Spring cleaning can be overwhelming, but if you make

a list of cleaning to-dos, it will be easier and less-

stressful than you think!  Trust me, when everything on

your list is checked off, the best reward will be a clean,

fresh, clutter-free home.

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1. Make a plan.  Make a list of all the rooms in your home

and create a checklist of what needs to be accomplished

in each room.  Create a timeline with deadlines so you

can hold yourself accountable. 
2. Take it one room at a time. This is a good time to have

tunnel-vision and only focus on one room per day, as this will keep you from getting overwhelmed.

If you start in the kitchen, toss any expired food from your pantry and refrigerator.  Get rid of any

clutter in cabinets and under the sink. Deep clean your appliances, wipe down cabinets and scrub

baseboards. 

3. Protect yourself from allergies. If you suffer from allergies like I do, all this cleaning will unsettle dust, pet dander, possible mold and more.  Wear a mask, gloves and turn on an air purifier.  If you suffer from pollen, now may not be a good time to open the windows, as this will only let more allergens in.  Dust all surfaces in your home, even in spots you wouldn’t normally think of (on top of the
refrigerator, window blinds, ceiling fan blades, under couches, etc.), and make sure to always
work from top to bottom when dusting. 

4. Get rid of clutter. Time to go through your closets.  If you haven't worn a piece of clothing, shoes, or costume jewelry in over a year, it is probably time to donate it.  Now is also a good time to go through your vehicle compartments and your junk drawer(s) (you know you have at least one)! Be sure to also clean your make-up brushes and dispose of any expired cosmetics, and revisit the items you are storing in your attic, basement, garage or storage unit.
5. Wash clothes and bedding before storing. If you plan on packing away any heavy bedding or clothes
until next winter, don’t forget to wash them before storing them. This includes comforters, mattress
pads, sheets, blankets, quilts, coats and jackets, and sweaters. 

6. Don’t forget your smoke / carbon monoxide detectors and HVAC air filters.  These items are often overlooked on our spring-cleaning checklist. Daylight Saving Time is a great time to check and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.