Spring is officially kicking off this week, and while chores may not be at the top of your warmer weather to do list, regular home maintenance can help you identify issues before they become big problems.
In an effort to help you get past the starting line, we’d like to share our approach and a spring-cleaning checklist to get your home sparkling.
Spring cleaning tools
- Broom, extendable duster, dustpan, and mop
- Vacuum with duster and upholstery attachments
- Soft cloths (lint-free and microfiber), sponges, scrub brush, paper towels
- Cleaning solutions: glass, floor, oven, all-purpose surface cleaner (a solution of white vinegar and baking soda is great on bathtubs, tiles, sinks and counter tops!)
- Washing detergent (dish and clothes)
- Bucket
- Garbage bags and boxes
- Gloves
- An awesome music playlist to keep you energized
Tips for House Cleaning This Spring
- Recruit help: Involve your family! Assign tasks based on age and ability.
- Prepare supplies: Gather all cleaning tools and supplies beforehand.
- Clean one room at a time: Set realistic goals and check off tasks as you go.
- Set time limits: Use a timer to stay on track and avoid distractions.
- Remove clutter: Declutter before cleaning. Decide what to keep, toss or donate.
- Clean top to bottom: Start from the ceiling and work your way down.
- Reward yourself: Treat yourself after cleaning to stay motivated!
Tips for Cleaning the Inside the Home
After coming out of hibernation this winter, it should come as no surprise that the inside of your home may have accumulated lots of dust and debris. As you begin deep cleaning inside of your home, in addition to removing dust and cobwebs under the bed, be sure to take a critical look at potential risks in these hidden spaces:
Stuff can accumulate over the winter, especially after the holiday season. Take this opportunity to clear the clutter out of your basement and other areas where things tend to pile up.
Clean and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Clean alarms with a dry cloth. For battery-powered units, vacuum inside with a soft brush; for wired units, vacuum outside vents only after shutting off power. When finished, restore power and test the unit.
- Replace batteries annually or bi-annually. Check for expiration dates on smoke alarms!
Clean and repair damaged window screens
- Check and repair window screens before open-window weather. Winter storms and wind can damage them!
- Clean your window screens with a vacuum, or wash with warm soapy water and rinse.
Replace the HVAC Filter
- While hot weather may still be a few weeks away, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioner is ready to go when you are. A new filter for your home heating and cooling system will help optimize the efficiency of the unit.
Clean the sump pump
- To help prevent water damage, keep your sump pump in good working order. Clean it by removing debris from the basin and pump the inlet screen to ensure proper water flow.
Clean the vent from your clothes dryer
- Regularly clean the lint trap and the dryer exhaust tubing to prevent fiber build up, but then clean out the tube leading outside. That can build-up lint, reducing your dryer’s efficiency over time.
- Inspect your washing machine’s water supply hoses for wear and tear, and replace them if needed to avoid leaks or bursts.
Tips for Cleaning Outside the Home
Check roof and shingles
- High winds, excessive rain, snow, and sun can damage your roof. Hire a professional to check for damaged shingles and replace any that are cracked, buckled, or loose.
- Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys should also be checked.
Check for cracks in your home’s foundation
- Check your home’s foundation for cracks to prevent water seepage during spring thaw or heavy rain.
- Some cracks can be sealed, while others may need professional repairs. If you’re not sure what to do with what you find, contact a professional to ensure potential problems are addressed immediately.
Clean eavestroughs and downspouts
- But didn’t I just clean them out in the fall? Yes, but more leaves and debris may have collected there over the winter, and you’ll want to make sure your eaves and downspouts are ready to take on the spring showers.
- Check for loose or leaky gutters as improper drainage can lead to water infiltration. Make sure downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
Check seals around windows and doors
- Inspect and replace caulk around windows and doors as cold weather can cause cracks or hardening. Good seals help prevent water from getting in and help keep cool air-conditioned air inside (the same will be true of the warm air your furnace produces when winter rolls back around).
Check the landscaping
- While outdoors, take the time to look for large tree branches that could cause damage to your roof during a windstorm. Contact a professional to help with the clean-up in a way that will keep your trees healthy.
Repair damaged siding or trim
- Check your home’s siding and trim for winter damage. If your home is made of brick or stucco, look for crumbling or deteriorated mortar. If you find a problem, contact a professional to repair or replace the damaged materials.
Service the AC unit
- Hire a professional to clean and service the outside unit of your air conditioning system. Clean units operate more efficiently, and an annual service will help keep the system working at peak performance.
Staying on top of your home maintenance is the best way to ensure that it continues to do its job of providing protection for you and your loved ones.
Ready to continue on your spring-cleaning journey? The Good Hands Advice team has you covered! Check out this article for a spring-cleaning checklist for your car.
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