Spring cleaning does more than remove dirt and grime left over from winter; it also protects your house and can reduce maintenance costs. Try these four simple spring cleaning tips this season to refresh your home and help prevent future repairs.
Spring cleaning checklist
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Wash walls, windows and baseboards. These surfaces are often overlooked during weekly cleaning but can collect dust and grime. Move furniture away from walls and wipe walls with a slightly damp cloth or a magic eraser; use a toothbrush to reach baseboard crevices, and try a vinegar solution on windows to cut through buildup and reduce streaks.
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Scrub the carpet. Accumulated dirt, pet dander and odors shorten carpet life. Deep-clean carpets at least once a year—rent a carpet cleaner to do it yourself or hire a professional—to remove embedded soil and refresh fibers.
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Care for furniture. Whether modern or antique, furniture lasts longer when it’s kept clean. Wipe each piece from top to bottom with a soft cloth to avoid scratches, spot-treat upholstery, flip cushions, and repair small tears before they get worse.
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Reduce clutter. Clutter attracts pests and can block exits in an emergency. Commit to tossing or donating items you haven’t used in six months—like extra furniture or stacks of books—to make rooms safer and easier to maintain.
With these steps you can help protect your home and reduce maintenance costs over time.
For guidance on cleaning-related safety and hiring contractors, see Safety Inspections, Spring Cleaning, Vehicle Care & Contractor Insurance.
For tips specific to furniture and upholstery care—and information about related coverage—see Furniture Cleaning/Upholstery.
If you have questions about how these activities affect your insurance, talk to your agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I deep-clean carpets?
Deep-clean carpets at least once a year, or more often if you have pets, allergies, or heavy foot traffic.
Can spring cleaning affect my home insurance?
Regular maintenance and cleaning can reduce the risk of damage, but changes to coverage depend on your policy; check with your insurer for specifics.
What’s the safest way to clean upholstery?
Test a small, hidden area first, use manufacturer-recommended cleaners, spot-treat stains promptly, and avoid over-wetting fabric to prevent damage.
How should I dispose of or donate household clutter?
Donate usable items to local charities or schedule bulk pickup for disposables; recycle materials when possible and follow local guidelines for disposal.