The Ultimate Apartment Spring Cleaning Checklist
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Spring cleaning is the perfect excuse to hit reset on your space. If you’re renting, it’s also a great way to stay on top of things without risking your security deposit. A solid apartment spring cleaning checklist makes everything more manageable and helps your place feel fresh, organized, and ready for the season ahead.
Whether you're wrapping up a busy semester or just tired of looking at cluttered counters, now’s the time to give your apartment the deep clean it deserves. From musty corners to forgotten drawers, a few hours of effort can go a long way.
What You'll Need to Get Started
Before diving into the apartment spring cleaning checklist, it helps to gather everything you’ll need so you’re not running around mid-clean. Having everything ready ahead of time makes it easier to keep up the momentum. It also means you can clean more efficiently without skipping over areas just because you didn’t have the right tool on hand.
Here’s a go-to list of supplies that work well for renters, especially if you're working with limited storage or need to avoid damaging anything.
Basic Cleaning Supplies
- All-purpose cleaner (or a DIY mix of vinegar and water)
- Disinfectant wipes or spray
- Glass cleaner
- Baking soda and white vinegar (great for tough stains and deodorizing)
- Microfiber cloths and sponges
- Paper towels or reusable cleaning cloths
- Scrub brushes (various sizes)
- Broom and dustpan
- Vacuum (handheld if you’re short on space)
- Mop or Swiffer
Optional but Helpful
- Rubber gloves
- Magic Erasers (perfect for scuff marks on walls or baseboards)
- Duster with an extendable handle
- Storage bins or drawer organizers
Room-by-Room Apartment Spring Cleaning Checklist
Breaking things down by room is the easiest way to stay focused and get through your spring cleaning without feeling overwhelmed. Each part of your apartment has its own cleaning needs, so taking it one room at a time helps keep things manageable.
Let’s take a look at where to start and what to focus on in each space.
Kitchen
The kitchen tends to collect a lot of hidden grime, so it’s a great place to start. Plus, once it's clean, cooking and eating at home feel so much better.
Key things to clean:
Wipe down cabinets, countertops, and backsplash
Clean inside the microwave, oven, and fridge (toss anything expired!)
Scrub the sink and faucet with baking soda or a gentle cleanser
Disinfect high-touch areas like drawer handles and appliance buttons
Sweep and mop the floor, including under the fridge if possible
Take out the trash and disinfect the bin
Note: Don’t forget to run the dishwasher (empty) with a cup of vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner. It keeps things fresh and running efficiently.
Bathroom
Bathrooms may be small, but they definitely require some elbow grease. Focus on disinfecting and removing buildup so everything feels fresh and sanitized.
Key things to clean:
Scrub the toilet, including behind the seat and around the base
Clean the shower or tub, especially any tile grout or soap scum
Wipe down the mirror, sink, and countertop
Disinfect light switches, faucet handles, and door knobs
Empty and clean drawers or cabinets (toss old products)
Sweep and mop the floor
Pro tip: If you have a plastic shower liner, toss it in the washing machine with towels to scrub off mildew and extend its life.
Bedroom
Your bedroom should feel like a clean, calm place to recharge. Spring is the perfect time to freshen it up and clear out anything that’s no longer serving you.
Key things to clean:
Wash all bedding, including mattress covers and pillows
Vacuum or sweep under the bed and behind furniture
Dust shelves, furniture, and baseboards
Wipe down windowsills and mirrors
Declutter your closet and donate anything you haven’t worn in a year
Organize drawers and under-bed storage
Note: If you have a ceiling fan, give the blades a good dusting. It’s an easy spot to forget, but it makes a big difference for air quality.
Common Areas
Shared spaces like the living room or hallway can easily get cluttered or overlooked. A little attention here goes a long way.
Key things to clean:
Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, side tables, and TV stands
Vacuum rugs and clean floors (move furniture if you can)
Disinfect remotes, light switches, and door handles
Wipe down windows and clean blinds or curtains
Tidy up any shared storage or entryway areas
Note: This is also a great time to rearrange or refresh the space. A quick furniture reset or swapping out throw pillows can make everything feel brand new without spending a dime.
Smart Spring Cleaning Tips for Apartment Renters
Cleaning in a rental comes with its own set of challenges, but a few smart habits can make the job easier and help you avoid any issues when it’s time to move out.
Use gentle, surface-safe cleaners: Harsh chemicals can damage countertops, fixtures, or flooring. Stick to products labeled as safe for apartment use, or go with natural options like vinegar and baking soda.
Avoid permanent changes: Skip anything that could leave a mark or hole, like mounting hardware or strong adhesives. Use removable hooks, organizers, or tension rods to keep things tidy without risking damage.
Check your lease for maintenance guidelines: Some leases list specific cleaning expectations or restrictions. Knowing these can save you from surprise fees later on.
Keep things smelling fresh: A clean apartment isn’t just about how it looks. Take out the trash, clean out the fridge, and crack a window if the weather's nice. Baking soda in the trash bin or a light diffuser can help, too.
Make it a habit: Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a once-a-year marathon. Breaking tasks into monthly or weekly routines can make upkeep easier and way less stressful.
Find Your Next Apartment at Weida
Once your current space is feeling clean and refreshed, it’s a great time to start thinking about what’s next. If you’re searching for your next place near Purdue, Weida Apartments has you covered. With over 50 years of experience and a wide range of rentals near campus, it's easy to find quality housing at an affordable price.
Most of our apartments are within walking distance to Purdue University, and our team is made up of Purdue alumni who understand student life firsthand. We’re here to help you find a space that feels like home, whether it’s your first year on campus or your last.
Ready to make your move? Explore available apartments here or contact our team today.
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