Nanny to Mommy

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the natural urge to refresh and renew our homes. After a long winter of being cooped up indoors, there’s nothing more satisfying than stepping into a clean, organized space that feels bright and welcoming. As a busy parent, I’ll be the first to admit that cleaning isn’t my favorite task. But the sense of accomplishment—and the beautiful results—make it all worth it.

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to tackle those tasks that don’t fit into our weekly routines. Think of it as a chance to hit the "reset" button on your home! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time spring cleaner, these tried-and-true tips will help make your home shine from top to bottom.

 

1. Pressure Wash Your Driveway and Sidewalks

One of the easiest ways to boost your home’s curb appeal is by pressure washing your driveway and walkways. Over time, dirt, grime, and stains build up and can make your home's exterior look tired and dull. A thorough cleaning can instantly brighten the space and make your home look freshly updated. If you notice stubborn stains like oil spots, a simple degreasing agent or even a homemade baking soda paste can help lift them.

2. Deep Clean Your Washing Machine

It might seem counterintuitive to clean the machine that cleans your clothes, but washing machines can harbor bacteria, mold, and residue from detergents. If you’ve ever pulled out a load of laundry only to find it smelling less-than-fresh, your washer might be the culprit. To clean it, run a hot cycle with an empty drum using either a commercial washing machine cleaner or a natural solution like vinegar and baking soda. Wipe down the seals and dispensers too!

3. Move and Clean Behind Furniture

Throughout the year, dust, crumbs, and tiny toys have a way of sneaking behind couches, under TV stands, and beneath heavy furniture. Take the time to shift your larger pieces—even if just a few inches—and vacuum or sweep behind them. You might be surprised at what you find! While you’re at it, consider rearranging your furniture for a fresh, new look. Even small changes can make your home feel reinvigorated.

4. Wash Your Walls and Baseboards

Walls often get overlooked during regular cleaning, but they can accumulate fingerprints, dust, and scuff marks—especially if you have little ones with sticky hands! Use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down your walls, paying special attention to high-traffic areas like hallways and around light switches. Don’t forget the baseboards! A clean set of walls can make a whole room feel instantly brighter.

5. Refresh Your Home’s Scent Naturally

After hours of scrubbing and dusting, your home might smell a little more "chemical" than "fresh." Open up your windows to let in some crisp spring air. You can also simmer a pot of water with citrus slices and a few sprigs of rosemary or lavender for a natural air freshener. Another simple trick is to place small bowls of baking soda around the house to absorb lingering odors. Adding a few drops of essential oils to cotton balls tucked in closets or drawers also helps maintain a clean, inviting scent.

6. Declutter Each Room

Spring cleaning isn't just about scrubbing; it's also about letting go of the things you no longer need. Set a goal to tackle one room at a time. Create three piles: keep, donate, and toss. Whether it’s toys your kids have outgrown or clothes that no longer fit, decluttering opens up your space—and your mind. Less clutter often means less stress, and what parent doesn’t need a little calmer in their life?

7. Rotate and Wash Seasonal Items

Now is the perfect time to store away heavy winter bedding, coats, and boots. Before packing them up, make sure everything is clean and dry to prevent any musty smells when you bring them back out next season. Rotate lighter bedding and pull out those spring and summer wardrobes. Your home will feel instantly lighter and more seasonally appropriate.

8. Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs

Even with regular vacuuming, carpets and rugs can trap dirt, allergens, and odors. Renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service once a year can extend the life of your flooring and make your home healthier, especially for little ones who love playing on the floor. For a DIY option, sprinkle baking soda over your carpets, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.

9. Clean Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans

Light fixtures and ceiling fans are dust magnets! Turn off your lights, remove any detachable parts, and clean them with a damp cloth. For ceiling fans, use an old pillowcase slipped over each blade to trap dust without letting it fall all over the room. Clean fixtures not only look better but can also help your lights shine brighter and your fans run more efficiently.

10. Refresh Outdoor Spaces

Spring cleaning doesn’t stop inside. Sweep porches, clean outdoor furniture, wipe down planters, and freshen up garden beds. A little attention outdoors creates a welcoming entrance and sets a cheerful tone before you even step through the door.

Spring cleaning may feel like a daunting task at first but taking it step-by-step can make it manageable—and even enjoyable. The reward? A refreshed home that feels lighter, brighter, and ready for all the new memories that spring and summer bring.

What are some of your favorite spring-cleaning tips or traditions? 

I'd love to hear how you make your home feel fresh and new this season!

Items to make the job easier:

GoodCook PRO 20pc Tools Set

The ultimate kitchen tool set with everything from turners and ladles to measuring cups & spoons, great for beginners who just need the essentials.
Purchase at Walmart.com

Casabella Power Spin Scrubber

With spin speeds of up to 420 rpm, the scrubber effortlessly cuts through tough dirt and grime on almost any surface. It comes with four unique scrubbing attachments for any cleaning job, whether inside your home or out. The angled brush head is for corners and crevices, a dome brush can handle contoured surfaces like your bathtub or sink, and there are two sizes of flat brushes for large surfaces or for smaller, tighter areas.
Purchase at Target.com

Premium Waterblock Reusable Household Cleaning Gloves

These innovative reusable gloves keep hands clean and dry while cleaning and are designed with a Waterblock cuff to catch excess water and drips. The longer-length, tapered design provides a closer fit along the arms, and they can be folded back for a longer or shorter cuff to offer more or less protection. Purchase on Amazon.com

Dual-bucket design separates clean and dirty water, with an easy pedal wringer, microfiber mop head, splash guard, scraper tool, and built-in measuring cup for efficient, mess-free cleaning.

All the must-have gadgets like a pizza cutter, ice cream scoop, can opener, and peeler – perfect for chefs-in-training.

Whether you're rinsing berries for brunch or prepping dinner sides, this 2-in-1 bowl makes kitchen tasks quicker and easier. Soak, strain, and serve with less mess—then surprise Mom with a thoughtful, home-prepped meal she didn’t have to lift a finger for.

Casabella’s Click, Clean & Organize system - exclusively at Target

Casabella’s CCO system is the ultimate all-in-one cleaning tool designed for busy households that want efficiency without the clutter. This modular system features interchangeable cleaning tools that snap into one sleek, space-saving base.

Each cleaning head is sold separately for just $9.99, so you can customize your setup with only the tools you actually need. The system includes a versatile lineup of products, including:
- An adjustable pole that works with a range of interchangeable attachments
- 6 different attachments allow you to clean your entire home
- Roller Mop Head
- Baseboard Cleaning Mop Head
- 2-in-1 Flat Mop Head with 3 Cloths
- Angle Broom Head with Dustpan
- Squeegee Blade Broom Head
- Easy Wring Cone Mop Head
- Attach tools effortlessly in your home with a power hook system

Click, Clean & Organize is the perfect answer for those looking to streamline their cleaning routine with a space and cost-saving solution.