Spring is the perfect time to shake off the dust of winter—literally. With longer days and warmer weather, it's easier to find the energy and motivation to clean, organize, and refresh your home. Whether you're tackling one room at a time or doing a whole-house reset, these ten practical spring cleaning tips will help you make your space feel brand new. Listen to the Baba-Mail podcast to hear this article being debated or read below!
Doormats do a lot of heavy lifting year-round, catching dirt, dust, and debris before it enters your home. But they can’t do their job properly if they’re filthy. Vacuum both sides of every doormat—especially the bottom. The back can trap just as much dirt, and vacuuming it loosens debris so you can sweep or vacuum it off the floor easily afterward. For outdoor mats, take them outside, hose them down, and let them air-dry completely in the sun to prevent mold. Want an extra layer of cleanliness? Use two mats—one outside the door and one just inside—to catch even more grime before it spreads through your house.
Used dryer sheets might seem like trash, but they’re surprisingly effective for dusting. Their anti-static properties help repel dust instead of just moving it around. Use them to wipe down hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fan blades, window blinds, and baseboards. They also work great on screens and electronics, such as TVs, computer monitors, and tablets—areas that tend to collect both dust and fingerprints. Bonus: they leave behind a subtle scent that makes your space feel even cleaner. This trick saves money and reduces waste by giving new life to something you were going to throw out anyway.
Microwave spills can quickly turn into crusty, hard-to-clean messes. Instead of scrubbing endlessly, let steam do the hard work. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with a cup of water and add a few slices of lemon, lime, or orange—or a few tablespoons of white vinegar. Microwave the bowl on high for several minutes until the solution boils and steam coats the inside of the appliance. Let it sit for another five minutes with the door closed. The steam loosens stuck-on food and stains, making them easy to wipe off with a sponge. This method is safe, natural, and leaves your microwave smelling fresh.
Your washing machine cleans your clothes, but it needs cleaning, too. Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and grime can build up inside, leading to odors or even mold. To clean it properly, run the washer on its designated cleaning cycle using bleach or a commercial washing machine cleaner. If your machine doesn’t have a cleaning cycle, use hot water and add bleach directly into the drum. You can also wipe down the detergent drawer, rubber seals, and inside of the door to remove gunk and mildew. Keeping your machine clean not only improves performance but also helps your clothes come out fresher.
Copper cookware looks great—until it tarnishes. But there’s no need for harsh chemicals or specialty cleaners. Ketchup contains mild acids, like vinegar and citric acid, that break down tarnish. Just squirt some onto a soft cloth or directly onto the pot and rub it in gently. For extra-tough spots, sprinkle a little salt on the surface for added scrubbing power. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel. This simple method is inexpensive, quick, and surprisingly effective at bringing dull copper back to life.
Toys are magnets for dirt, bacteria, and germs—especially during flu season. To clean plastic toys quickly, run them through the dishwasher on a gentle or crystal cycle, and skip the heated dry to avoid warping. For stuffed animals, check care labels first. If machine washable, place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect delicate seams and run on a gentle cycle. Air-dry or tumble dry on low. A lint roller is a handy way to remove surface dust and fuzz between washes. This routine keeps kids healthier and toys looking new longer.
Your mattress sees hours of use every day, but often gets overlooked. Start by using a garment steamer to kill dust mites and surface bacteria. Then, vacuum the entire surface with the upholstery attachment, pressing firmly to lift dust and debris from the fabric. Don’t forget the sides and seams, where dirt and allergens love to hide. After vacuuming, spray the surface lightly with a fabric-safe disinfectant like Lysol Fabric Disinfectant Spray. Let it dry completely before making the bed. This deep clean not only improves hygiene but also helps extend the life of your mattress.
Over time, carpets can hold onto smells from pets, food, and everyday life. Baking soda is a simple, natural solution. Sprinkle a generous amount over your carpet and use a soft brush or broom to work it into the fibers. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes so it can absorb odors, then vacuum thoroughly using a clean bag or empty canister. For even better results, vacuum in multiple directions. This method is safe, cost-effective, and doesn’t involve synthetic fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Closets fill up fast with items we rarely or never wear. Go through your wardrobe and be honest—if you’ve only worn something once and don’t see yourself wearing it again, it’s time to let it go. This includes things like bridesmaid dresses, Halloween costumes, or formal outfits that no longer fit. Try on anything you’re unsure about. If it doesn’t fit well or make you feel great, it doesn’t deserve your closet space. Look for anything worn out, stained, or in need of repair and decide if it's worth fixing. Donate usable items to local charities or community giveaway groups.
Your refrigerator may look clean on the outside, but the bins and shelves inside can harbor hidden messes. Food spills, sticky residue, and bacteria build up over time, even if you wipe down the shelves occasionally. Every few weeks, remove all bins and shelves and wash them in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before replacing them to prevent mold. Don’t forget to wipe down the interior walls and door gaskets, too. A clean fridge isn’t just about aesthetics—it helps your food stay fresh and reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
Final Word:
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a major project all at once. Break it into tasks, use smart shortcuts, and focus on the spaces that need attention most. Small steps can make a big difference in how your home feels. Want this turned into a downloadable guide or checklist?
