As a seasoned cleaning professional with over a decade of experience, I’m often asked for my top tips and tricks when it comes to spring cleaning. And let me tell you, there’s a lot more to it than just scrubbing down the surfaces and decluttering your space. In fact, some of the most impactful cleaning techniques might surprise you.
Start from the Top and Work Your Way Down
One of the first pieces of advice I always give is to start your spring cleaning from the top of the room and work your way down. This simple strategy can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.
You see, when you clean from the top down, any dust or debris that gets kicked up during the process will naturally settle on the floor below. That means you can easily sweep or vacuum it all up at the end, rather than having to go back and re-clean areas you’ve already tackled.
It’s like that old saying, “work smarter, not harder.” And trust me, your back will thank you for following this approach. Rhonda Wilson, a quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, agrees wholeheartedly: “It’s best to start with the least-used room and work your way up to the most frequently used room. This way, any dust or dirt that gets kicked up during cleaning will not end up in the areas that you use the most.”
Double-Bag Your Trash for Extra Protection
Another insider tip from the cleaning pros? Double-bag your trash bags. Now, I know what you’re thinking – that’s overkill, right? Well, hear me out.
Decluttering and purging can be a messy business, and the last thing you want is for your trash bag to split open, spilling its contents all over the floor. That’s where the double-bagging technique comes in handy.
“All you have to do is place one bag inside the other, and you’re good to go,” says Rhonda. “If one bag tears, the other one will save the day.” It’s a simple trick that can save you a lot of time and frustration during the spring cleaning process.
Embrace Multipurpose Cleaning Products
One mistake I see a lot of people make is buying an entire arsenal of different cleaning products – from sprays and scrubs to sponges and scouring pads. But the truth is, you don’t need a whole pantry full of specialized tools to get the job done.
In fact, some of the best cleaning accessories can pull double or even triple duty. As Daniel Vivanco, the owner and founder of Ace of Maids in Arizona, explains, “Our cleaners swear by using dryer sheets to banish static cling and repel dust from surfaces. It’s a simple yet effective technique that leaves homes smelling laundry-fresh with minimal effort.”
Another multifunctional must-have? Vinegar. This everyday household staple can tackle everything from greasy stovetops to soap-scum-filled showers. “Its cleaning prowess is unparalleled, leaving surfaces sparkling clean without the need for harsh chemicals,” Vivanco adds.
So, before you go on a shopping spree for the latest and greatest cleaning products, take a look around your own home. Chances are, you’ve already got some hidden gems that can make your spring cleaning a breeze.
Soft-Washing for a Gentle, Effective Clean
When it comes to outdoor cleaning, many people immediately think of pressure-washing as the go-to solution. But according to Kelly Salas of Sierra Vista Window and Gutter Cleaning, there’s a better way: soft-washing.
“Unlike pressure-washing, which can damage siding, paint, and wood, soft-washing uses low-pressure nozzles at the end of a pressure-washing wand,” Salas explains. “When combined with a biodegradable chemical, it removes biological elements and other stains without damaging surfaces or killing the plants around your home.”
Not only does this process clean the surface, but Salas says it also kills the spores that cause regrowth, making the clean last longer. So, if you’re tackling outdoor tasks like removing mold, moss, or stubborn dirt, consider giving soft-washing a try.
Timing is Everything: Hire Pros in the Off-Season
Here’s a little secret from the cleaning industry: spring cleaning doesn’t have to happen in the spring. In fact, according to Chris Willatt, the owner of Alpine Maids in Denver, Colorado, you can often save money by hiring a professional cleaning company outside of the peak season.
“Cleaning companies know that everyone wants their home spiffed up in April or May, and some might charge higher prices during that time,” Willatt explains. “Hiring a cleaning company to deep-clean your house in January, February, and March will give you the same clean home at less cost.”
So, if you’re looking to get a jump-start on your spring cleaning or want to avoid the price hikes, consider booking your professional cleaning services during the off-season. Your wallet will thank you.
Consistency is Key: Establish a Cleaning Routine
Finally, one of the most important pieces of advice I can give is to maintain a consistent cleaning routine. Sure, spring cleaning is great for giving your space (and your mind) a reset after a long year. But the real secret to having a spotless home is staying on top of it all year round.
As Vanessa Terra Bossart of GreenTerra Cleaning in San Francisco puts it, “We emphasize the importance of routine maintenance to prevent dirt and grime from building up. Establish a cleaning schedule and stick to it, tackling different tasks on a regular basis to keep your home looking its best year-round.”
Now, I know what you’re thinking – who has time for that? But trust me, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Even something as simple as vacuuming once a week or tackling your bathroom grout on a monthly basis can make a big difference.
The key is finding a system that works for you and your lifestyle. Because let’s be honest, a perfectly clean home all the time is probably an unrealistic goal. But with a little consistency and some strategic planning, you can keep your space looking its best, no matter the season.
So there you have it – my top spring cleaning tips and tricks straight from the pros. From starting at the top and double-bagging your trash to embracing multipurpose products and hiring help in the off-season, these techniques can truly transform the way you clean.
And remember, the cleaning professionals are always here to lend a hand if you need it. Happy spring cleaning!
