Spring cleaning is a tradition that dates back centuries, and its exact origins are unclear. However, it is believed to have originated in ancient cultures such as the Persian, Jewish, and Chinese, where it was customary to thoroughly clean and declutter homes in preparation for the New Year.
In more recent history, homes used to get a thorough clean in spring as a way to clean away the mess from winter, from when homes used to be heated by coal and wood fires, and doors and windows were kept closed to keep the warmth in.
Whilst times have changed and homes are heated differently, many of us often use the start of spring to have a good deep clean of our homes.
If the thought of starting a full spring clean fills you with dread, we have put together some useful tips to make the most of your spring clean.
Make a Plan
Start by making a checklist of the areas you want to clean and prioritize them based on how much work they require. Planning the order in which you will tackle each area of your home will help you stay organized and focused throughout the process.
Don't Forget the Tools
Hands up if you are guilty of never using your vacuum cleaner tools and attachments and storing them at the bottom of a cupboard? 🙋🏻♀️ Well, get them out. This is their time to make your home shine.
If you have gaps between your kitchen worktops and cooker you will probably find they are full of crumbs and other food debris. Use the crevice tool to easily reach this space.
Organise the Fridge
Fridges get cluttered. We do the big shop and try to put everything away neatly, in some kind of order. Thats usually lasts under 24 hours.
To help keep your fridge better organised for longer remove excess packaging from multipacks, use containers to store small items, keep similar food types together on one shelf and rotate older food to the front to ensure it gets used.
Sort the Storage
If you store items in a garage, loft or shed the chances are that over the years it has become a bit of a mess. There is a very simple method you can follow to quickly bring some order to the chaos.
Sort everything into 3 piles - Keep, Sell / Donate and Throw Away
Once your piles are sorted and you have binned the throw away items, donated or listed on Ebay the sell / donate items (you'd be surprise at how much people will pay for items you no longer want), it is time to organise the items you want to keep.
Clean the storage area thoroughly and put items away neatly, sorted by type. As with your fridge, keep smaller items together in boxes.
Don't Forget the Microwave
In this fast paced modern world, we rely on microwaves more and more, but when was the last time you cleaned yours? Well the good news is, deep cleaning this vital piece of kitchen equipment could not be easier.
Put 1 cup of water into a bowl and add thin slices of lemon, lime or orange. Put this into the microwave and turn it on full power until the water boils and the window steams up. Let it cool for 5 minutes before opening the door. Remove the bowl and clean the insides of the microwave with a sponge.
Scrub the Shower Curtain
If your shower curtain has seen better days put it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Add a couple of towels for some extra cleaning power. Hang them back up and allow them to dry before showering.
Keep them in the best condition by spraying them every couple of weeks with an all purpose cleaning solution and rinse down with the shower.
Clean Your Brushes
Many of us forget that we are actually supposed to clean our makeup brushes every couple of weeks. If you've never cleaned yours take a look at recent blog explaining why you really need to clean them.
Use a specialist brush cleaner, such as Natural Essentoils Makeup Brush Soap and give them a deep clean. Using baby shampoo does not work, and washing up liquid can damage the bristles.
Reach for the Sky
A important part of spring cleaning is to attack those areas that we usually ignore. Look up at your ceiling corners and light fittings and chances are you will see some dust! Grab an extendable duster, or carefully stand on a sturdy stool, and clean those areas.
Say Goodnight to Dust Mites
Whilst you may be on top of washing and changing your bedding, when was the last time you gave your mattress some attention?
Using a steam cleaner is a great way to clean your mattress and rid it of any dust mites that might be lurking on the surface.
Make sure you vacuum your mattress after steaming
What About the Wardrobe
Just like the items stored in your garage or attic, sort your clothes into piles of things you want to keep and things you want to sell / donate. This keeps your wardrobe uncluttered and organised, as well as giving you extra space for those new summer items
Eeewww the Electronics
Your mobile phone probably has more bacteria on it than your toilet seat. It might be good idea to give it a clean.
Grab a microfiber cloth and disinfecting wipe. Clean the surfaces of the phone with the wipe and leave it wet for about 5 minutes to allow the disinfectant to work. Then dry it off with the microfiber cloth. Look how clean and new it looks... thats how its supposed to look!!
Clean the Cleaner
The vacuum cleaner that is. If it has a bag, replace it, and clean or replace the filter.
Once it is clean, vacuum up some scented beads for washing machines and enjoy a fresh smell every time you vacuum.
And Finally...
Warm, light evenings are just around the corner, so it's time to get the outdoor furniture clean. Hose it down and then wash it with warm water and washing up liquid. Rinse and allow to dry.
By following these spring cleaning tips, you'll be able to refresh your home and create a space that feels clean and organized. Happy cleaning