The Big Spring Cleaning Guide A Step by Step Plan for a Sparkling Home
Hey ladies, welcome to your ultimate spring-cleaning guide! 🌸✨
I know what you’re thinking: “Spring cleaning? Ugh. Can’t I just light a candle and call it a day?” Trust me, I’ve been there—procrastinating, binge-watching Netflix, and convincing myself that a quick swipe of a Clorox wipe counts as deep cleaning. Spoiler: it doesn’t. But once you dive in, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing your space go from “ehhh” to immaculate.
There’s something magical about scrubbing away the winter blues, decluttering like you’re on an HGTV show, and stepping back to admire a home that sparkles like your favorite highlighter. Plus, there’s no better feeling than lighting a candle after cleaning and pretending you’re the main character in a home makeover show.
So, throw on your comfiest leggings, tie up that messy bun (because, queen, we’re getting stuff done), and blast that playlist you wouldn’t dare play in front of your friends. Let’s make spring cleaning fun, fabulous, and oh-so-satisfying. Grab your mop, and let’s roll! 🧹✨
Section 1: Preparing for the Big Clean
1.1 Create a Spring-Cleaning Checklist
Let’s be real—jumping into spring cleaning without a plan is like going grocery shopping when you’re hungry: chaotic and full of regret. So, step one? Make a checklist that breaks everything down so you can tackle it room by room without feeling overwhelmed.
Living Room:
Declutter coffee tables, shelves, and that one corner of the couch that’s become a black hole for socks and snack wrappers.
Dust every surface—yes, even the top of your ceiling fan that hasn’t been touched since… ever.
Vacuum under the couch. (Brace yourself—you might find lost change, a bobby pin graveyard, and that earring you swore was gone forever.)
Clean windows and blinds. Blinds are dust magnets, and your windows deserve to be smudge-free.
Fluff pillows, wash throw blankets, and add a vase of fresh flowers because you’re fancy like that.
Bonus Tip: Use a cute planner or cleaning app to track your progress. There’s something so satisfying about checking off tasks while you sip your coffee like the cleaning queen you are.
Kitchen:
Empty the fridge and toss anything that’s questionable. (If you have to sniff it twice, it’s time to let it go.)
Deep clean your oven and microwave. Fun fact: steam your microwave with a bowl of water and lemon slices for five minutes, and the grime wipes right off. It’s like magic but with citrus.
Scrub your stovetop, wipe down cabinets, and clean out your pantry. (No, you do not need that expired can of soup from 2021.)
Scrub the sink with baking soda and vinegar until it sparkles. Pro tip: throw lemon peels down the garbage disposal for a fresh scent.
Sweep, mop, and revel in your crumb-free floors.
Bedroom:
Declutter your closet like you’re starring in your own episode of Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. If it doesn’t spark joy or make you feel fabulous, donate it!
Wash all your bedding, including pillowcases, duvet covers, and that throw blanket you’ve had since college.
Dust your nightstands, lamps, and headboard. Don’t forget to vacuum under the bed! (I once found a slipper, three socks, and a book I forgot I owned. True story.)
Organize your drawers and add some scented sachets for that just-cleaned smell.
Bathroom:
Scrub the shower and tub with baking soda and vinegar. (You’ll get an arm workout, but your tiles will shine like new.)
Disinfect the toilet from top to bottom. Don’t forget the base and behind it! (Yes, it’s gross, but you’ll feel accomplished afterward.)
Wipe down mirrors, counters, and faucets.
Toss expired beauty products and organize what’s left. (Goodbye, dried-up mascara from 2019.)
Sweep, mop, and swap out your old towels for fresh, fluffy ones.
Bonus Tip: Put on your favorite playlist or binge a podcast while cleaning. It’s like having a friend chat with you while you work. My personal fave? True crime podcasts—it’s like solving mysteries while scrubbing floors.
1.2 Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Girl, there’s nothing worse than being halfway through scrubbing your bathroom sink and realizing you’re out of cleaner. So, gather your supplies beforehand.
Here’s your must-have list:
Microfiber cloths (because paper towels are so last decade)
All-purpose cleaner (the MVP of cleaning)
Glass cleaner for streak-free mirrors and windows
Disinfectant wipes (perfect for quick cleanups)
Baking soda and vinegar (the power duo of eco-friendly cleaning)
A vacuum that doesn’t sound like it’s about to give up on life
A mop and bucket (or a spray mop if you’re feeling fancy)
Bonus Tip: Organize everything in a cute cleaning caddy. It’s practical and makes you feel like a Pinterest cleaning guru.
Section 2: Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide
2.1 Living Room: The Heart of the Home
Let’s start with the living room because, let’s face it, this is where we spend most of our time pretending we’ll “just watch one more episode.”
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Declutter Everything:
Clear coffee tables, shelves, and that one chair that’s basically become a laundry storage unit. (We’ve all got one.) Toss out trash, organize books and magazines, and put away random items that somehow migrated to your living room.
Story time: I once found a plate, a sock, and my car keys under my couch cushions. Don’t ask.
2. Dust Like a Boss:
Use a microfiber cloth for shelves, decor, picture frames, and TV screens. Don’t forget your ceiling fan! (Tip: Use an old pillowcase—just slide it over each blade and pull dust off without it flying everywhere.)
3. Vacuum and Mop:
Move the furniture and vacuum under everything. Yes, even the couch. (I found a missing earring, three bobby pins, and a cookie I definitely didn’t remember dropping.) Then mop for that squeaky-clean finish.
4. Clean Windows and Blinds:
Spray glass cleaner on windows and wipe in a Z-pattern for no streaks. Use a damp cloth to clean blinds (pro tip: wrap the cloth around a spatula for easy cleaning between slats).
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Fluff pillows, wash throw blankets, and add fresh flowers or a new candle. Now, sit back and admire your work—you’ve earned it.
Bonus Tip: Rotate your decor (like changing throw pillow covers) for a quick and affordable seasonal refresh.
2.2 Kitchen: The Heart of the Mess
Your kitchen sees it all—from that midnight snack run to your Pinterest-fail baking attempts. Time to give it a glow-up!
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Fridge Purge:
Take everything out. Toss expired items, wipe shelves with vinegar water, and organize your food into bins for that Instagram-worthy fridge.
Funny but gross story: I once found a forgotten container of leftovers so old that even science would’ve said, “Nah, we’re good.”
2. Scrub Appliances:
Microwave: Steam clean with lemon water. Just heat a bowl of water and lemon slices for 5 minutes, then wipe the grime away effortlessly.
Oven: Make a baking soda paste, spread it inside, and let it sit overnight. Wipe clean in the morning (with minimal scrubbing!).
Stovetop: Remove burners and soak them in soapy water, then scrub the surface until it shines.
3. Cabinets and Drawers:
Empty them out, wipe them clean, and toss anything expired or unused. (Do you really need that jar of spices from 2018?)
4. Sink and Faucet:
Scrub with baking soda and vinegar for a sparkling finish. Toss some lemon peels down the disposal for a fresh scent.
5. Floors:
Sweep, vacuum, and mop. Don’t forget the corners where crumbs love to hide!
Bonus Tip: Add a cute, washable rug in front of the sink for comfort while you cook (or snack).
2.3 Bedroom: Your Cozy Sanctuary
Your bedroom should be your peaceful escape, not a dumping ground for laundry and empty coffee cups. Let’s fix that!
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Declutter the Closet:
Take everything out (yes, everything). Donate what doesn’t fit, what you haven’t worn in a year, or what doesn’t make you feel fabulous.
Confession: I once found a top from high school. I graduated years ago. Into the donation pile it went!
2. Refresh Your Bedding:
Wash sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and even your mattress protector. Vacuum the mattress for dust and allergens.
3. Dust and Wipe Surfaces:
Clean nightstands, dressers, lamps, and your headboard. I once found an entire dust colony behind my headboard. Never again.
4. Vacuum Under the Bed:
Yes, it’s scary under there, but you might find lost socks, books, and possibly a small fortune in loose change.
5. Add Cozy Touches:
Fresh flowers, a scented candle, and matching storage bins make your room feel like a boutique hotel.
Bonus Tip: Swap to velvet hangers for a chic, space-saving closet upgrade.
2.4 Bathroom: The Home Spa
Your bathroom has seen everything—from your 10-step skincare routine to that time you tried DIY bangs (we don’t talk about it). Let’s give it some TLC.
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Scrub the Shower and Tub:
Use a mix of baking soda and vinegar. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub away soap scum and grime. (Your arms will get a workout, but it’s worth it!)
2. Disinfect the Toilet:
Clean inside the bowl with toilet cleaner and use disinfectant wipes for the seat, handle, and base. Don’t forget behind the toilet—it’s a dust magnet.
3. Clean Mirrors and Counters:
Wipe down with glass cleaner and organize your beauty products. Toss anything expired or that you haven’t used in months.
4. Mop the Floor:
Sweep first, then mop. Pay extra attention to the corners and behind the door.
5. Add Spa Touches:
A plush bath mat, a cute soap dispenser, and a small plant make your bathroom feel like a spa retreat.
Bonus Tip: Use a mesh bag to keep your shower products organized and off the floor.
2.5 Home Office: Your Productivity Zone
Whether you’re working from home or just using your office for TikTok scrolling, it deserves to be clean and organized.
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Declutter Your Desk:
Remove everything, wipe down the surface, and only keep what you need (and love). Organize papers into folders or trays.
2. Dust and Wipe Surfaces:
Clean your desk, shelves, and electronics. Use a microfiber cloth for your computer screen and a disinfectant wipe for your keyboard and mouse (they’re germ central).
3. Organize Supplies:
Use drawer dividers for pens, cables, and random office supplies. (Yes, you really do have 12 pens in that drawer.)
4. Vacuum and Mop:
Clean under your desk and around your chair. Dust bunnies love to hide here.
5. Add Inspiring Touches:
A cute desk organizer, a small plant, or a new mouse pad can make your workspace feel fresh and fun.
Bonus Tip: Hide messy cords with cable organizers or washi tape.
Section 3: Special Focus Areas
Windows and Curtains:
Remove curtains and wash them. (You’ll be shocked at how much dust they hold.)
Clean blinds with a damp cloth or microfiber glove.
Wipe down window tracks with a toothbrush and some vinegar.
Floors and Carpets:
Vacuum carpets thoroughly and use a carpet cleaner if you can. (It’s gross but satisfying to see the dirt come out.)
Mop hard floors and wipe down baseboards.
Outdoor Spaces:
Sweep your balcony or patio.
Clean outdoor furniture with soapy water.
Add string lights or a new outdoor rug for a cozy vibe.
Section 3: Special Focus Areas
Windows and Curtains:
Remove curtains and wash them. (You’ll be shocked at how much dust they hold.)
Clean blinds with a damp cloth or microfiber glove.
Wipe down window tracks with a toothbrush and some vinegar.
Floors and Carpets:
Vacuum carpets thoroughly and use a carpet cleaner if you can. (It’s gross but satisfying to see the dirt come out.)
Mop hard floors and wipe down baseboards.
Outdoor Spaces:
Sweep your balcony or patio.
Clean outdoor furniture with soapy water.
Add string lights or a new outdoor rug for a cozy vibe.
Section 4: Decluttering and Organizing
4-Box Method:
Label four boxes: Keep, Donate, Toss, Store. Go through every room and stick to it.
Organizing Hacks:
Use clear bins for pantry items and beauty products.
Label everything. (Label makers are your new best friend.)
Use drawer dividers for socks, makeup, and cables.
Bonus Tip: Invest in pretty storage—woven baskets, marble trays, and velvet hangers make organizing feel luxurious.
Section 5: Post-Cleaning Rewards
You did it Now reward yourself, babe.
Take a long, bubbly bath with your favorite playlist.
Treat yourself to a cozy movie night in your spotless living room.
Buy yourself fresh flowers (because you deserve it!).
Indulge in your favorite dessert or drink.
Section 6: Outdoor Spaces – Your Springtime Sanctuary
Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a cozy balcony, or a front porch perfect for people-watching, your outdoor spaces deserve a little TLC too. Imagine sipping iced coffee in the sunshine, surrounded by clean, cozy vibes. Let’s make it happen.
6.1 Patio, Porch, or Balcony
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Sweep Away Winter’s Leftovers:
Grab your broom and sweep away leaves, dirt, and that mystery debris that’s been chilling since last fall. If you have a leaf blower, even better! (Bonus: It’s oddly satisfying to watch everything whoosh away.)
Story time: One year, I found a whole collection of acorns and a sock on my balcony. I don’t own a squirrel or remember losing a sock outside, so... nature is wild.
2. Scrub the Floors:
For wood or tile floors, mix warm water with a little dish soap and scrub with a stiff brush or mop. For concrete, hose it down and scrub any stains with a baking soda paste. (Pro tip: Wear old shoes—your floors will be clean, but your socks won’t.)
3. Clean Outdoor Furniture:
Wipe down chairs, tables, and cushions with soapy water. For stubborn stains, a mixture of vinegar and water works wonders.
Confession: I once sat down on my patio chair after winter and realized it was covered in... something sticky. Never again!
4. Freshen Up Cushions and Rugs:
If your outdoor cushions have removable covers, toss them in the wash. For non-removable ones, scrub with a mixture of mild detergent and water, then rinse thoroughly. Hang them to dry in the sun—it’s nature’s best disinfectant!
5. Wipe Down Railings and Walls:
Dust and grime love to build up on railings, so give them a good wipe with all-purpose cleaner. Don’t forget any walls or siding—they deserve to shine too.
6. Add Some Cozy Vibes:
String lights for that warm, inviting glow.
A soft outdoor rug to make the space feel cozy.
Potted plants or flowers for a touch of nature (even if your plant skills are questionable, succulents are super forgiving!).
Bonus Tip: Add a citronella candle to keep bugs away while you sip your wine and admire your hard work.
6.2 Garden and Backyard
Whether you’re a plant mom or just trying to keep the grass alive, here’s how to get your backyard spring-ready!
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Tidy Up the Lawn:
Rake up leaves, twigs, and debris that winter left behind. If you have a lawn, mow it for a fresh, even look. (And if you don’t, just pretend you did—no one will know.)
2. Clean and Organize Tools:
Wipe down gardening tools with a damp cloth and a little vinegar to remove rust. Organize them in a cute storage bin or hang them on hooks in your shed.
3. Refresh Planters and Flower Beds:
Remove dead plants, trim back any overgrown ones, and add fresh soil or mulch. Plant new flowers or herbs if you’re feeling ambitious—basil and mint are easy wins!
4. Wash Outdoor Toys and Equipment:
If you’ve got kiddos (or a dog that thinks every stick is treasure), hose down outdoor toys, playsets, and even your BBQ grill.
Pro Tip: Use a vinegar-water mix to clean the grill grates. No more charred mystery bits from last summer’s BBQ mishaps!
5. Set Up Your Outdoor Oasis:
Add a hammock or swing chair for lazy afternoon lounging.
Lay down a picnic blanket or outdoor rug for impromptu sunbathing.
Arrange lanterns, candles, or fairy lights for nighttime ambiance.
Bonus Tip for the Ladies:
Treat yourself to a new outdoor throw blanket or a cute plant stand. A little refresh makes all the difference—and gives you an excuse for more online shopping. (You're welcome.)
Final Outdoor Touches
Wipe down windows and doors leading outside.
Shake out and clean your doormat (it’s been through a lot).
Add a wreath or seasonal decor to your front door for that extra charm.
Now that your outdoor spaces are sparkling, you’re officially ready for spring! Time to kick back with a lemonade (or a margarita) and enjoy your clean, cozy, and oh-so-fabulous home—inside and out! You did it, queen! 🌞✨
Section 7: Sheds, Attics, Basements, and Storage Spaces – The Forgotten Zones
These spaces often become the “out of sight, out of mind” catch-all for things we don’t know what to do with. But imagine finding your holiday decorations without a three-hour treasure hunt or actually being able to walk through your shed without tripping over a rake. Let’s tackle these forgotten zones and make them functional again!
7.1 Shed – Your Outdoor Storage Hero
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Empty It Out (Yes, Everything):
Pull everything out and lay it out in your yard or driveway. It’ll feel overwhelming at first, but trust me, starting with a blank slate is key. (Bonus: It’s a great workout—who needs the gym when you’ve got a shed full of tools?)
Story time: I once found a box labeled “summer essentials” in my shed... it was full of Christmas lights. No wonder I couldn’t find them in December!
2. Sweep and Scrub the Floor:
Sweep out leaves, dirt, and spiderwebs. (Yes, you might meet a spider or two—consider it an adventure.) If your shed has a concrete floor, give it a good scrub with soapy water.
3. Declutter and Sort:
Make three piles:
Keep: Essentials like tools, gardening supplies, and seasonal decor.
Donate: Old equipment you haven’t used in years.
Toss: Broken items or things you’ve been “meaning to fix” since 2017.
Pro Tip: If you haven’t touched it in a year (or forgot you even had it), it’s time to let it go.
4. Organize Like a Pro:
Pegboards: Hang tools and small items to keep them off the floor and easy to find.
Shelving Units: Store bins and boxes neatly—label everything so you know exactly where your holiday lights or beach chairs are.
Hooks and Racks: Perfect for hanging garden hoses, extension cords, and larger tools.
5. Add a Fresh Touch:
Place a moisture absorber or charcoal bag to prevent musty odors. Bonus points if you add a cute outdoor mat at the entrance—it’s the little things!
Bonus Tip: Use clear bins so you can see what’s inside without playing the “what’s in this mystery box?” game every time you need something.
7.2 Attic – The Memory Vault
Attics are like time capsules—full of forgotten treasures, random keepsakes, and the entire collection of holiday decorations. Let’s turn this into an organized haven.
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Clear It Out (Brace Yourself):
Pull out everything (yes, even that one box shoved in the far corner).
Confession: My attic once revealed my high school yearbooks, a box of VHS tapes (why?!), and a collection of gift bags I’d clearly been hoarding “just in case.”
2. Dust and Vacuum:
Attics collect so much dust. Wear a mask if you need to, and dust every surface—beams, shelves, and any forgotten corners. Vacuum or sweep the floor thoroughly.
3. Sort and Declutter:
Keep: Seasonal items, sentimental keepsakes, and useful extras.
Donate: Old clothes, toys, or decor you no longer use.
Toss: Anything broken, outdated, or unnecessary.
Pro Tip: Be ruthless—if you forgot it existed, you probably don’t need it.
4. Organize Smartly:
Seasonal Rotation: Keep frequently used items (like holiday decor) near the front and less-used items further back.
Label Everything: Use large, clear labels on every box. Future you will thank you when you don’t have to open 10 boxes to find one wreath.
Invest in Storage Bins: Sturdy plastic bins protect items from dust, moisture, and pests better than cardboard boxes.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Place moisture absorbers and cedar blocks to prevent musty smells and pests. (And maybe toss in some lavender sachets—because why not make it smell nice?)
Bonus Tip: Keep an attic inventory list taped to the wall near the entrance so you always know what’s up there without having to climb up every time.
7.3 Basement – The Multi-Purpose Maze
Basements often pull double duty as storage spaces, laundry rooms, and makeshift gyms. Let’s bring some order to the chaos!
Step-by-Step Deep Clean:
1. Empty and Sort (Sensing a Theme?):
Clear out each section of your basement one area at a time. Yes, it’s a workout. Yes, it’s worth it.
True story: My basement once held four boxes labeled “miscellaneous” that turned out to be... more boxes inside boxes. Spring cleaning is a journey, okay?
2. Sweep, Mop, and Dust:
Basements can get damp and dusty. Sweep the floor, mop if needed, and dust shelves, pipes, and walls.
3. Declutter Ruthlessly:
Keep: Essentials like tools, seasonal items, and working appliances.
Donate: Old clothes, furniture, and unused gym equipment (RIP to the treadmill you swore you’d use).
Toss: Broken items, outdated electronics, and anything you’ve been storing “just in case.”
4. Organize Like a Boss:
Shelving Systems: Install shelves for easy access and to keep things off the floor.
Bins and Baskets: Store similar items together—think “holiday,” “tools,” “camping gear.”
Label Everything: Seriously, labels are life.
5. Prevent Future Chaos:
Add a dehumidifier to keep moisture at bay, and place moisture absorbers in corners.
Bonus Tip: If your basement doubles as a laundry room, add a cute laundry basket, a drying rack, and maybe a fun sign (because who says laundry can’t be aesthetic?).
Final Touches for Storage Spaces
Sweep and wipe down the entrance areas.
Label everything clearly and keep an inventory list if possible.
Add moisture absorbers, pest repellents, and a fresh scent sachet for good measure.
With your sheds, attics, and basements cleaned and organized, your entire home is now officially spring-ready! Time to relax, sip some iced coffee, and admire your hard work—you’ve earned it, queen! 🧹✨
And with that, Ladies...
Let’s Recap
Bonus Tip: Spritz a home fragrance spray as the final touch. Your home will smell as fresh as it looks
And just like that, bestie, you did it! From dusting the highest shelves to scrubbing the tiniest corners, you’ve conquered every inch of your home—inside, outside, and even the attic (yes, we’re still proud of that one). Spring cleaning isn’t just about making your space look good; it’s about creating a home that feels peaceful, fresh, and totally you.
Sure, there were moments when you questioned your life choices while untangling fairy lights in the attic or battling the soap scum in your shower. But look at you now—relaxing in your spotless living room, sipping something delicious, and admiring your hard work like the domestic goddess you are.
Remember, cleaning isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Your home doesn’t have to look like a Pinterest board 24/7 (unless that’s your vibe), but taking time to refresh your space also refreshes your mind. And whenever the clutter starts creeping back in (because, life), you’ll have this guide (and me!) to help you sparkle your way through it again.
So, light your favorite candle, throw on your coziest socks, and soak in the magic of your beautifully clean home. Until next time, queen—stay fabulous, keep shining, and remember: you’ve got this. 🧹✨.
✗⚬ﾒ𝟶,
Till Next Time,
Lilly
