Let’s be honest—between work, family, and life in general, cleaning sometimes feels like running on a hamster wheel. I clean and clean just to keep things looking halfway decent, and within hours, it’s like a tornado blew through the house. (Seriously, how do kids make messes so fast!?) It’s exhausting.
Lately, I’ve been on a mission to declutter our apartment because we just have way too much stuff that never gets used. What’s the point of that?! I’m determined to clear out the clutter and make cleaning easier instead of just maintaining chaos.
If you’re in the same boat, this deep cleaning checklist will help get your home in order—one step at a time!
General Whole-House Tasks
✅ Open windows for fresh air and circulation
✅ Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents
✅ Wipe down walls, doors, and baseboards
✅ Clean light switches and door handles (high-touch areas)
✅ Wash windows (inside & out) and window screens
✅ Vacuum and deep clean carpets/rugs
✅ Mop and polish hard floors
✅ Wash or replace air filters
Kitchen
✅ Declutter and organize pantry (toss expired food)
✅ Deep clean refrigerator & freezer (defrost if needed)
✅ Clean oven and stovetop (remove burners & knobs)
✅ Wipe down microwave (inside & out)
✅ Scrub backsplash and kitchen counters
✅ Clean sink and garbage disposal (use baking soda & vinegar)
✅ Sanitize trash can and recycling bins
✅ Wipe down cabinets (inside & out)
✅ Deep clean dishwasher (remove and clean filter)
✅ Organize and declutter drawers & utensils
Bathroom(s)
✅ Scrub and disinfect toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower
✅ Deep clean tile grout
✅ Wash or replace shower curtain and liner
✅ Wipe down mirrors and glass surfaces
✅ Clean and organize cabinets & drawers (toss expired products)
✅ Wash bath mats, rugs, and towels
✅ Polish faucets and showerheads (remove hard water buildup)
✅ Sanitize trash can
✅ Restock toiletries and fresh towels
Bedroom(s)
✅ Wash all bedding, pillows, and mattress covers
✅ Rotate and flip mattress (vacuum it for dust mites)
✅ Declutter closet (donate or store seasonal clothes)
✅ Organize dressers and nightstands
✅ Dust and wipe down furniture
✅ Vacuum under the bed and behind furniture
✅ Clean mirrors and windows
Living Room & Common Areas
✅ Dust and polish furniture (tables, shelves, etc.)
✅ Vacuum under couches and chairs (move furniture if possible)
✅ Wash throw blankets and pillow covers
✅ Wipe down TV screens and electronics
✅ Organize books, magazines, and decor
✅ Clean fireplace (if applicable)
✅ Sanitize remote controls and high-touch surfaces
Laundry Room
✅ Wipe down washer and dryer (clean inside drum)
✅ Clean lint trap and exhaust vent
✅ Organize laundry supplies
✅ Sweep and mop floors
✅ Wipe down countertops and cabinets
Entryway & Mudroom
✅ Sweep and mop entryway floors
✅ Wipe down doors and handles
✅ Organize shoes, jackets, and accessories
✅ Clean doormats (shake out or wash)
✅ Sanitize keys, purse, and everyday essentials
Garage & Storage Areas
✅ Declutter and donate unused items
✅ Sweep and mop garage floor
✅ Wipe down storage shelves
✅ Organize tools and outdoor gear
✅ Check for expired household chemicals and dispose of them properly
Outdoor Areas
✅ Sweep and clean porch, patio, and deck
✅ Wipe down outdoor furniture and cushions (wash if needed)
✅ Power wash driveway, walkways, and siding
✅ Remove cobwebs from exterior lights and doorways
✅ Clean and organize gardening tools
✅ Trim overgrown plants and bushes
✅ Clean gutters and downspouts (check for clogs)
✅ Inspect and repair fences or gates
✅ Check outdoor lighting (replace bulbs if necessary)
✅ Wash and organize outdoor toys and sports equipment
✅ Clean out the grill (get ready for BBQ season!)
Rule of Thumb: Keep It or Let It Go?
Decluttering can be overwhelming, but here’s a simple rule of thumb to help you decide:
💭 Ask yourself:
✅ Have I used this in the last 6 months to a year?
✅ Does this item bring me joy or serve a purpose?
✅ If I saw this in a store today, would I buy it again?
✅ Is it in good condition, or is it broken/worn out?
✅ Do I have duplicates of this item?
🚨 If you answered NO to most of these, it’s time to let it go!
🔹 For sentimental items: Take a picture to preserve the memory before donating.
🔹 For “just in case” items: If you haven’t needed it in a year, you probably never will.
🔹 For clothing: If it doesn’t fit, isn’t comfortable, or doesn’t make you feel confident—let it go!
Donate Responsibly: Support Local Thrift Stores
Instead of donating to large corporate thrift chains like Goodwill, consider supporting local charities, shelters, and community thrift stores that give back directly to those in need. Many small organizations use donations to fund programs for homeless shelters, domestic violence survivors, foster care programs, and low-income families.
Where to Donate Instead:
✅ Local women’s shelters
✅ Homeless shelters and outreach programs
✅ Foster care support organizations
✅ Churches and community-run thrift stores
✅ Animal shelters (some accept towels, blankets, and supplies)
✅ Buy Nothing groups or local Facebook groups
Before donating, always check donation guidelines to ensure your items are accepted and will truly benefit those in need.
What You Can & Cannot Donate
✅ Items You CAN Donate
✅ Clothing & Shoes – Gently used, clean, and in good condition
✅ Accessories – Purses, belts, scarves, hats, and jewelry
✅ Household Items – Dishes, cookware, utensils, small appliances (must work)
✅ Furniture – Clean, in good condition, and no major damage
✅ Linens & Towels – Clean blankets, sheets, and towels (animal shelters may accept worn ones!)
✅ Books & Toys – In good condition, no missing pieces
✅ Electronics – Working TVs, laptops, tablets, and phones (erase personal data first!)
✅ Tools & Home Improvement Items – Hand tools, power tools, paint supplies
✅ Unopened Toiletries – Shampoo, soap, feminine hygiene products, diapers
❌ Items You CANNOT Donate
🚫 Broken, stained, or damaged items
🚫 Used undergarments & socks (unless brand new)
🚫 Old mattresses & box springs
🚫 Recalled or expired baby items
🚫 Large appliances (fridges, stoves, etc.)
🚫 Expired food or medicine
🚫 Hazardous materials (paint, chemicals, batteries)
Final Thoughts
Spring cleaning is a chance to refresh your home and reset your space. Start small, one room at a time, and before you know it, your home will feel lighter, cleaner, and more organized.
Happy cleaning! 🌿✨
Download a printable version here!
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