Spring is finally here, bringing open windows, outdoor play, and a fresh start at home. After months of winter hibernation, buildup, dust, clutter and germs have likely settled into every corner, collecting in places that are easy to overlook. A thorough cleaning helps create a healthier environment, especially as your kids spend more time outside and at school. Tackling the process step by step makes it more manageable and sets up habits that will keep your home fresh long after spring. Here are some easy steps to get started:
Declutter and Donate
Decluttering is a great place to start on your spring cleaning checklist. Kids outgrow clothes and toys quickly, leaving closets and playrooms full of things they no longer use. Sort through everything and donate what is no longer needed to create more space and make it easier when it’s time to clean and disinfect your home. Now is the time to go through your children’s winter coats, sports gear and backpacks for donation while storing away seasonal items properly. This simple step helps create more space and teaches kids to take care of their belongings.
Work from Top to Bottom
Dust and dirt settle on high surfaces first and gradually make their way down. When it’s time to clean, start by dusting ceiling fans, shelves, and light fixtures before wiping down walls, baseboards and windowsills. Vacuuming furniture and then finishing with the floors prevents dust from resettling. Cleaning in the right order saves time and makes the process more efficient.
Don’t Overlook High-Touch Surfaces and Items
Certain areas need extra attention during spring cleaning, especially those surfaces and items you use daily that collect germs and bacteria. Doorknobs, light switches and remote controls are some of the most frequently used items in the home, making them important to disinfect regularly. Backpacks and lunchboxes travel between school and home each weekday, so they need a thorough wipe-down to keep them fresh and germ-free. Tablets and gaming controllers also carry germs from continual use. Use products like Lysol Disinfecting Wipes or Lysol Disinfectant Spray, as directed, on these surfaces to eliminate 99.9% of viruses and bacteria.
Make Cleaning Kid-Friendly
Getting kids involved in cleaning will make your job easier and teach them responsibility, which is a win-win! Assign small tasks, like sorting books or tidying up their toys, to help them build good habits. Turn cleaning into a game by setting a timer or playing music to make tasks more fun and engaging. Use storage bins and label them by category to encourage kids to keep things organized. A deep clean at the start of spring helps reset your home and keep it fresh as the seasons change. Small efforts add up and make a big difference in creating a fresher space for your family.
