Spring is the perfect time to give your home a thorough clean and tidy in preparation for summer.
After a long winter, it’s now time to open up the doors and windows, clean and declutter, freshen up your decor and have a fresh start.
Here’s our top 10 tips to Spring clean your home the natural way!
1. Plan ahead
Cleaning your home may seem like a daunting task – but remember you can’t do it all at once! By planning ahead and creating a schedule you can break down cleaning into different tasks (windows, floors etc.) or rooms (living room, kitchen, bedrooms etc.). Taking it one step at a time will help better manage your cleaning schedule – and who doesn’t like ticking off a list!
2. Start from the top
It’s always best to begin your cleaning from the top and work your way down. Any dust or dirt you clean will always fall downwards (hello gravity!) so it just makes sense to start at the ceiling and finish at the floor!
3. Be ruthless
A fresh season and a fresh start begins with getting rid of the old. Decluttering your home will also make you feel like you have more space and help you to reorganise the items that you do wish to keep. It will also help you to find things easier, meaning less stress and more breathing space. You’ll be making Marie Kondo proud in no time!
4. Be charitable
As you begin your mission to de-clutter, remember that not everything needs to be destined for the trash bin. Many items can be re-used and re-loved by someone less fortunate, so always make time to clean your items and take them to an op shop or charity in need. Items that you may not even think could be re-used can be upcycled and are almost always accepted by upcycling facilities “ whose items are often used by those interested in arts and crafts. For everything else, remember to check if the item is recyclable before putting it in a black bin liner!
5. Get fresh
Recent studies have shown that our homes are filled with more dust and toxins than ever, which is why it’s ever as important to let fresh air into your home. Open up your windows and doors and let the breeze run through, taking all that stale air with it. If you can afford to, investing in an air purifier can remove unwanted dust particles, allergens and unwanted smells and help those with allergies so you can breathe a little easier.
6. Use natural products
The easiest way to reduce the number of chemicals and toxins in your home (after opening the windows of course!) is to use natural and organic cleaning products instead of ones containing synthetic chemicals.Natural and organic products are designed to be safely used throughout your home, without the need for harsh synthetic chemicals “ and they can be just as effective! If you want a truly budget-friendly option, lemon juice and baking soda make a mean team against dirt and grime, whilst essential oils and natural wax candles can really freshen up fusty odours. See how to make a natural cleaner here.
7. Be allergy conscious
If you have allergies or a member of your family suffers, make sure to either protect yourself or remove your family members from your home while you clean. Face masks, goggles, gloves and long-sleeved clothing can help protect you against allergens that trigger allergies (dust mites and particles, pet hair etc.).
Remember, cleaning your home is the best way to relieve allergies, and using natural or organic products can minimise reactions furthermore by reducing synthetic chemicals and toxins in your home.
8. Use steam
What’s the most natural way you can clean your home “ water, of course! Steam cleaners are a great way to freshen, clean and kill bacteria throughout your home. They have even been proven to remove tough dirt and stains, although they can’t be used on all surfaces and materials (it’s always best to check first).
9. Adopt some plant life
Plants are always a great addition to homes and gardens. Not only do they brighten up any space, they also act as natural air filters and pump out oxygen. Some plants also harness different properties, for example some are great for neutralising odours, whilst others may be edible or have medicinal properties “ dual purpose! If you have small children or pets, always make sure your plants are pet or child-friendly, otherwise make sure they are out of reach of wondering hands (or paws!)
10. Time for a fresh start!
Spring cleaning is a great time to make way for a fresh start. Give your home a style refresh with a coat of non-toxic paint, add some colourful cushions and accessories for accents, and brighten up your place with some flowers. You’ll be ready to welcome summer into your home in no time.
