As the days grow longer and the weather (hopefully) warms up, spring offers a perfect opportunity to refresh your home. Spring cleaning can seem daunting, but involving your kids lightens the load and teaches them valuable life skills. However, this might feel like wishful thinking for an overwhelmed parent!

Start with a Family Discussion

Before diving into cleaning, gather your family and discuss the plan. Explain the importance of spring cleaning and how it can create a more organized and inviting home. Studies show that clutter negatively impacts our mental health. Setting a positive tone can help get everyone excited about the task ahead, though that might still feel like a stretch!

Tips to Make Spring Cleaning Manageable

To make spring cleaning more enjoyable, consider these ideas:

  • Create a Cleaning Playlist-Use upbeat music to keep spirits high.
  • Set a Timer for Tasks-Turn cleaning into a game by timing how quickly tasks can be completed.
  • Incorporate Games and Challenges
    • Cleaning Relay Races-Set up stations for different tasks and times and how fast they can complete them.
    • “Who Can Clean the Fastest?” Contest. Set a timer for specific tasks and see who finishes first.
  • You can even offer small rewards for completed tasks, such as a family movie night or ice cream treats sometimes. A little bribery goes a long way!

Assign Age Appropriate Tasks

You may wonder how to involve your kids effectively. Be sure to assign tasks that are suitable for their age. 

Toddlers (2-4 years)

  • Sorting toys into bins
  • Dusting low surfaces with a cloth

Preschoolers (4-6 years)

  • Picking up and organizing books
  • Wiping down surfaces with damp cloths

School-Aged Kids (6-12 years):

  • Vacuuming or sweeping floors
  • Helping sort clothes for donation
  • Organizing their own rooms

Teens (12+ years):

  • Deep cleaning their rooms
  • Assisting with kitchen or bathroom cleaning
  • Taking responsibility for outdoor tasks like yard work

For the family, consider implementing a “one in, one out” rule: for every new item brought into the home, an old one should be donated or discarded. Once the cleaning is done, take time to celebrate your family’s hard work. Acknowledge everyone’s efforts and revel in how great the house looks now.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Having a plan can be incredibly helpful. Here’s a comprehensive spring cleaning checklist:

General Cleaning

  • Declutter Each Room-Sort items into keep, donate, and discard piles; organize storage spaces (closets, drawers).
  • Dust Surfaces- Dust shelves, furniture, baseboards, light fixtures, and ceiling fans.
  • Vacuum and Mop Floors- Vacuum carpets and rugs; mop hard floors to remove dirt and stains.
  • Clean Windows and Mirrors- Wash windows inside and outside; wipe down mirrors for a streak-free shine.

Kitchen

  • Clean Out the Refrigerator- Discard expired items; wipe down shelves and drawers.
  • Deep Clean Appliances- Clean the oven, microwave, and dishwasher; wipe down stovetops and exhaust fans.
  • Organize Pantry- Check expiration dates on food items; rearrange items by type and use.

Bathrooms

  • Scrub Shower and Tub- Clean tiles, grout, and fixtures; remove any mold or mildew.
  • Organize Bathroom Cabinets- Discard expired toiletries and medications; sort items for easy access.
  • Clean Toilet and Sink- Scrub the toilet bowl and disinfect surfaces; wipe down faucets and counters.

Bedrooms

  • Change Bedding- Wash all bedding, including pillowcases and comforters; rotate or flip mattresses if applicable.
  • Organize Closets- Sort through clothing and accessories; donate items no longer worn.

Living Areas

  • Clean Upholstery- Vacuum sofas, chairs, and cushions; spot clean any stains.
  • Tidy Up Bookshelves- Dust books and arrange them neatly; consider donating books you no longer read.

Outdoor Spaces

  • Garden and Yard Work-Rake leaves and remove debris; trim shrubs and plants as needed.
  • Clean Outdoor Furniture- Wipe down patio furniture and cushions; store away winter items.

Final Touches

  • Air Out the House-Open windows to let fresh air circulate; use air fresheners or essential oils for a pleasant scent.
  • Check Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms- Replace batteries if necessary.

Local Cleaning Product Recommendations

For your spring cleaning needs, consider these fantastic local options:

  • FOLEX Instant Carpet Spot Remover- FOLEX is incredible for tackling tough stains from pet accidents, grease, ink, red wine, coffee, blood, rust, food, cosmetics, dirt, grime, and most old stains. It’s a must-have for homes with kids and pets. 
  • Wallowa Valley Cleaning Products- Wallowa Valley Cleaning Products are designed to maximize safety for people, animals, and the environment. They combine the power of nature and cutting-edge science, while supporting an ever-growing network of refilleries to reduce plastic waste. 
  • Sunburst- Sunburst is family-owned company has been serving the Portland area for over 40 years, offering affordable industrial cleaning products, including degreasers.

By combining engaging family activities with a thorough checklist, spring cleaning can become a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. So roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite tunes, and get ready to transform your home together!