Every year, as the weather warms and grass turns greener, we feel the need to freshen things up indoors. For those who live in apartments where space is at a premium, this is even more crucial. So, here are five things that should be at the top of your spring cleaning checklists.

                                                  

First and Foremost, Declutter!

When people talk about spring cleaning, usually they're referring to decluttering. The key to decluttering and really noticing a difference? Organization. It's not just about tossing things, but also about decluttering with a purpose. Have three boxes (or piles… piles work too) respectively labelled KEEP, TOSS, and DONATE. Once full, be sure that everything you're choosing to keep has a place and a purpose, so you don't end up back where you started. In apartments, space management is key. For things in the toss pile, be sure to toss them appropriately. Park Property buildings have recycling bins ready to receive all recyclable items and dedicated areas for the collection of oversized and electronic waste.

 

Clean Your Cabinets

While slightly more time consuming, the task of removing your belongings from your cabinets and dressers, and taking a damp microfibre cloth to the shelves, is well worth it. Dust build-up in cabinets can very easily overwhelm, so this is a task that should definitely be at the top of your spring cleaning checklist. For finished wooden cabinets, perhaps go the extra mile and use a polish to really eliminate fingerprints.

 

Curtains, Blinds, Shades

Famous for collecting dust are the tools we rely on in our homes to control light. Some may choose to go all the way and take their curtains down and have them professionally cleaned, which is definitely a great option. But you don't have to go through all that if you don't want to. Even taking your vacuum to the curtains as they are, will make a significant difference. For the blinds and shades, again a damp microfibre cloth is all you need to wipe the winter away.

 

Washing Your Windows

Of course, once you've taken care of your window coverings, the windows are the natural next step. If possible, choose an overcast day to complete this task (you'll minimize streaks that way). First you clean your windowsills and tracks, then you move on to the screens, ending with the windowpanes themselves. If you have a balcony, you can take care of your outside windows as well!

 

Cleaning Your Floors

After you've wiped clean any tabletops, counters, or shelving, the first thing to do is vacuum. Move the furniture out of the way as much as possible and be sure to clean under all rugs. For tile or wood flooring, use your normal non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner and mix it with warm water. For bonus points, use a product that includes a polisher, which can help with scratches and enhance the shine of your floors.

Taking a weekend to rid your apartment of a winter's worth of dust, dirt, and pet hair, may be just the physical and mental overhaul that you need. Putting these five tips into action will have you well on your way to enjoying the Spring and Summer from your refreshed apartment!