Welcome to Week Four of the 14 Week Home-Ec 101 Spring Clean/Deep Clean
Spring cleaning is not just about tidying up; it’s an opportunity to rejuvenate your space and mindset. While you might be here specifically for ideas on how to clean your bedroom, I assure you that every tip shared will be beneficial.
Make Room to Work
A tidy bedroom can set a positive tone for your day, instilling a sense of peace and order. If you missed the chance to declutter in week one, now is the time to do so with determination. Focus on items that no longer serve you: empty glasses cluttering the nightstand, that stack of books in need of a proper shelf or destined for the local little library, and the pile of clothes you’ve outgrown or won’t wear again. If your work environment has shifted to remote, keep only a couple of outfits for potential interviews or future co-working spaces. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels inviting and functional. Now is the moment to channel your inner Elsa and let it go!
Gather your Tools
- A vacuum cleaner equipped with a soft bristle attachment and an edge tool, especially if you have carpeting
- Window cleaner along with paper towels or old newspaper for a streak-free shine
- If you have wooden furniture, grab some polish and a clean rag for application
- A sturdy stepladder or chair for reaching high places
- A screwdriver (either standard or Phillips head, depending on your fixtures; I recommend a flip-tip screwdriver for versatility)
- Appropriate floor cleaner suitable for tile or hardwood surfaces
- Dilute degreaser for tougher spots
- If you’re prone to allergies, wear a mask to combat the dust we’re about to stir up. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Now, put on your favorite music, audiobook, or podcast, and let’s get to work!
Start Top to Bottom
Begin with the ceiling fan, if you have one, but first, move your duvet or bedspread and pillows to a different area. You definitely don’t want dust settling on your freshly made bed. Carefully remove the glass globe from the fan; you may need a screwdriver for this task. Once removed, take it to the sink and clean it thoroughly. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes once everything is reassembled.
While the glass dries, return to the fan and gently wipe down the blades with a slightly damp rag (not soaking). Most fans have only four or five blades unless you’ve invested in a high-end model. Avoid spraying any cleaner directly onto the fan; it’s an electrical appliance. Instead, use your rag to wipe down the motor base and any dust that has settled. Don’t forget to clean the pull chains as well before reattaching the light fixture.
Next, scan the corners of the room for cobwebs and eliminate them. If your bedroom has curtains or a valance, their cleaning method will depend on the material and care instructions. If they’re machine washable, toss them in the laundry. If not, a gentle vacuum with the soft bristle attachment will suffice.
Now, if you have window blinds, give them a thorough and gentle vacuuming as well. After that, raise the blinds and vacuum all parts of the window frame before applying window cleaner to the glass. If the window is extremely dirty, we have resources to guide you through that process. Each bedroom is unique, so tailor your approach to the specific needs of your space.
Next, strip the bed down to the mattress and give it a good vacuum. If your mattress is a standard coil spring type (non-pillowtop), remember to rotate it every three months, flipping it head to foot every six months. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any other mattress types. Wash your sheets and mattress pad before making the bed again.
Clean Left to Right
To maintain an organized approach to cleaning your bedroom, position yourself in the doorway and tackle the room in sections from left to right. The dirtier the area, the smaller the section you should focus on. Organized adult? Aim for a 6×6 section. Unsupervised teenager? Stick to 2×2. You know your space best, so choose accordingly.
Do not proceed until that designated area is completely clean—this includes clearing the floor, tackling the dresser top, polishing the mirror, and dusting or organizing shelves.
After the cleaning and organizing, it’s time to address one of the more tedious tasks: cleaning the baseboards and, if you have carpet, the crevice between the carpet and the wall. I find it effective to sit on the floor with the vacuum hose handy, equipped with both the crevice tool and the soft bristle attachment, tackling both at once. If the baseboards are particularly grimy (thanks to any furry friends), a diluted degreaser can be a game changer—just remember to test it in an inconspicuous area first. Finish off by vacuuming or sweeping the remaining areas of the room.
Final Touches
Grab a rag dampened with a diluted degreaser and wipe down the light switch plate, door jamb, and the area around your doorknob. Finally, make your bed with fresh linens.
Now, take a moment to pat yourself on the back for a job well done! Enjoy your freshly cleaned bedroom, or reward yourself with a well-deserved nap—your choice!
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