As we’ve been spending more time around our homes, spring cleaning takes on a whole new meaning. Cleaning is more than a chore these days, and the whole family can pitch-in. Consider these suggestions on how you can make your home more cheery, healthy and tidy.

• Wash doorknobs, cabinet handles, light switches, and faucets. The things we touch the most are the things we should clean the most. That includes handrails and table tops too! Give these a good wash up with a disinfectant wipe or solution.
• Clean out the fridge and cabinets. While you're stocking up your fridge and cabinets, look for expired condiments, old leftovers hiding in the freezer, and canned goods and boxed food long past its expiration date.
• Replace your kitchen sponge. Kitchen sponges get dirty fast and boiling them does not kill off bacteria. Replace your kitchen sponge every two to four weeks.
• Empty the vacuum cleaner cannister. Before you vacuum, empty the cannister and replace the filter. A new filter will help you clean floors and carpets faster and better.
• Hose off your house plants. Houseplants can get dusty over the winter. When the weather gets warmer, take them outside and give them a rinse.
• Wash your shower curtain. Washing cloth shower curtains are a fast way to freshen up your bathroom. Don’t forget to clean the plastic liner as well.
• Clean your smartphones and remote controls. Phones and remote controls are two common items that need cleaning. Manufacturers recommend using a soft cloth, like you might use to clean your glasses, and a little soapy water if necessary.
• Check your privacy settings. Cleaning up your digital devices goes beyond the outside. Check your social media privacy settings and make sure your Wi-Fi network is secure.
• Clean out one drawer at a time. Big jobs become more manageable when you break them down into little tasks. Clean out one drawer or one closet shelf at a time, and soon you’ll have the whole house done.
• Make your bed. A great way to make your bedroom look neater is to make the bed. Just pulling up the covers makes a huge difference.
• Open windows. If you get a nice day in your neighborhood, open windows and let in the fresh air. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says increasing ventilation is a sensible step you can take to help keep your family healthy.
• Put the kids to work. If you have kids home from school, one way to keep them occupied is put them to work while you sit in a chair and supervise.

Ways to make cleaning more fun

Listening to something interesting or mood-boosting is a great way to make tidying feel more lively. Listen to an audiobook, your favorite podcast, or turn on some music, like our Cleaning Jams playlist. Create a "chore wheel" your family can spin that includes options like "take a break" or "get a snack" along with cleaning tasks that need to be done. Turn your spring cleaning into a work-out. You can get a lot of exercise! And reward yourself and your family when you’re done.