Get Your Home Ready for Spring

Where to begin

Getting your home ready for spring is usually a mix of three things: decluttering and cleaning, checking the basics of home maintenance, and refreshing how rooms look and feel. Doing them in that order generally works best, because it is easier to clean and decorate a room once it has been cleared.

You do not have to do everything at once. Spread the work over a few weekends and choose the tasks that matter most for your home.

When does spring cleaning start?

There is no fixed date. Many people in the northern hemisphere start somewhere between March and May, as the weather warms and windows can be opened. The best time is simply when it is comfortable to ventilate rooms and, if needed, work outdoors. Where you live and your local climate matter more than the calendar.

Declutter first

Decluttering makes everything else easier. Work one room, or even one drawer, at a time so you see progress quickly.

1. Sort items into keep, donate or sell, store and discard.
2. Start with the places that collect clutter: entryways, wardrobes, kitchen cupboards, the garage, attic or basement.
3. Move winter items such as heavy coats, boots and thick blankets into storage once you no longer need them.
4. Be honest about the store pile. If it does not fit in your existing storage, consider whether you really need it.

A short list of what to clear first is often enough to get started: surfaces, floors, and anything you have not used in a year.

Deep clean the main areas

Once rooms are clear, clean from top to bottom so dust falls onto surfaces you have not yet cleaned.

• Dust ceiling corners, light fixtures and fans
• Wash windows and wipe window frames and sills
• Launder or wash curtains, following the care label
• Vacuum or wash rugs and upholstery, and consider cleaning mattresses and pillows
• Clean behind and under furniture where you can
• Wipe skirting boards, doors and switches
• Clean the oven and refrigerator, and clear out expired food

Maintenance checks (and the 1% rule)

People often mention the 1% rule for home maintenance. It is a rule of thumb that suggests setting aside roughly 1% of a home’s value each year for upkeep and repairs. It is only a rough guide, and the real amount depends on the age and condition of the property, so treat it as a starting point for budgeting rather than a precise figure.

Spring is a good time to look at routine items. Typical checks include:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Test them and replace batteries as the manufacturer recommends.
• Gutters and downspouts. Clear debris so water drains away from the house.
• Roof and siding. Look for visible damage from the ground. Leave roof work to professionals, and be careful on ladders.
• Filters. Replace furnace, air conditioning, range hood and other filters according to their instructions.
• Dryer vent. Clear lint build-up, since blockages can be a fire risk.
• Windows and doors. Check seals and weatherstripping, and repair or replace window screens.
• Pipes and taps. Look for leaks or stains, especially in basements and on exterior walls.
• Air conditioner. Clear debris around the outdoor unit and consider a service before the hot season.

If you notice anything that looks like structural, electrical, gas or roof damage, contact a qualified professional rather than attempting it yourself.

Prepare your yard and outdoor spaces

To prepare your yard for spring:

1. Clear fallen leaves, branches and debris.
2. Check fences, decks and paths for damage.
3. Trim back shrubs and trees as appropriate for the plant and the time of year.
4. Prepare garden beds, and check your soil before planting.
5. Service lawn equipment, such as the mower.
6. Wash outdoor furniture and cushions, and check for rust or mould.

Timing for planting and pruning depends on your region and plants, so check local guidance.

Refresh your decor for spring

Once the practical work is done, a few decor changes can make a big difference:

• Textiles. Swap heavy throws and velvet cushions for cotton, linen or lighter weaves. Consider lighter curtains if you want more daylight; see curtains in interior design for fabric and length choices.
• Colour. Add fresh accents such as soft greens, pale blues, yellows or whites through cushions, art and vases.
• Flowers and plants. Fresh flowers, potted plants or an indoor herb garden can brighten a room.
• Surfaces. Clear mantels and shelves, then restyle them with fewer, lighter pieces.
• Light. Open up windows, clean the glass and move furniture if it blocks natural light.
• Furniture. Slipcovers and rearranged seating can make a room feel new at no cost.

Many people do the opposite of the autumn routine. If you followed our advice on fall interior design layering, spring is when you gradually peel back those layers and store them until next year. The cosy ideas in our hygge ideas for fall can be stored with them.

A simple spring checklist

• Declutter one room at a time
• Donate or sell unused items
• Deep clean top to bottom
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• Clean gutters and check the exterior
• Replace filters and clear the dryer vent
• Prepare the yard and wash outdoor furniture
• Swap heavy textiles for lighter ones
• Add fresh flowers or plants

FAQ

What is the 1% rule for home maintenance? It is a rough guideline to budget about 1% of a home’s value annually for maintenance. Actual costs vary widely.

What month does spring cleaning start? There is no set month. Many people begin in March, April or May, depending on climate.

What are the top tips for spring cleaning? Declutter first, clean top to bottom, work one room at a time, check safety devices, and swap heavy textiles for lighter ones.

How do I prepare my yard for spring? Clear debris, inspect fences and decks, prune as appropriate, prepare beds and service your tools.