Pre-Spring Cleaning Tasks

What do the words “spring cleaning” usually mean to you? For some, it’s instant panic thinking they need to clean their entire house in one day. For others, it’s a more gradual process of deep cleaning their home. Take it easy on yourself this season. Follow some of these pre-spring cleaning tasks to help make the yearly ritual more relaxing.

Start Pre-Spring Cleaning Now

Just because it calls out a season in the name, doesn’t mean you can’t start early. Once spring starts to bloom, you may also want to spend less time indoors. So take advantage of the cooler late winter temperatures and tackle some of the following tasks.

1. Declutter. Nothing makes cleaning harder than spaces filled with stuff. Clear out closets and cubbies—especially while transitioning to warmer wardrobe—and sell, donate, recycle, or trash what you no longer use or wear.
2. Dust. Heat may have been blowing through your vents all winter, but soon you’ll turn on fans and switch to AC. Change air filters and clear areas that may have closed up in the cold. Don’t forget window and door frames. Once these spaces open up to let fresh air in, help ensure it doesn’t blow any dust around.
3. Refresh bedding. You may not need the heavy winter comforter and all the blankets. Clean quilts, pillows, and heavier bedding before packing anything away.
4. Clear pantry and freezer. Your diet may also be transitioning from warmer comfort foods to more fresh fruits and veggies. Now is a great time to use up favorite winter spices, sauces, and other items before you defrost the fridge and freezer for a deep clean.
5. Clean kitchen appliances. The stove, oven, and microwave are often used frequently over the winter, maybe more than the summer since it typically warms the space. Take this time to deep clean these areas before breaking out any smaller appliances.
6. Check batteries. Many people choose to test their smoke alarms when they change the clocks. It’s an easy reminder twice a year.

With these simple tasks done, there’s now less to do once spring arrives and the deep cleaning continues.