Spring is here, and with it comes the chance to refresh your home. After months cooped inside, your space deserves a reset. But deep cleaning can feel overwhelming—with so many rooms, surfaces, and nooks to tackle, where do you even begin? That’s why I’m sharing this step-by-step deep cleaning guide, inspired by tips from the pros at Happy Clean, a trustworthy company who offers cleaning services in Dublin.
Step 1: Declutter First — Clear the Canvas (Happy Clean Method)
Why tackle clutter first
You can’t clean deeply if your surfaces are covered. Clutter blocks your view, creates more dust traps, and slows you down. When you remove unnecessary items first, you’ll be able to reach all surfaces, move freely, and clean smarter. Also, clearing out gives you a psychological reset—an empty slate for your deep cleaning mission.
Room-by-room decluttering tips
Start with the “hot spots”: countertops, nightstands, shelves, and entryways. In each room, bring in three bins: Keep, Donate/Trash, and Relocate. Ask: Do I need this? Does it belong here? Then relocate items from “Relocate” bins to their proper places later. Don’t skip drawers or cabinets—pull things out, sort them, and only return what truly belongs. The less clutter you leave behind, the smoother the cleaning steps will go.
Step 2: Dust from Top to Bottom Cleaning
Cleaning Ceiling, light fixtures & vents
Dust falls downward, so start as high as possible. Use an extendable duster or microfiber pole to reach ceiling fans, light fixtures, corners, and air vents. Don’t forget to clean HVAC return vents and the tops of tall furniture. Removing these sources first prevents re-dusting lower surfaces later.
Walls, corners, and window ledges
Next, address wall surfaces, corners, and window ledges—places where cobwebs and dust gather. Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Pay attention to wall art frames, the tops of picture ledges, and the corners near the ceiling. This helps prevent dust from dropping onto freshly cleaned surfaces below.
Baseboards, moldings, and remaining dust
Finish dusting with baseboards, moldings, door frames, and any remaining trim. A damp microfiber cloth or sponge is often best to trap dust instead of spreading it. Don’t forget behind furniture (if movable) and under radiators. Once dusting is done, you’re ready for scrubbing surfaces.
Step 3: Clean Surfaces and High-Touch Zones of your Home
Cabinet fronts, doors, and handles
Cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and handles are often touched but rarely cleaned deeply. Use a gentle cleaning solution suitable for your surfaces (wood, laminate, painted, etc.). Wipe away fingerprints, smudges, and grime. Dry them afterward, especially on wood, to prevent warping or damage.
Countertops, backsplashes, and sinks
Use appropriate cleaners for your counter surfaces (stone, laminate, tile). Scrub backsplashes and grout lines with a brush if needed. Don’t skip the sink—scrub drains, faucets, handles. Rinse and dry thoroughly. These are high-impact zones that instantly refresh a room.
Switch plates, remotes, railings, and knobs
Switch plates, light switches, door knobs, handrails, and remote controls are high-touch germ zones. Use isopropyl alcohol or a surface disinfectant on soft cloths (never spray directly). Go gentle but firm—these spots accumulate fingerprints, oils, and microbes.
Step 4: Windows, Glass & Window Tracks
Washing glass surfaces
Use a streak-free glass cleaner or a mix of water and vinegar (if safe for your glass). Spray lightly, wipe with a microfiber cloth or squeegee. Work in vertical strokes, then finish with horizontal ones to spot missed areas.
Scrubbing window frames & tracks
Window tracks and frames often harbor trapped dirt, debris, and grime. Use an old toothbrush, vacuum crevice nozzle, and a cleaning solution to scrub the tracks. Wipe everything
Polishing and streak-free tips
dry afterward to prevent mold and rust.
To avoid streaking, wipe with a dry microfiber cloth after your wet pass. If sunlight is strong, avoid cleaning in direct sun (glass dries too fast). Buff edges and corners to a shine. Clean both inside and outside when possible.
Step 5: Deep Clean Cabinets, Appliances & Interiors in Spring cleaning
Emptying and cleaning cabinets/drawers
Completely empty cabinets and drawers. Vacuum crumbs and dust, then wipe surfaces, walls, and bottoms. Replace liners if needed. Return only what belongs and discard broken items.
Behind and under appliances
Pull out appliances like fridges, stoves, washers (if possible). Vacuum behind, underneath, and on the sides. Mop or wipe down floor and walls. This prevents dust buildup and reduces fire hazards, especially near stoves.
Oven, refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher
In the oven, use safe degreaser or baking soda paste. Clean racks and trays separately. In the refrigerator, discard expired items, remove shelves, and wash them. Clean seals and door gaskets carefully. Run a self-clean or descaling cycle for microwave and dishwasher. Use gentle, recommended cleaners to protect interior parts.
Expert Tip from Livia of Happy Clean
“I always create a dedicated cleaning playlist with timed tracks so I can stay focused and avoid dragging,” says Livia (co-founder of Happy Clean). “Also, I match cleaning agents to surfaces—microfiber and water for glass, pH-balanced detergent for wood, enzyme cleaners in kitchens. That combination saves time and prevents damage.”
This insider tip fits right into your routine. Use a playlist to pace yourself, and invest in the right cleaning solutions. It makes your deep cleaning more efficient and protects your surfaces.
Step 7: Sprin Cleaning Final Touches & Maintenance Plan
Air out, freshen textiles, final inspection
Open windows, run fans, and let fresh air circulate. Launder curtains, cushion covers, and throw blankets. Use a fabric freshener or steam iron. Walk through each room with fresh eyes—spot fingerprints, corners missed, or dust bits. Touch up as needed.
Quick daily/weekly tasks to preserve clean
Set a simple maintenance plan:
- Daily wipe high-touch spots (handles, switches)
- Weekly vacuuming and dusting
- Monthly glass/window touchups
- Quarterly behind-appliance check
These small habits keep your home from ever slipping into chaotic mode again.
Conclusion
With this whole-house cleaning checklist, spring cleaning becomes manageable, even satisfying. You’ve moved from clutter, to dusting, to surfaces, to deep zones, and finally to finishing touches. You’re not just cleaning—you’re renewing your space and boosting your home’s health. If the task still feels too big, remember: hiring pro help is fine. What matters most is that your home feels refreshed, calm, and welcoming. Let this guide be your blueprint—and enjoy the clean you deserve.