Pre-Spring Cleaning Prep: What to Do Now for a Smooth Transition

Ah, spring. The season of renewal, fresh air, and (if you’re like me) the undeniable urge to scrub, sort, and simplify your living space. But before we dive headfirst into the whirlwind of dusting, decluttering, and rearranging, there’s some thoughtful prep work that can make the whole process more meaningful and less overwhelming. Think of it as setting the stage for a cleaner, more harmonious space—not just physically, but mentally, too.

Here are some gentle, intentional steps you can take right now to prepare for the pre-spring cleaning ritual.

1. Clear Your Mind and Your To-Do List

Before your space even gets touched, start with a mental declutter. Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up the physical space; it’s also about the emotional and mental load we carry around. Jot down all the tasks that are lingering in your mind—the things that distract you or feel like unfinished business. This might be organizing that drawer you’ve been avoiding, finally dealing with a pile of unopened mail, or maybe just deciding where to start with all the “stuff” you have.

By clearing some mental space now, you’ll create room for clarity when you begin the actual cleaning. Plus, a simple list (or even a mind map) of things you’d like to tackle can help you break down the overwhelming nature of spring cleaning into manageable chunks.

2. Assess Your Space: Inventory of Clutter

You’ve probably heard it before: you can’t clean what you don’t see. And if you’re like most of us, there are probably some hidden corners or surfaces that you’ve been avoiding—closets, cabinets, or even under your bed. Now is the time to take an honest inventory of the areas that are calling for attention. It’s not about judgment, it’s about awareness. You don’t have to dive in yet, but simply noting where the clutter accumulates will give you insight into what’s working and what’s not in your space.

Take a walk through your home and assess each room with fresh eyes. What areas make you feel at ease, and what parts are quietly stressing you out? Maybe your bookshelf needs an overhaul, or your coat closet is bursting with winter gear. Write it down, or even snap a few photos to reference later. This is your spring cleaning blueprint.

3. Organize Cleaning Supplies (And Restock What’s Low)

One of the easiest things to forget in the rush of spring cleaning is that you need supplies. And if you’ve ever gone to start cleaning only to realize you’re out of something essential, you know it can be frustrating. So, now is the time to inventory your cleaning supplies. Are your sponges looking a little tired? Is your all-purpose cleaner running low? Do you even remember where your mop is?

Take a moment to organize what you have and toss out old, half-used bottles of cleaning products that aren’t working for you. If you need to stock up, do it now, while the pre-spring frenzy hasn’t started. Consider adding eco-friendly or non-toxic products to your list—it’s a small way to be more intentional about your cleaning routine.

4. Create a "Donate & Discard" Pile

I know, I know. “Decluttering” is not always the most exciting part of spring cleaning, but it’s essential. And the great news is that if you start prepping now, it won’t feel like a marathon of throwing things away. Begin by creating a designated area (a box or a bag) for items you no longer need or use. It’s less about obsessing over each item and more about being intentional with what you’re holding on to.

I like to set a rule for myself: if I haven’t used it in the past six months (and it’s not seasonal), it’s time to let it go. Donate what’s in good condition and toss what’s broken or past its prime. This way, when it’s time for the big cleaning day, you won’t be distracted by things you no longer need.

5. Tackle Seasonal Transition Spaces

Before you go full-on spring cleaning, take a moment to think about the spaces that are going through a seasonal transition. For many of us, this involves getting ready for lighter clothing, packing away winter coats, and swapping out thick blankets for lighter linens. But also, check in with the spaces where these items live—like your coat closet, entryway, and storage bins.

Taking a little time now to sort through seasonal items (cleaning and prepping what’s tucked away) will set you up for a smoother transition. Swap out heavy throws for airy, spring-friendly ones. Organize your wardrobe and see what you’re ready to let go of. Seasonal shifts bring a natural opportunity to update and refresh, and it doesn’t have to wait until the first daffodils bloom.

6. Reflect on Your Cleaning Routine (And Simplify It)

Before the chaotic scrubbing begins, reflect on your cleaning habits. Does your routine feel too complicated or time-consuming? Now is the perfect moment to simplify. Consider your lifestyle and what you actually need from your cleaning routine. Do you need to deep-clean every single week, or is it enough to tackle high-traffic areas on a rotating schedule? Could you combine certain tasks to make your routine more efficient?

Be kind to yourself in this process. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to mean a full, exhaustive overhaul. It can simply be about refreshing and realigning your space with the season ahead.

In Conclusion: Start Now, Breathe Later

Pre-spring cleaning prep isn’t about rushing through tasks or diving headfirst into the clutter. It’s about laying the groundwork for a smoother, more intentional transition when the time comes. By tackling these small, thoughtful steps now, you’re setting yourself up for a spring cleaning process that feels less like a chore and more like a ritual. A chance to embrace change, refresh your surroundings, and—most importantly—take care of the space that nurtures you.

Let the prep work begin. And remember, it’s not about perfection, but about progress—and making space for what truly matters as we head into the new season.