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Spring Cleaning Tips to Refresh Your Home
Spring has arrived, and there’s something about longer days and warmer weather that makes it feel like the perfect time to give your home a fresh start.
You don’t need to tackle a complete home makeover, either. A good deep clean, some decluttering and a little organization can make your home feel noticeably different.
Not sure where to begin? Here are a few manageable spring cleaning ideas to help you get started.
Start With the Right Cleaning Products
Before you start cleaning, take inventory of what you already have.
Choose products that are appropriate for the surfaces you’re cleaning and always follow the manufacturer’s directions. If you’re interested in products that meet certain health and environmental standards, the EPA’s Safer Choice program is a useful resource for identifying products that meet its criteria.
And remember: never mix cleaning products unless the labels specifically indicate it’s safe to do so.
Break Spring Cleaning Into Smaller Tasks
Looking at an entire house and thinking, I have to clean all of this, is enough to make anyone suddenly find something else to do.
Instead, make a list and break the work into manageable chunks.
Try setting aside 20 or 30 minutes for one specific job. Dust the ceiling fans and baseboards today. Clean the windowsills tomorrow. Vacuum and mop another day.
You don’t have to spring-clean your entire house in one weekend.
Small victories count!
Freshen Up Your Linens
Few things make a bedroom feel refreshed faster than clean bedding.
Wash sheets, duvet covers and other washable linens according to their care instructions. This can also be a good time to rotate or clean pillows and wash blankets that may not be part of your regular laundry routine.
Before tossing everything into the dryer, check the care label. When appropriate—and when the weather cooperates—line drying can be another option.
While the washing machine is doing the work, move on to another small cleaning project. Multitasking for the win.
Give the Bathroom a Deep Clean
Bathrooms deserve some extra attention during a deep clean.
Take time to clean commonly overlooked areas such as showerheads, faucets, grout, exhaust-fan covers and the spaces around fixtures.
For products intended to disinfect, follow the label carefully—including any required contact or dwell time. Proper ventilation is also important when using household cleaning products.
And don’t underestimate what a good grout cleaning can do. It’s one of those small jobs that can make the entire bathroom look fresher.
Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs
If you have carpeting or area rugs, spring can be a good time for a deeper cleaning.
Start by vacuuming thoroughly, particularly along baseboards and underneath furniture.
Depending on the material and manufacturer’s recommendations, you may be able to rent a carpet-cleaning machine and tackle the job yourself. For delicate rugs, significant stains or larger projects, professional cleaning may make more sense.
Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before using a new cleaning product or machine.
Make Those Windows Sparkle
It’s amazing how much brighter a home can feel after the windows are cleaned.
Tackle the glass inside and, where it can be done safely, outside. Don’t forget the window tracks, frames and sills.
Blinds and shutters can collect a surprising amount of dust, too, so give those some attention while you’re working in each room.
Then open the curtains and enjoy all that spring sunshine.
Declutter While You Clean
Spring cleaning is also a great opportunity to ask yourself a very important question:
Do I actually need this?
Keep a box nearby for items you’d like to donate, sell or relocate. Work through closets, kitchen cabinets, bathroom storage and those drawers where miscellaneous objects mysteriously multiply.
You don’t have to become a minimalist. The goal is simply to make your home work better for the way you live now.
Let the Fresh Air In
When outdoor conditions and air quality are appropriate, opening the windows can be a simple way to bring some fresh air into the house while you’re cleaning.
Then comes the best part: enjoying your freshly cleaned home without immediately starting another project.
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to happen all at once. Pick a room, make a list and start with one manageable task.
By the time you’re finished, your home may feel refreshed and ready for the season ahead.
Michelle Elliott
Coldwell Banker Realty
408-839-7915
DRE #01777533
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About the Author – Michelle Elliott
With over 20 years of experience navigating the fast-paced Silicon Valley market, I provide a strategic, results-driven approach to residential real estate. My career is built on a foundation of deep local expertise and a relentless commitment to my clients’ success, resulting in over $235 million in lifetime sales volume and a consistent ranking in the top 3% of agents in Santa Clara County and top 2% at Coldwell Banker. My expertise has been featured on KTVU Fox 2, Real Producers and the Willow Glen Resident. She is also the co-host of the San Jose Podcast “Say What You Want About Real Estate”
A Hyper-Local Expert with Global Reach
I specialize in San Jose, in the neighborhoods of Willow Glen (95125 & 95124) Cambrian Park and Almaden, Downtown San Jose/Japantown (95112) markets. As a certified Luxury Property Specialist with Coldwell Banker Realty, I combine high-end marketing strategies with granular neighborhood knowledge to help my clients achieve premium results.
The “Tiger” at the Negotiating Table
My clients have characterized me as a “tiger” at the negotiating table who remains “sweet and patient” with my clients throughout the process. I pride myself on being a fierce advocate for my buyers and sellers, ensuring the best possible terms in every transaction, and I strive to be the best Realtor in 95125! This balance, drive, and tenacity have earned me consistent 5-star ratings across Google, Zillow, Realtor.com, and Yelp.
Michelle Elliott
Michelle@michelleelliottrealtor.com
1712 Meridian Ave, Ste C, San Jose, CA
DRE 01777533
