Although Atlanta’s erratic and unpredictable weather patterns have once again thrown residents for a loop this season, it seems as though Spring is finally here to stay. Whether you’re a home organization junkie or prefer to relish in your own cluttered chaos, it’s a time to throw open the windows, let in the sunlight and start piecing through the mounds of junk that have accumulated around your home throughout the year.
Cleaning and freshening up the interior of your home does more than just create a more peaceful space for your family and guests. It also helps to increase the value of your home. Even if you’re not looking to sell in the near future, it’s always a smart idea to increase the value of your investment.
If you’re having a little trouble getting started with this year’s Spring projects, consider a few helpful interior spring cleaning ideas arranged by area:
· Floors – Even if you’re diligent about cleaning often, the floors in your home are likely covered with all sorts of stains from foot traffic. From dirty pet paws and children’s muddy rain boots to coffee spills and kitchen mishaps, there are plenty of forgotten stains all across your flooring – especially in those hard to reach spots. Consider steam cleaning your carpets, mopping and repairing hardwood or tile and paint garage flooring for a fresh new look.
· Closets – Even though they don’t often see the light of day, it’s important to clean up your closets as well. Sort through clutter and donate old clothing and other gently used items, then recycle the rest. Finish up by installing shelving, making use of organizational baskets and add a fresh coat of paint to give your closet interior a fun new look that you wouldn’t mind sharing.
· Bathrooms – Bathrooms are one of the dirtiest spaces in any home. For a quick fix, consider a few painting ideas to give your bathroom walls a vibrant new look. Disinfect and polish all remaining surfaces and replace old rugs and towels to breathe new life into every corner or this high-traffic room.
· Bedroom – Bedrooms can also become havens for clutter, but don’t become overwhelmed. Install shelving and organize your dresser drawers to make finding the things you need much easier. Invest in some new bedding and donate old bedding to local animal shelters. Finally, change things up with some brightly colored interior design colors and possibly an accent wall behind your headboard.
· Basement – Most of us use our basements as one really big closet – lots of storage space for forgotten junk. While it’s great to have free space to store your old memories and holiday decorations, there needs to be a method to the madness. Move items out of cardboard boxes and into stackable plastic containers, and use eco friendly pesticides and sealant to keep out the critters.
· Furniture – One of the most fun interior Spring cleaning ideas is to revive old furniture. Remember that you don’t have to buy brand new pieces to liven up your home. You can renew old vintage pieces by reupholstering and re-staining. Add character to old hand-me-down furniture with a new coat of paint. Renewing furniture is a great opportunity to let your creativity shine.
· Heed Safety and Air Quality Warnings – Be sure to check the labels on all household products prior to use and don’t mix products. Ensure you have plenty of ventilation and, if necessary, open all windows or doors. Wear protective gloves and eyewear when using any household chemicals. When painting, be sure to stick with “green” paints that use aqueous solvents instead of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Once you’re completed this arduous task, don’t forget to reward yourself for using our interior Spring cleaning ideas. Mix up a cold beverage, take a dip in the local pool, recline in the sunshine and take it easy. How do you plan to enjoy your summer after your Spring cleaning is complete?