You’re in the home stretch! Use these checklists to help you finish up your spring cleaning.
Did you miss the earlier parts of our series? Get checklists for spring cleaning kitchens and mudrooms, common areas and bathrooms, and bedrooms and kid clutter!
Home office
Declutter the desk. If you have a buildup of paperwork, set aside time to sort it into “file,” “shred” and “scan” piles. The more things you can shred or scan and save electronically (then shred), the easier it will be to organize what’s left. Caution: Don’t let this step derail your cleaning efforts. If you have more paperwork than you can sort in an afternoon, just box it up and set it aside until you have the time.
Dust surfaces from top to bottom. Start with the ceiling, ceiling fan blades, bookcase tops, and the tops of doors and picture frames, then work your way down to shelving, tables and desks.
When you’re ready to dust electronics, be sure to label your cords so it will be easy to reconnect everything. Use canned air to blow out fan vents, keyboards and other crevices. Be sure to use electronics-safe cleaning products and electrostatic cloths according to manufacturers’ guidelines. Need some cord control? Bob Vila offers these solutions to help you keep your computer and peripherals plug-and-play ready.
Wipe down walls, light switches, doorknobs, window sills and baseboards.
Vacuum upholstery and area rugs. Treat any stains as you find them.
Vacuum, sweep and/or mop floors as needed. Be sure to move furniture to clean underneath.
Polish wood furniture.
Clean windows, framed art glass and light fixtures.
If you’re looking for ways to make your home office more efficient and attractive, check out our article, 6 Home Office Ideas: Get Organized and Love Your Office.
Laundry room
Finish any lingering laundry, so it won’t be in your way.
Remove anything that doesn’t belong in the laundry room—clean laundry, sports equipment, cold weather gear, etc.
If it’s time, call a professional to clean your dryer vent. Regular cleaning helps keep your dryer running efficiently and reduces fire risk.
Clean and inspect your dryer hose. Blockages and cracks can make your dryer run less efficiently.
Clean the inside of your washer and dryer according to manufacturers’ guidelines. For some general tips, check out this article from the Huffington Post.
Dust surfaces from top to bottom. Start with the ceiling, cabinet tops and the tops of doors, then work your way down to the washer and dryer, shelving, ironing board, etc. Be sure to empty each shelf as you go and replace shelving paper as needed. Keep a running list of supplies that need replenishment.
Wipe down walls, light switches, doorknobs, window sills and baseboards.
Sweep and/or mop floors. Be sure to clean underneath the washer and dryer.
Clean windows and light fixtures.
For more laundry organization ideas, check out our article, 5 Steps for Organizing Your Laundry Room.
