5 JOBS ON OUR SPRING CLEANING TO-DO LIST

Here are five spring cleaning jobs that can often get neglected, but should be ticked off the to-do list at least once a year … so why not in spring?

Clean out your fridge

If you’re like most people, the inside of your fridge is kept fairly clean all year round (although we’re all guilty of pulling a congealed blob out of the vegetable drawer every once in a while). But when was the last time that you gave it a thorough clean? We’re talking about pulling everything out; checking used-by dates of all the jars, bottles and other items; and meticulously cleaning every surface, inside and out.

Before you dive in, have a quick read of your fridge user manual to see if there are any specific cleaning instructions. Most fridge shelves can be removed and washed in hot, soapy water. You can also wipe down all outside surfaces.

Deep clean the oven

Get the same result as a self-cleaning oven – without the fumes and smoke – by applying a little elbow grease and some natural cleaners. Simply sprinkle the caked-on burnt bits in the bottom of your oven with baking soda and a light spray of vinegar. Let it sit overnight and wipe away with a textured sponge.

Go minimalist in your garage 

The minimalist movement is huge, and there’s no better place to apply its thinking than in your garage. Roll up your sleeves on a sunny Saturday and work through all the stuff that has piled up in there during the year. Sell, toss or donate items that you haven’t used in ages; organise other items neatly. Now’s a good time to check that bikes have air in tyres and brakes work safely – before they go into overdrive during spring and summer

Clean the windows inside and out 

Choose a cool, cloudy spring day to tackle this task (this helps to prevent streaking). Then, go round the inside of the house with a sponge, some soapy warm water and a squeegee. For the outside, remove dust and dirt with cold, soapy water and a microfiber cloth or newspaper. Then a quick spray with an exterior glass cleaner or vinegar solution (one-part white vinegar and two parts water) and a squeegee to dry, and it’s done. 

Clean the washing machine and dryer 

When was the last time you cleaned these out? This is an oft-neglected job, but it’s a good idea to ensure they last. For your washing machine, check the user manual for any special cleaning instructions. Don’t forget, leaving the lid open for a little while after each cycle will also help prevent mould, mildew and any unwelcome smells. 

Next up, tackle the dryer. Again, check the user manual to see how the lint filter and other parts can be given a thorough clean. While you’re at it, get in behind the washing machine and dryer if you can, and vacuum out the inevitable build-up of dust and dirt.