It is on my own spring preparation from home that I rain-harrow-with a most thorough, very hands-on approach to getting every corner fresh and fully rejuvenated. I start with decluttering, which sets a pretty clean slate for the season. I go through every room, organizing books, seasonal clothes, and other things that accrue over winter. In my own place, I also swap out for lighter, more breathable fabrics: Throws and bedding made from heavier materials that we use in winter should now be used with light fabrics such as cottons or linens instead. I really enjoy airy fabrics, which I spring-dress with curtains light and sheer to let more sunshine play in. It is then, after these activities, that I embark on the process of deep cleaning everything. I would start off with surfaces that I frequently touch-light switches, doorknobs, and handrails-being things that are usually neglected. I then move up the stages-floor to ceiling fans, baseboards, and windows. I have found that service for a bit to these spots lifts the mood immediately in the room. Spring is also the same time I get to clean upholstery. I am using a fabric cleaner on my couches and chairs, as well as rotating cushions to help maintain even wear and tear. For the floors, I typically clean deep in the carpets with a professional-grade steam cleaner and buff hardwood floors to restore their natural shine. There are also things I add-the-trees-which-inform-the-season. Fresh flowers, like daffodils or tulips, I bring inside and try to place around the house to brighten it up a little. Then again, there is the air, so I would use the citrus, natural smelling-cleaners or essential oils to make the air fresh. In fact, compared to how I would deal with clients, my approach is much more personal and leisurely. With clients, I focus on efficiency, tailored to their needs and often guided by the type of cleaning service they've requested. Personally, I would take a much more holistic approach in my own space, where I can do a task from corner to corner and add my flair, be it in fragrance or other elements that create a serene, inviting atmosphere. The goal, for me-pragmatically and emotionally-is to make space refreshing and comfortable for the season.
Greetings! Great question, I love this topic because spring cleaning always feels more personal at home. I'm Vince Nolasco, Cleaning Expert & Thought Leader at Hellamaid, a professional cleaning company proudly serving homeowners across Texas and beyond. I've worked hands-on in the field, and today I lead educational content that helps families create cleaner, more comfortable spaces year-round. Our work has been featured in Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Martha Stewart, NY Post, and Yahoo. When I'm getting my own house ready for spring, my approach is definitely more intentional and slower-paced than what I do for clients. I like to focus on what makes living in the space better, not just what makes it look clean. Here's what I personally do differently: I clean for joy, not just checklists. For example, I'll deep clean our screened windows because I know how much I love the breeze once spring hits. It's not the flashiest chore, but it's my favorite because it changes how my home feels. I prioritize my own "pet peeves" first. With clients, we follow priority zones. At home, I go after whatever's been bugging me all winter (hello, dusty fan blades or that one cluttered drawer I keep avoiding!). I bring out the "spring smell." I always swap in linen sprays or citrus-based cleaners this time of year. For me, scent is what signals the new season has arrived. I'll even wash the curtains and steam the mattress for a full refresh. I involve my family. Spring cleaning at home isn't a solo act. We turn it into a weekend reset, assigning small zones to everyone, playing music, and rewarding ourselves with takeout once it's done. Happy to expand on this or offer spring-specific product recs if helpful. If you decide to include my input, I'd truly appreciate a mention of Hellamaid with a link back to hellamaid.com. Thanks so much for considering! Best, Vince Nolasco Cleaning Expert & Thought Leader www.hellamaid.com Based in Texas | Featured in Forbes, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, and more
Spring! It's the perfect time to breathe new life into your space, and honestly, I get just as excited about refreshing my own home as I do with my clients' projects. Now, while I do take a little different approach when I'm getting my own house ready, there are a lot of things I do that I'd recommend to anyone, whether you're working with me or handling it solo! When I'm prepping my home for spring, I have to admit, I'm a little extra (you know how we can be, right?). I take a more hands-on approach, cleaning over every inch with love and care. But with my clients, I definitely recommend professional cleaners. it's a total game-changer, especially when it comes to deep cleaning. I'm talking baseboards, inside cabinets, pantry, fridge, behind the toilet, ceiling fans and lighting, oh I can go on and on. First off, switch out the bedding. I go from the heavier comforters to something lighter like matelasse bed covers. It just feels so much more airy and spring-like. Plus, it's an easy way to give the bedroom a totally refreshed vibe. change the fan circulation--I flip it from pushing heat down to pulling it up. I swear it makes the air feel lighter, and the room just feels more comfortable as the weather Fresh cut flowers in vases around the house. It's an instant mood lifter and makes the place feel more inviting. I usually go for something simple like tulips, lilies, or daisies--something that screams "spring" without being too fussy. I also like to switch up the house fragrance. It's all about that crisp, fresh scent to welcome in the season. I usually go for something clean and light, like a crisp linen or fresh garden vibe. Bath and Body Works "White Tea & Sage" is my go to. it has that perfect fresh, clean, and airy scent. And yes, I share these tips with my clients. It's more about that personal touch, the little details that make you feel relaxed and comfortable like making the space feel light, fresh, and inviting for the season. Plus, I'm all about making sure it's easy to maintain, so I'm not spending hours cleaning and reorganizing. Spring cleaning doesn't have to be a huge chore--it's just about small changes that make a big impact!
Hey Real Simple team, hope all is well. The answer isn't really as surprising as you might think - almost the same as we do for our clients. The only thing is that the clients get the benefits of their own customer support manager (usually me) and a team of multiple cleaners. I don't have that type of luxury for myself, so I play all of those roles alone. Here are just a few things I do: 1. Gutters, since they have likely accumulated some dirt and debris, and they need to be cleaned so those things don't clog the gutters, potentially leaking outside and also inside the house. 2. Carpets and upholstery. Snow is done, and you and your pets have probably brought in the dirt inside more than once. Time to clean all of those up. 3. I clean my wood floors quarterly, which means April is the time for that task too. 4. Not a necessity, but since you're doing a whole house, you may want to do granite surfaces too. However, these don't need to be cleaned every year. That's it! Hope these help.
The only thing that really differs when I clean my own house is that I can be a lot more relaxed and take more time. How do I actually do it? I open the windows and clean one room at a time, top to bottom so that the dust falls down. I clean cleaning items first before doing any of my deep cleanups (usually quarterly). Some areas people tend to forget to clean that I make sure to get done are vacuum refrigerator coils, dryer vents and filters, bathroom exhaust fans/vents, dishwasher filters, washing machine filters, stove exhaust filters, and door and cabinet tops. As I clean, I declutter and sort items by those I'll keep using and those I'll discard. I have donate, trash, and sell bags for my discarded items. Use the "haven't used in a year" rule for deciding what to keep. Avoid containers, just discard them for good. Use breaks, a lot of them, since a deep cleanup will likely take you an entire afternoon. Your body takes a toll from all of those squats, bends, and reaches. Give it a rest it deserves. No motivation? Turn on some good music. Also, make sure to have easy-to-digest meals prepped for that day. That's it!
Hi there, Professional cleaner Michael Williams has provided the following comments in response to your questions. How do YOU get your own house ready for Spring? I get my house ready for Spring firstly by deeply cleaning the most frequently used areas -- ovens, windows, skirting boards, bathrooms, and carpets -- to remove winter residue. I also rejuvenate my spaces by replacing heavy fabrics with lighter linens. Do you take different approaches than you do with your clients? No, I don't take any different approaches to spring cleaning compared with my clients. Out of all the seasons, spring cleaning is the important time to clean, and cleaning every single corner and area in my home allows me to feel positive and energetic for the rest of the year. About Michael: Michael Williams is the founder and CEO of End Of Lease Cleaning Melbourne, a trusted provider of professional vacate cleaning services in Melbourne. With over 20 years of experience in the cleaning industry, Michael is passionate about offering tenants, landlords, and property managers a hassle-free, reliable, and eco-friendly cleaning solution. Under his leadership, End Of Lease Cleaning Melbourne has become a leading name in end-of-lease cleaning, specialising in everything from carpet and oven cleaning to comprehensive vacate services. Michael's commitment to customer satisfaction is at the core of his business philosophy. He ensures that every clean meets the stringent requirements of real estate agents and landlords, offering a satisfaction guarantee to give clients peace of mind. With a focus on professionalism, punctuality, and green cleaning practices, Michael continues to drive his company's growth and mission of providing the highest standard of cleaning for renters across Melbourne.
Spring cleaning should be efficient and sustainable. Professionals approach their own homes differently than client spaces because personal routines matter. The priority is decluttering. Winter leaves behind unused clothes, expired pantry items, and forgotten household products. Sorting these early prevents unnecessary cleaning later. Rather than doing everything at once, one area at a time makes progress manageable. Deep cleaning focuses on spots that accumulate hidden deposits. Air vents, baseboards, and lighting fixtures collect dust and allergens. A microfiber cloth and a natural cleaner eliminate residue without distributing chemicals. Bedding, such as pillows and mattress covers, requires a hot wash to get rid of bacteria and allergens. Washing machines must be maintained, too--running a cycle using vinegar and baking soda keeps odors and residue from building up. In contrast to cleaning in client areas, doing it at home permits trying new better habits and putting storage into place for better access, converting to fragrance-free cleaning products for sensitive skin, and eliminating extra products to simplify day-to-day maintenance. Spring cleaning is not all about deodorizing--it's about establishing a home for a healthier, more productive year.
To get my own home ready for spring, I complete a detailed deep cleaning, focusing on the hard-to-reach areas and detail work such as floors, windows, carpets, and dusting. I take the same approach as I do with my clients in the commercial sector and apply it to my own home.
Spring cleaning at home is a little different than when working with clients--it's more personal, less structured, and sometimes even more fun! When it's my own space, I take a more relaxed but intentional approach, focusing on refreshing rather than just deep cleaning. For My Home: Decluttering First: I go room by room, pulling out things I don't use or love anymore. If it hasn't served a purpose in a year, it's time to donate or repurpose it. Refreshing Fabrics & Textures: Lighter curtains, fresh linens, and switching out heavier winter throws for airy, breathable fabrics instantly make my home feel like spring. Bringing in Nature: I love adding fresh flowers, new houseplants, or even rearranging furniture to maximize natural light and airflow. A Personal Touch: I take time to swap out art, update decorative accents, or even experiment with a fresh scent through candles or diffusers--it's like giving my home a new personality for the season. For Clients: The approach is more structured and goal-oriented. I focus on deep cleaning first--baseboards, windows, carpets--before moving into styling changes. Since everyone's lifestyle is different, I tailor recommendations based on function and aesthetic rather than personal preference. Some clients prefer a full seasonal transformation, while others want subtle updates--so flexibility is key. That's why at Ad+L Studio, we always prioritize designs that evolve beautifully with the seasons. Whether it's a simple refresh or a complete transformation, your home should feel effortlessly welcoming all year round!
Professional Organizer and Productivity Consultant at Firefly Bridge Organizing
Answered a year ago
Spring signals the chance to refresh the "dreaded" storage spaces in my own home before the weather gets too hot. Here in Miami, clearing and reorganizing my garage has an end-of-April deadline. I pull out the pool toys and beach gear for easy access. Indoors, I focus on the storage closet, making sure our suitcases and travel accessories are in good shape for summer vacationing and camps. I give the dog toys a once-over and get rid of anything that's beyond repair. The major difference between what I do in my own home, and what I do in clients' homes, is speed! My CLEAR5 decluttering and organizing process, and my decision-making skills, have been fine-tuned over the years, so Spring decluttering in my house moves fast!
Being a cleaning service CEO, I actually start my spring prep in late winter by deep cleaning one room each weekend, which helps me avoid feeling overwhelmed when spring arrives. I create detailed checklists for my own home just like we do for clients, but I'm more experimental with new cleaning products and methods at my house first - last year I discovered this amazing eco-friendly window cleaner that we now use for all our clients.
My closet isn't big enough to hold all seasons of clothing at the same time, so my focus in spring is to rotate my clothes from winter to spring/summer. While I am rotating, I look for items I did not wear all fall or winter and decide if it is time to pass the item on to someone else. It's also a great time to let go of clothes that aren't in good shape or are not my current size. Once I have worked through my main closet, I do the same for the entryway, rotating coats and shoes that are kept by the door. (If you or your kids play seasonal sports, this is a great item to rotate now also.) If I am with a client at this time of the year, I will approach this the same way with them. But oftentimes, I am talking about seasonal rotation with my clients every time I work with them because this is not a common strategy for my clients. As we work together, I am reinforcing this idea as a way to help them maintain the order we created together.
When spring approaches, I focus on practical steps rooted in my years of maintaining homes. I start with a thorough window cleaning using the techniques I honed as a GM in the industry—shoe covers, drop cloths, and an attention to detail ensures streak-free results. Interior and exterior window cleaning is crucial for me because it allows natural light to brighten up the home and makes a significant difference in mood. Another key focus is gutter maintenance. I make sure to clear out any winter debris to prevent leaks and water damage. This is something I emphasize at Sierra Vista Maintenance, where I have the team document the process with before and after photos. Homeowners I work with find this visual record valuable, and I apply the same standard to my own property. On the exterior, I take the opportunity to use soft washing techniques on the roof and siding. This removes winter grime and prevents moss buildup without damaging surfaces. By paying attention to these areas, I ensure the longevity of my building materials, reducing the need for costly repairs.
As someone deeply entrenched in the home renovation industry through K&B Direct, I focus on a blend of aesthetics and functionality for my own home when preparing for spring. I start by revisiting the color palette of spaces, incorporating lighter spring shades using accent pieces or modest updates to existing cabinetry. I lean towards earth tones, which have proven popular among our customers, to create an inviting atmosphere. Utilizing our expertise in kitchen and bathroom design, I ensure these areas shine, perhaps through small improvements like polished handles and refreshed cabinet faces. I also inspect windows and doors for insulation and quality, a practice I recommend to clients to maintain energy efficiency as temperatures fluctuate. At K&B Direct, we've found that strategic updates to these elements not only improve aesthetics but also improve comfort—one of the many tips we'd share during our advisory consultations. Personalized solutions are key, and within my own home, I embody that ethos with a modern, yet cozy design, showcasing the very styles we offer at K&B Direct. Finally, I perform a thorough deep clean and reorganization, aligning with what our professional network often enacts for clients. This involves decluttering storage spaces and optimizing kitchen and bathroom layouts. The careful selection of durable, yet stylish products is critical, as evidenced by the choices I've made in incorporating high-quality materials from our store, ensuring spaces are visually appealing and long-lasting.
For me, it's all about bringing the outdoors in and getting rid of molds, so I open up all the windows to recreate "luften" like setting, which I learned from one of my German friends. This is almost the same for my clients; however, for them, I take the same approach but might also suggest upgrading energy-efficient systems or new fixtures to help them better enjoy the season--especially since Santa Barbara's mild climate makes it perfect for outdoor living.
As a content creator and SEO expert, my approach to spring cleaning is quite organized. I apply the same principles of efficiency and precision that I use in digital strategy to my home. I create a clear plan, starting with the most used areas like the kitchen and living room, where I prioritize thorough decluttering and cleaning. In my line of work with That Local Pack, I always emphasize the importance of personalization and custom strategies, and I take a similar approach at home. I assess what cleaning products and methods are most effective for each room, much like selecting the right SEO tools to optimize a specific business. For instance, I might use a dedicated glass cleaner for windows and mirrors to get that professional finish clients love in our window cleaning services. Interestingly, I've found that the same attention to detail in SEO applies to cleaning. Just like I would fine-tune a digital campaign for optimal results, I ensure every corner is cleaned and maintained. For example, using a microfiber cloth to clean dusty electronics instead of a regular duster ensures longevity and effectiveness, similar to how detailed keyword analysis boosts online visibility for my clients.
Having seen over 1,200 homes, I've developed a unique spring cleaning routine that starts with decluttering spaces I know buyers always notice - entryways, kitchen counters, and bathroom vanities. At my own house, I'm more relaxed about it and focus first on cleaning outdoor spaces and pressure washing the driveway since curb appeal matters most to me personally. Unlike with client properties where we do complete overhauls, I prefer taking my time at home, tackling one project weekly throughout spring, like reorganizing the garage or refreshing garden beds.
Spring at my house starts with a deep reset. It's less about a big overhaul and more about setting the tone for the season--lighter, cleaner, and more intentional. When I work with clients, especially new sauna owners, I always encourage them to think about the full experience--lighting, scent, sound, even the pathway to the sauna. What's been most effective is helping them create a space that works year-round but still adapts to the seasons. The main difference between how I approach my home versus working with clients is personalization. I know what I like, so I don't need to ask myself too many questions. With clients, it's all about helping them discover what works for them--not just what looks good in a photo. But the goal is the same: making the sauna an experience you actually look forward to. Spring is the perfect time to bring that sense of renewal into the space.
As someone who stages homes regularly, I've learned to tackle spring cleaning room by room, starting with decluttering and organizing before the deep cleaning even begins - it's amazing how much easier it is to clean a well-organized space. When it comes to my own home, I actually schedule it like a client appointment to ensure it gets done, but I allow myself to be more creative with seasonal decor and try out new organization systems that I might later recommend to clients.
When preparing for spring, professionals often take a layered approach to cleaning and refreshing their own homes--focusing first on deep cleaning, then on seasonal updates. Unlike with clients, where efficiency is key, personal spaces allow for a more gradual, intentional refresh. Many cleaners start with high-impact areas like windows, baseboards, and air vents, ensuring fresh airflow and natural light enhancement. Decluttering is also a priority, but instead of just removing excess, pros often reorganize spaces for seasonal functionality--like swapping out winter linens for lighter fabrics and rotating seasonal wardrobes. Designers, on the other hand, use spring as a time to soften interiors and reintroduce natural elements. They might replace heavy drapes with airy sheers, switch darker tones for brighter accents, or incorporate more greenery to reflect the season's renewal. While clients often request dramatic seasonal decor changes, professionals at home tend to focus on subtle but impactful shifts, ensuring their space feels refreshed without being overdone. Whether cleaning or designing, the biggest difference in personal homes is mindfulness--it's less about speed and more about creating a space that feels rejuvenating.