I’ve always been a firm believer that a clean, clutter-free home makes me a generally happier person. In fact, some of my friends consider me a pro at decluttering because I have no remorse when it comes to throwing things away — which is why I decided to pull together a thorough spring-cleaning checklist. While some things like a closet revamp and bathroom cabinet “cleansing” session are key, spring cleaning is about more than just getting rid of things. It’s about starting anew — lighter and cleaner.
Of course, we have faith in your basic cleaning skills, but there are little odds and ends you don’t do all the time that will get your place in great shape. Case in point: Sanitizing things like doorknobs and light switches or checking cords on your electronics make such a difference. Below find our go-to spring cleaning checklist that will help you start the season fresh. The best part? We go room by room so you don’t have to do it all at once. It’s time to take baby steps.
THE KITCHEN
— Clean the oven
— Dust on top of cabinets
— Wipe off light fixtures (including those up high)
— Discard expired food items from the refrigerator and freezer; wipe down shelves
— Organize your pantry; purge expired items
— Clean the stovetop, including burners
— Wipe out the inside of the microwave
— Scrub and polish the floor
— Disinfect the counters, the sink, and any tiles
— Wipe out the inside of the trash can
— Clean the dishwasher (put a container filled with white vinegar on the top and run a cycle)
— Replace any water filters
— Wipe down and polish your cabinets
— Sharpen your kitchen knives
— Check your Tupperware and see if you need to order more
— Discard chipped plates, bowls, and glasses and purchase extras
— Clean baking pans and utensils you don’t use often
— Scrub out your blender really well
— Deep-clean all pots and pans
— Organize your pantry; restock with any new items
— Consider making room in your cupboards with shelf risers
THE LIVING ROOM
— Wash or dry-clean throw pillow covers and throw blankets; replace if necessary
— Dust the TV screen
— Wipe down side tables, coffee table, footstools, etc.
— Vacuum any area rugs
— Clean out crevices in your couch with a vacuum attachment
— Spot-treat your chairs and couches
— Check your electronics for frayed wires
— Replace batteries in remote controls if needed
— Clean any lightbulbs
— Sweep out your fireplace
THE DINING ROOM
— Clean your chandelier or light fixtures (including dusty cords)
— Dust the molding in the room
— Dry-clean any linens, including napkins and tablecloths
— Dust cabinets; polish
— Wash any table cushions and seat cushions
— Vacuum and clean the rug
— Wash and polish the floor
— Wipe down table and chairs; remove all dust
— Clean your china cabinet and any drawers
— Wash and polish silverware
THE HOME OFFICE
— Discard any old or unnecessary papers
— Organize items in folders and storage cabinets
— Wipe down the floor and any baseboards; polish floor
— Clean your desk and rearrange it in a way that makes sense for you
— Take stock of supplies like pens, folders, and staples; order more if needed
— Wipe down your chair (don’t forget the wheels)
— Take everything off of the bookshelf and wipe it down (donate old books)
— Use electrostatic dust cloths to clean your tech items
— Vacuum your desk chair
— Sanitize your phone, headset, etc.
THE BATHROOMS
— Clean tissue canisters and other containers
— Organize vanity and space above and below
— Clean toilet, including the top, side, and base
— Deep-clean the shower and tub
— Clean out any hampers and trash bins
— Wash out toothbrush canister (replace toothbrush)
— Wipe down towel hooks and racks
— Remove hair from drains
— Wash shower curtain and rehang; change liner
— Deep-clean tile and remove mold; clean grout if necessary
— Clean your toilet paper holder (so much dust settles at the top)
— Shine faucets; clean countertops; wipe mirror
— Discard expired makeup and products; replenish as needed
— Check linens; wash and replace as needed
— Wipe down shower caddies
— Sweep floor and mop
— Wash bath mat or replace
THE BEDROOMS
— Rotate your mattress
— Change your sheets; purchase new linens and discard old ones
— Wash your mattress cover
— Clean out your laundry hampers; disinfect
— Dry-clean throw pillow shams
— Dust any ceiling fans and wipe down air conditioner units and heating vents
— Remove frames from the walls and dust everything; replace
— Wipe out any storage bins in dressers, closets, etc.
— Treat wood furniture (that includes patching up scratches)
— Vacuum your mattress
— Clean under bed; move furniture as needed to do a thorough job
— Check pillows for fluffiness; replace when necessary
— Organize both dresser and closet; donate old items
— Wash the floor or vacuum (don’t forget area rugs)
— Wipe down mirrors and windows
— Clean the bed frame; headboard included
— Wash stuffed animals in children’s rooms
— Consider drawer organizers to keep essentials in sight
THE LAUNDRY ROOM
— Wipe down drying racks
— Do a deep-clean on both washer and dryer (a load with white vinegar in the washer works wonders)
— Empty the lint trap in the dryer
— Use bleach to clean the sink
— Organize shelves and closet space; wipe down
— Take stock of products; discard expired and order any essentials you are low on
— Deep-clean the floor — dust bunnies are common in this room
— Deep-clean behind appliances
— Clean out the inside of your iron and steamers; wipe down ironing board
— Wipe down hampers, hangers, etc.
— Dust off tools like vacuums and dust busters
— Clean the bottom of your broom; rinse out your dustpan
— Mop the floor
— Do a linen closet overhaul
— Dust the inside of your dryer hose with an extendable duster or a vacuum attachment
OUTDOORS
— Garden or landscape; add new plants
— Fix dents in your mailbox
— Clean out your shed/garage
— Have your roof cleaned
— Wipe down patio furniture and playground
— Get a new doormat (or clean yours)
Now that you have our ultimate spring cleaning checklist, it’s time to put it to good use. Your home will be forever grateful.
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