Spring Cleaning: Tips and Tricks for a Fresh Start
We’ve spent more time in our homes in the past year than ever before. As life begins to open up again, why not treat yourself to a fresh start by giving your abode a Spring Clean? In today’s blog, we’ll share our best tips on how to expel the winter dust. Plus, sone effective methods for optimal cleanliness.
What is Spring Cleaning?
There are two possible origins for the idea of Spring Cleaning. The first is the Persian New Year which falls on the first day of Spring. Iranians practice “shaking the house” to prepare for the new start. The second is the Jewish springtime festival of Passover. Observants Jews thoroughly clean their homes before the holiday begins.
Practically, Spring Cleaning became popular in the 19th century before the creation of the vacuum cleaner. March/April was the best time to dust because it was warm enough to open windows and doors, but cool enough that insects wouldn’t be a problem. What’s more, high winds also would help to carry the dust out of the house.
Spring Cleaning is a great way to clear out all energy and dirt, and welcome in a fresh start.
Tips and Tricks for Tackling the Mess
Using these tips and tricks will help make Spring Cleaning feel like a breeze!
Cleaning Supplies
You don’t need to buy the whole cleaning supply aisle in the supermarket in order to get the most effective clean. Instead, stick to these items:
- all-purpose cleaner
- baking soda
- white wine vinegar
- mop
- vacuum cleaner
- dishwashing soap
- sponges
Room-by-Room
It can be overwhelming to clean the whole house at once. Consider cleaning room by room or by action like dusting surfaces and vacuuming the floor. Don’t forget to check off these actions when finishing each section!
Kitchen
- Start in and then go out. Remove pantry items and clean the inside of cabinets. Take out items from the fridge shelf by shelf to prevent food from going bad.
- Use the time to go through pantry/fridge items and throw away any food that has expired. Then, return the items to their homes — consider reordering their location to be the most efficient when cooking.
- Now, wipe down all the surfaces including appliances (such as fridges and dishwashers). Items like microwaves and toasters should also have their insides cleaned, too.
- Remove any rings or knobs from the stove and place them in the sink. Then, wipe down the stove and the inside of the oven.
- Wash the rings and knobs and leave them to dry. While this happens, clean inside and around the sink.
- Vacuum the floor making sure to go over any skirting boards. Pull forward any cabinets or appliances that you can move so you’re able to clean behind them.
- Mop the floor to remove any excess dirt and grim. Return the rings and knobs to the stove and any other items you may have moved about when cleaning.
- Open a window to allow fresh air to circulate.
Bathroom
- Remove all bins, rugs, and toiletries. If you have one, remove the shower curtain so it can be cleaned.
- Wet the bath/shower walls with warm water. Then, apply tile and grout cleaner and allow it to sit. Clean any soap dishes and shower racks while you wait.
- Rinse off the walls and dry with a cloth.
- Spray and wipe countertops, sinks and vanities with all-purpose cleaner. Use a route brush on faucets and drains and shine the faucets with a rag.
- Clean the mirror with a soft cloth to avoid streaks.
- Vacuum and mop the floor.
- Return the items you removed. Consider replacing rugs and bath mats.
Bedroom
- Perform the usual task of decluttering, dusting, and vacuuming.
- Optional: Clean out your closet and reorganise your draws. Donate/sell any items you no longer wish to keep.
- Change your sheets and make your bed.
- Open the windows to allow fresh air to circulate.
Tips for Motivation and Cleaning Success!
- Don’t feel overwhelmed. Create a cleaning schedule and spread out sections over days if you don’t feel you can do it all at once.
- Take this as the time to do a deep clean. Remove books from bookshelves to really get ride of as much dust as possible.
- Listen to upbeat music or a juicy podcast to help keep yourself motivated and engaged.
- Don’t forget to clean surfaces like light fixtures and ceiling fans!
- Allow yourself time afterwards to peacefully enjoy your cleaned home.
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