Comments on: A basic spring cleaning plan

By: Krys

Krys — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 23:11:22 +0000

I like the idea of setting priority areas – that way, if life intervenes before I can get through everything, at least the most important jobs get done. Thanks for the idea!!

By: Kate

Kate — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 22:11:40 +0000

I have a 3-day spring cleaning scheduled for April. Day 1 is sorting, organizing, purging, decluttering, including a trip to Goodwill. It also includes any other errands like shoe repair, drycleaners, etc. I’m already gathering stuff to toss.

Days 2 & 3 are actual deep cleaning days. In years past I’ve done this part in one day but as I get older, I am finding that way too tiring. So this year I’ll deep-clean two rooms/areas each day, roughly. This includes all the cleaning I’d normally do plus things like cleaning the oven, windows, laundering the curtains, etc.

My big secret for a successful Spring Cleaning is to be prepared and have some treats! For me that includes some fun, splurgy stuff for dinners, some good &/or trashy movies saved up, lovely bath stuff to soak away the grime each night, fresh flowers, and some new fun downloaded music to work to. Oh and wine & chocolate can’t hurt!

I have several people in my life who have said things like “But your place is already clean, you don’t need to do that.” Hmm. I’m sure the fact that I do ‘spring clean’ once or twice a year, has nothing to do with the fact that my place is clean, eh?!

By: Melissa A.

Melissa A. — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 22:59:08 +0000

What if decluttering is part of your spring clean? I have lived in this apartment for a year and half. Things did not go well at the beginning. A spring clean would be great, but I am still at the decluttering and organizing stage.

By: Dede

Dede — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 20:57:39 +0000

Checklist. Checklist. Checklist. And make one that is specific to each room. Then save it and use it as a starting point again in the fall or next spring. I keep mine in a folder on my computer and it is so helpful. When we start cleaning, I post the list on the fridge so everyone–kids included–can see what needs to be done and sign up for their “favorite”. I love checking things off because it shows me that progress is being made, especially for those days where I feel like I haven’t done anything but really I have.

By: Jennifer. montague

Jennifer. montague — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 19:06:24 +0000

Great idea, just thinking about organizing And I will be using your ideas it is to do while it is still cold. Thanks. ..

By: Kari

Kari — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:31:20 +0000

I’ve been following along (at least by reading…) a blog called “Spring Cleaning” and subtitled “One Task. Each Day. All Year.” http://springcleaning365.com/ The idea is to work on one thing each day instead of trying to tackle a major spring or fall cleaning. Perhaps smart for those who can find 5-30 minutes more easily than scheduling a weekend or something like that.

By: Damian

Damian — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 15:30:56 +0000

I think that scheduling times for a major spring cleaning is a good idea. Just saying “I’m going to spring clean the kitchen this week” means it’s likely to not get done. At the same time you need to be realistic as you say in order to avoid being overwhelmed.