Spring Cleaning

Get Ready for Spring with These Spring Cleaning Tips and Checklist.

Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Home

My mother’s favorite holiday has always been Groundhog Day. Each year, she’d count down the days until February 2nd, eagerly waiting to see whether spring would arrive early. I remember secretly hoping the groundhog would see his shadow and crawl back into his burrow because an early spring meant early spring cleaning!

The moment my mom heard the prediction of an early spring, she’d stock up on cleaning supplies. By the first day of spring, she had all the kids lined up and ready for a full-house deep clean.

Years have passed since those days, but now I have a family of my own – and I’m proud to keep the tradition alive. When Groundhog Day rolls around, I can already hear my kids groan: “I hope it stays winter forever,” or “Can we skip spring just this once?” No such luck! Like clockwork, I gather the troops and get to work.

Over the years, I’ve picked up plenty of tips to make spring cleaning more effective – and even (sometimes) fun. If your home needs some TLC this season, here’s how to get started.

Spring Cleaning 101

Getting ready for a full spring clean can be overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. These basic tips will help you plan and prepare before diving in:

Dress comfortably: Wear old clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Check your supplies: Take inventory before cleaning day so you’re not stuck without oven cleaner or paper towels.
Assemble a cleaning tote: Use a bucket or caddy to carry essentials like all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, a duster, disinfectant, and furniture polish.
Schedule your cleaning: Pick a start date and let the whole family know. Many hands make light work – then reward everyone with pizza or a fun outing when it’s all done!
Air it out: Open windows and doors as you go to let in fresh air. Turn on music to boost energy and mood.

Spring Cleaning Tasks

Spring cleaning can feel like a huge task – but with a plan, the right tools, and a thoughtful strategy, you can refresh your entire home without the stress. Here’s a practical, step-by-step approach to help you tackle it all.

Make a Cleaning Game Plan

Start with a strategy. Identify which areas need the most work, break the process into manageable chunks, and set realistic goals. A solid plan helps you stay focused and makes the job feel less overwhelming.

Stock Up on Supplies Before You Start

Nothing derails momentum like realizing you’re out of cleaner halfway through. Gather everything in advance – cleaning sprays, microfiber cloths, gloves, garbage bags, and anything else you’ll need – to keep things moving smoothly.

Declutter to Clear the Way

You can’t clean clutter. Before reaching for the mop, sort through each space and remove what you no longer need. Donate, sell, or toss items to instantly make rooms feel lighter and more spacious.

Clean Room by Room, Not All at Once

Trying to clean the entire house at once can lead to burnout. Focus on one room at a time – start with the most-used areas and don’t move on until you’re satisfied. You’ll stay motivated and actually finish the job.

Work From the Top Down

In each room, begin at the ceiling and work your way to the floor. Clean ceiling fans, shelves, and upper cabinets first, then move to counters, furniture, and finally floors. This method keeps you from having to clean the same area twice.

Choose Natural Cleaners When You Can

Skip the harsh chemicals and try natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice. They’re safe, effective, and eco-friendly – and often already in your kitchen.

Give Every Surface a Deep Scrub

Wipe down everything – countertops, doors, baseboards, appliances, and fixtures. Don’t forget those easy-to-miss areas like under furniture, on top of cabinets, and inside drawers.

Freshen Up Fabrics and Textiles

Wash curtains, bedding, and throw pillows to get rid of dust and odors. Flip mattresses, clean rugs, and launder slipcovers. It’s an easy way to make your whole home feel renewed.

Tidy Up Storage Spaces

Spring is a great time to organize closets, pantries, and cabinets. Pull everything out, wipe down shelves, and only put back what you actually use. Use bins or baskets to make things easier to access year-round.

Hit the Commonly Missed Spots

Some areas get skipped during regular cleaning – like light switches, vent covers, window sills, and behind appliances. Give these neglected spots some extra attention for a truly deep clean.

Refresh Your Home Decor

Lighten up your living spaces by swapping heavy winter items for fresh, spring-ready touches. Try rearranging furniture, updating throw pillows, or adding greenery to energize your home.

Spruce Up Your Outdoor Areas

Don’t forget the outside! Sweep the porch, hose down outdoor furniture, clean planters, and tidy up the garden. A welcoming outdoor space makes your home feel even more inviting.

Change Your Air Filters

Replacing HVAC or air purifier filters is a simple task that improves air quality and helps your system run better. It’s an often-overlooked step that makes a big difference.

Keep the Clean Going

Once the deep cleaning is done, stay ahead of the mess with a simple weekly routine. Regular upkeep helps prevent clutter and makes next year’s spring cleaning a breeze.

Enjoy Your Clean Home

Across cultures, spring marks a fresh start – symbolizing renewal, energy, and the perfect time for spring cleaning and a refresh after a long winter.

If your home is due for a reset, there’s no better time than now. Make a plan, get the whole family involved, and try to make it enjoyable – or at least rewarding. You might be surprised how satisfying a good spring clean can be!