Spring Cleaning 101
The history of spring cleaning is not only spiritual but also biological and rhythmic. Humans, like animals, come into lighter, longer days with more energy and begin to work and move more again. Moreover, different cultures have special links to spring cleaning and this notion of renewal through cleaning. In the Bible, spring cleaning is alluded to during Passover. In Southeast Asia, the new year is celebrated during the spring and people traditionally clean their homes. In Peru, spring kick offs the new year, and the house is “shaken” to remove dust. In the U.S., the spring also ushers in Earth Day, another reminder of the importance of cleaning and caring for our environment.
Benefits of Spring Cleaning
Just as the traditions surrounding spring cleaning are numerous, so are the benefits. Spring cleaning can help:
-Fight allergies via elimination of dust, mold, etc.
-Improve immunity
-Potentially improve sleep after cleaning bedding and decluttering the bedroom
-Fight off pesty invaders
-Reduce stress via eliminated clutter
-Potentially improve heart health
Spring Cleaning Checklist
Dust everything! Use a broom or Swiffer to reach high ceiling corners and dust all tables, chairs, mirrors, wall hangings, light fixtures, and books, which are major collectors of damaging dust.
Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and other high-touch areas.
Wash your walls using warm water and a little bit of dish soap. Vinegar can also be used but only with certain types of paint.
Clean all kitchen appliances, including your oven and refrigerator as well as small appliances.
Wipe kitchen cabinets. Empty cabinets, if possible, and dust inside using a dry cloth.
Wash the inside of your washing machine.
Flush your plumbing using vinegar, baking soda, and warm water.
Vacuum cloth furniture and window treatments.
Wash small rugs and shampoo larger ones.
Clean windows, including screens. Look closely for parts of the screen that need patching.
Wash bed linens, including pillows and comforters. If possible (based on your bed and mattress), rotate your mattress.
Deep clean the bathroom by removing expired medicine, emptying products/bottles, washing the shower curtain and liner (or replacing the liner if necessary), and scrubbing the toilet. Scrubbing should also extend to the grout. If you have a fan, you should also vacuum it to reduce dust and improve efficiency. Another recommended task for the bathroom is to wash all makeup brushes.
Touch up chipped paint.
Clean electronics, including cell phones, keyboards, TV remotes, and computer screens.
Spring Cleaning Tips
Make sure you have proper cleaning supplies before you begin. This is also a good time to ensure the vacuum filter is clean, which will improve the effectiveness of your efforts.
Consider making a realistic plan before you begin on how you will tackle spring cleaning. Also, consider how family members can pitch in!
Eliminate and reduce clutter and unnecessary items in closets, junk drawers, magazine racks, etc. before you begin.
Work from the top down so when you vacuum and mop any fallen dust will be collected.
Spring marks the time for a deep clean, which can motivate homeowners to clean areas that do not get daily or weekly attention. While the task can be daunting, broken into small practical steps, spring cleaning will hopefully revive and refresh the home—as well as those who live in it.
