9 Ways To Get Your Home Ready For Spring Cleaning

Now that winter has come and gone, spring is here with its promise of warm temperatures. It is the time of year that many homeowners start to think about spring cleaning projects. The thought of cleaning a house from top to bottom can be overwhelming, particularly because of the busy schedules we all keep these days. With a little bit of planning, there are several steps homeowners can take to get their homes ready for spring.

Nine Ways to Get Ready for Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning is a great way to feel refreshed and revitalized after a long cold winter. By tackling specific projects now, homeowners may have more time to enjoy their summer. Here are nine ways to get ready for spring cleaning.

1. It’s all about the mindset.
   When you think something is going to be awful, it usually will be. Focus on how spring cleaning is going to make you feel and get excited about the project. Positive thoughts typically lead to more motivating behavior and positive outcomes.
2. Create a plan on paper.
   Individuals that write things down are 1.2 times more likely to accomplish their goals. Brainstorm a list of projects that may be completed on a spring day. Once a list is created, highlight the areas that need the most attention and categorize them in order of priority.
3. Schedule a day or weekend.
   Depending on the size of the house or the amount of work required, homeowners may be able to tackle their list on the first day, or they may need multiple days. One of the largest struggles with finishing spring cleaning is getting distracted by other fun activities. Schedule a time on your calendar and avoid booking anything additional on those days.
4. Buy supplies.
   It is vital that homeowners buy supplies before the scheduled spring cleaning day. Look at your tasks and create a list of necessary supplies to get them done. Items including rubber gloves, cleaners, batteries, dust cloths, and large trash bags are a few common supplies. This is also the time to consider updating worn out cleaning supplies. Inspect brooms, scrub brushes, and vacuums to make sure they are in working order before heading to the store or ordering online.
5. Do a quick walk-around of the house.
   Spring cleaning is also a time to think about the exterior of a home. Since the winter can be brutal and harsh – take a walk around the property and look for areas which need cleaning.
6. Schedule appointments with contractors.
   If the homeowner’s association handles outside work on the home, contact them with any findings that need to be addressed. If they don’t, you may need to contact local contractors for any necessary repairs.
7. De-clutter the inside.
   It’s difficult to clean a house if it is laden with excess clutter. Walk through each room before spring cleaning day and remove items that are no longer used or touched. Place these items in boxes for donations or trash and remember to label the contents clearly.
8. Get rid of items immediately.
   Once the house is de-cluttered, get rid of unwanted items immediately. This prevents you and other household members from removing the items in the box.
9. Leave the regular cleaning for last.
   Don’t start spring cleaning with regular cleaning tasks. Vacuuming, dusting, or sweeping should usually be the last thing on the list.

Spring is time for renewal. If your homeowner’s association could benefit from working with a property management company, contact the AR Management office today.