How to be full of the joys of spring (cleaning)

There are two types of people in life: Those who love to clean and live for the hacks that make the job of keeping a sparkling home easier, and those who would rather shove mess into a cupboard or pay someone else to make it go away.

If you’re in the latter camp, the things we loathe can sometimes lead to “joy”, as Marie Kondo would say. So with new life springing into action all around us, from budding flowers to leaping lambs, we thought we’d share our top tips on how to make the most of a fresh start, leaving your house so shiny it’ll put a spring in your step. And if you need more inspiration, why not pop on some tunes to help you tackle the job? You can spruce up to this Spotify list, Songs for Spring.

Get a broom on room by room

If cleaning doesn't come naturally to you, the best approach to make it feel manageable is by breaking it down into smaller, more achievable tasks. Create a checklist that you can physically cross off as you go along, and consider dividing it up by room. There's no need to tackle everything in a single weekend.

Recruit some helpers – kids can earn their pocket money, and partners can contribute to their own well-being in the long run. What might start as a list of chores can quickly turn into a bonding exercise for the family. And if you live solo, perhaps friends can be enticed to join in with the promise of lunch?

Dust be gone

Our living zones are where we spend most of our waking hours at home. It's also the space where we're most likely to receive guests, so starting your spring cleaning here makes perfect sense.

Throwing open the windows and doors and letting some fresh air circulate is a wonderfully simple but effective step. Don't underestimate the power of good air circulation. Take some time to clean the split system filters and dust down fans, air conditioners, and heaters. And, of course, let there be light by wiping away any dust stuck to light bulbs and replacing them when necessary. A fresh and inviting living space sets the stage for a delightful season ahead!

Diligently dusting every surface, from dining tables to side benches, bookshelves to hanging art, is a surefire way to eliminate any sense of dullness. And don't overlook light fixtures and shades; for that extra touch, go the extra mile by giving wooden, laminate, and metallic surfaces a polished finish.

As the sun makes its triumphant return, you'll start noticing those once-overlooked dirty windows, and they can really put a damper on your mood. Show them some soapy love while taking down curtains and blinds for a thorough scrub. Toss throw blankets and cushion covers in the wash, and spot-clean sofas and armchairs. Give all your floors a good vacuum and/or mop, and consider shampooing carpets and rugs or bringing in the professionals. Dust has a way of clinging to walls and their trim, so don't forget to wipe them, along with light switches, using a damp cloth.

In Metricon homes, kitchens are typically integrated into open-plan living areas. It's time to tackle those cabinets and drawers that tend to accumulate residue and debris. Empty them out and give them a thorough wipe down. If the cabinet tops are a bit out of reach, here's a handy tip: use vacuum extensions to give them a much-needed cleanup without the risk of acrobatics. Clearing out the contents allows you to take stock of what truly sparks joy in your life. If you rarely use certain kitchen utensils and assorted gadgets, it might be time to bid them farewell. Consider donating them to charity or offering them on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, giving someone else the opportunity to make use of these space-claimers. Additionally, take the chance to rearrange your pantry, ensuring that your regularly used items are front and center where they belong.

Microwaves are easy to mop down, but ovens can be more grease-frightening. If the oven cleaning feels like too much of a challenge, don't hesitate to bring in a professional. Just like walls and cupboards, splashbacks have a tendency to collect unsightly residue, so make sure to include them in your cleaning routine, along with the other usual surfaces and floors. While you're on a cleaning spree, get down low and vacuum up any lurking dust bunnies beneath the fridge. Also, take the time to give appliances like the dishwasher a good wipe-down to complete the kitchen's transformation.

Bright, bubbly bathrooms and laundries

Begin by emptying out the cabinets and under-sink cupboards, giving them a thorough scrub while parting ways with any unused pampering or cleaning products. Dust and wipe down all surfaces, from towel rails to shower nozzles, light fixtures, and switches. And don't forget to show some love to the inside of washing machines and dryers.

It's a good idea to consider using some unblocking liquid on your shower, bath, sink, and toilet drains. Now is the perfect moment to address the tile grout that often accumulates grime. Grab a toothbrush or steel wool and scrub away, and if necessary, reseal any areas that need it. Once everything is gleaming, take a moment to polish your mirrored surfaces, making your bathroom truly the fairest of them all.

Great grime-free outdoors

Now that your windows are sparkling clean, you might notice that outdoor area you've been avoiding for a while (unless you're one of our lucky Queensland customers!). Take some time to pull out any weeds that have found their way into the cracks between paved areas or poked through the stone-studded beds. Give every nook and cranny a thorough brush and hose down, including doormats and outdoor furniture. And don't forget to add a touch of sparkle to your doors, welcoming guests into a home that's ready to entertain.

Lay your head down

After this thorough cleaning spree, you might be ready to sleep until next spring, which is why you'll want to give your bedrooms a little extra shine before you collapse.

Run duvets and pillows through the washing machine, if they fit, or take them to the dry cleaners for a refresh. Give your mattress a little attention by turning it around and letting it breathe, and don't forget to vacuum it following a sprinkle of baking soda for that extra pizzazz. Go through the "use it or lose it" routine with the contents of your bedside tables and wardrobes, rearranging them so that your summer essentials take the spotlight while winter items take a step back. Give your curtains and blinds some love, just like all the other surfaces, and then you'll be ready to dream of brighter days ahead.