Spring in South Africa is all about longer days, blossoming gardens and a fresh start. It’s the perfect time to throw open the windows, let the sunshine in and give your home a proper refresh after winter. 

A thorough spring clean doesn’t just make your space sparkle – it also sets the tone for an organised and stress-free season ahead. 

To make things easier, we’ve put together a room-by-room guide that you can tackle over a weekend or spread out over a few weeks. Pop on some music, get the family involved and turn it into a fun reset for your home. 

Read more: 7 Fragrances to bring in the smell of spring and brighten your home 

Entryway

Your entrance sets the mood for the whole house. Keep it welcoming and clutter-free: 

  • Sweep and mop floors 
  • Wipe down walls and skirtings 
  • Wash the front door and clean the doormat 
  • Organise shoes and jackets

Kitchen

The heart of the home deserves extra attention: 

  • Clean stovetop, oven, microwave and fridge 
  • Empty the fridge, freezer and pantry—toss expired food and defrost if needed 
  • Wipe inside cupboards, drawers and fridge shelves 
  • Degrease cabinet doors and splashbacks 
  • Dust high surfaces (tops of cupboards and extractor fans) 
  • Wash dishcloths and sponges 
  • Sweep and mop floors 

Dining room

Get this space ready for family gatherings and Sunday lunches: 

  • Dust furniture, shelves and cabinets 
  • Polish wood or silver if you have 
  • Wash or dry-clean table linens and curtains 
  • Wipe walls, skirtings and light fittings 
  • Vacuum or mop floors, and shampoo rugs if needed

Bathroom

Fresh and hygienic is the goal here: 

  • Clear out expired products and old medicine (drop off at your local pharmacy) 
  • Clean makeup brushes 
  • Scrub the shower, bath, toilet and basin 
  • Wipe mirrors and fittings 
  • Wash or replace shower curtain liner 
  • Deep clean grout and tiles 
  • Sweep and mop floors 

Pexels

Laundry room

Make sure the space that cleans your clothes is spotless too: 

  • Clean the washing machine and lint traps 
  • Wipe shelves and cupboards 
  • Organise detergents and pegs 
  • Sweep and mop floors 

Bedrooms

Create a restful retreat by tackling the little details: 

  • Dust and polish furniture 
  • Wash all bedding, including duvets and pillows 
  • Flip or rotate the mattress 
  • Declutter wardrobes and donate clothing 
  • Clean windows, sills and curtain rails 
  • Vacuum carpets and mop floors 

Living room

The space where you unwind deserves a proper spruce-up: 

  • Dust furniture, shelves and décor 
  • Wash throws, pillows and slipcovers 
  • Vacuum sofas and chairs 
  • Clean light fittings, lampshades and ceiling fans 
  • Sanitise remote controls and electronic devices 
  • Wash windows and curtains 
  • Mop or vacuum floors 

Pexels

Kids’ playroom

Keep it fun but organised: 

  • Wash soft toys and wipe down plastic ones 
  • Donate toys no longer used 
  • Sort games, puzzles and craft supplies 
  • Vacuum or mop floors 

Home office

A neat workspace makes all the difference: 

  • Recycle old paperwork
  • Dust bookshelves, desks and electronics
  • Sanitise your keyboard and mouse

Garage

This space often gets forgotten, but it’s worth the effort: 

  • Declutter tools, sports gear and storage boxes 
  • Sweep the floor and wipe down walls 
  • Let in fresh air by opening up the doors 
  • Clean windows and door frames 

Whole-house touches

Finally, give your home a once-over with these finishing touches: 

  • Test and replace smoke alarm batteries 
  • Dust light fittings and replace bulbs 
  • Clean air vents and filters 
  • Wipe light switches and door handles 

A little effort now will set you up for an organised, lighter season ahead. So grab your cleaning kit and welcome spring with a sparkling home that feels as fresh as the season itself. 

ALSO SEE: HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN SPRING CLEANING KIT

How to make your own spring cleaning kit

Images: Pexels