As we gear up to experience April showers, signaling the start of a new season, it’s time to begin spring cleaning to freshen up your new home. Spring cleaning has ancient roots, with origins traced back to various cultural and religious practices. Historically, spring symbolizes a time of renewal and is the perfect time to give extra attention to the nooks and crannies of your new living space. Take time to pause, cleanse, and renew your surroundings with Kerley Family Homes’ five essential tips to help you tackle your spring cleaning with ease!
1. Declutter and Organize
Kick off your spring cleaning by decluttering and organizing each room. Look at items you no longer need or use and donate or recycle them. If this sounds daunting, break the task into smaller chunks of time. You can start small and tackle a portion of a closet or a shelf in the pantry rather than an entire room. Use storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelves to keep things tidy and easily accessible once you’ve gotten rid of the unused items.
A clutter-free space will make you feel more comfortable in your new home and allow you to invite guests over more often! Once your donation box is ready, consider going to local places that accept gently-used items. In Georgia, places like Habitat for Humanity® and the Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta are great resources for donating large furniture pieces for people in need!
2. Deep Clean Floors and Carpets
One of the first things people notice when they enter your home is the quality of your floors. Unfortunately, winter can leave behind dirt and grime on floors and carpets, possibly making your home look dingy and unkempt. Give your floors a thorough spring cleaning by vacuuming, mopping, or steam cleaning as needed. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas in your home, especially by the front and back doors. And remember to move furniture to get those hard-to-reach spots. A clean floor enhances your home’s appearance and promotes a healthier environment for your family and guests.
3. Freshen Up Fabrics
Many people forget this step, but spring is the perfect time to freshen up curtains, upholstery, and bedding. Wash or dry clean curtains and drapes to remove dust and allergens. Vacuum upholstered furniture using sprinkled baking soda and a fabric refresher to eliminate lingering odors. Put bedding, including pillows and comforters, in the laundry if they are washing machine-safe. Take other pieces to the dry cleaners to ensure the fabric is protected and the shape stays intact.
4. Scrub and Shine Surfaces
Give your kitchen and bathroom a spring clean to remove built-up grime and bacteria. Use a multi-purpose cleaner or disinfectant wipes to clean countertops, cabinets, and appliances. Alternatives like DIY natural cleaning supplies made with vinegar, water, baking soda, and lemon are great eco-friendly options. Remember to scrub sinks, faucets, and fixtures to restore their shine. For stubborn stains, consider using a mild abrasive cleaner or DIY solutions.
5. Focus on Outdoor Spaces
Extend your spring cleaning beyond the indoors and tackle outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and gardens. Sweep away debris, power wash surfaces, and prune overgrown plants to create an inviting outdoor oasis. Remember to clean outdoor furniture and equipment, such as grills and gardening tools, to prepare for the spring and summer seasons.
Spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to refresh your home and create a clean and inviting space for the season ahead. By following these five essential tips from Kerley Family Homes, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fresh start and a happier, healthier home. If you’re looking for a new home to settle into this spring, contact an agent today for information on our available homes and new metro Atlanta communities!