Spring has sprung and with it comes the urge to clean! If you're like most people, you may be wondering where to start. Well, never fear - we've got some helpful tips for you! In this blog post, we'll discuss how to best clean your home from top to bottom. We'll cover everything from windows and floors to furniture and appliances. So read on and get started on your spring cleaning today!
Declutter, Declutter, Declutter
One of the first things you'll want to do is declutter. Take a look around your home and identify any areas that are cluttered or crammed full of stuff. Once you've done that, it's time to start sorting through your belongings. Keep what you need and get rid of the rest. Not sure what to do with all your unwanted stuff? You can always donate it or sell it online!
Start Small
One of the first places to start when spring cleaning is with the windows. After all, they're one of the first things people see when they look at your home. But before you can clean them, you need to declutter them. Start by removing any curtains or blinds that are no longer needed or wanted. Once you've done that, you can wash your windows with a glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water (if you prefer a non-chemical option).
Can't Ignore the Floors
Next, it's time to move on to the floors. Start by sweeping or vacuuming all surfaces to remove any loose dirt or dust. Then, mop or steam clean all hard floors and shampoo all carpets. If your carpet is beyond salvaging consider buying a new one. Check out this carpet buying guide by Carpet Captain.
If you have tile floors, be sure to pay special attention to the grout in between each tile - this is often where dirt and grime can build up the most. If you have no idea about how to go about cleaning the grout in between your tiles, this article written by Julie Evans for Spruce details some of the best grout cleaners and which ones are the best.
Focus on the Furniture
After the floors are taken care of, it's time to focus on the furniture. Start by dusting all surfaces - including under cushions and in crevices. Then, vacuum all upholstered furniture to remove any dirt or debris that may be embedded in the fabric. If you have a leather sofa, it may require some proper care such as a conditioning treatment.
The Roughest Rooms
Now it's time to move on to the kitchen and bathroom. Start by decluttering countertops and cabinets - get rid of anything you don't need or use on a regular basis. Then, clean all surfaces with a good all-purpose cleaner. Here is a good list of some of the best all-purpose cleaners, if you are interested in diversifying your cleaning portfolio.
Be sure to pay special attention to the stovetop, sink, and bathtub/shower - these areas can often be neglected but they're important to clean regularly.
The Little Things
Last but not least, it's time to focus on the little things. Dust light fixtures, ceiling fans, and door frames. Vacuum or wash drapes and windowsills. Wipe down switch plates and outlet covers. And don't forget to empty out the fridge - get rid of any expired food or items that you no longer need.
You're Not Alone (Unless You Are)
You might live alone, but chances are, there's at least one other person sharing your space. Whether you live with a spouse, significant other, or roommate (or all of the above), it's important to communicate with them about your spring cleaning plans. After all, you don't want anyone to feel like they're being left out or that their things are being moved without their permission.
If there are younger children in the home, get them to help out with some age-appropriate chores and some ways to motivate them (you can find a good list by Spruce here.) Kids may not be able to dust the highest shelves, but they can help you out with the small tasks like cleaning up their toys. The less you need to do, the better.
New Cleaning Habits
Some people genuinely enjoy cleaning, and some would rather eat rocks. Which one are you? No matter how you feel about cleaning, spring is the perfect time to start developing some new cleaning habits. If you don't like cleaning, now is the time to try and make it more tolerable for yourself. And if you already enjoy cleaning, spring is the perfect time to really deep clean your home from top to bottom.
- One way to make cleaning more tolerable (or even enjoyable) is by listening to music or podcasts while you do it. It'll help pass the time and make the task at hand feel less tedious.
- You can also try setting a timer for each task - this way you can clean for a set amount of time and then take a break when the timer goes off.
- Break it up. You don't have to do everything on the one weekend day you have a sliver of time. Life gets busy, so make a list of what you need to do, and complete it little by little.
- Have something waiting for you at the end. Perhaps you'll invite people over to check out the cleanest your home will ever be (until next year) or get a bunch of food delivered and have a celebratory feast. Resting for the indefinite future is fine too.
Time to Get Clean
Spring cleaning doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these tips, you can easily and efficiently clean your home from top to bottom. So get started today and enjoy the satisfaction of a clean and clutter-free home!
If you're looking to replace some of your furniture that is no longer serving you, come check out Couch Potatoes. If you need to get organized, we have furniture such as the Churchill Storage Bench or the Beckie Bookcase made to tidy up those smaller objects that clutter up a space. Couch Potatoes carries a wide variety of styles and brands so come get some furniture that will last you for many future spring cleanings.
We have locations in Central and South Austin.
Written by Emily Holleran