May 11, 2021

Spring Cleaning: Ways to Keep Your Apartment Cool, Fresh & Clean

While there’s no better feeling than coming home to a squeaky clean apartment, the idea of spring cleaning your space can be overwhelming. Thankfully, tackling a big spring cleaning and organizing project is entirely doable with a game plan! Keep reading for some great ways to brighten and clean your space, so you can enjoy a productive spring season! We’ll also be sharing some smart ways to stay energy efficient and pet safe during the warmer seasons, so you and your pet can enjoy the warmer seasons (and maybe save a little money, too)!

Cleaning Your Space

Ready to grab your rubber gloves and get to work? Maybe already having second thoughts because it seems like such an overwhelming task? Don’t worry — this section will cover everything you need to do to ensure your apartment is sparkling with minimal stress.

Dusting

Dusting may not be high up on the list of exciting tasks, but it’s essential to maintaining a clean, healthy space. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also lead to allergies and respiratory issues. Did you know that the average household collects more than 40 pounds of dust every year? Yikes. Keep in mind that the best way to avoid a full day of dusting is to make it a regular cleaning habit. Dust at least once each month to reduce allergens and keep your house looking good. Do a deeper dusting every three months — move your furniture around and be sure to hit all of the nooks and crannies. Just be sure to start each dusting session from the higher surfaces like your ceiling fans, as dust will fall and then settle.

Declutter

This spring cleaning step can be tough for a lot of people, so don’t beat yourself up if you find that it’s difficult to clear out your old items! However, following these steps and remaining objective (not too sentimental) may help:

• Consider starting your projects smallest to biggest: If decluttering the largest room in your apartment seems like a daunting, all-day task, start with small projects and work your way up. You may find that the satisfaction of completing each project will motivate you to keep going!
• Start with one room at a time: If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, stay on track by doing one room or part of a room at a time. Start with one dresser, or one side of your closet and then work your way through the entire room.
• Be honest with yourself: Understand that you may find some things that you feel are too sentimental to donate or toss out. Decide which stays at your own discretion, but also ask
•  yourself if just a photo on your phone of this item will suffice.
• Organize by keep/toss/donate: Declutter your items and stick to the three piles — no excuses! Keep in mind that while you may not use your items any longer, someone else may be thrilled to have them. Check out this list of Where to Donate Your Clothes!

The “Extras”

While you’re in the midst of spring cleaning, take this time to also make sure you and your maintenance team are squared away on the health and safety items in your space:

• Check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher
• Check your air filters and replace if necessary
• Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Wash all windows and notify maintenance if you need your outside windows cleaned

In addition to ensuring you’re good to go on your emergency items, it’s also a great time to hit the refresh button on your frequently-used items:

• Wash your sheets, blankets, and all throw pillows (and inserts, if possible!)
• Flip your mattress or sprinkle the top with baking soda and let it sit before vacuuming it clean
• Disinfect your electronic screens, keyboards and computer mouse, and use compressed air to clear out any debris

Also, don’t forget that natural cleaning products don’t just get the job done — they’re also better for the environment! Check out this list of the Best Natural Cleaning Products, According to Experts.

Bring in Some Brightness

Once your space is looking and feeling clean, it’s time to work on brightening up your home! Good news: this step is typically way more fun than the cleaning phase! Below are a few ways you can give your home a seasonal lift that you and your houseguests will love!

Add More Greenery

Incorporating more houseplants in your space not only instantly adds a homey touch, but it can also be a great boost for your mental health! Before you head to the nursery to purchase your new plants, check out 15 of the best house plants for apartment living.

Incorporate Some Color

No need to completely redecorate and plan an entire style overhaul — sometimes something as simple as a new area rug, bright pillow, or patterned blanket can work wonders. You can also spring for new photo frames or even update the photos!

Bring In Spring Scents and Textures

If you’re guilty of stockpiling your pumpkin-scented candles for fall, be sure and show spring the same amount of love! Burn candles and essential oils with lighter, floral scents and be sure to treat yourself to some in-season blooms!

Vamp Up Your Outdoor Space

If you have a patio or outdoor space, now’s the time to make the most of it! Add some new chairs, decorative items, and some Citronella candles to keep the bugs at bay. This patio revamp will not only look great, but it’ll inspire you (and your guests) to spend more time in fresh air. (We also recommend having a stellar cocktail recipe in your arsenal so you can really WOW your guests on your recently-updated patio!)

How to Conserve Energy

Warmer weather is right around the corner, so it’s vital to make sure your apartment is as energy efficient as possible. Not only will this help you stay more comfortable as the temperatures begin to climb, but it may be easier on your wallet, too. (After all, no one wants to open their energy bills during the spring and summer months!)

Keep Your Apartment Cool

If you’re already dreading your spring and summer energy bills, don’t freak out just yet! Check out these maintenance tips for keeping your apartment cool and comfortable, straight from Apartment Guide:

• Keep your blinds closed whenever possible — sunlight can really heat up a space!
• Find your “number” — this will be a balance between a comfortable air conditioning temperature and one that is more energy-efficient.
• When you leave your apartment, be sure to turn the air conditioning up to around 78 degrees to avoid wasting energy.
• Make sure your air conditioner isn’t working any harder than it has to — close the doors of any rooms that you’re not utilizing.
• Make sure your fan is moving in the right direction — if it’s spinning in the wrong direction, it could be generating more heat!
• If you love to cook, maybe transition some of your food prep to an air fryer or Instapot. Heat from the stove and ovens can cause the temperatures to climb, causing your air conditioner to work even harder.

Keep Your Pet(s) Comfortable, Too!

The warmer spring and summer months don’t just present a new set of needs to us — our pets may need some special seasonal attention, too! Follow these pet safety tips to ensure your four-legged friend has the care and TLC they need.

Don’t Walk Them During Peak Temperatures

A good rule of thumb for walking: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Avoid walking your pets during the hottest times of the day and opt for morning or dusk whenever possible. Also note that hot asphalt and tar can burn paw pads, so try and walk on the grass or dirt whenever possible. If you’re wondering if the sidewalk or road is too hot, test it out for yourself using the 7 Second Rule. Place your hand on the ground’s surface — if it feels too hot for you, it’s also too hot for them.

Invest In A Pet Fountain

If filling your pet’s water bowl isn’t your favorite daily task, consider a fountain! Not only will it keep your pet’s water 1-2 degrees cooler than a typical water bowl, but keeping their water fresh will also encourage them to drink more!

Consider Cooling Collars and Collapsible Water Bowls

If you love to take your furry BFF out on hikes and longer walks, consider a cooling collar and a collapsible water bowl! This will ensure your pet stays comfortable and hydrated, and helps avoid the risk of heat stroke and dehydration.

Don’t Forget To Have Fun!

Once you’ve wrapped up your spring cleaning, taken steps towards lowering your efficiency bill, and ensured your pet is ready for hotter weather, it’s time to kick back and enjoy the season (hopefully at one of our many pools)! As always, do not hesitate to contact us if you need any assistance or have any questions!