This time of year it may be tempting to head outside to smell the flowers, but there’s a reason spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition. A fresh, clean look will help your family be more productive and comfortable in this new season.

Four Spring Cleaning Tips (Plus Bonus Cleaning Inspiration!)

House Cleaning Checklist

First, you need a plan. You can schedule chores for each day or, for bigger projects, each week. Also, consider whether you can divide up the necessary tasks among family members.

Figure out what rooms you want to tackle first, what needs to be packed away, or given away, and what to clean out and replace. A house cleaning checklist will help.

Ceiling Cleaning

Everyone from seasoned homemakers to cleaning professionals adhere to this simple rule: start from the top and work your way to the bottom as you clean. That means your first step is to look up for cobwebs and dust. You can use a duster with an extension rod to dust ceiling fans. This is also a good time to clean light fixtures and replace burned out bulbs.

Window Cleaning

Window cleaning is not usually on the top of anyone’s “want to do list,” but it can make a stunning difference. In addition to polishing the glass, dust the frames and blinds. Also, decide whether you need to wash, dry-clean, or vacuum the curtains.  Finally, check your windows to see if they need resealing anywhere. (Last year we had a mysterious recurring puddle in our laundry room. New sealant on the exterior of the window was a quick and easy fix.)

Surface Cleaning

Now, let’s talk about floor cleaning. This “most used” surface in your home needs some TLC. Spring clean provides an opportunity to assess whether your floors simply need a deep cleaning, special treatment to rejuvenate them, or even replaced.  For carpet, deep clean and vacuum.  Lift up any rugs and, if possible for that material type, wash them.  For hardwoods and stone tile give them a good sweeping, and mopping– paying extra attention to cleaning the edges where the wall meets the floor. Be sure to use safe cleaning materials that won’t damage your floors. (This is especially important if you have hardwood floors.)

This is also a good time to consider whether you have materials that need special care such as granite or travertine tile that should be resealed.

Inspiration to Clean Like a Pro

I recently found an online Maid Training Academy which claims graduates can clean a 3,500 square foot house in four hours. I’m impressed! You can check out their free cleaning videos with commentary.

Do you have spring cleaning tips to share?