SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST
Here’s a list to get you started thinking about what needs attention around the home:
- Top of bookshelves and cabinets.
- Organize all books and knick-knacks (start a garage sale or donation pile).
- Wash windows (inside and out). Wash on cloudy days to prevent streaks.
- Clean granite counter tops and re-seal.
- Deep clean appliances with specialty cleaners (check manufacturer’s instructions):
- Dishwasher
- Laundry washer
- Dryer
- Oven/stove
- Refrigerator/freezer
- Pantry/Fridge food items – check expiration dates, throw out old food or freezer-burned items. Wash shelves and organize.
- Pull out the refrigerator and blow out lint and dust from behind and underneath.
- Pull out the oven/stove and sweep, clean the sides, behind, underneath.
- Deep clean carpet and flooring.
- Check tile throughout the house and clean the grout with a neutral pH solution such as baking soda & water.
- Closets: organize and remove clothes that don’t fit or you have not worn in over 6 months. Put unneeded items in the garage sale or donation pile.
- Wipe down closet shelves
- Throw out broken or old hangers
- Disinfect coffee makers and other appliances.
- Go through kitchen cupboards. Organize and remove any items that are “extra” or never get used. Add to garage sale/donation piles.
- Clean or replace pillows and comforters. Don’t forget the pillows on your couches and chairs!
- Switch out winter comforters with spring bed spreads. Clean and store winter comforters in a zip up or tie bag.
- Vacuum and sanitize mattresses. Check for bed bugs or mildew. Spot clean.
- Wash baseboards.
- Walls: holes, chipped paint, etc.
- Wash walls with a gentle cleaner
- Dust and rearrange bookshelves. Look for creative ways to make shelves appear clean and attractive.
- Clean brooms (remove lint and hair).
- Vacuum area rugs and every few years, have them professionally cleaned (not necessary every year).
- Prep and clean patio furniture.
- Wax wood furniture.
- Oil any wood cutting boards, bowls, etc.
- Clean and polish silver.
- Wash window screens.
- Test fire extinguishers.
- Test smoke detectors, replace the batteries.
- Take down drapes, clean in air fluff cycle with a damp cloth.
- Dust picture and art frames, plants…
- Wash out trash cans and sanitize (remember garbage cans outside too)
- Clean under beds and other furniture. Pull everything out, vacuum, reorganize and declutter.
- Check for cracks or leaks around doorways and windows.
- Clean and repair faucets in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Re-grout where needed: check your shower around the bathtub and faucets.
- Scrub all grout.
- Check drains for lime buildup and hair, etc.
- Clean your vacuum brush from hair and debris.
- Take down shower curtains and wash with soapy water. Let air dry in the sun. Disinfect. Or purchase new ones.
- Clean chrome fixtures with a 50/50 solution of rubbing alcohol & water.
- Scrub your grill and check you have sufficient propane for grilling season.
- Power wash the outside of your home and the walkways.
- Clean and organize the garage.
- Check all your garden hoses for any leaks.
- Pump up the tires on bikes. Grease the chains.
- Put up shovels and other winter items, bring out sports equipment, mowers, etc for the summer.
- Check your mower for fuel or any maintenance needed.
- *Update your Home Inventory List
- *Review your Family Emergency Plan
Have a giant garage sale for all the items you decluttered from your house or schedule your location donation center to come pick up unwanted items that are in GOOD condition.
Article: Spring Cleaning Tips