Part 1: Indoor Projects
With spring right around the corner and Mother Nature ready to work her seasonal magic, it’s a great time to invigorate and refresh the inside of your home! Now’s the perfect time to prepare for the warmer weather ahead.
If your “Honey Do List” isn’t full enough, here’s more projects to add to it! Part 1 will make your indoors ready for spring so you can enjoy the change of seasons to the fullest.
PLAN TO GET READY FOR SPRING CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
A clean house makes everyone feel better, especially after a long winter. A clean home will set the tone for a fresh and rejuvenating season. Here’s how to tackle spring cleaning effectively.
Preparation and Shopping List
A great first step is to begin by creating a realistic schedule and prioritizing the tasks that need to be completed. Prepare a shopping list for any necessary cleaning supplies or equipment you may need, such as:
- Multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant spray and wipes.
- Microfiber cloths, sponges, scrub brushes and magic erasers.
- Mop, bucket, vacuum cleaner with attachments, broom, dustpan, carpet shampoo and spot cleaner.
- Toilet bowl cleaner, shower and tile cleaner, wood polish and oven cleaner.
- Bucket, rags, scrub brush, paper towels.
- Masking tape or a label maker to easily identify the contents of boxes and plastic storage bins.
- Specialty cleaners for stainless steel appliances or sinks, grout cleaner, steam cleaners, etc.
- Trash bags, vacuum cleaner bags and filters, storage bins.
- Replacement light bulbs, air filters and batteries.
- Tools (caulk, paint, brushes and ladder)
- Spend a dollar for a small notepad that fits in your pocket. You’ll be able to jot down items that need fixing and reminders so you won’t forget something on the next errands trip.
- A measuring tape is always handy to have nearby.
Declutter Your Living Spaces
- Sort through your stuff by going through closets, drawers and storage areas. Separate items into keep, donate, and discard piles.
- Maximize your storage space by using plastic tote bins, baskets and organizers to keep everything neat and accessible in the basement, garage or attic.
- Focus on surfaces by clearing off countertops, tables, and shelves of unnecessary clutter. The goal here is to get better organized and create a more open, airier atmosphere.
Indoor Maintenance
- Vacuum Cleaner: Empty canisters, clean attachments, replace filters, clean rollers, check exhaust system, check for a frayed or damaged power cord and check battery health on cordless models.
- Clean and Inspect Ceiling Fans: Dust the motor housing and blades (top and bottom) and reverse direction for seasonal airflow.
- Light Fixtures: Inspect ceiling fixtures and lamps for burned out light bulbs and replace with energy efficient options.
- Alarms: Replace batteries and then test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Do a quick inventory and restock any emergency supplies used over the past 6 months.
Deep Clean Every Room
- Kitchen: Clean appliances inside and out, scrub countertops, organize your pantry, and pitch outdated and expired items. Don’t forget to move your fridge and stove away from the wall and clean behind and underneath them.
- Bathrooms: Scrub tiles, sanitize fixtures and either wash or replace old shower curtains and liners.
- Bedrooms: Wash all bedding, vacuum under the bed and rotate your mattress for even wear.
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- Living Areas: Dust furniture, give the carpeting a thorough vacuuming and then shampoo it. Wipe down the walls and baseboards, especially the corners. Wash all windows and windowsills.
Refresh Indoor Air Quality
- Replace the filter(s) on your furnace or air handler to improve indoor air quality.
- Open windows on appropriate days for natural ventilation.
- Consider adding new indoor plants to brighten your space while purifying the air.
Mechanical and HVAC Systems
As temperatures fluctuate, your home’s mechanical systems may need attention. Taking proactive measures now can save you trouble later.
- Schedule professional servicing for HVAC and plumbing systems.
- Inspect all faucets and pipes for leaks or winter damage.
- Clean gas fireplace glass.
- For wood burning equipment, clean the glass and remove ashes from firebox. Schedule annual chimney cleaning and inspection.
- Flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup, improve efficiency and extend its life.
- Every couple of years, schedule furnace air duct cleaning.
Energy Efficiency
- Wrap any exposed pipes to protect against fluctuating temperatures.
- Inspect and replace any compacted or compromised insulation in attics and crawl spaces.
- Inspect the caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors and replace if needed.
- Clean any solar panels to improve performance.
Consider Updating Your Home Decor
If your budget permits and it’s been on your radar for a while, refreshing your decor can bring the spirit of spring indoors. Use fun, light colors, natural elements and seasonal touches to brighten up your home.
Swap Out Textiles
- Replace heavy curtains, throws and bedding with lightweight fabric options.
- Incorporate pastel or floral-patterned pillows and rugs.
- Layer textures by combining materials like linen, cotton and wicker for a cozy yet airy feel.
Bring Nature Indoors
- Display fresh flowers around your home. Who doesn’t think that daffodils, tulips and crocuses can put a smile on your face and leave you in a cheerful mood?
- Add natural materials to your decorating scheme with wooden accents, woven baskets and stone elements.
- Potted plants, succulents and fresh-cut flowers are always an awesome touch on a shelf, table, or windowsill.
Revitalize Your Entryway
- First impressions are important. Add a welcome mat with a cheerful spring-themed design.
- Hang a seasonal wreath or floral arrangement on the front door.
- Organize shoes with racks or trays to keep your entryway clean and tidy.
Final Touch’s To Welcome Spring
With these tips, your house will be ready to embrace the joys of the new season. Celebrate spring by enjoying a few quiet moments to relax and appreciate your efforts. From a sparkling interior to a welcoming atmosphere, your home will shine with the season’s energy. Maybe it’s time to send out those invitations for your 1st Annual Welcome to Spring Party!
