Spring home maintenance checklist

From late February, we start to see the first signs of spring, the days become longer (and sometimes brighter) while flowers like daffodils and snowdrops begin to emerge.

There is a feeling of renewal in the air, making it the perfect time to get motivated to get ready for the seasons ahead. With the new season comes a list of household tasks that you may need to complete to keep your home properly maintained and in a good state of repair.

Here is our spring home maintenance checklist to help you do just that.

Inspect your home

During the winter months, you may have spent a lot of time at home and already noticed some wear and tear.  

The first step in tackling your spring checklist for the home is to put some time aside to review each room and note any areas that need a deep clean or general repairs. Don’t forget to look up, as you may overlook dusty light fixtures or cobwebs. Once you have finished inside, do an inspection of any outdoor spaces you have, too.

Although some jobs require a professional or might be the responsibility of Places for People if you are a rented Customer, there are some simple tasks that you can turn your hand to, including things like fixing a failed wall fixture and unclogging a blocked shower drain.

Remember, maintenance is a process and it doesn’t need to be done all at once. Plan your time effectively and take advantage of quiet weekends to chip away at tasks. If you’re still unsure where to start, why not check out our guide on 10 general repairs you can do around your home?

Open your windows

Spring is the perfect time to let the fresh air and light in. On drier days, open a window to encourage airflow as this will help you get rid of any unpleasant or stale odours that may have built up. 

Avoid opening windows on wet, rainy days as this could increase the chances of damp and and condensation forming - an exception to this rule applies if you are having a hot shower or cooking when your windows should be open for ventilation.  Find out more about how to prevent condensation and mould in your home. 

The best time to clean your windows is during a cloudy day, as you will be able to see streaks more easily. Start by cleaning the dirtiest parts first (sills and tracks), and finish by washing the window panes.

Get started on your spring cleaning

Bedding and mattresses

Regularly washing your pillowcases and duvet covers is good practice, but don't forget about your pillows and duvets. Give them a refresh every so often to maintain cleanliness and comfort.

Sprinkle baking soda on your mattress, let it sit for a few minutes, and then use the brush attachment on your hoover to clean the surface. Many people also recommend flipping their mattresses from time to time.

Blinds

Blinds and shades are dust magnets. For blinds, use a damp dust rag during your spring cleaning routine to remove grime. Shades can be cleaned with a lint roller, a vacuum cleaner, or a slightly damp microfibre cloth. 

Skirting boards and picture rails

It might be that your visible skirting boards get dusted every once in a while. However, what about the boards behind your bed or a living room console? Or your picture rails? Spring cleaning is a perfect opportunity to take care of them all.

Regular attention to these parts of your home will help keep your living spaces dust-free and inviting. Find more tips on how to prevent dust at home and budget-friendly home cleaning hacks.

Take care of damp and condensation

Extended periods of wet weather during the autumn and winter months can sometimes result in water accessing vulnerable nooks and crannies, especially if there is an issue with your guttering, downpipes, brickwork or roof. This unwanted influx of water poses a risk of damp and condensation, causing complications that can be challenging to resolve. Springtime often brings heavy showers, which can make these issues even worse.

Left unattended, these issues can escalate and allow for the growth of mould, which, can also have adverse effects on health. 

Swiftly addressing damp is crucial to avoid potential damage and safeguard your space's structural integrity and your household’s well-being.

For more guidance on this issue, visit our blog on 10 ways to reduce condensation in your home.

If you live in a Places for People property and you are concerned you have either signs of damp or mould in your home, report an issue of damp and mould as soon as you notice the issue.