Mental Health & Spring Cleaning

“…a clean and organized physical environment can reduce stress and boost productivity.”

Spring cleaning is a refreshing tradition that involves thoroughly cleaning and organizing your home to welcome the new season. Here’s a checklist to guide you through your spring cleaning:

1. Declutter: Start by decluttering each room. Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Remove items that you no longer use or need to create more space and reduce clutter.
2. Dust and Wipe: Dust all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, countertops, and electronics. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or cleaning spray to remove dirt, grime, and fingerprints.
3. Vacuum and Mop: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery to remove dust, pet hair, and debris. Mop hard floors to remove dirt and stains, paying attention to high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Clean Windows and Mirrors: Clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces using a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth or newspaper for streak-free results. Don’t forget to clean window sills, frames, and blinds as well.
5. Organize Closets and Cabinets: Organize closets, cabinets, and drawers by sorting and folding clothes, arranging items by category, and using storage bins or organizers to maximize space. Donate or sell items that you no longer wear or need.
6. Deep Clean Appliances: Clean kitchen appliances like the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher inside and out. Remove shelves and drawers to clean them thoroughly. Run cleaning cycles or use natural cleaners to remove built-up grime and odors.
7. Refresh Bedding and Linens: Wash bedding, pillows, curtains, and linens to remove dust, allergens, and stains. Air out mattresses and pillows to freshen them up. Consider rotating or flipping mattresses for even wear.
8. Tackle Outdoor Areas: Clean and organize outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and porches. Sweep away debris, clean outdoor furniture, and remove cobwebs. Prune bushes, trim hedges, and plant flowers to enhance curb appeal.
9. Inspect and Maintain: Check for any maintenance issues or repairs that need attention, such as leaky faucets, loose door handles, or clogged gutters. Schedule professional services if necessary, such as HVAC maintenance or pest control.
10. Add Finishing Touches: Once the cleaning is complete, add some finishing touches to freshen up your home. Place fresh flowers or plants around the house, swap out seasonal decor, and open windows to let in fresh air and natural light.

Spring cleaning is an opportunity to rejuvenate your living space and create a clean, organized environment to enjoy throughout the season. By following this checklist, you can tackle each task systematically and efficiently to achieve a thorough spring cleaning.

Resources

Spring Cleaning for Mental Health – NAMI Maine

 Spring Cleaning 101: master checklist. 

Please Release Me