By Katie McCann
Spring has (almost) sprung and so has that urge to freshen up your home. Time to open the windows, let the stale winter air (and maybe a few cobwebs) escape, and give your space the refresh it deserves. Don’t worry—I’m not about to tell you to clean your baseboards with a toothbrush (unless that’s your thing, in which case, go for it). These simple, doable tips will help you tackle spring cleaning without losing your sanity. Grab your timer, take it one step at a time, and let’s shake the winter blues from your home.
- Declutter in Bursts – Set a 30-minute timer and tackle one small area a day. Little wins add up fast—plus, you’re less likely to give up and binge-watch TV instead.
- Air It Out – Open those windows! Let in fresh air and send winter’s dust bunnies packing. Bonus: It makes you feel like you’re being productive before you even start.
- Fridge Forensics – If you can’t remember when you bought that mystery condiment, it’s time to say goodbye. Toss the expired stuff, wipe down the shelves, and rediscover all that extra shelf space.
- Baseboards & Blinds & Fans, Oh My! – The things you know need cleaning but pretend don’t exist? Yeah, it’s their time to shine. A quick wipe-down makes a huge difference.
- Winter, Be Gone! – Swap out heavy winter décor for lighter, springy vibes. Wash those cozy throws and bedding before storing them—because nobody likes rediscovering musty blankets in October.
- Outdoor Ready – Clean those patio cushions and dust off your outdoor furniture. Your future self will thank you when the first warm day hits and you’re already ready to lounge. Also take a look at all outdoor toy storage and/or warm weather toys like sandboxes, buckets, shovels, floaties, goggles, bubbles, water guns, bikes, scooters, and helmets. Assess all and donate anything your kids have outgrown.
- Window Wisdom – Clean the windows inside and out, and pop those screens back in so you can enjoy the view instead of a layer of winter grime.
- Closet Reality Check – As you pack up winter clothes, be honest: If you didn’t wear it this year, you won’t next year. Donate, sell, or finally admit those jeans aren’t going to fit the way they used to (and that’s OK, promise).
- Bonus tip: if it’s overly worn or loved, send it to textile recycling!
- Spring Clothes Prep – Give your spring wardrobe some love! Wash, dry clean, or repair anything that smells like it’s been hibernating. Because nothing kills spring vibes like musty dresses or shorts.
- Seasonal Swap for Toys & Clothes – If there are toys your child hasn’t played with in months, consider putting them into storage for a toy rotation—or donating them. Also, go through their clothes and remove anything they’ve outgrown. Donate, hand down, or store items for younger siblings.
And remember—progress, not perfection! The dust will return, but at least you will be ready for a fresh new season.
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Meet the author, Katie McCann
Haven, founded by Katie McCann, helps busy families that are overwhelmed and frustrated by the chaos that is their cluttered homes. Haven excels in working with individuals going through a transition—including those welcoming a baby, getting married or divorced, moving, upsizing or downsizing, and empty nesters. Haven also enhances spaces through closet and garage restructuring by way of design and customized organizing product recommendations. Through organization, Haven will teach you how to eliminate clutter and stress, save time and money, and gain peace and control.
Instagram: @YourHavenNY
Facebook: Haven, Home & Office Organization
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katietmccann
Thanks for the useful, practical spring organizing tips, Katie. I’ll be sharing them with my clients. I also especially like your ending remark, “And remember—progress, not perfection!”