Spring Clean: Seasonal Sweep

It’s the season to roll up your sleeves, tackle jobs around the home and set up simple routines to help keep things looking tiptop.

- Kylie Jackes

TO HELP LAUNCH you into spring cleaning mode, we’ve compiled a to-do list of jobs you can knock over, weekly, monthly and annually. By regularly targeting zones bit by bit, you’ll be impressed with the results and, best of all, your home will stay cleaner longer. And try our DIY recipes to help get your rooms looking – and smelling – the best they ever have.

LIVING ROOM

once a week

Give the carpet a thorough vacuum and stretch under the furniture where dust tends to hide.

Wipe bookshelves and consoles with a lightly damp cloth, sprinkled with a few drops of lemongrass essential oil for a welcoming aroma.

Remove items that don’t belong in the zone and make the sofa inviting by plumping cushions and folding throw rugs.

once a month

Give your fabrics a wash. Pop things such as cushion covers in the washing machine and hand wash more delicate items.

Clean windows inside and out. If you’re looking to avoid harsh chemicals, try the DIY window cleaner recipe from founder Jody Allen of Stay At Home Mum – turn to page 122.

Floor rugs benefit from a good airing. Shake them out and sling them over the line for a day of fresh air. The sunlight will also kill pesky dust mites. 

once a year

Give your sofa and carpet a deep steam clean. Use a DIY machine or call in the professionals.

Treat timber furniture to a fresh coat of wax and maintain leather furniture with conditioning cream. 

Arm yourself with a damp cloth to clean dust from fan blades and air-conditioner vents.

KITCHEN

once a week

Clear surfaces of detritus such as bills, post and children’s toys and swap out tea towels for a fresh set.