We all love how fresh and wonderful a home can feel after a good spring cleaning; but getting started can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you don't have to clean your home perfectly to rejuvenate your living space. Here's how to get maximum results, whether you have a few hours, a few days, or no extra time at all.
The first step is to make a plan, and in doing so, take a systematic approach. If you have some time off or are superhuman, you might be able to accomplish your spring cleaning in one fell swoop. But if, like most people, you have a regular job, kids, or other commitments, do yourself a favor and make a list of rooms or areas you want to tackle in order of priority. Next, put these goals into the calendar (Saturday: tackle the kitchen) or block out time in your schedule to work through the list. Last, set a timer and throw yourself into the work fully and mindfully. If you bring your full attention to the task, you'll be surprised at how much you can accomplish with just 30 minutes here and there.
Bathroom:
Set aside all of your products and scrub the tub, shower, sink and toilet. Remove hard water buildup from your shower head using a safety pin. Replace or wash your shower curtain and liner. Wipe down mirrors and other surfaces. Thoroughly clean the floor, making sure to get all the nooks and crannies behind, under and around the toilet and other bathroom furniture. Along with walls and tiles, be sure to wipe down the ceiling, especially if it's stained or yellowed.
If you have time: remove everything from cabinets and drawers and wipe them down. Toss outdated products and tools, old medications (dispose of these responsibly) and then reorganize and replace what you decide to keep.
Kitchen:
Wipe down the outsides of cabinets and drawers, including handles. Scrub and clean the stove, oven and sink. Thoroughly clean surfaces, and wipe down anything that tends to live out on the counter, such as appliances and spices. Next, tackle the fridge, taking out all the food, condiments and any shelves or drawers that can be easily removed. Discard old or expired items; wash fridge components. Use a mild detergent to wipe out the inside of the fridge before organizing and putting everything back.
If you have time: Remove everything from cabinets and drawers, clean the insides. Organize, discard and wipe down tools, pots and pans, etc. Get rid of anything you really don't use. Wash curtains or blinds.
Bedroom:
Launder sheets, blankets and linens. Wash or replace old, flat pillows. Wipe down walls and baseboards. Dust and get the floors/carpets underneath the bed and behind the furniture.
If you have time: Pull everything out of your closet and drawers, Marie Kondo-style. Make a pile for the secondhand store. Dust the shelves, organize, and put everything back.
Living Room:
Wipe down, vaccum or use a lint roller on couches and chairs. Polish leather furniture. Clean rugs and floors. Dust picture frames, books, and knicknacks. Wipe down walls and baseboards. Wash the windows.
If you have time: Make your common space feel new by rearranging the furniture and wall art. Launder or clean window coverings.
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