Spring cleaning doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending chore marathon. With a few clever hacks up your sleeve, you can breeze through your checklist without breaking a sweat (or your budget). Whether you’re a cleaning minimalist or a full-on Marie Kondo disciple, these expert-backed tricks will help you tackle every nook and cranny—fast.
DIY All-Purpose Cleaner That Actually Works
Skip the pricey store-bought sprays and whip up your own with stuff you probably already have. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, toss in a lemon rind and a few rosemary sprigs, then let it sit for a week. Boom—you’ve got a fresh-smelling, stain-busting cleaner that’s perfect for countertops, trash cans, and even wall smudges. Just avoid using it on natural stone or wood finishes—vinegar can be harsh on those surfaces.
Oven Racks Deserve a Spa Day Too
Scrubbing oven racks in the sink is like wrestling a greasy octopus. Instead, give them a relaxing soak in your bathtub. Lay down towels to protect the tub, then scrub the racks with dish soap and a heavy-duty scouring pad. Pro tip: If your racks are extra grimy, sprinkle baking soda on them before scrubbing for some extra grease-cutting power.
Curtains? Just Toss ‘Em in the Dryer
No need to haul your drapes to the dry cleaner. Refresh them by tossing them in the dryer on an air-fluff or low-heat cycle for 15 minutes. Hang them back up immediately to avoid wrinkles. Bonus: This also helps remove dust and allergens.
Blinds: The Sneaky Dust Magnet
Vacuuming blinds with the right attachment is a game-changer. Close them, hold the slats taut, and gently run your vacuum’s soft brush over them (left to right for horizontal blinds, top to bottom for vertical ones). Then, flip the direction and repeat. You’ll be shocked at how much dust was hiding in plain sight.
Lemon Power for Cutting Boards
That funky stain on your wooden cutting board isn’t a lost cause. Rub it down with half a lemon (sprinkled with salt or baking soda for extra scrubbing power) to lift stains and neutralize odors. Finish with a coat of cutting board oil to keep the wood from drying out.
Pillows Need a Wash Too (Yes, Really!)
Most pillows can go straight into the washing machine—just check the care label first. Use warm water, mild detergent, and an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap is out. Tumble dry on low with a couple of tennis balls (yes, really) to keep them fluffy.
Dish Soap: The Carpet Stain Assassin
Forget expensive carpet cleaners—a mix of dish soap and water works wonders. Spray it on a microfiber cloth, dab the stain (don’t rub!), then rinse with water and blot dry. Works like magic on everything from wine spills to muddy paw prints.
Soap Scum’s Worst Enemy? Lemon Juice
Skip the harsh chemicals and spray a lemon-water mix on your shower walls. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub away the grime. Just avoid using it on marble—acidic cleaners can etch the surface.
Toilet Bowl Hack: Overnight Vinegar Soak
For a sparkling toilet without elbow grease, pour white vinegar into the bowl (enough to cover the water line) and let it sit overnight. In the morning, add baking soda for a fizzy deep clean, then scrub and flush.
Double Up on Doormats
Dirt doesn’t stand a chance if you layer two mats—one outside, one inside. Vacuum both sides to push trapped dirt out, and hose down outdoor mats to keep them fresh.
Dryer Sheets: The Secret Dusting Weapon
Used dryer sheets are perfect for dusting furniture, baseboards, and even electronics (thanks to their anti-static properties). No need to buy disposable dusters when these work just as well.
Microwave Cleaning in 5 Minutes
Steam-clean your microwave by microwaving a bowl of water with lemon slices or vinegar until it boils. Let it sit for five minutes, then wipe away the loosened grime with ease.
Washing Machine Needs Love Too
Run a bleach cycle (or use a washing machine cleaner) to keep your machine smelling fresh and working efficiently.
Ketchup for Shiny Copper Pans
Sounds weird, but it works! The acidity in ketchup helps dissolve tarnish on copper. Rub it on, let it sit, then rinse for a brilliant shine.
Kids’ Toys in the Dishwasher? Genius.
Plastic toys can go in the dishwasher (skip the heated dry), while stuffed animals can be tossed in the washing machine (in a pillowcase for protection).
Mattress Refresh with a Steamer
Kill dust mites by steaming your mattress, then vacuum thoroughly. A quick spritz of fabric disinfectant keeps things fresh.
Baking Soda for Carpet Odors
Sprinkle it on, let it sit, then vacuum—your carpets will smell like nothing (which is the goal).
Closet Purge Rule: If You Wore It Once, Donate It
Bridesmaid dresses, impulse buys, and “someday” outfits? If they haven’t been worn in a year, they’re just taking up space.
Fridge Bins Need a Deep Clean
Remove and wash them in warm, soapy water to banish hidden spills and bacteria.
Windows Clean Best on Cloudy Days
Sunlight dries cleaning solutions too fast, leaving streaks. Overcast days = streak-free shine.
With these hacks, spring cleaning becomes less of a chore and more of a victory lap. Now go forth and conquer that checklist—you’ve got this!
