Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for your annual deep cleaning at home. Spring cleaning not only helps you refresh your living space (which is what the season is all about!), but it also ensures that you get rid of any built-up dust and dander before allergy season hits full force. Although cleaning your entire home thoroughly might never be completely effortless.
Whether you prefer to start cleaning from the attic to the basement or tackle outdoor areas before moving inside, it’s important to create a realistic schedule and focus on one task at a time. More involved projects like mopping floors and organizing closets may require several days, but with a bit of planning, you’ll eventually check everything off your list and enjoy a spotlessly clean home by the end of it.
Restock Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you dive into your spring cleaning, it’s crucial to ensure you have all the necessary tools to tackle every task on your list. The specific cleaning supplies you need may vary based on your personal cleaning preferences, but as a general guide, most spring cleaning kits should include the following:
- Bucket
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Sponges
- Reusable spray bottle
- All-purpose cleaner
- Duster
- White distilled vinegar
- Baking soda
- Dish soap
- Vacuum
- Mop
What to Clean in Every Room
To achieve a thorough spring cleaning, there are some essential tasks you should complete in every room of your house, from the attic to the basement.
Clean Baseboards
Take advantage of spring cleaning to give your baseboards some attention. Although often overlooked, clean baseboards provide the perfect finishing touch. Easily clean them using a vacuum with a bristled brush hose attachment to eliminate dust; then, wipe them down with a damp microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner.
Dust
Dust inevitably accumulates in every room, no matter how hard you try to prevent it. When dusting, start from the top of the room and work your way down, vacuuming any settled dust on the floor. This includes tackling hard-to-reach places like the tops of ceiling fans and window casings.
Remember to dust your books and bookshelves too. Remove everything from the shelves, and use a feather duster to brush both the shelves and the books. Reach into tight spots with the dust brush or crevice tool on a vacuum. Wipe the spines of leather-bound books with a clean, soft cloth.
Vacuum
Give all your floors a thorough vacuuming to pick up crumbs and loose dirt. It’s common for dirt and bacteria to be tracked into the house from shoes, potentially breaking down carpet fibers and harboring pollutants that can affect your health. Regular vacuuming helps keep your home clean and healthy.
Mop
Even if you already mop your floors regularly, make sure to include it in your spring cleaning checklist. Floors are among the most frequently used areas in our homes, making regular mopping essential for maintaining a clean and hygienic living space.
Shampoo Rugs
For synthetic carpets and rugs with waterproof backings, use a rotary shampoo machine and a hot-water extraction machine for a deep clean. Rugs without backings, such as Oriental rugs, may require professional cleaning.
Wipe Walls and Ceilings
Over time, walls and ceilings can accumulate unwanted marks and grime. To clean them, start by using a vacuum to remove dust. Then, address stubborn surface grime—common in kitchens—with a solvent-free degreaser. Before using it on a larger area, test it in an inconspicuous spot to ensure it won’t damage the surface.
Reseal Grout Lines
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