The snow has melted, the sun is shining, and summer days are right around the corner. Spring has finally sprung, and it's that time of the year to start spring cleaning. While you probably regularly clean your home on a weekly basis, every living space needs a deep cleaning once a year. Spring cleaning for apartments and homes is a process. Some opt for cleaning services to help tidy up, while others prefer to clean by themselves. Here are six tips for stepping into spring and cleaning your apartment.
1. Make a Plan
Before you get started, you should make a plan for spring cleaning. Create a spring cleaning checklist for your cleaning project, including the order of tasks, reminders, purchases, and more. A checklist helps you stay on task and tackle all of the necessary chores. Decide if it's a one-day or all-weekend job and go into spring cleaning organized.
2. Declutter and Donate
Start by cleaning up excess clutter. Get rid of items that you don't use. Make two piles, one to throw out and one to donate to a local charity. Your junk could be someone else's treasure. Studies show that clutter causes stress, so when you eliminate excess clutter, you feel better and more relaxed.
3. Arm Yourself with Supplies
Prepare to deep clean your space by preparing all the tools and supplies you need. Change your vacuum bags, clean your mops, and stock up on your preferred cleaning solutions. If you have sensitive skin, choose eco-friendly cleaning supplies and wear protective gloves. If you're allergy-prone, wear a mask while cleaning. A mask filters dust and other particles that can worsen allergies.
4. Room by Room
The best way to tackle spring cleaning is to go room by room. Working through each room gives you a sense of accomplishment, which is a great motivator to keep going. Seeing one room sparkle is satisfying and makes you want to bring the rest of your home up to the same standard.
Kitchen
Everybody uses the kitchen multiple times a day, and it is a great place to start your spring cleaning. Use sponges and paper towels to wipe away grease spots and shine up your stove. Freshen stained cutting boards with lemons, wipe out the silverware drawer, and throw out expired foods in the cupboards. And don't forget to do the big jobs, too:
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Deep clean the refrigerator.
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Disinfect the oven and burners.
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Scrub the counters.
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Sanitize garbage cans.
Bathroom
Bathrooms can get grimy, and mold always tries to creep in. Use a bleach spray to clean grout and prevent mold. Be sure to:
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Remove hard water buildup from the shower head.
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Clean shower curtains with bleach solution.
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Wipe counters, vanity, and shower caddy.
Bedrooms
Bedrooms are for sleeping and relaxing. Keeping your space clean and clutter-free helps you have a good night's sleep, so don't forget to:
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Change sheets.
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Vacuum or steam clean your mattress to combat dust mites.
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Clean light fixtures.
Living Room
Use your vacuum or steam cleaner to clean the floors. If you have carpets and pets, consider renting a steam cleaner to get the job done right. You should:
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Vacuum the floors, couch, and soft chairs.
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Organize bookshelves.
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Dust tables and ceiling fans.
Windows
Keep your glass spotless so the spring sunshine can come in unimpeded everywhere in your home.
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Dust blinds
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Wash curtains
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Use glass cleaner on the windows
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To reduce streaks caused by direct sunlight, clean windows on an overcast day.
5. Change the Vibe
Welcome Spring with some new energy in your home! Change the vibe by adding a new color with decorative pillows or accents. Plants are an excellent way to add color and bring fresh energy to any room, especially after the dark months of winter. Let your home reflect new beginnings by changing decorations and adding or subtracting items. Rearranging your favorite pieces of furniture and knickknacks can make them feel new again. Even something as simple as changing the curtains can make your space feel different and fresh.
6. Have Fun
Spring cleaning doesn't have to be a dreary solitary task. Get the whole family involved. Give everyone an age-appropriate task from your cleaning list and play your family's favorite tunes to get energized. Do a little dance while vacuuming or sing while you spray down the kitchen. Or, if you prefer to clean alone, send the family out for the day, pop in your earbuds, and get to work. The feeling of satisfaction after tackling your cleaning goals is worth the sweat.
Step into Spring with a clean space and an organized attitude. Research has shown that deep cleaning your space can improve your mood and boost self-esteem. Being productive and taking pride in your living space leads to feeling optimistic and focused on the future. So break out the rubber gloves and crank the tunes. Open the windows, clear out the dust, and get ready for the brighter days heading your way.
If you are looking for a new space to call home this Spring, check out Liv Multifamily's Wildwood location. Liv Wildwood offers a unified living experience with all the amenities your family will love.
