The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist

 
 
 
 

Here in Central Illinois, as soon as the weather starts warming up, many of us feel that familiar urge to deep clean and refresh our homes! After months of winter hibernation, spring is the perfect time to focus on those overlooked chores and forgotten spaces.

So, we put together simple, this room-by-room spring cleaning checklist to help you tackle the essentials without feeling overwhelmed! It’s time to breathe some new life into your home and prepare for the warm and sunny days ahead.


Kitchen

Since kitchens see a lot of daily use, it’s one of the most important areas to deep clean. Spring is a great time to clear out expired food, refresh your appliances, and give everything a good ole scrub.

Bright Modern Kitchen With Organized Cabinet
  • Wipe down the fronts of cabinets and drawers

  • Deep clean the dishwasher (This dishwasher cleaner is amazing)

  • Clean out the fridge, freezer, and pantry:

    • Toss expired food, condiments, and dressings

    • Donate non-expired food you won’t use

  • Wipe down appliances

  • Descale the coffee maker and clean small appliances (We use this descaler about every 90 days)


Living Room

A few simple steps will help you freshen up the space and make it feel brand new!

  • Wipe down baseboards and doors

  • Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures

  • Wash and sanitize throw blankets, pillow covers and curtains

  • Dust blinds (These microfiber mitts make it super easy)

  • Dust and polish furniture

  • Spot treat stains on carpet and upholstery (the best machine and spot cleaner to get the job done)


Bedrooms

Your bedroom should be a restful retreat, and a little spring cleaning can make it feel more relaxing. Focus on freshening up fabrics and clearing out any clutter that has accumulated over the winter.

  • Clean and rotate mattresses

  • Vacuum or sweep under the bed

  • Wash and sanitize all bedding and pillows

  • De-clutter winter clothes—if you haven’t worn something in the past 2–5 winters, it’s time to let it go


Kids' Rooms

  • Sort through toys—donate ones they’ve outgrown

  • Rotate seasonal clothes to make room for spring and summer items

  • Clean and sanitize bedding, stuffed animals and frequently used items


Bathroom

A clean bathroom not only looks better but also feels more hygienic. Pay special attention to areas that collect dust, moisture and bacteria, like exhaust fans and towels.

  • Clean the exhaust fan to remove dust buildup

  • Wash all towels and washcloths with vinegar for a deep refresh

  • Wash the shower curtain and liner - Yes! Plastic liners can go directly in the washing machine

  • Dispose of expired medications with disposal bags


Laundry / Utility Room

Spring cleaning isn’t just about visible spaces—your laundry and utility room also need some love! Take time to maintain your appliances and refresh the air quality.

  • Change furnace filters

  • Clean the washing machine - These cleaning tablets work wonders

  • Vacuum and blow out the dryer vent to remove lint buildup

  • Recycle old batteries responsibly

  • Test all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms


Outdoors & Garage

As the weather warms up, it’s time to tackle outdoor areas too. A little maintenance in the garage and yard will keep everything in good shape and help you get a jump start for the warm seasons ahead.

Man Cleaning Outdoor Porch Using Hose On a Spring Day

Check your local tool libraries or equipment rental companies for power washers to make cleaning outdoors a breeze

  • Clean and sanitize bird feeders

  • Scrub and deodorize garbage cans

  • Wash interior and exterior windows

  • Power wash porches, patios, fences, driveways & sidewalks

  • Freshen up house numbers and mail boxes - This is on our to-do list!

  • Clean and test grill


Ready.. Set, Go!

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Break tasks down by room, work at your own pace, and celebrate small wins. Whether you do a little at a time or tackle it all in a long weekend, your home will feel fresh, clean, and ready for the season ahead!

Need extra help de-cluttering? Practical Harmony offers home organizing services in Bloomington-Normal, Peoria, Champaign and much of Illinois.

Let’s bring order and calm to your home—one space at a time!