Make a spring cleaning checklist

Checking items off of a list can be cathartic. With that in mind, we suggest creating a checklists for each room you’re going to tackle (that way you can recycle your list after you’ve checked everything off of it – even more satisfying!)

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Start small

Starting small means making those room-by-room checklists (see above), but it also means not taking on the entire attic (or garage or closet) in one go – break it down by area or by task. You’ve got this – the attic will not defeat you!

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Limit your time

Spring cleaning burn out: the best way to end up with only half of your house or apartment clean. This is a marathon, not a sprint and your house will end up in a much better state if you pace yourself and make conscious, active decisions on what to keep and what to throw away or donate.

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Don’t go it alone

If you’re like us, cleaning isn’t exactly up there on your list of favorite things to do. But it doesn’t have to be a silent, solitary task that is occasionally interrupted by the sound of spraying window cleaner or the rustling of garbage bags. Make a deal with your friends – they help you get with some of your cleaning and you’ll help them with theirs! Or enlist your kids, spouse, or that cousin who owes you a favor. Put on some music and catch up, it’ll make the time and tasks go by much faster.

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Identify the necessities

Whenever you start a new room or task, identify the items that you have to keep – both for practical and sentimental reasons. Make sure the necessities find a prominent or easily accessible space in your newly organized home or office. That way you can cut down on any frustration from having to find something you use often and you can increase your happiness quota by looking at something that brings you joy.