Anyone else find themselves organizing and reorganizing closets repeatedly? *Raises hand.* Spring cleaning is in full swing here, and my label maker has been working overtime. We all know the usual spring-clean tasks—organizing closets and cupboards and giving the house a deep clean—but once you finish the full Marie Kondo treatment, there are still a few often-overlooked chores worth tackling. If you’ve exhausted your cleaning to-do list (and already procrastibaked a batch of brownies, cookies, or cupcakes), here’s a helpful list of things you probably forgot to spring clean. Consider it a proud-parent-approved checklist to get your home truly refreshed.
1. Season Cast Iron – Well-maintained cast iron rarely needs re-seasoning, but frequently used pans can benefit from an occasional refresh. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Scrub the skillet with a stiff brush or sponge and soapy water (if you’re preparing to season, soap is fine). Rinse and dry thoroughly with a towel. Pour 1–2 tablespoons of oil (olive or avocado work well) into the skillet and rub it over the entire surface, including the handle and bottom. Place the pan upside down in the oven with a baking sheet or foil underneath to catch drips, and bake for one hour. Turn off the oven and let the skillet cool inside. Once cool, it’s ready to use.
2. Clean Makeup Brushes – Most of us don’t clean makeup brushes as often as we should. You don’t need a specialty cleaner—gentle face wash or hand soap will do. Dampen the brushes slightly, swirl them in soap, then rinse until the water runs clear. Let the brushes dry completely before using them again to keep makeup application clean and smooth.
3. Wipe Down Plants – When did you last dust your houseplants? Dust build-up can block light and reduce photosynthesis, which is how plants feed themselves. Take a damp cloth and gently wipe both the top and bottom of leaves to help your plants thrive and look their best.
4. Digital Clean Out (phone, computer, hard drive) – Clearing digital clutter can feel surprisingly refreshing. Go through your phone, computer, and external drives to delete files you no longer need. You might find old college papers you can finally discard. While you’re at it, unsubscribe from spammy email lists for a quick boost in productivity and mental clarity.
5. Tackle the Junk Drawer – We all have one, and cluttered small spaces like junk drawers can subtly impact mental well-being. Empty the drawer completely, sort items into keep and discard piles, and find a proper home for each item you decide to keep. A tidy drawer makes small tasks feel more manageable.
6. Deep Clean the Fridge – Deep-cleaning the refrigerator can feel daunting, so time it for just before a grocery trip when the fridge is least full. Work in sections: remove and wipe down door shelves, check for expired items, then tackle main shelves and drawers. An organized, sanitized fridge makes meal prep easier and helps reduce food waste.
7. Microwave Away Grime – Microwave messes happen to everyone. Instead of scraping, fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water, then microwave for 5–10 minutes. The steam will loosen grime, and a quick wipe with a damp cloth will leave the interior clean.
8. Mama Maven Your Oven – Cleaning the oven can be simpler than you think. Make a paste from 1/2 cup baking soda and 2–3 tablespoons water. Spread it across the oven interior, avoiding heating elements, and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth, using a spoon or spatula to gently remove stubborn spots. Spray a little vinegar inside to cause bubbling, then do a final wipe-down to reveal a shiny oven.
9. Wipe Down Air Ducts – It’s recommended to replace HVAC filters every six months, and regularly wiping vent covers helps remove accumulated dust. Use a damp cloth to clean air vents, especially if you have pets or shed more than you’d like to admit. Clean vents help your HVAC system run more efficiently and improve indoor air quality.
Like this post? Here are others you might enjoy:
- The Best Non-Toxic Candles
- The Best Natural Cleaning Products for a Spotless Home
- How to Create a Sustainable Kitchen