For tenants who want to declutter, but have never really accomplished the task, it’s time to get moving.  Spring is just around the corner!  You can start by getting rid of unused or unwanted items. You can donate those items to local thrift stores or shelters.

De-clutter every corner of your home

When you first de-clutter every corner of your home, it will be easier for you to see what needs dusting, sweeping, or where to use a vacuum cleaner. Remember to label the things you want to “keep”, “donate”, or “discard” altogether. After you’ve done this, make separate piles and box the items you don’t need for the trash or donate, store the items you want to keep, and fold your winter clothes and place in plastic bins or tuck away under the bed or in the closet.

You need to have a cleaning kit

You’ll want to purchase the right cleaning materials. A good cleaning kit includes an all-purpose cleaner, rubber gloves, disinfecting wipes, spot remover for carpets, glass cleaner for showers and windows, a sponge, paper towels, and a small duster. Storing them together in a container like a basket, will make it easier to carry them from room to room.

Check every room

Don’t try to clean everything at once, pace yourself and do a through job. When you complete one room at a time, it will keep you focused. Maybe you start with your bedroom, then in the afternoon take on the living room or kitchen. If this is your first spring clean, you may feel more comfortable if you space things out.

Purchase the proper vacuum for your space

Why not invest in a slim, bag-less vacuum – avoid getting models with disposable bags as they can be harder to clean, slow the suction and airflow as they get full. Look for a vacuum with 200 air watts or over as it has ample suction, and the one with a spinning brush to give carpet and rug fibers a deeper clean. Don’t rush the vacuuming, by slowly moving the vacuum cleaner it will result in the removal of up to 85 percent of dust and allergens.

Clean those forgotten spaces

You should dust and vacuum every area of your home. When you need to scrub tiny crevices, like the window tracks and behind the toilet, use an old toothbrush and add some vinegar. After you vacuumed the floors, use the nozzle and suck up everything hiding there. When you’re dusting, don’t just dust the space, dust the items you have placed in or on the space.

Address your fridge

Even if you always throw away expired food or drinks from your refrigerator, there may remain some condiments in there that haven’t been used for a long time. Clear out your entire fridge, check the expiration dates, and of course, you toss them away if the items have expired. The same with the forgotten leftovers in the freezer. Before you put everything back in, remove all the shelves and wash them down with soap and water. Spray the inside of the fridge with a vinegar water solution and wipe down.

Bring some life back into the place

Now it’s time to reward yourself. Buy some fresh flowers or a plant to add a nice finishing touch to your refreshed space. Not only will they look refreshing, but they will also make your place look beautiful – as plants can improve indoor air quality, and brighten the mood.