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The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist
February 23, 2024
-
By
Ava Thompson
Spring comes with a timeless tradition – spring cleaning. But where do you start? How can we shake off winter’s remnants and let our homes breathe again?
As it turns out, it’s simpler than you think, especially if you follow a spring cleaning checklist.
The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist Guide
Cleaning the house in small sections will make the task much easier.
Kitchen Deep Clean
Spring cleaning isn’t complete without a thorough kitchen deep clean – it’s the heart of the house, after all.
A well-functioning refrigerator starts with cleanliness. This means removing items from each shelf and wiping them down with a microfiber cloth before putting them back into place.
Your oven needs attention too. To get rid of burnt-on grime, use an effective cleaner followed by a damp cloth wipe-down.
As for microwaves, which are prone to splatters, we recommend using warm water mixed with vinegar – they can work wonders on hardened stains.
White vinegar will not only remove stains but it’s also highly effective at eliminating odors.
Using ACTIVE Garbage Disposal Cleaner Tablets
Don’t forget about the garbage disposal as well. For the best results, use ACTIVE Garbage Disposal Cleaner Tablets.
Step 1: Run Hot Water
Turn on the faucet and run hot water for one minute; you want to ensure that the disposal is empty before starting.
Step 2: Turn Down the Water
Reduce the water to a slow trickle and turn the faucet away from the drain.
Step 3: Add an ACTIVE tablet
Remove the wrapper from one tablet and place it directly into the disposal. With the water running, turn on the garbage disposal.
Step 4: Continue to Run the Disposal
Continue to run the water and disposal until all of the remaining foam drains.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Garbage Disposal Cleaner
For extra cleaning power, you can use two ACTIVE tablets instead of one.
ACTIVE Disposal Cleaner
Removes grime and food residue to keep your disposal smelling fresh and clean.
Living Room Cleaning Checklist
Cleaning your living area after a lengthy winter can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how you can easily transform your space.
Furniture Dusting
Dusting is key in any spring cleaning checklist, especially in the living room where we spend most of our time. The trick? Using a damp microfiber cloth. These wonders grab onto dust particles instead of just spreading them around.
If you’ve got wood surfaces that need extra care like coffee tables or bookshelves, we recommend using a good quality wood cleaner.
Always dust from top to bottom. Start with ceiling fans and light fixtures before moving down to shelves and furniture. This way, any displaced dust will fall onto yet-to-be-cleaned areas below.
Vacuuming Floors
No one likes the thought of what might be lurking beneath their couches or area rugs. But don’t worry, getting rid of those hidden crumbs and pet hair is easier than it seems – you just need the proper tools such as a crevice attachment.
Supplies:
- Vacuum cleaner
- Spot cleaner (optional)
Step 1:
If possible, move away smaller pieces of furniture before vacuuming.
For the best results, go over each area twice; that will allow you to remove dirt from all angles. Don’t forget to use the proper attachments for corners and edges.
Step 2:
For rugs, give them a good shake outdoors to get rid of any loose debris.
You want to get rid of all the grime that’s embedded within the fibers; that will prolong the its lifespan while improving indoor air quality.
Step 3:
For larger rugs that can’t be moved, consider spot-cleaning stains with a suitable cleaner, then vacuum thoroughly.
If it’s been a while since your last deep cleaning or if the rug is heavily soiled, consider hiring professional cleaners for a thorough wash.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
Spring cleaning is the perfect time to give your bathroom a complete overhaul. This isn’t just about scrubbing tiles and polishing mirrors, it’s also an opportunity for some much-needed organization of personal care products.
Sanitize the Bathroom Surfaces
Bathroom surfaces are prone to germs and mold due to high humidity levels. Given that, it’s best to clean them regularly, at least once a week.
Supplies:
- White vinegar
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Step 2:
Apply the spray onto the surfaces (e.g. shower doors, counter tops) and let it sit for a few minutes.
Pay extra attention to corners as they tend to be overlooked during regular cleanings.
Step 3:
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth, then rinse with water.
If you have tile grout in your bathroom, this is a good time to give it some TLC too.
Cleaning the Toilet
The toilet needs attention too and the best way to do that is by using ACTIVE Toilet Bowl Cleaner.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Rubber gloves
Step 1:
Lightly scrub the toilet bowl with a toilet brush before using the product.
Step 2:
Wearing a pair of rubber gloves, remove one ACTIVE Toilet Bowl Cleaner tablet from the wrapper and place it inside the toilet water tank, away from the internal parts.
Step 3:
The tablet will automatically clean the toilet bowl with each flush.
Don’t break apart the tablet and make sure to leave on the dissolved white film.
Bedroom Deep Cleaning
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, and part of that is keeping it clean. With spring cleaning in full swing, now’s the perfect time to give your sleeping space a thorough overhaul.
Cleaning Your Mattress
A good place to start with bedroom deep cleaning is your mattress. We spend about one-third of our lives on our mattresses but often overlook them during regular cleans.
Supplies:
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Baking soda (optional)
Step 1:
Strip off all bedding and use a vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment to suck up dust mites and allergens.
Step 2:
If odors are an issue, you can sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface. Let it sit for a few hours before removing the powder with a vacuum cleaner.
We recommend cleaning your mattress at least once every six months.
Cleaning Window Sills and Windows
Dirt tends to gather on window sills over time, which is why it’s so important to clean them regularly.
Supplies:
- Damp cloth
- Window cleaner
Step 1:
Using a damp cloth, wipe down the window sills thoroughly.
Step 2:
Apply a window cleaner to the glass, then wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth.
To prevent streaks, we recommend using a microfiber cloth.
Vacuum the Floor and Clean the Light Fixtures
Vacuuming the floor will help get rid of any accumulated dirt, which will help reduce allergens.
Light fixtures, including bedside lamps and ceiling fans, should also be dusted off with microfiber cloths to keep them clean.
Kids’ Playroom Organization
Spring cleaning isn’t just for grown-up spaces. The kids’ playroom is an area that needs attention too, and it’s a great chance to teach the little ones about cleanliness and organization.
Cleaning Toys
The first step to organizing any space is to make sure everything is clean. Kids’ toys are no exception seeing as how they’re often in contact with tiny hands, mouths, and sometimes feet.
Remember, it’s not just dirt we’re worried about; germs can hitch a ride on these playthings as well.
Laundry Room Cleaning Checklist
Maintaining the laundry room can be a drag, but it is an absolute necessity when it comes to keeping the house clean. Remember, a clean laundry room will also ensure that your clothes come out fresh and clean.
Washing Machine Maintenance
The washing machine is the heart of the laundry room. But over time, soap scum and mineral deposits can build up in your machine and that can lead to odors. That’s why cleaning it regularly is crucial.
For the best results, use ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets. They’re specifically formulated to remove stuck-on dirt, detergent residue, and soap scum from the machine.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Make sure there’s nothing left inside the washing machine before starting.
Step 2:
Place one ACTIVE tablet directly into the washer drum. Do not place it in the detergent tray.
Step 3:
Run a normal wash cycle with hot water, ideally on a large load setting.
Step 4:
Once the cycle is finished, use a damp cloth to wipe away any leftover residue from the drum. It’s also a good idea to wipe behind the rubber door seal.
For washers with heavy residue buildup, we recommend scrubbing the drum first before using an ACTIVE tablet.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Cleaning out dryer vents isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s about safety as well as dryer lint is incredibly flammable.
Supplies:
- Long-handled brush
- Vacuum attachment (optional)
Step 1:
Before you clean the dryer vent, turn off the power. Remember, safety first.
Step 2:
Using a long-handled brush or vacuum cleaner, carefully clean the inside of the duct. Continue until the vent pipe is completely clear.
Don’t forget to clean the lint trap as well – it should be emptied after every load without exception.
Entryway Clean-up
Your entryway is the first impression that a guest will get of your home, so it’s important to keep it clean.
Sprucing Up The Space
Remove all out-of-season items from the entryway space. Get rid of any worn-out footwear or outerwear that won’t be needed until next winter.
The next step is to deep clean the surfaces including the walls, doors, and floors in the high-traffic zone.
Don’t forget to wipe down the door handles and light switches as well with disinfectant wipes.
Caring For the Floor
The floor in the entryway can take a beating during harsh weather conditions. Given that, you might want to give them some extra attention during spring cleaning.
Supplies:
- Baking soda
- Water
- Old toothbrush
- Vacuum cleaner
- Carpet shampoo (optional)
Step 1:
In a small bowl, combine baking soda and water to create a paste.
Step 2:
Using an old toothbrush, apply the paste onto the tile grout and gently scrub to remove dirt and residue.
Step 3:
Vacuum the rugs at the entranceway to help catch dirt before it enters the rest of the house.
If necessary, you can also shampoo the rugs or replace them completely.
Home Office Organization
Your home office can be a haven of productivity, but only if it’s clean and organized.
Start with Your Desk
The heart of any home office is the desk. To keep yours tidy, make sure everything has its place. Invest in drawer organizers or trays to help sort out stationery items like pens, staplers, and sticky notes.
Avoid piling up documents by creating a simple filing system – folders for ongoing projects and an ‘inbox’ tray for incoming tasks that need attention.
Declutter Regularly
Make a habit of clearing your workspace every week. By doing this, spring cleaning won’t feel like such a chore next year.
Remember, it’s not just about tidiness but productivity as well. With an orderly desk, you’ll stop wasting precious work time hunting for that missing piece of paper.
Garage Spring Cleaning
Garages tend to accumulate a lot of dust and clutter over time, which is why you should give them some love during your spring cleaning session.
Cleaning Out The Clutter
Start by removing anything that doesn’t fit in your garage or those that you don’t use anymore. You might be surprised by how much extra space you can make.
On top of that, you also want to clean out any old paint cans, expired chemicals, or other hazardous materials. Just remember to do it properly as safety comes first.
Dusting and Sweeping
Once everything’s sorted out, grab a long-handled duster and clean the ceiling corners and light fixtures. Then sweep the floor thoroughly to gather all of the loose debris.
You may not realize it but after a long winter, dust bunnies tend to pile up, especially around storage areas so be sure to give these spots an extra thorough sweep.
Top Spring Cleaning Tips and Checklist – FAQs
What should be included in a spring cleaning schedule?
A thorough spring clean involves dusting, vacuuming, and scrubbing all rooms including the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. Don’t forget your garage or outdoor spaces too.
What are 3 things you can get rid of during spring cleaning?
Consider tossing out unused items that are cluttering up your home like old clothes, expired pantry goods, or outdated magazines.
When does spring cleaning start?
You can start as soon as the weather warms up enough to open windows and let fresh air in – around early March.
Where should I start cleaning my house for spring?
Start with high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, then move on to bedrooms, living spaces, and less-used spots like basements or garages.
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Ava Thompson
Ava Thompson is a cleaning specialist and home organization guru. Her profound knowledge, honed through years of experience, is thoughtfully shared in her thorough walkthroughs here on our blog. Ava’s pragmatic tips and innovative strategies empower individuals to transform their living spaces into models of cleanliness and order. She’s a go-to source for those seeking to enhance their home environment efficiently and effectively. She has become a key contributor on the ACTIVE blog.
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