Deep Spring Cleaning: Refresh Your Space & Mind

By, Jolene Nannette

As the days grow longer and the air turns warmer, spring beckons us to emerge from the hibernation of winter. You can open your windows, not wear so many layers, and freshen up your space. It's not just a change in the season; it’s an invitation to rejuvenate our living spaces through deep spring cleaning. Deep spring cleaning is an opportunity to purge not only physical clutter but also mental and emotional disorganization. A clean, organized home can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. Studies have shown that a decluttered environment can reduce stress, improve focus, and foster creativity. This spring, consider the benefits of a thorough clean, which can set a positive tone for the months ahead. And, it always feels great to have a thoroughly clean space. Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Plan Your Attack

Before diving in, create a checklist of tasks and prioritize areas that need the most attention. Have you noticed the dusty corners of the baseboards? Limescale build-up on your faucets? A scary amount of items collecting in the corner of your closet? Consider breaking your cleaning into manageable sections to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Gather Your Supplies

Equip yourself with all necessary cleaning supplies, beyond the daily multi-purpose cleaners. Make sure you have enough vinegar, mopping liquid, microfiber cloths, trash bags, bleach, and a good descaler so that you don’t get hindered when you are ready to tackle the list.

Declutter First

Begin with decluttering each room. Commit time to putting things in their place. I always have a rule - don’t leave one room without bringing something that goes to the room you are heading to. As you are putting things away and sorting through the misplaced items, maintain an attitude of purging. Distribute items into categories: keep, donate, recycle, and throw away. This step can be liberating, as letting go of unused items creates space and reduces stress.

Dust and Wipe Down Uncommon Surfaces

Start from the top (ceiling fans, shelves) and work your way down to ensure you capture all dust and debris. Pay attention to the areas where items are not often moved (display cases, bookshelves, the top of the oven hood, baseboards, etc.)

Focus on Kitchen and Bathroom

These areas often require special attention. Clean appliances, sanitize countertops and tackle areas like behind the stove or under the sink. In bathrooms, scrub tiles, fixtures, and mirrors for a sparkling finish. Descale all faucets in the bathroom and kitchen. Use a ziplock bag filled with enough descaler to fully cover the faucet head (either vinegar or store-bought product), and let it sit on each faucet for ten minutes as you complete other items on your task list.

Windows and Drapes

Don’t forget about windows! Clean them inside and out for a clear view of the blooming outdoors. Don’t forget to wipe out the window tracks and ideally rinse off screens. Dust or wash window treatments to let in more natural light.

Organize and Optimize

As you clean, take the time to organize spaces while you are putting things back. Pay attention to what has been working and what hasn’t as far as putting items back. For example, do you constantly have to move certain items to access more often used items? Use bins and labels to keep items in their designated areas, making it easier to maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the year.

Incorporate Nature

Spring is a fantastic time to bring nature indoors. Adding a few plants or flowers to brighten your space and improve air quality always makes a space feel more fresh.

Deep spring cleaning isn't just about physical space; it's also about mental clarity. As you clean, take the opportunity to practice mindfulness. Focus on the task at hand, breathe deeply, and appreciate the transformation of your environment. This can be a meditative process, allowing you to clear your mind as you declutter your home. It doesn’t have to be an arduous process. Embrace the change of season, and enjoy the benefits of a clean, organized space that encourages peace and productivity.

By, Jolene Nannette

Home by Jolene

Jolene Nannette is a specialist in home efficiency, tackling to-do lists and calming the chaos through home organization.www.homebyjolene.com