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Many of us spend a significant amount of time at home, and as spring arrives with longer days and fresh air, it’s often the moment when small things start to stand out. A little dust here, some clutter there—it all adds up. Spring cleaning is an opportunity to reset your space in a way that supports both your home and your overall well-being.
Whether you’re preparing to list your home, settling into a new one, or simply refreshing your space, a thoughtful approach to cleaning can make a noticeable difference. Here are some tips to guide you through your spring cleaning this year.
First clean, then disinfect
General cleaning removes dirt and buildup, while disinfecting targets bacteria and germs. Both play an important role in maintaining a healthy home, especially in high-use areas.
Focus on high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, light switches, and faucets. Devices like phones, laptops, and tablets should also be included, as they’re among the most frequently handled items in your home.
When possible, opt for cleaners with plant or mineral-based ingredients. Many homeowners today are choosing low-toxicity options that are effective without introducing harsh chemicals into their living space.
Work top to bottom
Working from ceiling to floor helps prevent re-cleaning the same areas and keeps dust moving in one direction.
- Ceiling and upper surfaces
- Spring is peak allergy season, so dusting is especially important. Pay attention to ceiling fans, vents, light fixtures, and corners where cobwebs collect. Curtains, blinds, and even the tops of cabinets often go overlooked but can hold a surprising amount of dust.
- Walls and windows
- A quick wipe-down of walls—especially in kitchens and high-traffic areas—can instantly freshen a space. Clean windows inside and out to maximize natural light. It’s one of the simplest ways to make your home feel brighter and more open.
- Floors
- Different flooring materials require different care. Vacuum or sweep first, then follow with the appropriate method, whether that’s mopping sealed wood floors or dry mopping laminate and vinyl. Taking the extra step to use the right technique will help preserve your flooring over time.
Don’t forget your appliances
Appliances are some of the hardest-working features in your home, but they’re often overlooked during routine cleaning.
- Refrigerator and freezer
- Toss expired items, wipe down shelves, and vacuum coils if accessible
- Dishwasher
- Run an empty cycle with a cleaning solution to remove buildup and odors
- Oven and microwave
- Deep clean interiors to eliminate grease and food residue
- Washer and dryer
- Clean the washing machine drum and thoroughly clear the dryer vent and lint trap.
Keeping appliances clean not only improves performance but can also extend their lifespan.
Declutter with intention
Decluttering can feel overwhelming but breaking it into smaller steps makes it more manageable. Approach your home room by room and set realistic goals for each space. As you go, sort items into clear categories like keep, donate, and store, which helps streamline decision-making and keeps things moving. Group donation items together so they can be dropped off in one trip, rather than lingering in your space. For anything you plan to store, consider accessibility: items you use more frequently, like tools or seasonal essentials, should be easy to reach.
If you’re preparing to sell, decluttering is one of the most impactful steps you can take. A clean, open space allows buyers to envision themselves in the home better.
A fresh start for pet owners
If you have pets, spring cleaning comes with a few extra considerations, but the effort goes a long way in keeping both your home and your pet happy and healthy.
Start by washing pet bedding, blankets, and soft toys to remove built-up hair and odors. Take time to vacuum furniture and hard-to-reach areas where pet hair tends to collect, and wipe down baseboards, doors, and walls at pet height, where marks can easily go unnoticed. It’s also a good opportunity to deep clean litter boxes, crates, and feeding areas to keep everything as fresh and sanitary as possible.
Regular cleaning like this helps reduce allergens, odors, and everyday wear, keeping your home feeling clean and comfortable for both you and your guests.
Go for multipurpose solutions
Minimalism and multifunctional design continue to shape how people live in their homes, and even small adjustments can make your space feel more efficient and easier to maintain. Look for ways to incorporate furniture and layouts that serve more than one purpose, whether it’s a storage bed or ottoman that helps reduce clutter, a flexible dining area that can double as a workspace, or built-in shelving that maximizes both form and function.
A well-organized home is easier to clean, easier to live in, and often more appealing to future buyers.
Make it a habit, not a one-time task
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to happen all at once. Spacing tasks over a few days or even a few weeks can make the process more manageable and sustainable. And once you’ve done the deep clean, maintaining it becomes much easier.
Whether you’re refreshing for yourself or preparing for your next move, small improvements make a lasting impact. If you’re thinking about buying or selling this season, connect with a Windermere agent to make the most of your home.
