spring cleaning 101
Spring: time for renewal, resetting and lots of decluttering
Spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter grey and refresh your home. March 20 marks the beginning of aries season, the astrological new year. The warmer weather, return of the sun and all that lovely springtime energy create an ideal environment for decluttering and reorganizing.
spring organizing tips:
1. tackle spring cleaning:
Spring cleaning is more than just dusting and wiping down surfaces—it’s about giving your home a deep refresh, tackling areas that don’t often get attention, and making sure your space ready for the warmer months (and chaos of summer) ahead.
Here’s how to approach spring cleaning with ease:
Start from the Top: Begin by cleaning the highest surfaces first, like light fixtures, ceiling fans, and the tops of cabinets or shelves. This way, any dust or debris that falls can be cleaned up when you get to the lower areas.
Windows and Screens: Clean your windows inside and out. If you have window screens, remove them and gently wash them with a mild soap and water solution. This not only brightens up your view but also lets in more natural light as you start enjoying the sunny days.
Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances: This is the perfect time to clean out your oven, refrigerator, and microwave. Use a natural cleaning solution, I recommend branch basics, to wipe down the insides of your fridge and freezer, tossing expired items along the way. For the oven, consider using a non-toxic cleaner or the self-cleaning feature if your oven has one.
Declutter Your Bathroom: In the bathroom, scrub grout, clean shower heads and faucets, and declutter bathroom drawers and cabinets. Donate or toss expired skincare products, medications, or toiletries to make space for new items.
Vacuum and Clean Your Rugs and Carpets: Take the time to give your rugs and carpets a thorough cleaning. Vacuum thoroughly, and consider having them professionally cleaned or using a deep-cleaning machine for extra freshness.
Organize Your Closets: Go through your clothes, shoes, and accessories, donating items that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in a year. Check out my full list of donation resources for the Portland area here. For the clothes that remain, consider organizing them by season, color, or function. Invest in closet organizers, such as bins, baskets, or over-the-door elfa systems, to maximize space and keep everything neatly stored. Plan to reassess organizing needs again before summer.
Dust and Clean Electronics: Don’t forget to clean and organize electronics, including TVs, computers, and phones. Dust and wipe down screens with a microfiber cloth, and use a keyboard cleaning tool to remove dirt and crumbs from your devices.
pro tip for spring cleaning success:
Create a checklist or calendar to break down the tasks by space or activity over a couple of weeks. This approach makes spring cleaning less overwhelming and ensures that you cover every nook and cranny of your home. It can also help you stay on track and make sure everything is done before the warmer weather is in full swing.
additional spring cleaning tasks:
Organize Your Home Office: With more people working from home, spring is the perfect time to organize your home office. Sort through paperwork, file documents you need to keep, and shred anything that’s no longer necessary. Make sure your desk and filing cabinets are tidy, and consider investing in drawer organizers or a filing system to reduce clutter.
Wash Bedding and Curtains: Spring cleaning is the ideal time to wash your sheets, blankets, and comforters. If you have heavier winter bedding, switch it out for lighter sheets and quilts. Don’t forget to wash your curtains or blinds, which can collect dust over time.
Organize Your Bookshelves and Media: Take the opportunity to declutter bookshelves, CDs, DVDs, and other media. Donate books you’re no longer interested in reading and clear out outdated media. A clean and organized bookshelf can be both functional and a great design feature in your home.
Clean Out Your Garage and Storage Spaces: If you have a garage, attic, or basement, dedicate some time to organizing these areas. Sort through old boxes, bins, and holiday decorations. If you find items that no longer serve you, donate them or dispose of them properly. This will make your storage areas more organized and usable throughout the year.
Air Out Your Home: Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up—it's also about creating a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Open your windows to let fresh air flow through your home. This can help eliminate any stagnant smells that have built up during the colder months and make your home feel brighter and more energetic.
By tackling these tasks one by one, you'll be able to enjoy a fresh, organized space as you welcome the new season. Spring cleaning is an excellent way to not only keep your home clean but also to start the season feeling refreshed and re-energized.
Ready to declutter and organize your Portland home for the upcoming season? Schedule your complimentary home organizing consult!