Every spring, I’m in this mad scramble to clean up and declutter literally everything.
Like, how am I supposed to enjoy summer with all the chaos from last year still haunting my space?
I’m talking about actually cleaning the house and not just stuffing random stuff into closets (guilty).
This year, I decided to get real with a cleaning schedule that doesn’t make me want to throw in the towel halfway through.
So, if you’re vibing with the spring refresh or just need a realistic routine that works, I’ve got a realistic spring cleaning schedule for you.
Let’s break it down and get every room spotless before summer sneaks up on us with its never-ending haul of cute new finds and warm-weather essentials.
Ready? Let’s go!
Realistic Spring Cleaning Schedule You Need
This year, I’m staying ahead of the chaos with a super realistic cleaning schedule that doesn’t make me want to quit halfway through.
If you’re ready to declutter, freshen up your space, and get every room summer-ready, let’s dive into some no-stress cleaning tips that actually work!
1. Start With One Room at a Time
Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to clean the whole house at once. Pick one room and focus on finishing it before moving to the next. Baby steps are key!
2. Declutter Before You Clean
It’s impossible to deep clean when there’s stuff everywhere. Sort through your things, donate what you don’t need, and then you’ll have space to clean properly.
3. Create a Weekly Cleaning Schedule
Break your cleaning into chunks throughout the week. For example, Monday can be the living room, Tuesday the kitchen, and so on. Easy and manageable.
4. Work Top to Bottom
Always clean high surfaces first, like shelves or ceiling fans, and then move down to floors. It saves you from having to clean twice.
5. Use Multi-Purpose Cleaners
No need to juggle a million products. A good multi-purpose cleaner can handle most surfaces and makes the whole process way faster.
6. Set a Timer for Each Room
Give yourself a realistic time limit—like 30 minutes per room—to stay on track and avoid burnout. Cleaning sprints for the win!
7. Rotate Seasonal Items
Swap out heavy winter blankets, coats, and boots for lighter summer gear while you clean. It’s like a closet refresh and cleaning hack all in one.
8. Make It Fun
Blast your favorite playlist, listen to a juicy podcast, or even dance your way through the dusting. A little fun can make cleaning less of a drag.
Now, grab your supplies and let’s spring clean like pros!
Spring Clean: Bedroom
When it comes to spring cleaning your bedroom, the goal is to create a fresh, calming space without spending an entire day feeling like you’re deep-cleaning a palace.
Here’s a simple step-by-step routine to get your bedroom in shape.
Declutter Your Space
Start by clearing out anything that doesn’t belong in your bedroom.
Toss dirty laundry into the hamper, return stray items to their rightful places, and create a donate pile for clothes or items you no longer need.
If it hasn’t been used or worn in months, it’s time to let it go. Decluttering first clears the way for actual cleaning and instantly makes your room look better.
Strip the Bed and Refresh Linens
It’s time to make an inviting and dare I say it – layer a bed that looks professional.
Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors.
Toss them in the wash, adding a bit of baking soda to the detergent for extra freshness.
While the laundry is running, vacuum the mattress to remove dust and allergens, and consider flipping or rotating it if needed.
Dust Every Surface
Grab a microfiber cloth and dust all surfaces, starting with higher areas like shelves, ceiling fans, or light fixtures.
Don’t forget to wipe down nightstands, dressers, and window sills.
Use a gentle cleaner for any wood furniture to leave it shiny and clean.
Organize Drawers and Closets
Take a moment to tidy up your closet and drawers.
Fold or hang items neatly and set aside anything that needs repair or doesn’t fit anymore.
For a quick win, focus on one drawer or closet section at a time to keep it manageable.
Clean Windows and Mirrors
Smudged mirrors and dusty windows can make your bedroom feel less clean than it is.
Use a streak-free cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water to wipe down mirrors and window glass.
Don’t forget to clean the window frames and sills too!
Vacuum or Sweep Thoroughly
Whether you have carpet, hardwood, or a rug, give the floors a thorough vacuum or sweep. Use the vacuum attachments to get into corners and under furniture.
If you have time, move the bed slightly to clean hidden areas.
Freshen the Air
Once the cleaning is done, open the windows to let in fresh air and sunshine.
Add a light touch of your favorite room spray or an essential oil diffuser for a calming scent.
Reassemble Your Room
Finish by putting your fresh linens back on the bed and adding a few cozy touches, like fluffed pillows or a soft throw blanket.
Take a moment to step back and admire your clean, inviting bedroom.
This routine keeps the process realistic and leaves your bedroom feeling like the peaceful retreat it should be.
Spring Clean: Living Room
The living room is the heart of the home, but it’s also where clutter, dust, and crumbs like to hang out.
A deep clean doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—here’s a step-by-step routine to refresh your space and make it guest-ready.
Declutter and Reset the Room
Start by removing anything that doesn’t belong in the living room.
Toys, dishes, magazines, or random items should go back to their proper places.
Once the clutter is gone, it’s much easier to clean. Straighten up pillows and throws to give the space an instant lift.
Dust From Top to Bottom
Dusting is the ultimate refresh. Begin with higher surfaces, like ceiling fans, light fixtures, and shelves, working your way down to coffee tables and end tables.
Use a microfiber cloth to capture dust without spreading it around.
For electronics, grab a screen-safe cleaner to keep your TV and devices smudge-free.
Clean Windows and Curtains
Living room windows let in all the light, but they can also show every fingerprint and speck of dust.
Wipe down the windows inside and out if possible.
Take down curtains or drapes and toss them in the wash, or vacuum them if they’re not washable. If you have blinds, give them a quick wipe with a damp cloth.
Tackle Upholstery and Pillows
Vacuum your couch and chairs thoroughly, getting into the crevices where crumbs like to hide.
If your cushions have removable covers, check the care instructions and wash them if needed. For non-removable fabric, a fabric cleaner or a steam cleaner can work wonders.
Fluff pillows and rotate cushions to keep them looking fresh.
Focus on Floors
Move furniture slightly to vacuum or sweep beneath it.
If you have rugs, roll them up and shake them outside to remove dust and debris, or give them a deep clean with a carpet cleaner.
Hardwood or tile floors can be swept and mopped with a gentle cleaner to leave them shiny and spotless.
Organize Decor and Shelving
Take a moment to organize books, décor, and other items on your shelves.
Wipe down each shelf and rearrange items if needed to create a clean, balanced look. Swap out seasonal décor to match the fresh spring vibes.
Clean Air Vents and Light Fixtures
Don’t skip the air vents—dusty vents can blow dirt back into your clean space. Use a vacuum attachment or a damp cloth to clean them.
While you’re at it, wipe down light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs to brighten the room.
Add the Finishing Touches
To wrap up, place a few fresh flowers or a scented candle on the coffee table to bring in a cozy, spring-ready vibe.
Open the windows to air out the space and enjoy the crisp, clean feel of your refreshed living room.
This realistic routine keeps you focused and makes your living room feel like the welcoming space it’s meant to be. Happy spring cleaning!
Spring Clean: Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the busiest spots in the house, so it’s no surprise it needs a serious refresh come spring.
A deep clean doesn’t have to mean spending an entire day scrubbing.
With this manageable routine, you can tackle your kitchen step-by-step and get it sparkling without the stress.
Declutter and Empty Surfaces
Clear off all countertops, cabinets, and the kitchen table.
Put away anything that doesn’t belong or hasn’t been used in months—yes, even that bread maker you forgot existed. A clutter-free surface makes cleaning way easier.
Wipe Down Appliances
Give your appliances some love.
Start with the outside of your fridge, microwave, oven, and dishwasher.
Use a mix of warm water and dish soap for a general clean, or grab a specialty cleaner for stainless steel finishes. Don’t forget to clean handles—they’re often the grimiest part!
For the inside of appliances, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave for a minute, then use a sponge to wipe away the steam-loosened grime.
For the oven, use a baking soda paste for baked-on messes, let it sit, then scrub and rinse.
Toss expired food from the fridge and wipe down shelves and drawers.
Scrub Cabinets and Drawers
Take a damp cloth with a gentle cleaner and wipe down cabinet doors, handles, and inside drawers.
Focus on areas around handles where grime tends to build up. If your drawers are cluttered, this is a good time to sort and organize them.
Deep Clean the Sink and Faucet
Sprinkle baking soda in your sink, scrub it with a soft sponge, and rinse.
Follow up with a disinfecting spray to kill germs.
For the faucet, use a cloth and a bit of vinegar to remove water spots and buildup.
Clean Countertops
Wipe down countertops with a disinfectant or surface-specific cleaner.
Move small appliances like the toaster and coffee maker to clean underneath them, and don’t forget to sanitize the edges and corners.
Sweep and Mop the Floors
Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor to pick up crumbs and debris.
For a deeper clean, mop the floor with warm, soapy water or a floor-safe cleaner. Pay attention to corners and edges where dirt tends to collect.
Empty and Clean the Trash Can
Empty the trash and clean the inside of the trash can if needed.
Add a fresh liner and consider sprinkling some baking soda at the bottom to absorb odors.
Freshen the Air
Open the windows to let in some fresh air.
You can also add a finishing touch with a lightly scented candle or an essential oil diffuser to make the kitchen smell as clean as it looks.
Follow these steps, and your kitchen will be spotless and ready for all your spring cooking adventures!
Spring Clean: Bathroom
The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, but it’s definitely one of the most used—and needs a solid refresh during spring cleaning.
Here’s a realistic step-by-step routine to get your bathroom sparkling and fresh without feeling overwhelmed.
Declutter All Surfaces
Start by clearing off countertops, shelves, and any other surfaces.
Toss expired products, empty bottles, and anything you don’t use anymore.
If you’ve been hoarding random samples or broken hair tools, now’s the time to let them go.
A decluttered bathroom is much easier to clean.
Scrub the Shower and Bathtub
Apply your favorite bathroom cleaner to the shower walls, bathtub, and fixtures.
Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen soap scum and grime while you tackle other tasks.
Then scrub with a sponge or brush and rinse thoroughly.
For stubborn stains, a baking soda and vinegar paste can work wonders.
Clean the Toilet Thoroughly
Use a toilet bowl cleaner inside the bowl and let it sit while you clean the rest of the toilet.
Wipe down the outside, including the base and behind the seat, with a disinfecting cleaner.
Finally, scrub the inside of the bowl with a brush and flush.
Shine the Sink and Faucet
Sprinkle baking soda in the sink and scrub with a damp sponge to remove buildup.
Rinse thoroughly, then wipe down the faucet and handles with a cleaner or vinegar solution to remove water spots and make them shine.
Wipe Down Mirrors and Glass
Spray mirrors and any glass surfaces with a streak-free glass cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water.
Use a microfiber cloth to get a spotless, streak-free shine.
Clean Cabinets and Drawers
Empty cabinets and drawers, tossing expired medications, makeup, or toiletries.
Wipe down the insides and reorganize items as you put them back.
Consider adding small bins or dividers to keep things tidy.
Wash the Floors
Sweep or vacuum the bathroom floor to remove hair and dust.
Follow up with a mop or scrub brush and a floor-safe cleaner. Pay extra attention to corners and grout lines for a deep clean.
Refresh Towels and Mats
Wash all towels, washcloths, and bath mats in hot water to kill germs and odors.
Replace them with fresh ones, or switch to lighter, spring-themed options for a seasonal touch.
Empty and Clean the Trash Can
Empty the trash and wipe down the inside and outside of the trash can.
Add a fresh liner and sprinkle a little baking soda at the bottom to control odors.
Add Finishing Touches
Put everything back in its place, ensuring countertops stay clutter-free.
Light a candle, add a small plant or fresh flowers, and spritz the air with a refreshing scent to give your bathroom that spa-like vibe.
By breaking it down into manageable steps, you can deep clean your bathroom without feeling like it’s an all-day project.
Spring Clean: Closets
Closets are those hidden spaces that quickly turn into clutter zones if left unchecked.
Whether it’s your entryway closet, hallway storage, or bedroom wardrobe, a spring clean can refresh these spaces and make them more functional.
Here’s a realistic and manageable routine to tackle them all.
Empty the Closet
Start by taking everything out of the closet. This gives you a blank slate to work with and helps you see exactly what’s been hiding in there. Lay everything out so you can sort through it easily.
Declutter Ruthlessly
Go through every item and ask yourself if you still need it. For entry closets, toss or donate old shoes, coats, or umbrellas that are damaged or unused. For hallway and bedroom closets, sort through clothes, linens, and accessories, keeping only what you use or love. Create three piles: keep, donate, and toss.
Clean the Empty Closet
Once the closet is empty, vacuum or sweep the floor, wipe down shelves, and dust any corners or surfaces. If you have scuff marks or stains, a magic eraser or gentle cleaner can work wonders. Don’t forget to clean the inside of the closet door and handles.
Organize by Category
Group similar items together. In an entry closet, keep coats, shoes, and accessories like scarves and hats in separate sections. For hallway closets, organize linens by type—sheets, towels, or blankets. In bedroom closets, group clothing by type (shirts, pants, dresses) or by season to make items easier to find.
Use Storage Solutions
Add storage tools to maximize space. Use bins or baskets for small items like gloves or scarves in the entry closet. Install shelf dividers or use clear containers for linens in hallway closets. In bedroom closets, use slim hangers, drawer organizers, or under-the-bed storage for out-of-season clothes.
Rotate Seasonal Items
Move winter coats, boots, and heavy clothing to less accessible areas if you won’t need them for a while. Bring spring and summer items to the front so they’re easy to grab. For hallway closets, swap out thick blankets for lighter ones.
Label for Easy Access
If you’re using bins or boxes, label them clearly to save time in the future. This is especially helpful for shared closets like entry or hallway spaces where multiple people need to find things quickly.
Put Everything Back Neatly
Return the “keep” items to the closet, making sure everything has a designated spot. Avoid overfilling the space—closets are easier to use and stay clean when they’re not crammed full.
Add a Fresh Touch
Place a cedar block, lavender sachet, or odor absorber in the closet to keep things smelling fresh. For extra flair, consider lining shelves with decorative paper or installing motion-sensor lights for a more polished look.
This routine works for any type of closet and keeps the process simple and manageable.
A Cleaning Schedule You Can Do
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