Spring Cleaning Checklist PLUS Coronavirus Disinfection Tips

With all of the news surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, spring really snuck up on us this year. But let me tell you, we are ready for the change! Like many of you, we like to take time for a deep spring cleaning this time of year. And this year it’s that much more important. Disinfecting your home along with routine cleaning practices will help limit the spread of COVID-19. So while you’re spending time at home and practicing social distancing, you might as well get a jump on that spring cleaning. Hey, you might even have help if the kids are home from school! 

Happy first day of spring! And happy cleaning!

Step 1 – Restock cleaning supplies.

This step is going to be harder than normal these days as store shelves have been picked over. If you’re low on cleaning supplies, focus on disinfecting. According to the CDC, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective against COVID-19. Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface.

Step 2 – Remove dust.

Dust collects EVERYWHERE. Wipe down virtually every surface with a rag or duster. Walls, ceilings, lights, fixtures, blinds, lamp shades, baseboards, doors, door frames, window sills, vents, fans, bookshelves, cabinets, appliances, mirrors, frames, decorative items, furniture. Don’t forget electronics like TVs and video game consoles! We’re talking EVERYWHERE.

For wood surfaces, we like to use Pledge® to get a deeper clean and polish. (Pledge® Multi Surface Cleaner – Antibacterial† kills 99.9% of bacteria on a variety of surfaces, not just wood.) 

Step 3 – Scrub, wash, and disinfect.

Once your surfaces are clear of dust, dirt, and debris, get ready to go after those GERMS! Tackle those frequently touched surfaces (for example: tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, remote controls) with household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface, following label instructions. Often this means allowing the cleaning liquid to stay on the surface for an extended period of time before wiping dry. 

Then, get to your spring cleaning checklist and wash windows (inside and out), scrub down toilets, showers, and bathtubs, and wash/polish your kitchen cabinets. This is also a great time to clean out the fridge and microwave (again, inside and out) and deep clean the oven.

 “Regular cleaning with normal cleaning supplies does a great job of removing all kinds of germs, not just coronavirus, from surfaces,” said Catherine Roberts, associate health editor at Consumer Reports. “Focus on high-touch areas — that’s faucet handles, doorknobs, stair rails and countertops — the things that you have your hands on all the time.”

Step 4 – Vacuum, sweep, and mop.

Vacuums these days can handle more than just carpet. Let your vacuum do its job by vacuuming ALL of your floors. Even go the extra mile by moving furniture and appliances to clean those dark, dirty spots that never see the light of day! Vacuum or sweep under the fridge, the couch, the oven, but be brave! Who knows what’s back there!!

While you’ve got the vacuum out, you might as well vacuum a few other places that don’t get cleaned but once a year (if that!!). Vacuum the coils on the fridge, all upholstery, under the couch cushions, and any window treatments that can’t be tossed in the washer. By the end of it, I’m guessing you’ll have dumped the vacuum bag more than a few times!

Step 5 – Wash linens.

Launder all bedding, blankets, throw pillows, bath mats, shower linens, window treatments and anything that doesn’t make it into the normal laundry cycle. While your sheets are off, now is a great time to flip or rotate your mattress!

Step 6 – Reorganize.

It’s amazing how much STUFF we collect over time. If we don’t take time to go through it, the piles just grow and grow! Clean out and organize areas like your pantry, closets, storage rooms, and garage. Purge anything you no longer need and store any winter items until next season. Donate any gently used items to Goodwill, The Salvation Army, or other local community organizations.

Step 7 – Safety check.

We all know that if you don’t take care of these items now, you’ll forget about it! 

• Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 
• Check all electronics, untangle cords, and ensure everything is plugged into a surge protector. 
• Check the expiration date on the fire extinguisher. 
• Update your first aid kits. Toss expired medication while sorting other medication.

That’s our 2020 spring cleaning checklist. (No shame if you skip a few!!) Stay healthy out there!

Up Next