The big spring clean is here—time for a fresh start! And that goes for your home too. Why not take this chance to give your place a new beginning? So, roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s scrub away those winter blues together!
Why do a big spring clean?
Spring is all about new beginnings and fresh energy. It’s the perfect time to give your home a good refresh for a fresh start. Plus, it feels amazing to get everything sparkling clean again. A tidy space helps reduce stress and boosts your focus.
Getting ready for the big clean-up
1. Create a cleaning schedule
• Decide which areas you want to tackle.
• Schedule specific days and times for each room, so you have a clear overview.
2. Gather your essentials
• Cleaning products for different surfaces (glass, wood, tiles).
• Protective gloves and, if needed, a face mask.
• Cleaning tools like a vacuum cleaner, mop, bucket, and microfiber cloths.
• Trash bags for waste and items you want to get rid of.
3. Organize your cleaning supplies
• Gather all your cleaning products and supplies in a portable caddy or bucket. This makes it super easy to carry everything from room to room.
4. Start off with a tidy space
• First, clear away any excess items. This makes cleaning more efficient and enjoyable.
Step-by-step guide for a big clean-up
Kitchen
1. Degrease: Start by thoroughly degreasing cooking surfaces and the extractor hood.
2. Declutter: Sort and organize your kitchen cabinets and pantry. Toss out expired products.
3. Cleaning appliances: Clean the oven, microwave, and fridge. Don't forget to check and clean the fridge seals too.
Bathroom
1. Descale: Focus on descaling the shower, bathtub, and sinks.
2. Remove mold: Check the joints for mold and clean them with an appropriate mold remover.
3. Organize: Tidy up your medicine cabinets and replace any old or expired products.
Living room
1. Dusting and vacuuming: Wipe down all surfaces, vacuum the floor and under the furniture.
2. Furniture care: Clean the upholstery of your furniture and treat leather items with a conditioner.
3. Windows: Clean the windows inside and out for a crystal-clear view outside.
Bedroom
1. Mattress: Flip your mattress and give it a good vacuum. Consider using a steam cleaner to reduce dust mites.
2. Closet: Organize your closet, donate clothes you no longer wear, and swap out your seasonal clothing.
3. Bedding: Wash all bedding, including duvets and pillows, if possible.
Other areas
1. Hallway and entrance: Organize shoes and coats. Clean the floor and any furniture.
2. Attic and basement: Check for moisture or pest problems and tidy up where needed.
Special points of attention
During your big spring cleaning, there are a few special spots that need a little extra care. Here are some tips to tackle these areas thoroughly.
Window treatment - Clean the windows both inside and out for a sparkling look. Don't forget to thoroughly clean the window frames and sills too.
Large appliances - Large household appliances like the fridge, oven, and washing machine deserve some extra care. Gently pull these appliances forward so you can clean the space behind them too. Check the filters and replace them if needed.
Rugs and large carpets - Give your carpets and rugs a deep clean. Use a carpet cleaner for a thorough refresh, or hire a professional if your rugs are very delicate.
Cabinets and storage spaces - This is the perfect time to declutter and reorganize your closets. Take everything out, wipe down the shelves, and sort the contents before putting them back.
Garden furniture and outdoor spaces - Get your garden furniture ready for spring by giving it a good clean and treating it where needed. Sweep patios and balconies, and remove leaves and other debris.
Using specific cleaning products
All-purpose cleaner
A good all-purpose cleaner is super handy to use for almost anything. You can also choose a all-purpose cleaner from Cosmeau that looks great in your cleaning cupboard.
Glass cleaner
For streak-free windows and mirrors, use a special glass cleaner. This gives you a shiny finish without any spots.
Descaler
Limescale can be a stubborn problem in the bathroom and kitchen. An effective descaler helps you remove limescale easily.
Floor cleaner
Do you have a wooden, vinyl, or tile floor? Make sure your floor cleaner is suitable for your type of floor. And if you have pets that are sensitive to the harsh chemicals in floor cleaners, then floor cleaner strips from Cosmeau recommended.
Furniture polish
For wooden furniture, a good polish is important to nourish the wood and protect it from dust and dirt.
Checklist for the big clean-up
General
• Vacuuming all floors and carpets
• Mopping hard floors
• Dusting furniture, baseboards, and windowsills
• Washing windows, inside and out
• Wash or air out curtains
Kitchen
• Clean out and tidy up the fridge and freezer
• Deep clean your oven and microwave
• Tidy up cabinets and clean the outside
• Replace or clean the range hood filter
Bathroom
• Scrubbing the shower/bath, including the grout
• Deep clean the toilet
• Clean the sink and mirror
• Washing bathroom mat(s)
Living room
• Clean and treat furniture where needed
• Dusting electronics (like TVs and stereos)
• Dusting decorations like photos and artwork
Bedroom(s)
• Rotate and/or air out mattresses
• Wash bedding, including pillows and duvets
• Organize your wardrobe; switch out your seasonal clothes
Garage and storage
• Organize and clean your tools
• Donate or throw away unwanted items
• Sweep the floor and remove stains
Tips for upkeep after your big spring clean
1. Daily quick tidy-ups: Take a few minutes each day to walk around and pick up general clutter. This helps keep things organized and prevents dust and dirt from building up.
2. Dust and vacuum weekly: Make sure to dust and vacuum every week, especially in areas that collect dust quickly like the living room and bedroom.
3. Deep clean monthly: Pick one room each month to give a thorough clean. This way, no space gets a chance to collect dirt for too long.