Spring is the perfect time to give your apartment a deep clean and fresh start. Sometimes you simply need motivating tips for spring cleaning your apartment like a pro. I know that I do when I live in a multi-generational household! From decluttering to organizing, these 10 tips will help you get your living space in shape for the new season. Even if you are not too excited about cleaning, turn up the tunes, get ready to roll up your sleeves and tackle your spring cleaning checklist!
1. Make a Plan and Prioritize Tasks.
Before diving into your spring cleaning, I believe that it is important to make a plan and prioritize tasks. That way you know where you are starting and where you are going to end. The best way to start is by creating a checklist of everything you want to accomplish, and then breaking it down into smaller tasks that can be completed in one day.
This will help you stay organized and focused, and ensure that you don’t get overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done. Firstly, remember to tackle the most important tasks, such as decluttering and deep cleaning high-traffic or commonly used areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
Snag my popular Spring Cleaning Checklist and more here!
2. Deep Clean your Kitchen and Appliances.
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, and it can also be one of the most challenging areas to clean. No wonder why we keep putting it to the bottom of our lists until today. Here are some areas in the kitchen you can start working on:
- Start by emptying out your cabinets and drawers and wiping them down with a damp cloth.
- Clean your appliances.
- Wipe down your oven, microwave, and refrigerator thoroughly.
- Clean your sink and countertops
Don’t forget areas that you don’t get to clean as often such as behind your oven and fridge. When cleaning, use a multi-purpose disinfectant cleaner to kill any germs or bacteria. With a little elbow grease, your kitchen will be sparkling clean in no time.
3. Declutter Junk Drawer.
When was the last time you decluttered your junk drawer? Whether your drawer is in the kitchen, near the front door or in your home office, it is time to tackle it. Take out that drawer and really go through it. As you go through your junk drawer, make sure you break it into categories so you can relocate items that do not belong there and throw or donate items that you don’t need. Remember, if you haven’t needed yet then you won’t need it later.
4. Dust All Surfaces and Furniture.
One of the most critical but simple steps in spring cleaning your apartment is to dust all surfaces and furniture. This includes bookshelves, picture frames, tables, and any other items that collect dust. Since dust doesn’t seem to ever stop collecting, use a microfiber cloth or duster to remove dust from surfaces, and be sure to get into all the corners. This will help to remove any dirt, dust, or allergens that have accumulated over the winter months, leaving your apartment feeling fresh and clean.
Consider using homemade essential oils sprays to help repel dust:
- How to Make a Simple, Natural Dusting Spray by Living Well Mom
- DIY Dusting Spray by Dont Mess with Mama
5. Vacuum Area Rugs.
Vacuuming may seem like a typical go-to but as much as we vacuum the top of the rug, you should also look under your area rug as it needs some attention too. Add baking soda to your area rug and let it sit for a little while. After you are done with your usual vacuum roll up the rug and give the flooring underneath some love and care because some vacuums do not have a strong enough suction to reach the full bottom of your rug.
6. Wipe Down Light Fixtures.
If you can’t remember the last time you wipe down your light fixtures, then you should probably add this one to your list. Your light fixtures can simply be overlooked. Start by unscrewing the lampshade and giving it a good clean. Remove away any dust and give the light bulb a good wipe-down. Ensure that your light is turned off when you do this. Don’t forget to clean the ceiling fans and entryway lights as well.
7. Scrub your Bathroom from Top to Bottom.
The bathroom is another area that requires a deep cleaning during spring. Here is a quick list to get you started:
- Remove any items from your shower or bathtub and give them a good scrub.
- Clean your toilet thoroughly, including the bowl, tank, and base.
- Don’t forget to wipe down your sink and countertops.
- Clean any mirrors or windows.
- Sweep or vacuum the floors.
- Finally, finish by mopping the floors.
Cleaning a shower or tub can be exhausting for your arms, therefore here are a few of my favourite products and gadgets that make spring cleaning your bathroom much easier:
- LABIGO Electric Spin Scrubber
- Silicone Toilet Brush and Holder Set
- Scrub Daddy – Scratch-Free Multipurpose Dish SpongeÂ
- The Pink Stuff The Miracle Cream Cleaner
- The Miracle Multi-Purpose CleanerÂ
- TICWELL Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner and Mop
8. Wash Down your Walls
Walls can get dirty so easily regardless if you have kids or not. I don’t know about you, but I am always shocked by the difference between the before and after of my walls once I am done. Wall cleaning is not the most fun however it needs to get done and since you are spring cleaning your apartment anyways, now is the time.
For me, an easy way to clean your walls is to use a J Cloth or a Swiffer with a handle and go over the walls with it. I also love using my Hoover ONEPWR Handheld Sprayer since it covers a larger portion of my wall in comparison to usual bottles.
9. Declutter and donate unwanted items.
One of my favourite steps is decluttering! So of course, I needed to add it to your list for when you are spring cleaning your apartment. Go through each room and remove anything you no longer need or use. This includes books, kitchen gadgets, and anything else that is taking up space. Use this time to consider donating items that are still in good condition. When you do this, you are creating more space in your apartment.
10. Clear Your Closet.
Speaking about decluttering, this means your closets too! Start by gathering boxes or bags then pull out all clothing, lay them out if possible and sort through each item and assess if it is:
- Worn out (items with holes or with impossibly to remove stains)
- You no longer wear or want to wear
- Doesn’t fit properly or is uncomfortable to wear
- Items you want to keep
For the items that you are going to keep, think about organizing them to match your lifestyle. Ensure that the clothing you need more often is easy to access and is altogether.
Final Thoughts
Once you have gone through this list, and officially completed spring cleaning your apartment, you deserve to treat yourself. After all, spring cleaning can be tiresome and exhausting for anyone. Tell me, do you treat yourself after doing a day’s work of cleaning? If not, you should consider it because why not! Also, if you haven’t already, don’t forget to check out my Spring Cleaning Checklist and more!
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