Preparing for Spring

While I have been taking down the holiday decorations and getting the house reset to its usual state, I have found myself reflecting on what adjustments I can make as part of my spring cleaning activities. This annual ritual not only involves tidying up but also serves as a perfect opportunity to reassess my living space and its overall aesthetic. The home always feels a bit emptier and more spacious once the decorations come down, leaving behind a sense of calm yet sparking a desire for change. I usually feel the urge to refresh and modify certain areas, to breathe new life into the environment I inhabit daily.

For instance, I have been contemplating the idea of adding some different splashes of colour to various rooms throughout the house. Colour can dramatically alter the mood and energy of a space, and I want to create a more vibrant atmosphere that reflects my personality and the changing seasons. However, I am keenly aware of the importance of being mindful about my choices; I don't want to simply go out and buy more stuff, even if it is second-hand. The aim is to cultivate a space that feels intentional and curated rather than cluttered and haphazard. To this end, I am currently in the process of thoroughly assessing what I already have on hand. This involves taking stock of my existing decor items, textiles, and even furniture pieces, and considering how I can use them differently or reposition them to create a fresh look. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also encourages creativity, as I explore new ways to display items that have perhaps become overlooked or underappreciated. By rearranging furniture, swapping out accessories, or even experimenting with layering different textures, I hope to achieve a renewed sense of harmony and style in my home. So, as I continue with my spring cleaning journey, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the potential transformations that can emerge from what I already possess. More to come on that front as I delve deeper into this creative process and discover how I can make my living space feel more inviting and reflective of the season.

Before diving into everything else, I'm planning a good cleaning session. I've seen tons of DIY recipes for cleaners, and since we've got pine trees in our backyard, I'm definitely going to try making some homemade pinesol. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out. Have you tried any DIY cleaners? What worked well for you?

If DIY cleaners aren't your thing, we switched to Tru Earth's Multi Surface Cleaner a couple of years ago, and haven't looked back since. It’s fantastic on all our surfaces and even cleaned up some spilled red wine from our carpet—worked like a charm, so I totally recommend it. It's our go-to cleaner. Also, I have really sensitive skin, so I use their laundry detergent too. It lasts way longer than the usual bottles, and my clothes get clean, smell great, and hold up well. Colours stay vibrant, and the fabric doesn't wear out.

As I am going through room by room, I plan on making some posts on what I am doing with items I no longer need or love, and how I am going to refresh my spaces, while keeping sustainability and waste reduction in mind. I am hoping it will be an interesting series, and will also hold me accountable to sticking to my goals. I am going to keep these tips in the for front as I embark on this project.

Sustainable Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to refresh your living space while also being mindful of the environment. Here are some tips and practices to make your spring cleaning more sustainable:

1. Declutter Responsibly

• Donate items that are in good condition to local charities.

• Sell unwanted items online or at a garage sale.

• Recycle items that cannot be reused, such as broken electronics and paper products.

2. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

• Choose biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning supplies.

• Consider making your own cleaning solutions using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

• Avoid products with harmful chemicals that can pollute water and air.

3. Opt for Reusable Cleaning Tools

• Use microfiber cloths instead of disposable paper towels.

• Invest in a washable mop and reusable cleaning pads.

• Choose a refillable spray bottle for your homemade cleaning solutions.

4. Minimize Water Usage

• Use a bucket instead of running water for mopping floors.

• Limit the amount of water used when cleaning surfaces.

• Collect rainwater for use in cleaning outdoor areas.

5. Clean Green

• Dust and vacuum regularly to reduce allergens and improve air quality.

• Use houseplants to naturally purify the air.

• Schedule regular maintenance for appliances to ensure they run efficiently.

6. Eco-Friendly Disposal

• Research local recycling programs for specific materials.

• Participate in community clean-up events to properly dispose of hazardous waste.

• Follow guidelines for disposing of chemicals and batteries safely.

By incorporating these sustainable practices into our spring cleaning routine, we can create a healthier home environments while also protecting the planet.