CHECKLIST: Preparing for Spring Cleaning

*Snowpocalypse last week meets 60-degree weather the next* 

Us: "Well, better bust out the Swiffer and gardening soil!" 

We KNOW we can't be the only ones. Regardless if the weather we're having sticks around or not, spring cleaning is less than a month out. The thought of truly deep-cleaning a home can be daunting. Let's get real, most of us opt for a light dusting and some de-cluttering and call it a day. That's where we come in! Read on to find a checklist of where you should focus your deep-cleaning efforts + tips and tricks that make the process a little easier.

THE KITCHEN

• Remove all items from cabinets and drawers. Clean bottom and sides of the drawer with a warm water and detergent solution. Organize the items neatly inside.

• Soak cutting boards and displayed china

• Remove crumbs from the toaster

• De-grease microwave, stove and backplash 

• Use a water-based solution to scrub window sills, ceiling fans, light fixtures and blinds

THE BATHROOMS

• Clear sink, shower drain and vent covers

• Spray an anti-mold cleaning agent on shower doors + places that harness moisture

• Shine all hardware + wax the tub

• Remove (and organize) all items from vanity + use detergent solution to clean bottom and sides of the compartment

• Remove toilet seat to scrub grime from bolts

THE BEDROOMS

• Clear out each drawer, clean with solution and neatly replace items

• Sprinkle baking soda on uncovered mattress, let it set in and then vacuum 

• Air out mattress pads & replace pillows

• Donate items no longer in use

MISC. SPACES

• Vacuum dust from baseboards and scrub trim

• Deep-shampoo all carpets/rugs/upholstered furniture + wax and shine all hardwood floors

• Soak window screens

• Change batteries in all smoke detectors

TIPS & TRICKS FOR TACKLING THE JOB

• Keep a squeegee in your shower to prevent mold growth year-round

• Start cleaning from the top of the room and work your way down so dust doesn't settle

• If having some professional cleaning done, schedule your appointments in advance to secure a spot as early in the month as possible & avoid the rush of last-minute spring cleaners

• Remove donation items and out of date products from the home first to avoid cleaning around extra clutter

• Clean in sections and time increments to avoid the burnout and maintain a better clean

These cleaning steps make all the difference when it's time to put your home on the market! We want to hear from you -- Drop your favorite cleaning solutions for us below in the comments.