Spring Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Start

By Kevin Pannebecker | March 4, 2025

If you’re anything like us, spring makes you excited to push the reset button and get a fresh start. (It’s also an important time to ensure everything is in top shape after the harsh winter months!) A thorough spring cleaning combined with some essential home maintenance can help keep your house running smoothly, prevent costly repairs (luckily, UPKEEP’s got you covered on both home maintenance and repairs!), and help improve the mood of everyone in your home. To help, our team of home professionals here at UPKEEP have created a list of helpful tips. Happy cleaning!

Declutter and Deep Clean

  • Declutter First: Before cleaning, go through closets, cabinets, and storage spaces to donate or discard items you no longer need or want. Try to be harsh! This can seem like a daunting task, so we suggest decluttering one room at a time.
  • Dust and Vacuum: Focus on often-overlooked areas like ceiling fans, vents, and baseboards. If you hard floors, give them a good steam or mopping!
  • Wash Windows and Screens: Clean windows inside and out to let in more natural light.
  • Refresh Fabrics: Wash curtains, deep-clean carpets, and flip mattresses for a fresh start.
  • Appliances: The inside of our appliances often go far too long without cleaning, simply because the messes can be hard to notice! Clean out your refrigerator (including the drawers and shelves), oven, stove, microwave, and run the self-cleaning cycles on your washer, dryer, and dishwasher. Bonus cleaning: get all the dust and crumbs from underneath your oven and fridge.

Essential Home Maintenance Checks

  • Inspect Your HVAC System: Replace air filters and schedule a professional tune-up to keep your system running efficiently. (If you have a home warranty through UPKEEP, you can already cross this one off your to-do list!)
  • Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes, faucets, and under sinks for leaks that could lead to water damage.
  • Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear out debris to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage.
  • Examine Your Roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles that may have been affected by winter storms.
  • Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure these life-saving devices have fresh batteries and are working properly.

Outdoor Maintenance

  • Power Wash Exterior Surfaces: Clean siding, decks, patios, and driveways to remove built-up grime. If you don’t own or have access to a power washer, even a good broom can make a big difference on your porches and driveways.
  • Inspect and Repair Fencing: Check for loose boards or rusted hinges and make necessary repairs.
  • Service Lawn Equipment: Sharpen mower blades and check oil levels to prepare for the growing season.
  • Check Sprinkler Systems: Run a test to ensure there are no broken or clogged sprinkler heads.

Make it Fun!

  • Music or Podcast: Choose a playlist that will keep your energy high, or plan your spring cleaning days around new episodes of your favorite podcast.
  • Reward Yourself: Giving yourself something to look forward to can be an excellent motivator.

If you find any issues that need professional attention, UPKEEP is here to help with your home warranty and repair needs. Contact us today to keep your home in tip-top shape all year long!

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