Introduction
The entryway is the first impression guests have when entering your home. As spring approaches and I anticipate visits from family and friends after a long winter, I want my entryway looking its best to welcome them. In this article, I will share my tips for cleaning the entryway to prepare for spring guests.
Remove Clutter
The entryway tends to collect clutter throughout the fall and winter months. Coats, shoes, bags, umbrellas, and mail often pile up in the entryway during this time. I go through each item and determine what should be stored elsewhere. I move coats to the coat closet, shoes to the shoe rack, and find homes for everything else. For items I won’t need again until next season, I pack them away in storage bins. Clearing away the clutter instantly makes the entryway look more tidy and welcoming.
Clean Floors
During winter, the entryway floor likely has accumulated dirt, salt, sand, and melting snow tracked in from outside. I give the floors a deep clean by:
- Sweeping to remove loose debris
- Mopping with a cleaning solution to sanitize the floors
- Vacuuming if the entryway has carpet
I pay special attention to entry mats, shaking them out or washing them if needed. Clean floors help make a great first impression when guests walk in.
Dust Surfaces
Dust can silently accumulate on every surface over the winter months. I use a microfiber cloth to wipe down:
- Walls and baseboards
- Furniture like entry tables and benches
- Decor such as mirrors, art, and lamps
- Railings and spindles on staircases
Dusting makes everything look clean and polished. I also replace any decorative items that are looking worn with some new spring accents.
Sanitize Door Handles
Door handles collect germs from everyone entering and exiting the home. To sanitize, I use disinfecting wipes or a spray cleaner containing bleach. I wipe down the front and back door handles, handles on any interior doors, and the doorbell. Sanitizing door handles keeps everyone healthy.
Check Lighting
I check that all light fixtures and bulbs are functioning to provide a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Replacing any burnt-out bulbs makes the entryway feel fresh and new. I also make sure closet and stair lights are working properly so guests can safely access those areas.
Set Out Guest Towels
I ensure the entryway is stocked with fresh hand towels so guests can dry their hands and wipe their feet when they arrive. I also set out umbrella bags during rainy seasons so visitors have a place to stow wet umbrellas without dripping on the floors. These little touches make guests feel cared for.
Add Air Fresheners
To make the entryway smell fresh and clean, I place natural air fresheners or scented candles in key spots. Citrus and floral scents evoke the feeling of spring. I also open windows periodically to circulate fresh air. Pleasant scents put guests in a good mood when entering my home.
Conclusion
Preparing my entryway for spring guests takes some time and effort upfront, but it pays off in their delighted reactions when they arrive. The clean floors, dusted surfaces, refreshed decor, and hospitable touches help every visit start off right. A warm, tidy entryway welcomes my guests and gets our time together off to the best start.
