20 Easy Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks 

Neel Parekh, Founder of MaidThis

Spring is in the air, and you feel a burst of fresh energy. Everything gets a new dimension as the temperatures go up. So, you feel like you could do even the most tedious task in the world: you could finally spring clean your house. However, once you get your bucket and mop, this enthusiasm simply withers. You realize you don’t know where to start. And, how can you finish everything without overtiring yourself?

Well, don’t despair straightaway! There is a way out. Hire the most reliable house cleaning service to save your day. The professionals will know how to eradicate the dirt. However, if you still insist on rolling up your sleeves and doing it yourself, we have prepared a few handy tips for you. Read on! 

How can I make spring cleaning easier?

Some people believe that spring is the best time for deep cleaning. While this is true, it doesn’t mean that you should do it only once a year. You actually need to deep clean your home more often if you want to keep all the germs and dirt at bay. This is particularly important now with the coronavirus still raging throughout the States.

Spring cleaning can seem overwhelming indeed. Especially if you live in a huge house with small kids and pets, and have to clean on  a busy schedule. However, to be more efficient when tackling every nook and cranny in your home, you just need a well-devised approach. With it, you won’t be in the dark about the outcome as you will have a clearer idea of what the entire process entails. 

Here are a few spring cleaning hacks that will make a real difference in your spring-cleaning routine, taking it to the next level. 

Make a to-do list

to-do list

Before you start your ambitious project, go around your house room by room and observe. Notice what needs a deep cleaning, and make a list of tasks.

For example, you might write down tasks like “deep clean kitchen cabinets,” “dust ceiling fans,” or “scrub bathroom grout.” Breaking your cleaning project into a checklist makes it feel more manageable. Plus, crossing off completed tasks is incredibly satisfying!

If you’re cleaning an Airbnb rental, be extra thorough. Look at the space from a guest’s perspective and note areas that might get overlooked—like under the furniture, behind doors, and inside drawers.

Get the clutter out of the way

clutter

Clutter is your biggest enemy when it comes to deep cleaning. Before you start scrubbing, take time to clear the mess—old magazines, random junk drawers, and that pile of clothes you’ve been ignoring.

Decluttering first ensures you won’t have to clean around unnecessary items. It also gives your home an instant refresh! As you sort through belongings, ask yourself: Do I really need this? If the answer is no, consider donating or discarding it.

For rental properties, a clutter-free space creates a more welcoming environment for guests. Store personal items away and keep décor minimal to make cleaning easier between stays.

Gather your cleaning supplies

cleaning supplies

Imagine starting your spring cleaning only to realize halfway through that you’re out of disinfectant wipes. Frustrating, right? Avoid interruptions by gathering all your supplies beforehand.

Make a list of essentials: sponges, microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, baking soda, vinegar, a mop, and a vacuum. Keep everything in a cleaning caddy so it’s easy to carry from room to room.

If you’re cleaning a rental, consider keeping a separate stash of cleaning supplies specifically for turnover cleanings. This ensures you’re always stocked up, making it easy to reset the space for the next guest.

Get your family involved

 house cleaning with family

Spring cleaning is not a one-person job—unless you want to spend an entire weekend scrubbing! Get your family involved by assigning tasks based on age and ability.

Once you have made your checklist, you should enlist the help of your family. Spring cleaning can be a family tradition in which everyone plays their part. Even toddlers can pick up their toys. Older kids and adults can take on more demanding chores like vacuuming, mopping, or decluttering. Consider turning cleaning into a game or playing upbeat music to keep the energy levels high.

For rental owners, having a checklist for cleaners or a professional cleaning service ensures consistency between guest stays.

Start with the most demanding chore

cleaning inside kitchen drawers

Consider tackling your most dreaded task first. Maybe it’s deep cleaning your kitchen appliances. They can get pretty nasty, can’t they? Since you are just beginning, you’ll feel more enthusiastic and energized. And once you check off your most frustrating chore, all others will seem incredibly easier. 

For Airbnb hosts, tackling deep cleaning tasks at the start of the season—like steam-cleaning carpets or descaling showerheads—helps maintain a higher standard for guests year-round.

Go room by room

room by room approach

One of the biggest mistakes people make with spring cleaning is jumping from one area to another without fully finishing anything. Instead, focus on one room at a time.

Start with common areas like the living room and kitchen before moving on to bedrooms and bathrooms. This approach prevents cross-contaminating dirt and dust while giving you a clear sense of progress.

For vacation rentals, a room-by-room approach ensures no detail is overlooked. Guests notice when a space is spotless—so taking the time to clean methodically pays off.

Apply a top-to-bottom approach

top-to-bottom approach

Due to the force of gravity, dust falls to lower spots. So, if you don’t want to clean the same surface twice, start with the areas above eye level. For example, begin by removing cobwebs from the ceiling corners. Then, attend to ceiling fans or light fixtures. Next, dust your furniture. Lastly, vacuum and mop floors.

For Airbnb owners, wiping down high-touch surfaces like light switches and door handles during every turnover keeps your rental fresh and hygienic.

Learn to multitask

multitask

Maximize efficiency by letting cleaning products work their magic while you tackle another chore.

While the product is soaking and doing its job in the toilet bowl, you can wipe the bathroom mirror, or rearrange your cosmetics, for instance. For instance, spray cleaner on the shower walls and let it sit while you wipe down the mirrors. Or, while waiting for the mop to dry in one room, move on to dusting in another.

This approach helps you complete your cleaning faster while still getting deep-clean results.

Let your cleaning products sit for a while

a cleaner on tough stains

Instead of scrubbing until your arms ache, let your cleaning products do the hard work for you.

Apply cleaner to tough stains or greasy surfaces and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping. This will enhance its power, and you won’t need to scrub so hard to get rid of baked-on grease.

For Airbnb hosts, this is especially useful for quick turnovers. Let products soak while you tackle other areas, making the process smoother.

Make spring cleaning less time-consuming

clean vacuum

To make spring cleaning less time-consuming, consider eliminating your bad cleaning habits in the first place. Maybe you forget to clean your vacuum filter, use too much cleaning product, or store supplies in multiple locations.

Breaking these habits will make future cleaning sessions faster and more effective. Keep your supplies organized, check the expiration dates of your products and keep your equipment in top shape.

Use baking soda and vinegar for stubborn stains

baking soda and vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are like the ultimate cleaning power couple. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps scrub away grime, while vinegar is acidic, making it perfect for breaking down soap scum, grease, and hard water stains. Together, they create a fizzing reaction that lifts dirt from surfaces with minimal scrubbing.

For kitchen sinks, bathtubs, or stovetops, sprinkle baking soda over the stain, then spray vinegar on top. Let it bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or brush. This method is also excellent for unclogging drains—just pour baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar, let it fizz, then rinse with hot water. It’s an affordable, non-toxic, and highly effective way to clean!

Refresh your mattress

Refreshed mattress

Your mattress collects dust, sweat, and even allergens over time, so giving it a deep clean is essential for a healthier sleep environment. Start by stripping off all the bedding and vacuuming the entire mattress to remove dust and debris. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the surface and let it sit for at least 30 minutes—if possible, leave it for a few hours for maximum freshness.

Baking soda absorbs odors and moisture, giving your mattress a fresh start. Once time’s up, vacuum the baking soda off thoroughly. If there are stains, use a mild detergent and water to spot-clean them. Consider flipping or rotating your mattress if possible to even out wear and extend its lifespan. Adding a mattress protector afterward helps keep it cleaner for longer!

Clean air vents for better air quality

clean HVAC system

Air vents are often overlooked, but they play a significant role in your home’s air quality. Dust, pet dander, and allergens build up in vents, which can contribute to respiratory issues and make your HVAC system work harder. To keep your air fresh and clean, remove the vent covers and wipe them down with a damp cloth or soapy water. For a deeper clean, soak them in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before drying.

Next, use the hose attachment on your vacuum to clean inside the duct openings. If you notice excessive dust buildup inside the ducts, consider hiring a professional for an air duct cleaning. Regular maintenance of air vents not only improves air circulation but also helps reduce allergens, making your home a healthier place to live.

Wash windows on a cloudy day

Washing windows

Washing windows seems simple, but timing matters. Direct sunlight causes window cleaner to dry too quickly, leading to streaks that make your hard work look messy. Instead, choose an overcast day for the job so the cleaning solution has time to break down dirt and grime before evaporating.

Start by dusting or vacuuming window sills and tracks to remove loose debris. Then, mix equal parts water and vinegar or use a commercial glass cleaner. Spray the solution on the glass and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth or a squeegee for a streak-free finish. Don’t forget to clean both the inside and outside of the windows for the best results! If you have stubborn water stains, try scrubbing them with a mixture of baking soda and water before wiping clean.

Deep clean your kitchen appliances

kitchen appliances deep cleaning

Your kitchen appliances get a workout every day, so it’s important to give them a deep clean. Start with the microwave—place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and heat it for five minutes. The steam will loosen stuck-on food, making it easy to wipe away. For the fridge, remove all expired items and clean the shelves with a baking soda and water solution to eliminate odors.

For the oven, create a paste using baking soda and water, spread it inside, and let it sit overnight. The next day, wipe it clean with a damp cloth and spray vinegar to remove any residue. Don’t forget small appliances like the toaster and coffee maker—crumbs and coffee buildup can affect performance. Cleaning these appliances regularly keeps them running efficiently and ensures your kitchen stays fresh.

Steam clean carpets and rugs

cleaning carpets and rugs

Vacuuming is great for everyday maintenance, but over time, dirt, allergens, and bacteria settle deep into carpets and rugs. A steam cleaner is the best way to lift these contaminants and give your floors a fresh start.

First, vacuum thoroughly to remove loose dirt. Then, use a carpet cleaner or rent a steam cleaner to deep clean. Focus on high-traffic areas and spots with stains. If you don’t have a steam cleaner, you can mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap and scrub stains with a brush before blotting dry. Let carpets fully dry before walking on them again. Regular deep cleaning keeps your home healthier and extends the life of your flooring.

Declutter your closet

Declutter closet

A messy, overcrowded closet makes it hard to find what you need and creates unnecessary stress. The best way to declutter? Take everything out! Lay all your clothes, shoes, and accessories on your bed and go through each item one by one.

Ask yourself: Have I worn this in the last year? Does it fit? Does it make me feel good? If the answer is no, it’s time to donate or sell it. Organize what’s left by category—shirts, pants, dresses—and use storage bins for seasonal items. Consider using slim, non-slip hangers to maximize space. A well-organized closet makes getting dressed in the morning so much easier and stress-free!

Disinfect high-touch surfaces

Disinfect high-touch surfaces

Think about how often you touch doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and faucet handles. These surfaces collect germs daily, yet they’re often overlooked during regular cleaning. Make it a habit to wipe them down with disinfectant wipes or a spray at least once a week.

For deeper cleaning, mix equal parts water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and use a microfiber cloth to wipe down surfaces. If you have an Airbnb rental, sanitizing high-touch areas between guest stays is essential to maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. Keeping these surfaces germ-free reduces the risk of spreading illnesses and keeps your home fresh.

Rotate and clean your furniture

cleaning furniture

Dust and dirt don’t just settle on top of furniture—they collect underneath and behind it, too. Moving furniture every few months allows you to vacuum, dust, and remove hidden debris. It also prevents dust buildup that can contribute to allergies.

While moving furniture, take the opportunity to rearrange your layout for a fresh look. You might find that changing the position of a couch or table creates better flow in the room. Plus, moving heavy furniture can help prevent uneven wear on carpets and flooring. If your furniture has fabric upholstery, vacuum it and use a fabric cleaner to refresh it. For leather furniture, wipe it down with a damp cloth and condition it to maintain its softness.

Give your outdoor space some love

outdoor spring cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just for the inside of your home—your outdoor space needs attention, too! Whether you have a front porch, balcony, or backyard, cleaning it up makes it more inviting for relaxing or entertaining guests.

Start by sweeping away dirt and debris. Wash patio furniture with a mild soap and water solution to remove dust and pollen. If you have an outdoor grill, clean the grates and wipe down the exterior. Trim any overgrown plants and refresh potted plants with new soil if needed. If you have an Airbnb rental with an outdoor space, a tidy patio or deck adds extra appeal for guests.

A well-maintained outdoor area makes your home feel more put together and gives you a nice spot to enjoy the warmer weather. Don’t forget to add a few cozy touches—like outdoor cushions or string lights—to make the space even more inviting!

Let MaidThis Make Spring Cleaning Effortless

Spring cleaning takes time, effort, and a solid game plan—but what if you could skip the hassle? Whether you’re a homeowner looking for a deep clean or an Airbnb host needing a spotless rental, professional cleaners can make all the difference.

MaidThis specializes in high-quality residential and vacation rental cleanings, connecting you with experienced cleaners who know how to make homes shine. Save time and energy by letting the pros handle the dirty work while you focus on what matters most.

Ready for a stress-free clean home? Book a cleaning with MaidThis today!

Meet Neel B. Parekh

Neel is the founder and CEO of MaidThis, a franchise that specializes in house and short-term rental cleaning. He has built a business model that relies exclusively on having a fully remote team and that empowers owners of vacation rental units to generate more revenue through positive customer reviews and repeat business.

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