The ultimate spring cleaning checklist.

Printable spring cleaning checklist. 

Download our spring cleaning checklist.

Restock your cleaning supplies.

What cleaning supplies do you need for spring cleaning? When it comes to spring cleaning, having the right cleaning supplies is essential. Here’s a list of must-have cleaning supplies to ensure your spring cleaning is a breeze:

All-purpose cleaner: This versatile cleaner can be used on various surfaces, making it perfect for tackling multiple cleaning tasks.

Microfiber cloths: These reusable and highly absorbent cloths are great for dusting, wiping, and polishing surfaces without leaving streaks.

Glass cleaner: Achieve sparkling clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces with a quality glass cleaner.

Broom and dustpan: Sweep away dirt, dust, and debris with a sturdy broom and dustpan set.

Vacuum cleaner: Keep your floors spotless by investing in a reliable vacuum cleaner. Make sure to check the filters and replace them if necessary.

Mop and bucket: For hard floors, a mop and bucket combo is essential to achieve a thorough clean.

Scrub brushes: Have a variety of scrub brushes on hand for tackling tough stains and grime on different surfaces.

Now that you have your cleaning supplies ready, it's important to check their expiration dates. Some cleaning products lose their effectiveness over time, so be sure to replace any expired items.

Lastly, organizing your cleaning supplies can make your spring cleaning more efficient. Consider using storage bins or caddies to keep everything neat and easily accessible. This way, you won't waste time searching for the right product when you need it the most.

What to clean in every room.

Every room has its own unique icky tendencies, so it’s best to take on spring cleaning room by room. Use these cleaning tips this spring — or whenever your home is in need of a good cleaning.

Dust and wipe down surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth and an all-purpose cleaner to remove dust and grime from countertops, tables, shelves, and any other flat surfaces.

Clean windows and mirrors: Give your windows and mirrors a streak-free shine by using a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Don't forget to wipe down the window sills and frames as well.

Vacuum or mop floors: Depending on the type of flooring in each room, vacuum or mop the floors thoroughly. Pay attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas where dust and dirt tend to accumulate.

Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans: Remove any dust or cobwebs from light fixtures and ceiling fans using a duster or a vacuum with a brush attachment. For greasy buildup, you can use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.

Wash curtains or blinds: Take down curtains and wash them according to the care instructions. For blinds, use a damp cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and dirt.

Sanitize door knobs and switches: Disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and cabinet handles using a disinfectant spray or wipes. This helps eliminate germs and keeps your home clean and hygienic.

By following this checklist, you can ensure that every room in your home gets the attention it needs during your spring cleaning routine. Remember to prioritize your safety by using appropriate cleaning products and equipment, and enjoy the fresh and clean atmosphere in your home!

Deep clean specific areas.

When it comes to spring cleaning, tackling specific areas of your home can make a big difference in creating a fresh and rejuvenated space. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Clean kitchen appliances: Start by giving your oven, refrigerator, and microwave a thorough cleaning. Remove any food residue, scrub away tough stains, and wipe down the surfaces to remove grease and grime.

Scrub bathroom fixtures and tiles: Your bathroom can accumulate soap scum, mineral deposits, and grout stains over time. Take the opportunity to scrub your fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, and clean your tiles to bring back their shine.

Dust and vacuum upholstery: Don't forget to give your upholstery some attention. Dust and vacuum your sofas, chairs, and curtains to remove any accumulated dirt and allergens. This will not only improve the appearance but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

Wash bedding and pillows: Freshen up your sleeping space by washing your bedding and pillows. Follow the care instructions and use a gentle cycle to ensure they come out clean and fresh.

Clean and organize closets: Spring cleaning is a perfect time to declutter and organize your closets. Donate or discard any items you no longer need, and arrange the remaining items neatly to maximize space and functionality.

Declutter and organize garage or storage areas: Finally, don't forget about your garage or storage areas. Sort through your belongings, discard any broken or unused items, and organize the remaining items in a way that is easy to find and access.

By deep cleaning these specific areas, you'll be well on your way to achieving a cleaner and more organized home. If you need assistance with any of these tasks, Thumbtack can connect you with skilled spring cleaning professionals.

Spring cleaning your kitchen.

• Pantry: Clear it out, clean the shelves and throw away any expired stuff. If you forgot you had it, it can probably go.
• Cabinets: Use a gentle cleanser or mild soap and water when wiping down cabinets. Check your manufacturer’s guide to keep your finish safe and shiny.
• Fridge: Throw away expired food, and wipe down the shelves. Slide out the fridge, and clean behind it. Don’t forget to gently dust the coils in the back.
• Freezer: Defrost it, and junk those suspiciously old and frosty items. We’re looking at you, year-old, sugar-free popsicles.
• Dishwasher: When cleaning your dishwasher, check the jets for clogs, and remove and rinse all the filters. Pour a cup of white vinegar into the bottom, and then run it on an empty, hot-water cycle to break down grease and soap scum. This trick will keep your dishes gleaming all year.
• Oven: Using an oven cleaner, scrub inside, removing the past year of residue. Clean the glass inside and out, and pull out the racks to scrub over the sink.
• Garbage disposal: Make sure your garbage disposal is working properly and not clogged up. Clear simple clogs with a baking soda and vinegar mix. 
• Junk drawer: Sift through those expired coupons, dried-out pens, old rubber bands and broken chip-clips. Get rid of what you don’t need, and organize the rest. A drawer organizer can help you keep track of the odds and ends you want to keep around.

Bathroom spring cleaning tips.

• Cabinets: Empty them out, and wipe them clean with soapy water. While they air dry, go through all toiletries and medications, discarding any that are old or expired.
• Countertops: Remove toothbrush holders, cups and other items from your counter — and then give the surfaces a good wipe-down with a safe disinfectant.
• Sinks and faucets: A microfiber cloth is ideal for polishing these fixtures to a mirror finish. Don’t forget to scrub around the edges.
• Shower: Remove mildew and soap scum from your shower. If you have glass doors, use a non-streaking, non-abrasive cleaner. Wash your plastic shower curtains by hand or throw them in the washer with a mild detergent. 
• Bathtub: Scrub your tub with a sponge and soap-scum remover. Get rid of any ring around the rim — and wipe down the shampoo and skincare bottles while you’re at it.
• Grout: Use a tile and grout cleaner and brush to get the grout on your floors, counters or walls gleaming. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you don’t damage surfaces. 
• Toilet: Use a toilet bowl cleaner and brush to scrub your toilet's interior — and wipe down the exterior surface and lid with disinfectant wipes. If you have limescale buildup, soak the bowl overnight with a lime-dissolving product. 

Bedroom spring cleaning checklist.

• Accumulated clutter: Clear out your closets, drawers and under your bed, and make piles of things you want to keep, sell, donate or toss. Check out these decluttering tips from the pros for help.
• Closet: An organized closet starts with tidy, folded clothes. If keeping your closet arranged is an ongoing battle, add new shelves or storage for shoes, scarves or other accessories.
• Sheets: Change and wash your sheets, pillowcases and blankets. If any are old, stained or falling apart, go ahead and invest in some new bedclothes.
• Mattress: A clean mattress can help reduce allergies due to dust mites and bacteria. Strip off all bedding and vacuum thoroughly. Treat any stains with a hydrogen peroxide/baking soda solution, gently dabbed on with a damp cloth and then vacuumed off. Flip your mattress over and repeat — and leave it uncovered for a few hours on each side to air out.
• Hidden areas: Move furniture away from the walls so you can sweep, vacuum or mop any grime or dust bunnies away.

Spring cleaning living and dining areas.

• Tables and shelves: Dust your table, end tables, bookcases, shelves and fireplace mantle. Remove all pictures, plants, books and knick-knacks before doing so, and wipe those down too. Invest in a few coasters to protect tabletops.
• Couches and furniture: If you notice stains, tears and other damage, try covering, cleaning or repairing them. If you don't know where to start, hire a professional furniture cleaner, upholsterer or repairer. 
• Electronics: Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe down your TV, remote control and other electronics. Unplug everything first — or at least turn it off — and remove the batteries from your controls. Refer to users manuals when in doubt.

Laundry room spring cleaning list.

The room where clothes go to get clean can get surprisingly dirty. Here’s how to clean your laundry room and appliances.

• Hampers: Hampers that hold dirty clothes or damp towels can start to smell. Wipe out plastic hampers with a rag and some all-purpose cleaner. For wooden or wicker hampers, a disinfectant and a few hours outside in bright sunlight will do the trick.
• Washing machine: To clean your washer, pour 3-4 cups of white vinegar into the detergent reservoir and then run an empty, hot-water cycle. Wipe down the washer's surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner, and vacuum behind the machine with an extension.
• Dryer: Vacuum out the lint trap thoroughly, and scrub any stains or residue inside the dryer. Vacuum behind and all around the dryer before wiping down with an all-purpose cleaner and damp rag.

Garage spring cleaning advice.

• Boxes and clutter: Take boxes and clutter out into the driveway where you can sort through everything without adding to the chaos inside. Separate items into four piles: keep, sell, donate or throw away. 
• Storage: Don’t let lack of storage lead to clutter. Use clear plastic bins to store what you’re keeping — and label them clearly. Hang shelves or hooks, or invest in tool chests, workbenches, shelving or more storage options that will transform your garage’s capacity.
• Surfaces: Vacuum floors and all the cleared-off areas, as well as walls and ceilings. In warmer climates, prevent mold and mildew by wiping down shelves and floors with a 50/50 water and bleach solution.

How to spring clean your home office.

• Desk: Remove keyboards, monitors, mouse pads, plants and other utensils — then wipe away those coffee mug rings with a safe-to-use cleaner. 
• Keyboards: Shake out dust or crumbs, spray with compressed air or use a dust vacuum made specifically for keyboards.
• Screens and electronics: Get rid of fingerprints on your screens, mouse and printer with a cleaning solution made for electronics.
• Lamp: Dust and wipe your desk lamp with a soft cloth.
• Papers: Throw away piled-up papers you don’t need anymore. Just make sure you don’t accidentally toss important docs.
• Private documents: Invest in a paper shredder, and shred documents that contain your private information, like credit card offers you receive in the mail. Double-check documents before feeding them through the shredder.
• Files: Organize any paper files you might have with clearly labeled folders and file dividers.
• Storage: Consider installing cabinets or a bookshelf to help you stay organized.

Tips for efficient cleaning.

When it comes to spring cleaning, having a plan in place can make all the difference. Follow these tips for efficient cleaning:

Create a cleaning schedule and prioritize tasks. Start by making a checklist of all the areas and tasks that need to be tackled. Break it down into smaller tasks and assign specific days or time slots for each. This will help you stay organized and ensure that no area is overlooked.

Use eco-friendly cleaning products. Not only are they better for the environment, but they are also safer for you and your family. Look for products that are labeled as non-toxic and biodegradable. You can even make your own cleaning solutions using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.

Utilize time-saving cleaning hacks. There are plenty of clever tricks that can help you clean more efficiently. For example, use a squeegee to quickly remove pet hair from carpets, or clean your microwave by heating a bowl of water and vinegar for a few minutes. These hacks can save you time and effort.

Involve the whole family in the cleaning process. Assign tasks to each family member and make it a fun activity. Not only will it lighten your workload, but it will also teach kids about responsibility and the importance of keeping their surroundings clean.

Take breaks to avoid burnout. Cleaning can be physically demanding, so make sure to take regular breaks to rest and recharge. Use this time to hydrate, stretch, or simply relax. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your home.

Reward yourself for completing tasks. Motivate yourself by setting small rewards for accomplishing specific cleaning goals. Treat yourself to a nice meal, indulge in a TV show or book, or relax in a warm bath. These little rewards can keep you motivated and make the cleaning process more enjoyable.

Maintaining a clean home all year round.

Keeping a clean and organized home not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal but also promotes a healthy living environment. By establishing daily cleaning habits, implementing storage solutions, and staying organized with a home maintenance checklist, you can ensure that your home stays clean and clutter-free. 

Here are some tips to help you maintain a clean and tidy home:

• Establish daily cleaning habits: Every day, tackle small cleaning tasks, such as wiping countertops, doing dishes, and sweeping the floors. 
• Implement storage solutions to reduce clutter: Invest in storage containers, shelves, and bins to keep your belongings organized. Assign a designated place for each item, and make it a habit to return things to their proper place after use.
• Regularly declutter and donate unused items: Periodically go through your belongings and identify items that you no longer need or use. Donate these items to local charities or sell them online to reduce clutter and create more space in your home.
• Stay organized with a home maintenance checklist: Create a checklist of regular cleaning and maintenance tasks. Add tasks such as servicing home appliances, changing your air filters, cleaning out your gutters, and more. By following this checklist, you can stay on top of essential tasks and prevent potential issues.
• Keep up with regular cleaning and maintenance tasks: In addition to the checklist, make sure to regularly clean and maintain various areas of your home, including bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. This will help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and potential health hazards.
• Consider hiring professional cleaners for deep cleaning: If you have a busy schedule or need a thorough cleaning, consider hiring professional cleaners. They have the expertise, tools, and equipment to deep clean your home, ensuring every nook and cranny is spotless.

By implementing these tips and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can enjoy a clean, organized, and inviting home all year round.

Find spring cleaning professionals near you.

While spring cleaning may not be glamorous work, we promise that you’ll feel elegant and accomplished after it’s done — and your family, guests, and even future buyers will thank you for keeping your home clean and in top shape.

If you can’t take on everything yourself, no need to be a hero. Use Thumbtack to find local spring cleaning pros and home cleaning services who can help you cross items off your checklist and wash the winter away.

Related: 12 signs you need to hire a house cleaner.

FAQs.

What is included in a spring cleaning? 

Every house cleaning company that offers spring cleaning services will vary, but there are some fairly standard items on most checklists. In addition to the tasks above, professional spring cleaning services may include:

• Fixtures: Dust ceiling fans, clean light fixtures and sanitize knobs, faucets, light switches and drawer pulls. 
• Windows: Clean window sills, wash windows and vacuum out window tracks. Remove and wash screens with soapy water.
• Children's toys: Disinfect kids’ soft toys in the washing machine, or toss hard plastic toys in the dishwasher. 
• Smoke detectors: Test and replace all smoke detector batteries. 

Find a house cleaning service in your area, and ask them about their spring cleaning offerings.

When should you spring clean?

Spring cleaning is — true to name — best performed in the spring. Many people take part in this annual cleaning routine as soon as the weather is warm enough to throw open the doors and windows. After spending a long, cold winter indoors, spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home. Plus, the sunnier weather may give you more energy to get things done around the house. 

Even though we call it spring cleaning, you can do a big, annual cleaning whenever you want. If you get into the habit of seasonal deep cleanings, you'll probably find spring cleaning becomes much less of a chore. 

How do you prepare for spring cleaning?

First, make a list of the things you want to tackle during your spring-cleaning session. Our easy-to-use printable checklist will guide you through a thorough spring cleaning if you're not sure where to start. Also, you don’t have to clean your entire house in one day. You can take the checklist and designate certain days for specific tasks, or break it up and assign different rooms to different family members.

Once you know what you want to tackle, purchase all the cleaning supplies you need. Make spring cleaning fun by putting together an upbeat playlist that gets you energized and in the mood. 

Finally, the most practical thing you can do to prepare for spring cleaning is start decluttering weeks beforehand. Cleaning out and organizing the pantry, garage and closets before you begin will save loads of time and help move the cleaning process along efficiently.

What's the difference between a spring clean and a deep clean?

Some people treat spring cleaning as deep cleaning that occurs in spring. For others, a spring clean is a thorough house cleaning that also includes junk removal, decluttering and organizing the contents of drawers, cabinets, closets and more.

A deep clean typically includes cleaning all the nooks and crannies that are not generally included in a basic house cleaning. That includes cleaning inside the oven, degreasing the stovetop hood, cleaning kitchen appliances, wiping down blinds and fixtures, scrubbing bathroom grout, spot cleaning stains wherever you see them and vacuuming under couch cushions and inside drawers.

Long story short: a spring clean also includes organizing and decluttering, while a deep clean focuses on heavy-duty cleaning. However, your spring cleaning routine can — and probably should — include deep cleaning as well.

Next up: What is a deep house cleaning?