Spring Cleaning: Tips to Refresh Your Home
Spring is the season of renewal, and the perfect time to refresh your space. Whether you’re tackling a full deep-clean or just sprucing things up, we’ve put together some simple spring-cleaning ideas to help you transition into the new season with a fresh start!
1) Dust Shelves, Appliances, Fans, and Lights
Start from the top—literally! Begin by dusting shelves, fans, light fixtures, and anything else high up. Dust will fall to the floor, which makes it easier to clean up later. A long-handled duster can make this job safer and easier. You can find them at Target, Amazon, or at your local supermarket or Dollar store.
2) Vacuum and Mop Floors
Once the dust has settled, it’s time to tackle the floors. Vacuum rugs and mop floors to give your space a fresh feel. If the work begins to feel strenuous, take breaks or adjust the handle height on your vacuum to keep things comfortable.
3) Clean Fans and Filters
For families with pollen sensitivities, devices such as air purifiers, ventilation systems, and AC filters can be a springtime staple. Before you turn on the AC or air purifier, give the filters a quick clean or swap them out. Stored fans and filters can collect dust and other surprises you don’t want in your air!
4) Clear Out Laundry Traps
Just like dryers, laundry machines have traps, too. These can get clogged with gunk over time, so giving them a thorough cleaning every few months can help keep things running smoothly and smelling fresh.
6) Check Alarms and Fire Extinguishers
Spring cleaning is a good reminder to check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and life alert systems. Swapping out batteries every six months keeps everything in tip-top shape. It’s a good opportunity to check your fire extinguisher too!
7) Clean Out the Fridge
It’s easy for food to hide (and expire) in the back of the fridge. Toss anything past its prime and wipe up spills while you’re at it. If your fridge has a foul smell, a half cup of baking soda or coffee grinds inside the fridge door will absorb odors and leave things smelling fresh.
8) Declutter Your Closet
As you swap winter coats for lighter layers, take a moment to sort through what you actually wear. Consider donating gently used items to a local clothing bin or scheduling a pick-up through Boston’s Textile Recycling Program.
Cleaning can be surprisingly physical work, so be kind to your body as you go. Remember to:
- Stretch beforehand
- Pace yourself
- Stay hydrated
- Wear closed-toed shoes, and
- Be mindful of how you lift and move—your body will thank you for it!