Seven things to do to jumpstart your spring cleaning this weekend
Oddly enough, spring cleaning is something most people—ok, some people–look forward to each year. Perhaps it’s because it includes the word spring. Otherwise, it’s just cleaning and who really enjoys that?
Maybe it’s about returning all the odds and ends to their rightful place and restoring order in your house, or the time-honored ceremonial cleansing of all the gray winter dreariness. Regardless, there are warm, sunny days ahead and we need to greet them with a clean house!
Some people do all their spring cleaning in one day—that’s their superpower. Others break it down into several days of mini projects. It all depends on how big your house is, how much deep cleaning it needs, and how much time and energy you have. Either way, here’s a list of seven things you can put on your to-do list and get done this weekend. Well, six things because number one doesn’t require any elbow grease.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and let’s go!
1. Choose a room
The most efficient way to clean your entire home is room-by-room, regardless of the time of the year. Why? You stay in one location instead of ping-ponging between rooms, you’ll gain a real sense of satisfaction when an entire room is finished, and it can serve as a good stopping point for the day, if necessary. As a general rule of thumb, you should work from top to bottom, so head upstairs if you have one.
2. Clear the clutter
This is where we get started! All that clutter you’ve accumulated during the year must go. Clutter is a problem that develops and grows gradually, so you probably don’t even realize how much it’s weighing you down—or maybe you do. Either way, when it’s back in its place, off to your favorite charity, in the recycle bin, or in the trash, you’ll experience a whole new freeing feeling. Yes, it’s that magical. Check out this four-step approach to organizing your clutter here!
3. Clean your curtains
Curtains decorate your windows all year long and probably barely move. Unless of course, they’re the functional kind. Still, it’s easy for dust, dirt, and odors to accumulate. And, since they’re often overlooked in routine cleaning, your curtains eventually look dull and dingy. Use a brush attachment to vacuum them gently. Then either-dry clean, steam clean, machine wash, or hand wash them, depending on the fabric. In some rooms, this might seem like a big project, but it’ll be well worth it when the sun can shine through!
4. Wash the windows
While we’re on windows, it’s time to clean them, too. Yes, inside and out—no cheating, please. Clean the inside of the windows with soap and water, and for best results, use a squeegee. Want to know how to clean those panes like an expert? Check it out here.
For the outside, we highly recommend a professional service. They do a fabulous job, they’re quick, don’t leave any streaks, and know how to multitask safely on a ladder. Best of all, they have insurance–or at least you’ll make sure they do before you hire them, right?
5. Make it light and bright
For the brightest light, be sure to clean your light fixtures, too. Whether it’s a chandelier, pendants, a wall sconce, or a table lamp, they’ll need some spring cleaning love. Did you know that built-up dust and grime can make bulbs appear up to 30 percent dimmer? If the shades or covers are dirty too, you reduce the amount of light even more. How’s that electric bill doing now?
Different types of light fixtures require different care, but if you take the time to make them shine, everything will seem a little brighter. Check out some helpful light fixture cleaning tips here.
6. To dust is a must
Dusting seems like the most basic part of keeping your house clean. But, with all those particles settling in every nook and cranny of your home, on every knick-knack you ever purchased, and for every day of your life, it can be a lot. Most hard-to-reach places are easy to skip but don’t give in to the temptation. Spring cleaning is about deep, thorough cleaning, so no shortcuts.
Dust ceiling corners, furniture, fans, molding, HVAC vents, shelves, décor, plants…if you see it, dust it! You might want to check out these seven common dusting mistakes before you tackle this one.
7. Steam clean your carpets
It’s recommended that you have your carpets professionally steam cleaned once a year, so why not make it part of your spring cleaning routine? You could also rent your own steam cleaner and go DIY instead, but you might want to check out this article first.
Some people think it’s nonsense, but carpets aren’t our specialty, so you decide. Either way, make sure you move the furniture and vacuum the carpet first. This will remove the top layer of dust and dirt so the steam cleaner can concentrate on deeper stains and grime.
Some area rugs can be steam cleaned, too, but check the manufacturer’s recommendation. If not, Atlanta’s own Sharian Rugs, Inc is a local and longtime expert in the fine rug business. Drop off your rug instead of having them pick it up and wait for one of their rug cleaning sales for the best price.
If you have hardwood floors, steam is not an option—ever. A damp mop works best. Check out other dos and don’ts for hardwoods here.
Spring cleaning is a time for renewal, a brand new start, a celebration of sunny, warm days to come, so get the whole family involved. The more, the merrier, and the quicker you get the job done!