Spring Cleaning 101

Winter had its moment—now it’s your turn! Say goodbye to the chill, take a deep breath of fresh air, and give your home the refreshment it craves. There’s nothing more satisfying than decluttering every nook, scrubbing away the last traces of winter, and making space for the sunny days ahead. And if you secretly get a rush from an immaculately clean home (Monica Geller fans, we see you!), this is your season!

So, throw open those windows, let the sunshine in, and let’s dive into a step-by-step spring cleaning guide for your city apartment. The secret? Tackle one room at a time!

Step One: Refresh Your Living Space

The heart of your home—the place where you unwind after a long day, binge-watch your favorite shows, and entertain guests—deserves a fresh start. And what better way to kick off your spring cleaning than right here?

I always like to work from top to bottom—it’s a simple trick that makes cleaning more efficient. Start with the ceiling fans, lights, fixtures and chandeliers. A washable microfiber duster will be your best friend here, grabbing dust before it settles elsewhere. Then, move on to appliances like the TV and speakers, making sure every surface is free from winter’s buildup.

Next, it’s time to put on your declutter goggles—yes, those cozy winter plush blankets need to be stored away! Give your couch a well-earned refresh by using a stain remover or microfiber spray to lift any signs of hibernation. A good wipe-down of your coffee table, shelves, and side tables will instantly make the space feel lighter and brighter.

If you have a carpet, investing in a quality cleaning machine can do wonders, lifting months of hidden dust and leaving your space feeling refreshed. Once everything is spotless, take a moment to rearrange or restyle your room. Fresh flowers, lighter decor, or a new scented candle can instantly breathe new life into the space.

Spring hack: I add a few drops of essential oil to the water before soaking my cleaning cloth—it leaves the surfaces smelling fresh!

Living space — Living Space - your home haven

Next Up: The Kitchen – The Most Satisfying Clean!

Just like in the living room, always start from the top and work your way down. Begin by wiping down cabinets, shelves, and light fixtures to remove any hidden grease or dust buildup. Heads up—conventional cleaners packed with chemicals and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) aren’t the best for your health or home. Switching to all-natural, plant-based options is an easy way to create a cleaner, safer space.

While you're at it, why not give your cabinets and drawers a little makeover? Swap out those old mats for fresh non-slip liners. Next, a pantry and fridge refresh is essential! Dig deep, check those expiry dates (yes, that mystery sauce from last year has to go), and declutter anything that’s been sitting untouched for way too long. And here’s the fun part—wash and refill your containers for that Instagram-worthy vision of organization. And there’s nothing better than getting the food storage container set you’ve been wanting!

Now, onto the appliances. Give your stove and gas plates a proper scrub—oven cleaning sprays work wonders for stubborn, sticky residues. Don’t forget the exhaust fan and range hood, as grease tends to build up over time. For stainless steel surfaces like your fridge, dishwasher, or trash cans, use a stainless steel cleaner to prevent rust and fingerprints, especially with the warmer months ahead.

By the time you're done, your kitchen will not only look spotless but also feel more functional and efficient.

Spring hack: A little vinegar works wonders! Add a small cup during a dishwasher cycle or use it to tackle grease while scrubbing your utensils.

Next: The Bedroom – The Ultimate Refresh!

If there’s one golden rule for a dreamy, relaxing bedroom, it’s this: declutter and refresh! And where better to start than your closet? Say goodbye to bulky winter layers and hello to breezy summer outfits. Pack away off-season clothes in storage bins to keep them fresh (your future self will thank you). While you’re at it, take a moment to separate items you no longer need.

Next up, freshen your bedding. Toss your sheets, pillow covers, and even duvet covers into the wash for that crisp, just-cleaned feel. But don’t stop there—your mattress deserves love too! Use a garment steamer to zap away hidden dust mites, then go over any stains with an upholstery cleaner. As a final touch, I love to spritz a sanitizing spray over the mattress—it’s like giving your bed a breath of fresh spring air!

Spring hack: I swear by vacuum-sealed bags for storing winter clothes—shrinks bulky layers, saves tons of space.

Turn Your Bathroom into a Spa-Worthy Sanctuary!

A clean, great-smelling bathroom makes all the difference! Start with the mirrors—because streak-free reflections just hit different. Next, give your toilet the deep scrub it deserves (it’s been through a lot!), and toss those floor mats in the wash for a much-needed refresh.

Want your bathtub to shine like new? A little bleach will work wonders. While you're at it, declutter and organize your toiletries—because digging through a mess first thing in the morning isn’t the vibe. Add a touch of green with artificial plants for a fresh look, and swap out your shower curtain for something colorful and fun.

Spring hack: I wipe down my bathroom mirror with a mix of vinegar and water, then buff it with a microfiber cloth. It leaves my mirror streak-free.

Don’t Skip the Shoe Rack – It’s Spring Cleaning Gold!

Your shoe rack takes a beating all winter, so give it the attention it deserves! Start by cleaning off salt and dirt from your winter boots using a spot cleaner spray—this prevents damage before storing them away for next season. Once they’re spotless and dry, pack them up neatly.

Next, wipe down the floor and shelves of your shoe rack to remove dust and grime. As you swap out heavy winter boots for your everyday shoes, take a moment to declutter—if you haven’t worn a pair in ages, it might be time to donate!

Spring hack: I spray a spring-scented mist—think crisp linen, blooming florals, or fresh citrus, for a odor-free shoe closet.

While your spring cleaning to-do list might feel never-ending, following a few key guidelines can help you tackle the physical clutter and reset your home in the most efficient way. Whether it's decluttering, deep cleaning, or reorganizing, these tasks can transform your space and make it feel fresh and revitalized for the new season ahead.

But don’t stop at cleaning your physical space—spring cleaning is also an opportunity to refresh your mind. As the season shifts, it’s the perfect time to reassess your routines, habits, and overall mindset. This is a time to release what no longer serves you, both in your home and in your thoughts. Use this season of renewal to reconnect with your sense of calm and peace.

By creating a cleaner, more organized space, you're not just rejuvenating your environment but also paving the way for a clearer, more focused mindset. A tidy home can lead to mental clarity and a renewed sense of energy. Let this season of spring be your chance to refresh not just your space, but your soul, making room for growth, positivity, and a sense of renewal.