Spring cleaning checklist

Nothing gets spring off to a good start like a thorough spring cleaning. After these major chores are done, you'll just have to do the smaller ones on a weekly basis for upkeep.

Here are the big jobs to tackle:

Wash windows
Vacuum window screens
Wash draperies, blinds and shades
Wash floors
Vacuum and clean carpets
Move furniture and appliances to clean and vacuum beneath them
Dust all knick-knacks and books
Clean light fixtures and lampshades
Dust cobwebs out of corners on the floor and ceiling
Wash all bedding, including mattress pads and bed skirts
Clean your oven
Clean and organize your closets
Store winter clothes away, replace with your spring and summer clothes
Give items you no longer want to a local charity
Sort and clean the cupboards and drawers in your kitchen and bathrooms
Organize your media collections
Sort through any leftover piles of mail and file important papers
Donate books you no longer want to a local library
See if a nearby hospital or nursing home would like your magazines

Head outside for more:

Once you've tackled the indoor tasks, it's time to give your home a spring checkup on the outside. Then you can relax and enjoy your spring and summer!