15 Things to add to your spring cleaning checklist

With Spring in full swing and summer fast approaching it’s that time of year when we have the perfect opportunity to give our homes a good clean. So get the cleaning cabinet open, let in some fresh air and get started spring cleaning with this easy 15 item checklist.

Photo by Benjamin Voros on Unsplash

1. Cars

People often forget to include their cars in their spring cleaning routine. But cars are one of the things we all use daily, and need to be cleaned the most. It can be quite the task to clean a dirty car, which is why I always have my car detailed every year.

2. Wooden Floors

If you have wooden flooring you probably already know that it’s best not to wet-wash them too often as over time it can lead to more damage. Cleaning in between with spot cleaners or floor wipes will keep it nice a clean, your spring clean gives you the perfect opportunity to do a wet-wash. Typically you would only do this every few months.

3. Carpets

Your carpets may be looking a little grubby after the wetter weather and really should be cleaned around every 18 to 24 months. If you like to think about the environment and are worried about using too many harsh products you could use green environmentally friendly carpets cleaners to do the job. Cleaning your carpets can make them feel as good as new and give them a new lease of life of definitely one to add to your list.

4. Bedding

Most people wash their pillowcases and bed sheets every couple of weeks but how often do they wash their duvets and pillows? These should be washed 2-3 times a year so timing this around spring is ideal! You could even take a sneaky trip to bed bath and beyond and treat yourself to some new spring bedding.

5. Cabinets and Drawers

It’s surprising how much dust and bits actually make their way into the nooks and crannies of drawers and cabinets, this is the perfect time of the year to empty everything out, have a sort out and give them a wipe down.

6. Tiled Surfaces

Giving your tiles a good scrub can really brighten them up and help keep your kitchen and bathroom smelling fresh. Don’t forget about the grout though, there are plenty of products out there to help bring your grout back to looking new. On occasion, it may be a good idea to regrout as cleaning just isn’t enough.

7. Refrigerator

Still got that old jar of pickled onions from Christmas hidden at the back of the fridge? Take the time to empty your fridge of all the bits and bobs you never going to use and give a good clean out. You’re going to want a nice fresh smelly fridge to store all your al fresco dining food after all. If you have a refrigerator that has a water dispenser or ice machine then it may be time to do a deep clean and make sure it’s running smoothly.

8. Microwave

While your cleaning your microwave you must not forget the area above the microwave. It tends to get really greasy and sometimes can be missed when you clean it. You will need some degreaser and some elbow grease but once your done you will be glad you didn’t miss your microwave while you were spring cleaning!

9. Dishwasher

Your dishwasher may be in charge of cleaning your dishes but did you know it’s important to clean them too? It’s really simple, that simple in fact you can do something else while it cleans itself! All you need to do is clean any food from the bottom pop in a special detergent or tablet and run a cleaning cycle.

10. Oven

Your oven often needs a good clean but it’s one you have to play by ear. If you start to get a bit of a burnt smell when your oven is on then it may be time to give it a good clean. Be aware when using your cooker straight after using products as your food can taste a little funny. It’s best to make sure you remove all the product and leave the door open for a while after.

11. Washing Machine

While you’re cleaning your dishwasher you may as well clean your washing machine at the same time. Believe it or not over time your washing machine gets to become a little bit smelly. You can let it run on a cycle with white vinegar and baking soda as a home remedy, there are also products you can use to help maintain the life of your machine.

12. Area Rugs

Good news! If you don’t need to clean your rugs every year unless they’re in a high traffic area. A good way to keep your rugs dust free is to hang them over your outside line and give them a whack. Some rugs need to be cleaned by a professional so it’s advisable to read the cleaning instructions first. Any small stains can be cleaned using club soda.

13. Outside Furniture

Now the warmer weather is on its way it’s time to get your outdoor living space ready. It doesn’t matter how you store your furniture, whether it’s under a cover or in locked in a garage there always seems to be a cheeky spider that spins cobwebs all over it. So get it out and give it wipe down ready for the nice, hot weather.

14. Closets

This is partly for the house and partly for you. Getting your closet organized can help get your home organized too. Having a good clear out frees up some extra space, so the clothes that are piling up on the cabinet can finally be moved into that closet. You can also take the opportunity to clear out any clothes that you don’t use and donate them for a good cause.

15. Windows

Clean windows are key to having a clean feeling home, you’ve probably kept on top of cleaning the insides of your windows but the outsides will have been neglected over the winter months. It’s always best to clean your windows on a cloudy day so that the sun doesn’t dry them too quickly and makes them appear streaky.

Why not share your hints and tips for a spring clean in the comments section below?

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