove and wipe down the window screens after the pollen is down. You will be amazed at how much sunlight comes in once your windows are clean! When it comes to the actual window, we don’t suggest using chemical cleaners. A steam cleaner with a squeegee is a great way to clean windows. Or use a simple mix of 50% distilled vinegar and 50% tap water.
Give your yard and deck some love
Once it is warm enough to get outside, walk your property to check for damaged trees. Have them professionally trimmed if necessary. Remove all dead plants and shrubs from your yard, mulch your planting beds, get your irrigation system up and running, and add new plantings and flowers. And refinish your deck to prevent contact with moisture.
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If you need references for help with some of your spring cleaning jobs, please give us a call. We are happy to connect you with recommended contractors.
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