Prepare Your Home for Spring in Ten Easy Steps

It is nearly that time of the year again and as the weather begins to warm up our minds turn to the inevitable spring cleaning jobs. We may not be quite as thorough as our mothers were, nor will we have the time to do every job in one day – but even a speedy but efficient clean can turn a dull winter house into a bright and clean spring home.

1. Declutter Be ruthless about this. Get rid of anything you haven't used in the last year. Put away all your winter clothes and furnishings and clear away anything which is causing a space problem. This includes magazines, books, CD's and toys. Empty cupboards and deliver everything you no longer want to charity shops or pop into the recycling bins.
2. Light fittings These are parts of the home we never think to clean. When you get up on your ladder have a good look around. It is likely that from that perspective you will see many surfaces which haven't seen a duster in a very long while
3. Soft Furnishings If you can't wash your furnishings yourself, take advantage of your local dry-cleaner. They can usually clean curtains, sofa covers and cushion covers for a reasonable price and the time saved is worth the extra cost.
4. Carpets Hire a carpet cleaner, move the furniture and set about removing all that built up grime from the winter. You can clean your rugs and upholstery in the same way. Always start with an inconspicuous area just in case your carpet is not colourfast. If you prefer not to do it yourself you can always get professionals in to do this for you.
5. Beds Strip the beds and if possible, wash the duvets and pillows. A dry-cleaner or laundrette will be able to wash any which are too big to fit in your washing machine. Vacuum the mattress and ensure all traces of dust are removed. Dust mites can cause all sorts of allergies, so it is probably best to do this regularly.
6. Windows Both inside and out. Clean all the sills and frames before you start on the glass. Vinegar works wonders on glass and a proper squeegee will make the job extra quick and easy.
7. Bathroom Do a special deep clean on your bathroom. This means scrubbing grout and attacking lime-scale. Vinegar works well on lime-scale, but can tarnish some metals, so take care.
8. Kitchen Pull out your appliances and vacuum behind them. Fridges run more efficiently if the coils are vacuumed. While they are out, clean the floors underneath. Then tackle the oven. It's a dirty job and one to save for a full afternoon – but so satisfying once done.
9. Cupboards The kitchen ones in particular. Pull out everything. Clean the cupboard and then check the food labels for anything which might have gone off or which you know you won't eat. Take any non-perishable items to your local homeless charity.
10. Enjoy We won't pretend that you got all this done in one afternoon or even in a month of Sunday's, but once you have reached the end of the list you can take a well deserved break from housework and enjoy your hard work.