It can be difficult to motivate yourself to tackle deep cleaning projects. A spring cleaning checklist may be just what you need to clear clutter and keep your home spotless. Here’s a list to get you started:
1. Clutter – There is no better time to tackle clutter. With a little organization, this cumbersome task can become more manageable.
You will need three boxes. One box must be labeled “donate.” Have a clipboard handy to jot down items as you add them to the box. This will help you keep an inventory of these items so that you can claim your donation to a local charity as a deduction at the time of your tax return.
Label another box as “garbage.” These are items that are no longer in good condition and useful to donate. Before taking this box to the curb, be sure to take out any items that can be recycled.
Finally, have an extra box for the items you want to keep, but for one reason or another these items ended up in the wrong room. When you finish an area, empty this box by placing the items in their correct location.
Once you’ve taken care of the clutter, the rest of your list should go pretty quickly …
2. Dust – Dust your furniture. As you remove the knickknacks and collectibles, dust them off and place them in a box. Once the items on your spring cleaning checklist are finished, you can replace them.
3. Windows: remove the curtains and throw them to the dry cleaner or leave them at the dry cleaner. Clean blinds and window sills. To clean your windows, mix equal parts white vinegar with hot water for a cleaning solution that is sure to remove dirt. Don’t forget to clean the screens too.
4. Walls – While the curtains are being drawn down, now is a good time to clean the walls. Use a damp cloth attached to a broomstick to remove cobwebs lurking in the corners. Clean the trim, around the switch plates, and any other areas where dust and fingerprints have left a mark. Also, be sure to clean any wall or ceiling mounted light fixtures, replacing any bulbs that have burned out.
5. Bedding and rugs: just like you did with the curtains, throw them in the washing machine or, if necessary, leave them in the dry cleaner.
6. Floors – Different floor surfaces require different care, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, now is a good time to use a steam cleaner to deep clean carpeted surfaces. Hard floor surfaces may require a new coat of wax or sealer.
7. Other: Don’t forget to clean other accessories. Following manufacturers’ recommendations, thoroughly clean your range, dishwasher, microwave oven, and refrigerator. In the bathroom, thoroughly clean the vanity, toilet, tub, and shower.
Once everything on your spring cleaning checklist is ready, the curtains can be re-hung, beds made, and accent accessories replaced. The only thing left to do now is get out there and enjoy the beautiful spring weather!
