Spring cleaning 101

Warm sun, fresh air and the early blooms of crocus and forsythia are the sure signs of spring. It’s a great time to take advantage of mild temperatures, freshen up the house, and tackle spring cleaning inside and out.

Here are some suggestions to help get you started.

Check out your local hardware store or home center for information on renting tools. Although many of the tasks can be do-it-yourself projects, consider hiring professionals for heavy-duty chores, such as washing windows and repairing roofs.  

For large cleanups, call a local sanitation company about renting a dumpster to haul away rubbish.

Outside:

Check your roof, siding and sidewalks for winter damage.

Make sure that outdoor wiring and outlets are working.

Inspect outdoor and indoor foundations on your house and outbuildings for cracks or severe settling.

Make sure garden tools and motorized lawn equipment are in working order. Don’t forget to examine the tires on lawnmowers and wheelbarrows.

Survey fences and stone walls for animal- and weather-related damage.

Clean and repair birdhouses.

Remove and clean storm windows.

Clean and install window and door screens.

Inspect outdoor planters for winter damage.

Examine outdoor lights to make sure they are working.

Pick up twigs and branches.

Inspect, clean and repair gutters. Consider hiring someone for this.

Inside:

Take down heavy drapery and replace with curtains.

Wash windows.

Take an inventory of household cleansers and buy more if needed; replace your vacuum cleaner bags.

Clean your floors, carpets and rugs. Use cleaning products for the type of flooring you have.

Dust woodwork and moldings in every room.

Prepare closets for storage of winter clothing and linens.

Clean your kitchen stove and refrigerator.

Test your water. Have your water professionally tested at least once a year, if possible.

Make sure all faucets (including any in the basement) are not leaking.

Check your basement dehumidifiers and sump pump to see if they are in working order.

Test smoke detectors and check fire extinguishers to see if they are up to date and properly working.

Clean out the attic or crawl space, check for insect or rodent infestation, and look for leaks from the roof or chimney.