Every year, when winter is over, there’s nothing like a good deep cleaning for your home to get rid of dust, built-up grime, and clutter. The task can seem daunting, especially when you don’t know where to start, but tackling one area at a time with the proper tools will help so much. I know that I feel a sense of accomplishment when I move from one area of the house to another. So grab a pair of gloves, these tried-and-true tips, and you’ll have your house feeling spring-ready in no time.

Easy ways to deep-clean your kitchen

Get rid of grease in your oven by mixing a paste of baking soda and water, and then applying it all over. Let it do its magic overnight, and the next day, rewet it with some more water and scrub it off. For extra cleaning power, you can also activate the baking soda with a spritz of vinegar. 

While you’re waiting for the baking soda to do its thing, clean the rest of your stove by washing the burners and grills with soap and water. I found that Dawn works the best, and a plumber once told me that it’s best for your pipes, as it really cuts grease. Pro tip — avoid any dishwashing liquids with moisturizing ingredients, as those will build up in your sewer system. One Parenthood Together member suggested using Dawn Powerwash Dish Spray, which is great for cleaning hoods and cabinets.

Your fridge is another item that should get a deep cleaning. Throw out anything expired and wash your bins with soap and water. Wipe shelves with dish soap and a cloth to get rid of any debris. Next, spray the doors and handles with a stainless steel cleaner and use a microfiber cloth or paper towel for that brand-new, shiny look.

As for your microwave, KitchenAid has an easy way to steam the interior so you can cut back on the elbow grease. Simply microwave a cup of water for about five minutes with some vinegar, lemon, or baking soda, and then wipe it down. Be sure to remove and clean the turntable to get all the debris off the bottom.

Get your bathroom sparkling new

Start from top to bottom. If you have vents near the ceiling, give them a good dusting. Bonus points if you can remove them to get all the grime trapped inside. Additionally, dust all the light fixtures and wipe your mirrors with some Windex. Next, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and tie it around your showerhead to get rid of hard water and bacteria. I suggest leaving it on overnight, but a few hours will do, as well. While the showerhead is soaking, use a disinfectant spray to scrub down the tiles and get in between the grout with a bristle brush.

Your sink is one of the most used things in the house, and you probably wipe it down regularly. However, don’t forget to clear out your drain, as it accumulates hair and other debris. Mine was starting to back up, and I was about to call the plumber, but I found this useful hack online: Pour about two cups of boiling hot water into the drain to loosen any gunk. Then I took off the stopper to clear the gross stuff out (I used Q-tips). Next, pour about ½ cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of vinegar. You’ll see it bubbling, which is kind of fun. Wait about 20 minutes and then pour another cup of boiling water.

When scrubbing the floors, don’t forget all the nooks and crannies that get neglected during weekly cleanings. Get the base of the toilet and the bathtub, using bleach if necessary — but be sure to do so in a well-ventilated area.

Your shower liner gets coated with hard water and soap daily. Give your tub a refresh by getting a new one with weights so that it doesn’t flap around. While you’re at it, check your curtain rings for rust or discoloration, and if they’re looking old, grab some new ones. Just this small upgrade will instantly refresh your bathroom.

Ways to give your living room some TLC

Your living room is also a well-used area — especially your sofa. Clear any debris under your cushions (I bet you’ll find a Lego or two, and some candy wrappers). Then, give the area a good vacuum. If your cushion covers are washable, throw them in the laundry machine, but if not, a handheld upholstery cleaner can get rid of dirt and stains. I have this Bissell one that works like a charm.

If you have a ceiling fan, chances are that it’s full of dust, which you can easily wipe off with a Swiffer duster. The same goes for baseboards — use a microfiber cloth and some cleaner and get rid of all the accumulated dust bunnies that sought shelter over the winter.

Bookcases, musical instruments, and any other surfaces should get a good wipedown. Donate any toys and books your kids have outgrown. Libraries frequently ask for book donations for sales, so ask them when their next collection dates are.

How to get your bedroom in tip-top shape

Start by washing all of your bed linens, including sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. Clear your bedroom of any floor clutter, and get to vacuuming and mopping the floor, if it’s hardwood. For carpets, you can rent a steam vacuum cleaner from Home Depot or a local hardware store to really get all the dust and dirt out. Be sure to clean under and behind your bed as well.

Using an extension attachment, vacuum your curtains if you have them. Blinds need a good wipedown with a cloth and cleaning spray. 

If you’re like me, your dresser is full of makeup and skincare products. Get some containers and organize them according to category. Clear ones are helpful so that you’re not rummaging. Remember to throw out any expired products, such as mascara and old lip gloss. Tossing unneeded items will get your room looking so much better.

It’s time to put your winter clothes away (finally!), so that means swapping them out for warm-weather pieces. You can either store them under the bed or in your closet, depending on your space. 

Bonus tips

• Add a few drops of essential oil into a diffuser to get your house smelling like a spa.
• Check all the batteries in your smoke alarms to make sure they’re working.
• When storing winter shoes, add a deodorizer to keep them fresh.
• Clean remotes and hand-held devices with a disinfecting wipe.

Let us know if we missed anything! You can email us at hello@parenthoodtogether.com. Be sure to share these tips with others if you found them helpful!