Reseal Grout Lines
The cement-based material between wall, floor, and countertop tiles is highly porous and prone to staining. Protect it by applying a penetrating grout sealer, ideally using a small foam brush for precise application.
Clean Upholstered Furnishings
To freshen up your upholstered furniture, take the cushions outside and gently beat them by hand to remove dust. For any stains, check the care labels for specific instructions. Use the upholstery and crevice tools on a vacuum to clean beneath seat cushions.
Polish Metal Door and Window Hardware
Restore the shine to dull knobs, hinges, and other metal finishes with a quick polish. Liquid polishes or polish-impregnated cloths work well for surfaces with moderate tarnishing, while pastes and creams are better for heavier tarnish.
Wax Surfaces
For wooden surfaces, wipe them down with a soft cloth dampened with water and mild dishwashing liquid. Apply paste wax using a cotton rag folded into a square pad, working on small sections at a time. Let the wax dry and then buff it with a clean cloth.
Additionally, if vinyl or linoleum floors have lost their shine, use a polish specifically designed for those surfaces. Most stone and tile floors can be treated with either paste or liquid wax made for their material.
Clean Window Furnishings
Give attention to drapes, curtains, and blinds, even though we don’t interact with them directly. They can accumulate dust and odors from around the home. Giving them some extra care every season, but always check the material before washing—some may need professional dry cleaning.
Wash Window Screens
Throughout the year, window screens gather a lot of dirt. Clean them by scrubbing with warm water and mild dishwashing liquid, using a brush. Once cleaned, rinse them thoroughly with water.
Clean Light Fixtures
Light fixtures tend to collect dust, especially ceiling fans. For lamps, always unplug them to allow them to cool before starting the cleaning process.
Implement Fire Safety
Ensure the safety of your home by changing the batteries in smoke detectors (this should be done twice a year) and keeping the units dust-free.
Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning Checklists
Now that you’re aware of the general tasks, include these specific room-by-room tasks in your master cleaning list.
Kitchen
- Dust refrigerator coils
- Defrost the freezer
- Clean out the pantry
- Deep clean the oven
- Deep clean inside the refrigerator
- Clean cabinets
- Clean small appliances
Bathroom
- Discard expired cosmetics and beauty products
- Update the first-aid kit
- Deep clean the shower
- Wash bathmats
- Deep clean the toilet and sink
- Wash towels and linens
- Replace or wash the shower liner
- Clean grout
Bedroom
- Wash all bedding
- Deep clean your mattress
- Declutter the closet, dresser, and under your bed
- Wash pillows
Home Office
- Organize files
- Clean the computer
- Organize office supplies
Outdoor Spaces
- Scrub the deck and patio
- Wash the driveway
- Treat mildew
- Wash outdoor furniture
Utility Spaces
- Discard or donate unwanted items
- Deep clean the washing machine
- Move storage boxes off the ground
- Clean the dryer vent
- Organize laundry supplies
