As spring is just around the corner there’s a noticeable shift in the air – this means it’s time for spring cleaning. The gloomy months are soon behind us, and signs of spring are popping up everywhere. The sun’s warmth feels stronger, and it’s hard to resist the urge to spend more time outdoors.
Spring Cleaning:
Along with the change in weather comes the desire to freshen up our living spaces. After months of winter hibernation, tackling the dust on bookshelves and giving curtains a good wash feels pretty satisfying. It’s like breathing new life into our homes, and it gives us a burst of energy as well as support your mental health.
Remember, if you have kids to ask them to help you. Once they get going most find it a fun activity to do together!
Dust mites
Another reason to do a good spring cleaning is to get rid of dust mites. Although they may seem harmless due to their microscopic size, their impact on health can be significant. If you are sensitive to allergens, exposure to dust mite feces and body fragments can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, itching, and even worsen asthma symptoms.
Implementing proper cleaning practices and maintaining a healthy living environment is therefore essential to eliminate the presence of dust mites.
If you struggle to get motivated for the spring cleaning tasks (like me), try making a two-week plan (or 3 if that works better for you). Break down what needs to be done room by room. For example:
Bedroom:
- Wash curtains and bed cover (your bed sheets should be washed weekly)
- Dust footboards, ceiling fan blades, and any other overlooked surfaces.
- Wipe down lamps, lampshades, and light switches to remove dust and grime.
- Clean and organize shelves and cupboards, donating or discarding items you no longer need.
- Vacuum or mop the floor, paying special attention to corners and under furniture. Consider steam cleaning carpets for a deep clean.
- Don’t forget to vacuum underneath the mattresses to remove dust mites and allergens.
Living Room:
- Dust and polish furniture, including coffee tables, end tables, and entertainment centers.
- Vacuum upholstery and wash removable cushion covers, if applicable.
- Clean and dust electronics, including TV screens, speakers, and gaming consoles.
- Wipe down baseboards, crown molding, and any decorative accents.
- Declutter surfaces and organize media, books, and other items.
Kitchen:
- Wipe down countertops, backsplashes, and cabinet fronts with a gentle cleaner.
- Deep clean appliances, including the refrigerator, stove, range hood, oven, microwave, and dishwasher.
- Clean inside and around the sink, including the faucet and drain.
- Scrub and disinfect the kitchen floor, paying attention to grout lines and high-traffic areas.
- Declutter and organize pantry shelves, drawers, and cabinets, discarding expired items and donating unopened non-perishables.
Bathroom:
- Scrub tiles and grout in the shower and bathtub to remove soap scum and grime.
- Clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, and countertops with a bathroom cleaner.
- Wipe down mirrors, light fixtures, and cabinet hardware to remove fingerprints and water spots.
- Launder shower curtains and bath mats, and replace any worn or stained linens.
- Organize toiletries and cleaning supplies, discarding empty or expired items.
Windows
Clean all screens, windows and frames, both inside and out, to prevent mold and mildew buildup, and to let in more natural light and fresh air. If any of the screens have holes in them you should replace them. Opening the windows once a day is so good for your indoor environment.
Outdoor Living Space:
- Clean areas like patios, decks, and porches.
- Sweep or power wash outdoor surfaces to remove dirt, pollen, and debris.
- Wash outdoor furniture, cushions, and umbrellas with a gentle cleaner and hose off any dirt or grime.
- Trim back overgrown plants and bushes, and remove any dead leaves or branches.
- Clean and organize storage areas, such as sheds or outdoor cabinets, discarding broken or unused items.
- Sweep or rake pathways and entryways to maintain a tidy appearance.
Putting on your favorite music can make the spring cleaning process more enjoyable. And don’t forget to reward yourself afterward, especially if cleaning isn’t your favorite activity!
No Chemicals
Using chemical cleaners can have huge effects on both our health and the environment. Many traditional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can irritate our respiratory system, disrupt our hormon system, trigger allergies, and contribute to indoor air pollution.
By using natural or homemade cleaning solutions, we can avoid exposing ourselves and our families to potentially harmful substances. Additionally, clean doesn’t have a smell to it; it simply means removing dirt, dust, and germs from surfaces without leaving behind any strong or artificial scents.
Decluttering:
Another important aspect of spring cleaning is decluttering. Holding onto items we no longer use can disrupt our lives. It’s like carrying around unnecessary baggage that weighs us down both physically and mentally.
If you have boxes of unused items or old clothes gathering dust, it’s time to let them go. Clutter can impact your sleep and immune system by disrupting the flow of energy in your home. Consider keeping only essential items for storage, like extra blankets or pillows.
Letting Go:
To truly thrive, it’s essential to let go of things, including relationships, that no longer serve us. Hanging onto clothes that no longer fit can subconsciously affect our self-image and even lead to self-sabotage.
Though the thought of decluttering can be overwhelming, it’s manageable with a plan. Set aside time over the next few weeks to tackle one room at a time. Be strict with yourself about sticking to this schedule.
As you sort through your belongings, remember to create value with your memories. Frame old photos or organize sentimental items in a way that brings you joy. Dedicate the time to this process, and you’ll feel a sense of lightness and freedom once it’s done.
