Spring is upon us, and while this time of year brings the promise of blossoming trees, flowers, and warmer weather, it can also mean an accumulation of dust, dirt, and grime around your home.

Many of us can think of activities we’d much rather do instead of mopping, dusting, and decluttering. But there are actual benefits of spring cleaning on our self-esteem, stress levels, and mood.

If you haven’t deep cleaned your home since the start of winter, now is the time to pull out your cleaning gloves and get down to work. We’ve provided this spring cleaning checklist to help you achieve a spotless home that will leave you feeling like a refreshed, proud homeowner.

Let’s get started!

Wash the Walls, Ceilings, Doors, & Other Surfaces

Low and behold, your walls, doors, and ceilings have probably gained a layer of dust over the winter. Washing down these structures can require some elbow grease, but getting this task done first will help you maintain a cleaner home for a longer time.

First, dust down the surface with a feather duster or non-abrasive, lint-free cloth. Then, dip a sponge in warm water. The key with any painted surface, whether it has a dull or glossy finish, is to reduce the amount of water you use. Make sure the sponge is thoroughly wrung out before applying.

You can use an all-purpose wall cleaner made of white vinegar and dish detergent solution on tough stains. If your walls, baseboards, cabinets, or doors are wooden, use furniture polish or oil after dusting the surface down. You should generally avoid water on wooden surfaces; however, you can treat with a mild soap and water solution so long as you wipe the surface dry immediately after.

Save this task for a warmer day when you can let in a fresh breeze, but don’t forget to wash the inside and outside of your windows, too!

Scrub Down Your Bathroom

A dirty shower, toilet, or sink can harbor bacteria, mildew, and mold spores. With a couple of hours to spare, you can make your bathroom feel squeaky clean and good as new.

First, wash your shower linens and plastic liner and hang to dry. Dip a sponge in white vinegar and baking soda solution and wipe down your shower or tub, including the faucet, handles, shower head, and shower door, if you have one. Let the solution sit for 30 minutes to an hour, rinse, and then use a microfiber cloth to dry and buff these fixtures down. You can also use this method on your bathroom sink.

Give the inside of your toilet a thorough scrubbing and wipe down the outside with an all-purpose cleaner. Wipe down your countertops, dust picture frames and decor items, vacuum out your drawers, and wash your linens. Once you’ve done all that, sweep and mop the floor, especially behind the toilet and in the corners.

(Spring cleaning is also a good time to replace your toothbrush and throw away old makeup, shampoos, and soaps.)

Clean Up the Kitchen

When tackling your kitchen, the main goal will be to remove expired and unnecessary items from your pantry, drawers, refrigerator, and freezer, first and foremost.

After decluttering and throwing away expired foods, empty out your shelves and cabinets and give them a thorough dusting and wiping. Be sure to wipe down your counters, stovetop, and the inside and outside of your refrigerator. Wash any dishes, glasses, cookware, and silverware that have been sitting around all winter.

Don’t neglect your kitchen walls, especially around your stove and sink. Wash away tough grime and splotches that have ended up on the walls and crevices, and wipe down the tops of your cabinets, your kitchen chairs or stools, as well as the kitchen table legs.

When it’s time to sweep, start behind your stove and refrigerator. You may want to use your vacuum if it’s been a long time since you dusted and swept behind your appliances. Once you’ve dusted, wiped, and swept your kitchen from the inside out, mop the floor and get around the corners and under the table.

Remove the Clutter, Vacuum, & Wash the Linens

After dusting and washing the walls of a carpeted room, give it a thorough vacuuming. It helps to empty out your vacuum before starting.

Next, wash all linens, including pillow sheets, blankets, towels, and curtains. Although this can be time-consuming, nothing will beat the satisfaction of using fresh towels or lying down on clean sheets after spring cleaning.

Go through your wardrobe and discard old clothing and shoes you no longer wear or need. Any nightstand, desk, or dresser drawer should also be decluttered and cleaned out.

Start Anew with Your Spring Cleaning Checklist

Our spring cleaning checklist can give you the fresh start your home deserves. With spring around the corner, how else will you get ready for the warmer months to come?

Stay tuned for more home improvement ideas and tips you can take full advantage of this spring and summer!