3 minute read
Your guide to spring maintenance and cleaning
Photography by Josue Michel
As the weather begins to warm, there’s no better time than now to kick off a good oldfashioned spring clean. While you’re at it, check your home for any maintenance issues that might’ve slipped under the radar over winter.
Whether you own your home or rent, taking a proactive approach to cleaning and upkeep can help you avoid costly repairs and maintain a safe, comfortable living environment year-round.
Use this handy checklist to help you tackle every part of your home this spring.
Indoors
All Rooms
● Remove clutter and put things back where they belong.
● Deep clean all surfaces including walls, floors, windows, fixtures and doors.
● Steam clean carpets and rugs, treat timber floors, and mop tiles.
● Fill any gaps between floorboards or tiles if necessary.
● Clean light fixtures, and if you can, remove the fixtures and clean with hot, soapy water or run through the dishwasher.
● Dust the tops of ceiling fans, skirting boards, around door frames and any other hard to reach places.
Kitchen
● Clean and organise cabinets and drawers.
● Remove excess clutter to free up storage space and benchtops.
● Wipe down countertops and appliances.
● Take out your stove’s exhaust fan covers to remove grease and grime.
● Clean your oven inside and out.
Stairs And Hallways
● Dust railings and wipe down skirting boards.
● Make sure stairs are safe – check that railings are securely fastened and that there is adequate lighting.
LIVING AREAS
● Wash and clean soft furnishings, including throw pillows and blankets.
● Clear away clutter and organise display units, cupboards and shelving.
BATHROOMS
● Clean and disinfect all surfaces – clean tile grout, wipe down shower screens, replace old or dirty shower curtains, and clean mirrors.
● Remove clutter from vanity tops: Keep toiletries and personal items tidied away.
● Repair leaky taps and ensure drains are unblocked and cleaned.
LAUNDRY
● Wipe down the washing machine and tumble dryer.
● Tidy away laundry detergents and cleaning supplies.
● Clean the laundry sink and ensure the drain is clear.
● Organise cupboards, shelving, and storage areas.
● Ensure the ceiling is clean and free from mildew or mould.
Outdoors
GARDEN
● Tame overgrown landscaping.
● Sweep up leaves, prune trees, lay down fresh mulch, and pull up weeds.
● Sweep decks, balconies, and walkways.
● Remove any excess furniture or clutter.
● If you have a wooden deck, treat and stain as necessary.
WINDOWS
● Clean windows and tracks inside and out.
● Repair or replace any broken or cracked window panes.
● Make sure flyscreens are clean and free from dirt and cobwebs.
FRONT ENTRANCE AND EXTERIOR
● Sweep or pressure hose driveways, paths and steps.
● Remove cobwebs from around your doorway.
● Remove clutter from around the front entry or the sides of your home.
GARAGE
● Organise and declutter the garage to increase storage space and accessibility.
● Ensure the garage door is functioning properly and repair if necessary.
