Reset Your Home with a Deep Clean

Spring is the time for rejuvenation. One time-honored ritual for doing this is spring cleaning. Deep cleaning, decluttering and reorganizing is a reset for your home. It’s also a great way to do some good by donating the items that no longer spark joy for you to someone who truly needs them.

Here are some tips for cleaning your home from top to bottom and a list of charities that would love to receive your used items.

Look Over Cleaning Supplies

From grout cleaner to granite countertop polish, we all have cleaning supplies we only use sporadically. Before you start your spring clean, give them a once over. Throw out anything that has been under your sink for a few years. Replace used sponges, clothes, brooms and mops.

Start with a List

Checklists are great for helping us remember to do what needs to be done. Create your own or use one of these pre-made lists. Divide your list by location and then tasks. Be sure to include those tasks you’ve been meaning to get to but keep putting off.

Start Small

Tempted to start with big tasks? Don’t. The thought of doing a huge job such as clearing out the garage can seem overwhelming and will tempt you into procrastination. Start small by cleaning out the microwave or washing the bedding. Gradually work up to the bigger tasks.

Clean the Garage

Yes, we said to start small but when it comes time to get to those big challenging tasks like cleaning out the garage or attic, do those first. Why? Because when you declutter the house you will want to store items there. Storing your stuff in an already organized space will keep you from adding to the clutter you will eventually have to organize anyway.

Three-Box Method

It’s a good idea to declutter before you deep clean. Go through cabinets, closets and bookshelves. When you do, have three boxes nearby. Label them “keep,” “store” and “charity.” When you are done clearing out an area, put the keep items back into the space, take the store items to the garage and load up the car with the box of stuff you want to donate.

Ready, Set, Clean

Once your cupboards are relatively bare, it’s time to deep clean. Start from the top and work your way down. That way the dust will settle on the floor and can be easily mopped or vacuumed away. Do things you normally wouldn’t such as cleaning your doors, mattresses and curtains.

Get Help

When it comes to cleaning, more hands equal less work. Turn on some music, give everyone a task and get to work. Make a game out of it with awards for the fastest clean time, the most thorough job and the most creative cleaning method. If you don’t have a lot of time, consider engaging a cleaning service.

Don’t Forget the Outdoors

Spring cleaning isn’t all about the inside. Patio furniture should be looked over and cleaned or replaced. Tree branches may need to be cut back and your garden may need tending.

Buy Your Home a Gift

Once your home is sparkling clean, buy it a gift. Bring home some fresh flowers, buy a new welcome mat or add some new family pictures to the wall. Adding these things will put a smile on your face and make your home seem welcoming and warm after winter.

Donate Here

Here is a list of local charities you can give your used items to:

Goodwill Central Texas

1441 US-183

Leander, TX 78641

512-637-7154

Hill Country Community Ministries Thrift Store

1501 Leander Drive

Leander, TX 78641

512-334-6464

Operation Liberty Hill Thrift Store

1401 US-183