Homeowner Tips
Spring Cleaning Tips
As winter comes to a close, it’s time to start thinking about deep cleaning your home. Spring cleaning is important, especially if you suffer from allergies. Follow this list of spring cleaning steps to keep your home spotless this spring season:
Create a Schedule
Make a schedule to determine how you want to tackle your home. Decide which areas need the most work as those are the best places to start. Having a plan will keep you organized and remind you of the areas that need extra attention. Focus on the parts of your home that were neglected over the winter season. Only tackle items on your spring cleaning to-do list for just 15 minutes each day to avoid getting rundown.
Declutter
Be sure to set aside some time to dust and organize your living space, clean out any junk drawers, and organize closets. Identify problem areas in your home, determine how the clutter originated, and implement solutions. Sorting your belongings into categories can also be effective. Many people donate to charities or plan a yard sale to get rid of items. The more you declutter, the better you’ll feel.
Use a HEPA Vacuum
You can remove more than just dust with a good vacuum. A high-quality HEPA vacuum will trap pet dander, allergens, and other household particles. If you don’t have a HEPA vacuum, look for a vacuum that includes dusting brushes, tools, and hoses to clean tight spaces. Also, you can rent a carpet cleaner for a deep clean.
Use Safe Chemicals
Too many cleaning products can create unnecessary clutter. One of the best natural combinations for cleaning is white distilled vinegar, baking soda, and water. These ingredients are affordable and non-toxic, which is important if you have children or pets running around.
Work From Top to Bottom
When spring cleaning, start from the ceiling to force debris downward and avoid having to re-clean your spaces. This will save you time when going back for those hard-to-reach places up high. When debris moves downward, not all of it will settle on the floor. Be sure to wipe down all walls with a damp towel and windows with a steam cleaner.
Take Extra Care of the Kitchen and Bathrooms
Since most traffic occurs in the kitchen and bathrooms, they will be the hardest rooms to tackle. For your kitchen, wipe down your cabinets and refrigerator shelves, and throw away any expired items. Use gentle cleansers on stainless steel appliances, since those surfaces show the most markings. For your bathrooms, be sure to change your shower curtain and throw away any expired soaps, makeup, and medicines. If you do not already have one, consider installing or upgrading the bathroom fan for optimal ventilation.
Don’t Forget About the HVAC System
Replacing the furnace and HVAC filters is very important because air conditioner ducts build up dust over winter. New filters will catch those particles before they enter your living space.
Create a Fresh Look
Darker colors are great during the winter, but spring presents a fresh new look. Try pastels and neutrals to lighten up a room. Also, replace your bedding, towels, and tablescape to transform your living space for the spring season.
To help you get your spring cleaning started, download our free Spring Cleaning Checklist, or contact a HomeHunt agent for tips on how to stage your home sale during the spring season.