Top spring-cleaning strategies for every tenant and homeowner

Spring means warmer weather, fresh flowers, longer evenings - and the need to get the annual spring clean done. The good news is that the job doesn't have to be done all at once and you can delegate tasks to family members. The goal is to create a cleaner, more organised and refreshed living space to enjoy throughout the year - and the CSi Property Group has all the pointers you need to get the job done.

Make a cleaning checklist and get organised

First things first: create a checklist of tasks and areas you want to tackle during your spring cleaning. Go through your home room by room and put all the areas that need cleaning onto the list. This list could include everything from decluttering your craft cupboard to dusting the space under your bed. Having a list will keep you focused and organised. Another great strategy is to create a schedule. You may not be able to get everything done in one day, so break the task down into manageable chunks. Lastly, make sure you have all the cleaning products you'll need. Including cloths, brushes and detergents.

Choose your decluttering strategy

There is an array of cleaning and decluttering strategies that you can follow. According to decluttering expert Marie Kondo, it's a simple matter of whether or not an item brings you joy. If there is no longer any joy associated with the item, then it has no place in your home or your life. Another philosophy is to consider whether or not you've used, worn, read, looked at or enjoyed an item in the past year. If not, then it's time for the item to be thrown away, recycled or given to a charity. A third way to think about it is to ask yourself whether someone less fortunate than yourself could get greater use out of an item than you do. 

Cleaning tasks you may not think of

Since spring cleaning is typically something that only gets done once a year, it can be difficult to think of everything that needs to be done. Here are a few things to make sure you don't miss:

• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Wash curtains and wipe down blinds with a clean cloth.
• Deep clean carpets and get them steam cleaned if necessary.
• When cleaning hardwood or tile floors, pay attention to corners, edges and grouting.
• Clean the oven, the fridge and microwave.
• Scrub the showerhead and shower door (or replace an old shower curtain if necessary).

Cleaning your home's exterior

When doing your spring cleaning, don't forget the exterior of your home. Sweep and power wash the patio and other outdoor areas. Clean out the gutters and trim back any overgrown plants. Think of ways to make your patio look its best as we head into the warmer months - new furniture or cushions can inspire you to entertain friends or family.

Add the finishing touches

The final step in any spring clean is to usher in the new season with finishing touches like fresh flowers and new scatter cushion covers or curtains. Bring in light colours and bright accents, staying away from heavy fabrics and drapery. Let the sunshine in and make the most of the warmer weather by entertaining and enjoying your home in every way possible.

Spring is also traditionally a time to usher in change, and if you're looking to buy or rent a new home in Gauteng, then the CSi Property Group is here to help! Contact us today and let us help you find a home you'll love so much that you'll want to clean.