Spring cleaning isn’t just about what’s visible—it’s about getting your living spaces clean and refreshed for the new season, without unnecessary chemicals or hours of hard labor. Here’s how to properly deep clean different surfaces in your home.
1. Wood (Floors, Furniture, Cutting Boards)
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Dust first. Use a dry rag or duster to remove loose particles.
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For everyday cleaning: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately.
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To remove stains: Make a paste with baking soda and water, gently rub with a soft cloth, and wipe clean.
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Avoid: Harsh commercial wood cleaners with synthetic fragrances and wax buildup.
2. Stone (Granite, Marble, Quartz, Slate)
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Use pH-neutral cleaners on unsealed stone. Vinegar and citrus-based cleaners can etch stone surfaces. Test in an inconspicuous area first if unsure.
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For daily cleaning: A mix of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap works best.
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Avoid: Acidic cleaners like lemon juice or vinegar, which can dull and damage stone.
3. Glass & Mirrors
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The streak-free trick: Use a non-toxic glass cleaner and lint-free rag or swedish cloth to polish clean. For very dirty glass or mirror, you can wash with a soapy mix of dish soap and water. Vinegar mixed with water is also a great glass cleaner.
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For tough spots: You might need to hit tough or greasy marks with an all-purpose cleaner before polishing with glass cleaner.
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Avoid: Ammonia-based cleaners, which are toxic.
4. Stainless Steel Appliances & Fixtures
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For fingerprints & smudges: Dampen a soft cloth with all-purpose cleaner or diluted white vinegar and wipe in the direction of the grain.
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To polish: A tiny amount of olive oil buffed in with a cloth can restore shine.
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Avoid: Abrasive scrubbers or powders, which can scratch the surface.
5. Countertops & Kitchen Surfaces
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Laminate & Solid Surface Counters: Use warm water and mild dish soap; avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch.
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Wood Countertops: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. Disinfect with diluted vinegar, but dry immediately to prevent warping.
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Cutting Boards: Sprinkle baking soda, scrub with lemon, and rinse well to remove stains and odors.
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Avoid: Harsh chemical sprays that can leave behind residues where food is prepared.
6. Tile & Grout (Kitchen, Bathrooms, Floors)
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Daily wipe-down: Use warm water and mild dish soap to prevent buildup.
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Deep cleaning grout: A paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide scrubbed with a grout brush removes stains and mildew.
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For stubborn mold: White vinegar in a spray bottle left on for 10 minutes before scrubbing works well.
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Avoid: Bleach, which can weaken grout over time and release toxic fumes.
7. Doors, Handles & High-Touch Surfaces
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Disinfect naturally: A spray and wipe with a mild all-purpose cleaner or a mix of rubbing alcohol and water (50:50) on a cloth kills germs without harsh fumes.
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For sticky residue: A bit of baking soda and water on a soft cloth removes buildup.
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Avoid: Over wetting electronics—always apply cleaners to a cloth first, not directly on the surface.
With the right techniques, every hard surface in your home can shine—safely, effectively, and without unnecessary chemicals.- Daily wipe-down: Use warm water and mild dish soap to prevent buildup.