Spring is here - let's clean!

There's a one liner that goes "I want it to be Spring so badly that I am going to start cleaning today"! After a long and cold winter many will nod at this sentiment in agreement. 

Fortunately, the seasons are changing and Spring is just around the corner. It's the season traditionally associated with renewal and a fresh start, and of course with Spring Cleaning - the act of thoroughly cleaning a space.

"More than simply cleaning, I like to think of it as a way to honour our living spaces. Cleaning and organising our homes is as much about removing dirt and creating order as it is about showing gratitude for our properties," says Michelle Cohen, Principal at Leapfrog Johannesburg North East. 

Start by decluttering 

Before you clean anything, take the time to declutter. Go through everything - clothes, kitchen supplies, paperwork and your pantry - and get rid of things that you need longer need or use. Either recycle or donate, and only discard what really can't be used by somebody else. 

Decluttering is not only about making space in your home but also clearing some headspace. It also makes the cleaning process faster, simpler and more efficient. 

Work from the top down 

When last did you wipe down the ceiling, or dust  the pendant lights? It's always a good idea to start cleaning from the top. This prevents dust and first from settling on freshly cleaned surfaces, and is the home version of a top-to-toe clean. 

Don't forget about fixtures like ceiling fans and things like art pieces against the walls. Similarly, make sure to wipe the walls too. Leave the floor - irrespective of its covering - for last as all the dust will settle there. 

Out of sight, out of mind 

What makes a Spring clean different to any other clean? It's the time when we clean the things we don't do every other week. Make sure to clean behind the fridge and under appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine, and take the time to move the furniture to clean underneath and behind it. 

You'll be surprised at how much dust and dirt accumulates in the "dead zones" in our homes. 

Tools of the trade 

The entire cleaning process will be immeasurably more pleasant if you have the right tools so take stock before starting. Make sure you have a broom, bucket, sponges, detergents (consider eco-friendly, there are some great ones on the market), and dusters. Every household has these but Spring cleaning is also a good time to do an "audit" of your cleaning tools. 

What's more - and this may seem counterintuitive - but your cleaning supplies can also become dirty and contaminated. Regularly clean your sponges, mops, and brooms to ensure they are free from bacteria and germs.

Embrace and enjoy 

Of course there are those among us who really enjoyed cleaning and then there's the rest for whom it is a chore. But approach it with an open mind and your eye on the final goal. Put on some music, create a playlist, or invite a friend to help. Make it a fun and enjoyable experience.