Spring is here, which means it’s time for some deep cleaning! As I tidy up my home this season, I want to be mindful of my environmental impact. Here’s how I’m approaching sustainable spring cleaning room by room.
Living Room
Dusting and Decluttering
I start my spring cleaning in the living room by dusting all surfaces and decorative items. To cut down on chemical cleaners, I use a microfiber cloth dampened with water. For a bit of shine, I mix in a few drops of white vinegar. As I dust, I also declutter by donating, recycling or trash any items I no longer need. Getting rid of clutter makes the room feel freshly cleaned!
Vacuuming and Mopping
Next, I vacuum the rugs and mop the floors. I use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens. And I fill my bucket with a DIY solution of warm water and a few drops of castile soap. The soap helps cut through dirt naturally. For a refreshing scent, I add a few drops of lemon essential oil.
Washing Windows and Walls
To let more natural light in, I wash the windows with a spray bottle filled with distilled white vinegar and water. I use old newspaper or cotton cloths to avoid wasting paper towels. For painted walls, I mix baking soda with water and wipe down any grimy spots. It works like a charm without harsh chemicals!
Fluffing and Rearranging
As a finishing touch, I fluff and rearrange decorative pillows and blankets. I also move around knick-knacks and wall art to give the room a “new” feel. It’s amazing how rearranging a space makes it look like I gave it a total makeover!
Bedroom
Changing Linens
In the bedroom, I start by stripping the bed and washing all the linens. To save water, I wash sheets and blankets only once the weather warms up. I run them on cold and hang them to air dry when possible. To freshen up the mattress, I sprinkle some baking soda, let it sit for an hour, then vacuum it up.
Dusting and Vacuuming
Just like the living room, I dust surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth and water. For the floors, I vacuum then mop using my homemade soap solution. I also vacuum under the bed, behind furniture, and along baseboards to eliminate dust bunnies.
Decluttering Closets and Drawers
Next comes one of my least favorite tasks – decluttering! I sort through closets and dresser drawers, donating or recycling anything I haven’t worn in over a year. I also go through my accessories like scarves, hats, and jewelry. Items I no longer need get passed along to friends or donated.
Washing Windows and Walls
To let more sunlight in, I give the windows a thorough cleaning inside and out using vinegar solution. I also spot clean any dirty marks on the walls just like in the living room. Fresh air and natural light make the bedroom feel bright and peaceful.
Bathroom
Scrubbing the Shower
In the bathroom, I start by mixing baking soda and dish soap into a paste to scrub tile grout and surfaces in the shower. The abrasive baking soda scours soap scum while the dish soap naturally cuts through grease. I let the paste sit for 15 minutes before rinsing – no harsh chemicals needed!
Disinfecting the Toilet and Sink
For the toilet and sink, I spray down all surfaces with undiluted white vinegar. The acidic vinegar disinfects and deodorizes. I use old rags and paper towels to scrub away grime. For extra disinfecting power, I let surfaces stay wet with vinegar for at least 5 minutes before rinsing.
Vacuuming and Mopping
Just like the other rooms, I vacuum and mop the floors. The bathroom takes the most abuse, so I really work the mop to eliminate grime from the grout. A few tablespoons of tea tree or eucalyptus oil added to the cleaning solution leaves the bathroom smelling fresh and clean.
Decluttering under the Sink
Finally, I sort through my cabinets and under the sink. I get rid of old cleaning products, cosmetics, and medications by taking them to a disposal event. Only keeping what I need reduces waste and clutter.
Kitchen
Clearing Counters and Decluttering
In the kitchen, I start by clearing all counters and taking stock of what needs organizing. I declutter drawers and cabinets by donating unused dishes and cookware. Any food items I won’t use get composted. Keeping the kitchen decluttered makes cleaning easier!
Disinfecting Surfaces
For disinfecting, I mix together water, vinegar, and a few drops of tea tree oil in a spray bottle. I spray countertops, the stove, sink, and outside of the fridge then wipe down with a cloth. The antibacterial tea tree oil kills germs better than harsh disinfectants.
Scrubbing the Stove and Sink
For stuck-on grease, baking soda once again does the trick! I make a paste with baking soda, dish soap, and water and use it to scrub the stove top, oven, and sink. Nothing cuts through grease better. I rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Cleaning the Fridge
A deep clean of the fridge is in order! I take out all the shelves and drawers and wash them by hand with hot soapy water. For the inside, I use baking soda and water to scrub the walls. Baking soda deodorizes and absorbs odors better than anything.
Mopping the Floors
Finally, I give the floors a thorough sweep and mopping. For the kitchen, it’s important to really work the mop into the grout. A few drops of lemon essential oil in the bucket leaves behind a clean, fresh scent.
With some natural cleaning solutions and a little elbow grease, I can deep clean my entire home room by room in an eco-friendly way. What are your best tips for sustainable spring cleaning? I’d love to hear your strategies! Tackling clutter while using natural cleaners leaves my home clean, tidy, and chemical-free.
