‘Tis the season for a clean sweep! Tackle your spring cleaning chores with our series of handy checklists. Did you miss Part 1 (kitchens and mudrooms)? It’s here! »
Common areas (living room, great room, media room, dining room, etc.):
Open the windows to let fresh air in and cleaning fumes out.
Set aside a box, bag or basket for each member of the household and fill it with the personal items that tend to accumulate in common areas—but shouldn’t. If you have further decluttering to do, add a box for donations or garage sale items.
Clean and pack season-specific décor.
Dust surfaces from top to bottom. Start with the ceiling, ceiling fan blades, cabinet tops, the tops of doors and picture frames, and the mantel, then work your way down to shelving, art niches, the entertainment center and tabletops. Be sure to empty each shelf as you go before you refill it.
When you’re ready to dust electronics, be sure to label your cords so it will be easy to reconnect everything. Use canned air to blow out vents and other nooks and crannies, and be sure to use electronics-safe cleaning products and electrostatic cloths according to manufacturers’ guidelines. Need some cord control? Lifehacker has these tips to help you put your entertainment system back together with an organization upgrade.
Wipe down walls, light switches, doorknobs, window sills and baseboards.
Vacuum upholstery and area rugs. Treat any stains as you find them.
Vacuum, sweep and/or mop floors as needed. Be sure to move furniture to clean underneath. If you’ve been thinking of rearranging your seating, now’s a good time to experiment.
Polish wood furniture.
Clean windows, fireplace glass and light fixtures.
Bring out your spring- and summer-inspired décor. Lighter curtains, brighter throws and pillows, and fresh-cut flowers can help banish the winter blahs.
Bathrooms:
Discard or store toiletries that aren’t used regularly.
Clean and pack any seasonal décor and linens.
Dust surfaces from top to bottom. Start with the ceiling, the tops of doors and picture frames, then work your way down to shelving and countertops. Be sure to empty each shelf and drawer as you go and replace shelving paper and drawer liners as needed.
Wipe down walls, light switches, doorknobs, window sills and baseboards.
Launder or replace bathmats and shower curtains.
Scour sinks and faucets, the shower surround, tub and toilet with cleaners that are appropriate for your surfaces.
Clean windows, mirrors, light fixtures, towel racks, countertops and backsplashes.
Sweep and mop floors.
Place clean or new linens, curtains and rugs.
If you routinely have cluttered counters, think about creating some new storage solutions.