As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, we often get the urge to embark on that annual tradition of “spring cleaning.” It’s the perfect time to tidy up, refresh, and organize our homes for a healthier, more comfortable space. Here are some simple steps to make the process easier and more manageable:
Work in small chunks of time
It is easy for this to seem like a massive cleaning project. Not sure where to start? Simple - anywhere will do. Spring cleaning does not need to be completed in a day. Instead, break things up into small chunks of time throughout the week, weeks or month. Whether it’s 15 minutes here and there or one room at a time, small efforts will keep you motivated and make the job feel less daunting.
Make getting rid of clutter a priority
We all do it - letting clutter pile up. Do you have a certain room or closet deemed as the “dump room” where you tend to throw items into without order? Now is the time to go through it! Decluttering doesn’t just free up space—it also reduces stress, improves sleep, and lowers your risk of falls.
Ask a friend or family member to help you sort things into three categories: keep, donate, and trash. For the things you keep, make sure they’re stored neatly with containers or shelving that suit the space.
Leave the heavy lifting to someone else
To avoid injury, it’s best not to move heavy furniture or objects on your own—especially if you have mobility or strength limitations. Ask friends or family for help with the heavy lifting, or hire a professional to help move things around. That way, you can keep your home tidy without risking your health.
Check your medicine cabinets
An often-overlooked area in spring cleaning is the medicine cabinet, which houses important items for your health. Take a moment to check the expiration dates on all of your medications—both prescription and over-the-counter. If you find expired medications, safely dispose of them at a local drug take-back site or consult the FDA’s flush list.
Once you’ve cleaned it out, restock any missing items so you’re prepared when you need them. Keeping your medicine cabinet organized helps ensure you have what you need in an emergency.
Don’t forget the detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are crucial for safety, so make sure they’re in working order. Replace batteries and test the alarms to ensure they’re functioning properly. If your detectors are hard to reach, ask a friend, neighbor, or family member to help with this important task.
Give your kitchen a refresher
Your refrigerator and pantry can quickly fill up with expired or forgotten items. Spring is the perfect time to clear them out and refresh your kitchen. Take a few minutes to toss anything past its prime, and then organize what’s left. Group similar items together—store produce in the bins, condiments on the fridge door, and canned goods in a dedicated section of the pantry. Not only will this make meal prep easier, but it will also keep your kitchen tidy and efficient.
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