Levoit's Spring Cleaning Guide

Spring is in the air—along with the energy of new beginnings. According to a survey by the American Cleaning Institute, 80% of Americans now spring clean every year, making this annual ritual more popular than ever before. Whether it’s the brighter days, the newly blooming flowers, or the feeling of fresh starts, there’s something deeply satisfying about clearing out the old to make way for the new.

A cluttered home can feel overwhelming, whereas a clean, well-organized environment can bring a sense of calm and focus. From the living room to the kitchen counters, once the excess items are out of the way, your mind can focus on the present moment rather than the visual noise that clutter creates.

After winter’s chill, it’s natural to feel the urge to open the windows and invite in fresh air. Giving your home a complete refresh—dusting hidden corners, washing curtains, and rearranging a few decorative items—can usher in a renewed sense of energy, often inspiring you to keep your space tidy all year long.

A neat, orderly home often motivates people to maintain positive habits. You might find yourself cooking healthier meals because your kitchen is clean or taking breaks to tidy smaller messes each day rather than letting them accumulate. Over time, these routines can support a more balanced daily life.

Embarking on a full-home cleanup can feel daunting, but a bit of organization can ensure you stay on track.

Before you start spraying surfaces or decluttering closets, outline every room, nook, and cranny you intend to tackle. Break it down into tasks like wiping ceiling fans, shampooing carpets, cleaning under furniture, and organizing seasonal items. This strategy helps you track progress and keeps you motivated.

Few things are more frustrating than pausing mid-task to run out for more trash bags or an all-purpose cleaner. Stock up on versatile cleaning agents, microfiber cloths, gloves, and any special tools you anticipate needing—like a window squeegee or a steam cleaner.

Instead of expecting to finish your entire home in one weekend, be kind to yourself and map out a practical timeline. Perhaps you tackle the living room on Saturday, then the bedrooms on Sunday. Add breaks or simpler tasks in between major projects to recharge and celebrate small victories.

If you live with family or roommates, involve them in the spring cleaning process. Not only does this lighten your workload, but it also encourages shared responsibility for maintaining a harmonious space.

Here’s how to approach each area of your home with purpose and efficiency.

The kitchen often sees the most daily activity, from cooking to socializing. As a result, it can gather dirt and clutter quickly. 

• Counters & Cabinets: Clear off all surfaces, wiping them down with a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Open each cabinet and drawer to sort through items you don’t need—expired food, mismatched containers, or rarely used gadgets. 

• Appliances: Give your refrigerator shelves and drawers a warm, soapy wash. Clean the microwave inside and out, removing any baked-on splatters. For the oven, you can use a specialized cleaner or a baking soda and water paste to tackle grime. 

• Sink & Garbage Disposal: Scrub the sink thoroughly, then flush the disposal with hot water and a mild cleaning solution. 

• Floors: Sweep, vacuum, and/or mop thoroughly. Pay special attention to high-traffic zones near the stove or sink.

Often the social hub of the home, the living room can accumulate dust, fingerprints, and general clutter. 

• Dust Surfaces: Start from the top—ceiling fans, shelves, picture frames—then move down. A microfiber cloth is excellent for trapping dust. 

• Upholstery: Vacuum pillows and cushions. If your covers are removable, wash them according to care instructions. Spot-clean any spills or stains promptly. 

• Windows & Blinds: Use a streak-free solution on windows or try a vinegar-water mix. Dust blinds gently with a microfiber duster or wipe with a damp cloth. 

• Rugs & Carpets: Vacuum thoroughly; consider utilizing a vacuum with excellent filtration and an air purifier to help protect your air quality while you kick up some dust. 

A tidy, serene bedroom can support relaxation and rejuvenation, making it a top priority during a spring clean. 

• Declutter Closets & Dressers: Sort clothing by season and donate what you no longer wear.  

• Bedding: Wash pillows, comforters, and duvet covers.  

• Nightstands & Dressers: Dust and organize these surfaces, wiping them down with a suitable cleaner.  

Bathrooms can accumulate buildup from daily use. Spring cleaning offers an excellent opportunity to give them a fresh start. 

• Showers & Tubs: Scrub away soap scum using either a commercial cleaner or a homemade solution you trust. 

• Tiles & Grout: A small brush (like an old toothbrush) works wonders for tackling grout lines. If stains persist, let a baking soda paste sit on them for a few minutes before scrubbing. 

• Toilet: Clean both inside and out, paying attention to hinges and handles. 

• Mirrors & Fixtures: A microfiber cloth and mild cleaner can prevent streaks, while a quick polish on chrome fixtures brings back their shine. 

From the garage to the attic, these areas tend to collect items year-round. A dedicated session of decluttering and organizing can dramatically improve how your entire home feels. 

• Sort & Label: Group belongings by category—holiday décor, gardening tools, sports equipment—and store them in labeled boxes or bins. 

• Use Vertical Space: Install shelves or pegboards to free up floor area. This maximizes your storage capacity and makes items easier to find. 

• Inspect & Refresh: Quickly check for any signs of leaks or damage while rearranging. Taking care of small repairs early can prevent bigger problems later. 

After putting in the effort to get your home looking its best, the key is maintaining that standard. Set aside a few minutes each day to tidy up. Wiping down counters, folding blankets, and putting items back where they belong takes less time than you might think. 

Before purchasing new items—be it décor, gadgets, or clothing—ask whether they serve a genuine purpose. Fewer items mean easier organization and less clutter over time. 

Consider small “seasonal resets” every few months. For instance, rotate items in your closet when the weather changes, tidy up the garage after heavy use in the summer, or reorganize kitchen tools before the holiday season. Regular attention helps prevent problems from building up. 

Spring cleaning is a substantial undertaking, so acknowledge your accomplishment. Perhaps you treat yourself to a spa day in your freshly cleaned tub or a new plant for your freshened-up living space. Recognizing the fruits of your labor can reinforce the habit of regular cleaning. 

From hauling out old boxes in the garage to polishing the hardware in the bathroom, spring cleaning can be a fulfilling, albeit sometimes challenging, process. By following a practical plan, gathering the right tools, and tackling one area at a time, spring cleaning will not only transform your home but also create an environment that supports your sense of well-being. 

Sources: 

1. ACI Survey: 80% of Americans Now Spring Clean Every Year