South Puget Sound Spring Home Maintenance & Cleaning Tips

The first day of spring is officially March 20, and now is the perfect time to refresh and revitalize your home both inside and out! As winter comes to a close, it's important to assess where your home might need extra TLC and address any small repairs before they potentially turn into larger issues.

From deep cleaning indoors to inspecting your home’s exterior for weather-related wear and tear, a little maintenance now can save you time, money, and stress later. This home maintenance and cleaning list may seem a bit long, but if you tackle a few tasks each weekend, your home will be in fantastic shape before you know it.

Home Interior Maintenance

Test All Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Batteries should be changed every year to ensure safety, especially in homes with gas appliances.

Check for Water Damage & Leaks
Living in the South Puget Sound region means we are no strangers to rain, humidity, and moisture. Inspect ceilings, basements, and under sinks for hidden leaks and moisture issues.

Service Your HVAC System
Clean HVAC filters, and if you need to, schedule a professional tune-up to ensure your system is efficient and ready for summer.

Test Your Sump Pump
April showers bring May flowers, but this can also bring flooding and water damage. Make sure your sump pump is working to prevent basement water damage.

Check for Mold in Potentially Damp Areas
Bathrooms, basements, and windowsills can be prone to mold in our area. Clean using a mold remover and improve ventilation to help avoid more mold in the future.

Inspect the Attic & Crawl Space
Excess moisture can lead to mold and pest infestations in attics and crawl spaces. Ensure there’s proper ventilation and look for any signs of damage.

Deep Clean Carpets & Furniture Upholstery
Rainy weather and muddy shoes track dirt inside, and a deep cleaning will help remove allergens and refresh your indoor spaces.

Reverse Ceiling Fans to Prepare for Warmer Weather
Switching the direction of ceiling fans counterclockwise helps distribute air more efficiently, keeping your home more comfy during hotter months.

Declutter, Organize, & Donate
This is classic spring cleaning! Spring is a great time to clear out things you don’t use or need anymore. Start by going through closets, garages, and storage areas. Donate unwanted items to local thrift stores like Goodwill, or share your extra items with Buy Nothing groups in your neighborhood.

Wash Windows
Rain leaves streaks and grime; clean windows inside and out for better natural light.

Clean & Deodorize Garbage Disposal
Run lemon slices and baking soda through your garbage disposal to break down odors and buildup.

Wipe Down Cabinets & Backsplashes
Humidity can cause grime to stick, and it builds up over time. Use a gentle cleaner to remove grease and dust to refresh your kitchen and anywhere else you have cabinetry.

Scrub Grout & Tile
Moisture leads to mildew. Use a baking soda and vinegar mix or a grout cleaner to freshen up tiled areas.

Deep Clean the Fridge & Pantry
Throw out expired items, wipe down shelves, and vacuum pantry corners to prevent pests.

Wash Bedding, Curtains, & Rugs
Dust and allergens can collect in fabrics. Now is the perfect time of year to wash all of your soft furnishings to reduce allergens in your home.

Rotate & Flip Mattresses
Extend the life of your mattress by flipping or rotating it every season.

Re-organize Closets to Prep for Warmer Weather
Pack away your winter coats, sweaters, and boots to ensure your summer wardrobe is front and center.

Clean Out the Garage
Sweep away dirt and dust, get rid of clutter, and check for moisture damage.

Home Exterior Maintenance

Inspect the Roof
Our rainy winters can take a toll on roofs. Look for missing shingles, moss buildup, or leaks to prevent potentially more costly repairs in the future.

Remove Moss from Roof & Walkways
The South Puget Sound’s damp climate tends to encourage moss growth, which can cause surfaces to become slippery and degrade over time. Use a moss killer or pressure wash any problem areas.

Clean Gutters & Downspouts
Heavy rainfall can clog gutters with leaves and debris, leading to possible water damage or foundation issues. Regular cleaning will help ensure proper drainage.

Check & Repair Siding & Paint
Moisture can cause issues like wood rot and peeling paint. Touch up exterior paint and repair damaged siding.

Inspect Windows & Doors for Leaks
Cold weather can cause caulking and seals to crack. Reseal windows and doors to improve energy efficiency and prevent water intrusion.

Freshen Up the Front Door & Porch
Wipe down any doors that lead to your home’s exterior and replace worn-out hardware.

Shake Out & Replace Doormats
Fresh doormats help keep dirt from tracking inside.

Outdoor Yard Maintenance

Trim Overgrown Trees & Shrubs
Overhanging branches can damage house siding, windows, or power lines, especially during windstorms. Pruning trees and shrubs not only promotes healthy growth, but it also protects your home.

Clean & Reseal Decks & Patios
Excess moisture can lead to mold and rot on wood decks. Power wash and reseal your deck and patio to extend their lifespan and improve curb appeal.

Check Outdoor Faucets & Sprinkler Systems
Freezing temperatures can crack pipes and sprinkler heads. Test for leaks and make necessary repairs before watering season begins.

Prepare the Garden & Lawn
Weed garden beds, aerate soil, and add fresh mulch to promote plant growth and moisture retention. Get your garden ready to look beautiful all spring and summer long!

Service Outdoor Lighting
Replace burnt-out bulbs and clean light fixtures for safety and better visibility.

Sweep & Pressure Wash Walkways
Moss and grime can make walkways slippery; power wash it away to keep your walkways safe while giving them a fresh look.

Seal Cracks in Driveway & Walkways
Small cracks can worsen with rain and temperature changes. Sealing them early can prevent costly repairs down the road.

Wash Patio Furniture
Wet winters can leave outdoor furniture dirty. Clean and air-dry frames and cushions to get ready for outdoor entertaining and relaxation!

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