20 Spring Cleaning/Maintenance Tasks to Remember

“Spring cleaning has more benefits than you may think,” shares Hippo Home Insights Expert Courtney Klosterman. “In addition to refreshing your space for the new season, tidying up can help make your home safer in emergencies, help you catch issues early and improve your home’s health.” 

Here are some spring-cleaning tasks that Klosterman shared for homeowners to remember. 

1. Deep clean from top to bottom. Sweep out dust and dirt that settled during the winter. Don’t forget to clean hard-to-reach places like ceiling fans, exhaust fans and soft surfaces. 
2. Remove unnecessary clutter from the home and make sure there are clear pathways to all exits. 
3. Shampoo carpets and clean hard surfaces. Once hard surfaces are clean, floor sealants can prevent moisture and increase the floor’s longevity. 
4. Run a cleaning cycle through the dishwasher and washing machine. This can be done with white vinegar, and it’s especially important in homes with hard water to avoid calcium buildup. 
5. Clean the dryer vent and lint traps to reduce the risk of fires and blockages. This also helps to dry clothes more efficiently. 
6. Flush all drains by pouring a cup of white distilled vinegar down them. Let the vinegar sit for 30-45 minutes, then flush with cold water. Don’t forget to clean the garbage disposal as well (and disconnect it from power before doing so!). 
7. Clean doors and windows, which are often entry points for rain, wind and debris. 

Spring home care shouldn’t be limited to just cleaning. It’s also an ideal season to complete other maintenance tasks and checks to ensure things are running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some maintenance tasks to add to the list: 

1. Inspect seals and caulking around doors and windows, looking for missing chunks, peeling and other problems.
2. Check window and door screens for tears, rust, debris and mold. Small tears or holes can be fixed using a screen repair kit, but bigger issues call for replacement. 
3. Service critical systems like the HVAC by replacing filters and cleaning air ducts. 
4. Check all pipes, connections and hoses for signs of leaks, loose connections or damaged seals and grout. 
5. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace old batteries. Check fire extinguishers as well. 
6. Inspect and drain the hot water heater. Drain the water that’s left in the tank, then stir up the sediment at the bottom by opening the cold-water supply valve briefly. Repeat the process until the water comes out clean from the hose. 

And lastly, don’t forget the home’s exterior. Critical tasks may include: 

1. Inspect the roof, checking for missing or damaged shingles, leaks or water stains, sagging or dark streaks. Contact a professional for a thorough inspection and help to address any extensive repairs.
2. Look around the attic for water stains, mold, pests and other signs of moisture or ventilation issues, which can lead to a deteriorating roof system and poor insulation. 
3. Check the gutters, downspouts and nearby storm drains for blockages and signs of damage to prevent pooling water and related structural damage. 
4. Check the wooden parts of the home for signs of water damage, like warped boards or rot. 
5. Look around the home’s exterior for cracks, water stains or peeling paint. Keep an eye out for pests as well. 
6. Inspect the deck and driveway for damage. Address hairline cracks in the driveway to prevent water penetration and investigate larger cracks, which may indicate structural issues. 
7. Trim trees using a hand saw or trimmers to remove any branches that don’t look stable. For taller trees, consider hiring a professional tree trimmer.