13 Tips to Get You Ready for That Spring Clean

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to mean back-breaking scrubbing or wasted weekends. With the right tricks, you can fully declutter and deep-clean your home in half the time – and maybe even enjoy it, shaking off the cobwebs of winter and welcoming the warmer weather.

We describe some useful techniques you may not have thought of before to help you overcome the stress of cleaning your home for spring in perfect time.

Ready to clean smarter with these spring cleaning tips? Let’s dive in.

Psychological Cleaning Tricks

Let’s start by getting into the right headspace – because a clean home begins with a clear mind.

Tip 1: The 22-Minute Focus Session Trick

Studies from behavioural research found that 22 minutes is the sweet spot for focused, productive work before mental fatigue kicks in.

• Set a timer for 22 minutes per room.
• Work left-to-right (like reading a book) to avoid missing spots.
• When the timer goes off, stop—even if you’re not “done.”

Why it works: Short bursts prevent burnout, and you’ll often keep going anyway.

Tip 2: The Power of Peppermint

A recent study found that peppermint scent increases alertness and efficiency when used with your all-purpose cleaner.

• Add 2 drops of peppermint oil to your cleaning solution.
• Or, diffuse it while you work to create a fresh atmosphere.

Unexpected Cleaning Tools

Got a few odds and ends lying around? You might already have the perfect tools for the job – no trip to the shops required.

Tip 3: Tights for Dusting

Stretch an old pair of tights over a brush to:

• Trap cobwebs from high corners (nylon creates static cling).
• Dust ceiling lightshades without a ladder.

Tip 4: Dryer Sheets for Baseboards

Slide a used dryer sheet under your foot and “skate” along skirting boards. The anti-static effect grabs dust effortlessly, perfect for cleaning kitchen cabinets and storage spaces.

Tip 5: Potato for Burnt Pans

Cut a potato in half, dip in mild dish soap, and scrub. The oxalic acid breaks down carbonised food and built-up grime—no steel wool needed.

Speed-Cleaning Techniques

Short on time? These quick tricks will help you blitz through the mess in minutes.

Tip 6: The Microwave Steam Trick

• Wet a soft cloth with hot water (no soap).
• Microwave for 2 minutes on high.
• The steam loosens splatters—wipe away with zero scrubbing.

Tip 7: Rice for Narrow Bottles and Vases

Fill with:

• 1 tbsp uncooked rice + warm soapy water.
• Shake violently—the rice acts as a natural scrubber.
• Use a clean curtain to dry any excess water.

Lazy Person’s Deep Clean

Not all deep cleans need elbow grease – these hands-off hacks do the work while you rest.

Tip 8: Overnight Toilet Cleaner

Before bed:

• Drop 2 Alka-Seltzer tablets in the bowl.
• Wake up to a self-cleaned toilet (the fizzing lifts stains).

Tip 9: Shower Scum Remover for Shower Curtains

• Spray shower curtains with disinfectant spray.
• Wipe with a used dryer sheet (the slight abrasion cuts soap scum without scrubbing).

Tip 10: Fridge Maintenance Hack

Line kitchen cupboards and veg drawers with kitchen roll. They help absorb spills—just replace instead of washing drawers weekly.

Home Maintenance Strategies

Finally, keep your home running smoothly with a few clever habits that go beyond surface cleaning.

Tip 11: Dishwasher Cleaning

• Place a cup of white vinegar on the top rack for thorough dishwasher cleaning.
• Run empty on hot cycle. Helps remove limescale and odours.
• Use an all-purpose spray to clean externally.

Tip 12: The “One Thing” Rule for Daily Tidying

Commit to cleaning just one thing daily (e.g., the sink, one shelf).

• Why it works: Small wins motivate you to keep going.

Tip 13: The 5-Second “Fresh Home” Illusion

After cleaning:

1. Fill a spray bottle with warm water + 1 drop of peppermint oil.
2. Lightly mist the air.

Why? The brain associates fresh scents with cleanliness – making the whole house feel cleaner.

Embrace Decluttering Habits Year-Round

If you’re looking to keep your home organised all year round, check out Nesta’s month-by-month Ultimate Declutter Calendar.

Each month is dedicated to a specific area of your home – from clearing out kitchen cupboards in February to sorting the attic in October – so you can tackle clutter in manageable steps.

It’s a practical way to stay on top of things without feeling overwhelmed on your decluttering journey.

Key Takeaways for Your Spring Clean

✅ Work in 22-minute bursts to stay focused

✅ Use unusual tools (pantyhose, potatoes, rice) for stubborn grime

✅ Try overnight hacks (Alka-Seltzer in the toilet, vinegar in the dishwasher)

✅ Sustain with micro-habits (kitchen roll in the fridge)

✅ Maintain a healthy cleaning habit all-year round (with the help of our handy decluttering calendar!)

For more on spring cleaning, check out our Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist for Irish Homeowners and a deep-dive on wardrobe and closet spring-cleaning if that’s more your thing!

Need Space for Your Spring Transformation?

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As you refresh your home this season, let Nesta handle the overflow. Our flexible storage solutions give you the breathing room you need – without the clutter.

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Get your instant online quote today or chat with our Dublin-based team for personalised advice on storage for your clutter.

Less clutter, more room for life.