Spring is probably my favourite time of year. After being cooped up in our homes all winter, we  are finally able to go outside and enjoy the warmer weather.  

But wait a minute, what about spring cleaning? 

Ok, lets step back indoors and clear out the clutter and chaos of winter.  

A few quick tips to get through your annual spring cleaning will make things a bit easier and get you back outdoors. 

1. Assess your surroundings and make a plan.

Throughout my experience, I have always found it necessary to involve everyone in the home. Whether I am working with clients or my own family, allowing everyone a say in the layout of  the home will ensure that you have “your teams” full cooperation. This will ensure that all your  organizing efforts will be welcomed by each member.

2. Remove, Clean, Label and Store

I don’t know about you, but after 6 months of winter I’m ready to ditch the bulky clothing, boots and accessories. But before you store them away till next season, make sure any cleaning  and repairs are completed first. At this point, you can label and store and say “Adios” till next  year.

3. Sort and Declutter

Perhaps it is the organizer in me, but I love to clear out the clutter. Do not get me wrong, I  don’t grab for the nearest garbage bag and start tossing everything out. I make an executive  decision if the items I have serve a purpose for myself or those in my household.  

I tend to make four piles: Keep, Store, Purge and Donate.

4. Clean and Refresh

I must confess, I am a bit of a clean freak. I tend to wipe down cabinetry, closets, drawers etc. on  a weekly basis. But for those of you that know how to relax and enjoy your time doing other 

things, you will now need to put down the remote, book, bike etc. and do a little bit of spring  cleaning. Refreshing your home in spring will start the season off right. 

5. Replace

While you are in your storage unit, attic or basement with all those winter accessories, do not forget to drag out the spring/summer wardrobe and accessories.  

Taking a few hours to sort, purge, store, donate and clean will not only make the transition from winter to spring easier it will keep your space organized. 

From the team at Creative Staging and Organizing (CS&O)