Spring is in the air, and the annual tradition of cleaning and decluttering comes with it. Whether you are a seasoned homeowner, looking to sell or renting your first place, now is the time to make some of the seasonal changes you’ve been thinking about to revitalise your space.
After a long, cold winter, there’s nothing better than opening the windows, letting in the fresh air and organising your space for the new season. But spring cleaning isn’t just about neatening up the home – it’s an opportunity for a fresh start. Getting your home in order after months of hibernation doesn’t have to be a solo act either – get your family involved!
Make a spring bucket listFeeling overwhelmed or not too sure where to start? Walk around your home – both inside and outside – and note down the things that you would like to change for spring and summer. You don’t have to plan a whole house makeover. It can be as simple as cleaning the ceiling fan or tidying your 
braai area.
- Share the load
Make spring cleaning a family affair. Create a playlist with everyone’s favourite songs to keep you entertained while you are busy. Young children can be given age-appropriate tasks, like organising their toys or tidying their rooms. Not only will it lighten the load, but it will also teach them valuable life skills and the importance of taking responsibility.
- Let spring come knocking!
Your home’s entryway is the first thing people see when they walk into your home, so why not make it as welcoming as possible this spring? Clean and polish the door and hardware, add a fresh doormat and place a few pot plants around. Snake plants and pothos are great low-maintenance options! A vase of fresh flowers can also make a big difference.
- Watch this space!
Rearranging your furniture can give your home the pick-me-up you’ve been looking for. The first
step is to assess if your needs have changed. Is there a corner that gets the spring sun, which could serve as a cosy reading nook? Do you need to create a home office or homework station? Moving furniture around, repurposing rooms or creating a multi-purpose layout can give your home a whole new feel without any major home renovations.
- Tackle the forgotten areas
Spring cleaning typically focuses on the things we can see – tiles and floors, countertops and cupboards, but what about the things we don’t see? Make this a fun family game by challenging each other to list the often-neglected areas that need cleaning, like the skirting boards or underneath heavy furniture.
- Mindful decluttering
What’s a spring clean without decluttering? This year, instead of throwing away items you no longer use, think about how to give them new life. Will you wear those jeans more often if you get them tailored? Can you see yourself keeping the armchair destined for bin day if you had it reupholstered? If you really can’t see yourself keeping certain items, hold a garage sale or donate to charity.
In a similar vein, don’t forget to do a digital declutter! Delete unused apps and unsubscribe from annoying emails! You could also start a shared calendar that loved ones can access so that you can easily schedule time together.
- Keep cool and carry on
When was the last time you cleaned your fridge and freezer? Spring is the perfect time to pull everything out, take stock of what you have, defrost the freezer and wipe down the shelves and drawers. Don’t forget to check the best before dates on your jars and condiments! Bonus – by knowing exactly what you have in your fridge and freezer, you are less likely to buy doubles or let anything go to waste!
- Lighter and brighter
An easy, low-cost way to make your home feel fresh is by swapping your heavy fabrics for something lighter and more breathable. Choose fun, spring colours or pastels for your bedding and home décor and replace your thick curtains with linen, cotton or polyester options. This will go a long way to making your space feel bright and summer ready.
Spring is a time of growth and change in nature and our homes. By taking the time to declutter, clean and refresh your living space, you are setting yourself up for a wonderful season of renewal.
