Introduction
As spring arrives, many of us feel motivated to tackle that annual ritual of spring cleaning. While the impulse is a good one, the task can feel daunting. Where do you even start? How do you clean effectively and efficiently?
Not to worry! In this article, I’ll share my best professional cleaning tips and tricks to help you spring clean like a pro. With my step-by-step guidance, you’ll be able to deep clean your entire home and leave no surface untouched. Let’s get started!
Set Aside Enough Time
The first key to successful spring cleaning is planning ahead and setting aside enough time to do a thorough job. Rushing through it will only leave you frustrated.
I recommend tackling one room per day over the course of several weekends or taking a full week off work if you can swing it.
Block your calendar and treat spring cleaning like the big project it is. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Make Detailed To Do Lists
Another pro tip is to make detailed to-do lists for each room you plan to clean. Break down big tasks into smaller steps.
For example, to clean the kitchen, you may want to:
- Wipe down cabinets
- Clean inside cabinets and drawers
- Scrub sink and counters
- Clean appliances inside and out
- Mop floors
- Dust lighting fixtures
Check each task off as you complete it – this gives a wonderful sense of accomplishment!
Work from Top to Bottom
Always clean from top to bottom in each room. It makes the most sense logically and prevents you from re-cleaning the same spots.
Start by dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, door frames, and vents. Use a microfiber duster or vacuum attachment to trap dust and allergens.
Next, clean all walls and window treatments like drapes and blinds.
Move down to hard surfaces like countertops, sinks, mirrors, tiled surfaces, and windows. Apply cleaning solution and use a microfiber cloth in circular motions.
Finally, tackle floors by thoroughly vacuuming and mopping.
Declutter First
Before deep cleaning any space, take time to declutter. Recycle stacks of old magazines, papers, and mail. Donate old clothing and housewares you no longer use.
Decluttering reduces cleaning time and also helps you organize your belongings. Now you can see what needs a new home!
Use the Right Cleaning Tools
Having the right tools makes cleaning faster and easier. Some essentials I recommend:
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Microfiber cloths: Use these reusable cloths wet or dry for dusting and scrubbing. They trap dirt and cut grease better than paper towels.
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Vacuum with attachments: Choose a vacuum with a hose, narrow crevice tool, and brush to reach corners, ceilings, upholstery and more.
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Dust mop: Use a microfiber or chenille dust mop to sweep up dirt and debris before wet mopping floors.
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Spray bottles: Fill one with vinegar and water for an all-purpose cleaner. Use another for glass cleaner.
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Magic eraser: These super-absorbent pads lift dirt, scuffs, and grime from walls, floors, counters and more with just water.
Use Green Cleaning Solutions
You don’t need harsh chemicals for an immaculate home. Most messes can be tackled with simple, non-toxic ingredients like:
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Baking soda: Deodorizes, cleans, and scours.
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White vinegar: Disinfects and cuts grease.
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Lemon juice: Bleaches stains and deodorizes.
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Castile soap: Makes an all-purpose cleaner.
You can also look for green-certified, plant-based cleaners with safe ingredients. And be sure to open windows – nothing freshens like fresh air!
Clean from Cleanest to Dirtiest
This is a big one. Always clean from the cleanest areas to the dirtiest to avoid spreading germs.
For example, when cleaning the bathroom:
- Wipe down mirrors and sinks
- Scrub the tub and shower walls
- Clean the toilet bowl last
Make sure to throw out cleaning rags and change mop heads between areas.
Don’t Forget Hidden Areas
It’s easy to focus cleaning efforts where you can see, but don’t forget about those neglected hidden spaces!
- Under and behind furniture
- Inside cabinets, drawers, and closets
- Ceiling corners and fan blades
- Under sinks and appliances
- Inside the microwave
Recruit a buddy to help move furniture so you can access every last corner.
Finish with Floors
Floors collect dirt, debris, spills and traffic during cleaning. That’s why it’s smart to save them for last.
Sweep or vacuum to remove surface dirt. Then thoroughly mop using floor cleaner and hot water changed frequently.
For tile floors, occasionally run a steam mop over them to sanitize grout lines.
Enjoy Your Sparkling Home!
There you have my best professional spring cleaning tips to leave every room shining. I know it seems like a lot of effort, but take it step-by-step.
The sense of freshness and organization you’ll enjoy makes spring cleaning so worth it. Here’s to a cleared mind and a spotless home just in time for spring!
