Spring cleaning season is upon us, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and to spruce up and organize our homes. Whether you’re getting ready to sell, move into a new place, or just want to feel more relaxed in your space, a good spring clean is a must-do of the season. At Ash Creek Homes, we’re all about creating homes that feel good to live in—and keeping them clean is part of that.
Here are some of our favorite, no-nonsense tips for tackling spring cleaning without feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand:
1. Start with a Plan
Spring cleaning can feel overwhelming without a roadmap. Begin by walking through your home with a notepad. Make a list of the areas that need attention—closets, baseboards, ceiling fans, garage, pantry, etc. Prioritize based on time and importance, and break tasks into manageable chunks.
Tip: Create a checklist by room. Focusing on one area at a time helps keep momentum and prevents burnout.
2. Declutter First, Clean Second
Before you dive into scrubbing and dusting, take time to declutter. Go through closets, drawers, and cabinets to remove what you no longer use or need. If an item hasn’t been used in a year, it may be time to donate, sell, or toss it.
Pro tip for families: Get kids involved by letting them sort their toys and clothes. Set a timer for 15–20 minutes to make it a fun challenge.
3. Go Green with Your Products
Spring is about fresh air and renewal—so consider swapping chemical-heavy cleaners for more natural, eco-friendly alternatives. Many effective cleaning products can be made at home using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils.
DIY All-Purpose Cleaner Recipe:
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1 cup white vinegar
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1 cup water
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1 tablespoon baking soda
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A few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil
Mix in a spray bottle and shake well before use. It’s perfect for countertops, sinks, and even windows.
4. Focus on Forgotten Spots
Even the tidiest homes have those sneaky, overlooked areas. This spring, take the time to tackle:
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Ceiling fans and light fixtures: Use a pillowcase to catch dust from blades.
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Baseboards and door frames: A damp microfiber cloth does wonders.
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Under furniture and appliances: Slide furniture slightly to vacuum and wipe beneath.
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Air vents and filters: Clean or replace HVAC filters to boost efficiency and improve air quality.
5. Deep Clean Soft Surfaces
Curtains, upholstery, and area rugs collect dust and allergens over time. Launder what you can, and vacuum or steam clean the rest.
Mattress Tip: Sprinkle baking soda over your mattress, let sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum it up. It neutralizes odors and freshens the surface.
6. Reorganize Your Spaces
Once things are clean, rethink how your space functions. Spring is a great time to reorganize your pantry, garage, closets, or home office.
Ideas to try:
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Use labeled bins and baskets to group similar items.
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Install hooks in the garage for tools and garden gear.
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Add drawer organizers to bathroom vanities and kitchen junk drawers.
Ash Creek homes are thoughtfully designed with storage in mind, so maximize built-ins and smart layouts to keep clutter at bay.
7. Bring the Outdoors In
Celebrate the season by adding greenery to your interiors. Houseplants not only look beautiful but help purify the air and boost mood.
Try easy-care options like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies. Or add a touch of spring color with a fresh vase of flowers on your dining table or kitchen island.
8. Prep Outdoor Spaces
In Texas, spring means patio season! Refresh your outdoor living spaces so you’re ready to enjoy those sunny afternoons and evening breezes.
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Power wash patios, porches, and decks
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Wipe down patio furniture and replace worn cushions
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Clean windows and exterior doors
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Plant spring blooms in pots or garden beds for instant curb appeal
Our Ash Creek Homes communities are designed for outdoor living, so make the most of porches, yards, and shared green spaces.
9. Tackle the Paper Pile-Up
Mail, magazines, receipts—paper clutter adds up fast. Set up a system to sort and manage it going forward.
Try this:
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Use a filing bin with labeled folders for important documents
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Shred old paperwork you no longer need
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Switch to paperless billing where possible
10. Set Yourself Up for Long-Term Success
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a once-a-year event. Maintain your home with monthly mini-cleaning sessions or adopt a weekly schedule to stay on top of trouble spots.
Tip: Store cleaning supplies in each bathroom or level of your home for convenience and keep a microfiber cloth nearby to do quick wipe-downs regularly.
Bottom line: A clean home feels better to live in. And if you’re thinking about making a move, spring is a great time to start fresh. At Ash Creek Homes, we’ve got some beautiful quick move-in homes at Tanner Ranch, and we’re launching an exciting new community in South Austin later this year—so keep an eye out!
