The season will change soon, and now is the perfect time to encourage spring cleaning on your property. According to the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), more than 80% of households took time to deep clean their spaces in 2024.

The ABC’s of Spring Cleaning

Experts say cleaning with the change of the season is more than a fresh start. It can help protect property. Encouraging clean living spaces can help prevent indoor pests, improve air quality, and help residents stay in lease compliance. The ACI says this is easiest to accomplish when following the ABC’s of Spring Cleaning.

A is for Asthma and Allergy Triggers

Winter often keeps us cooped up indoors with pets, dust, and other irritants that can trigger allergies or asthma. As we move into spring, it’s crucial to reduce these indoor allergens in both living spaces and offices.

In Rental Units:

• Establish an allergen control plan for each unit by cleaning one room at a time, prioritizing bedrooms for residents with asthma or allergies.
• Wash bedding, curtains, and upholstery to remove dust mites and pet dander.
• Vacuum carpets and rugs with a HEPA-filter vacuum to trap allergens.
• Clean window sills and frames to remove pollen and accumulated dust.
• Wet mop floors rather than sweeping, which can stir up dust particles.

In the Office:

• Dust desks, shelves, and communal spaces to keep air quality fresh.
• Consider air purifiers to reduce allergens in the workspace.
• Use hypoallergenic cleaning products that won’t trigger sensitivities for employees or visitors.

B is for Bacteria

From door handles and countertops to phones and remote controls, bacteria can linger on frequently touched surfaces. Thorough cleaning reduces the risk of spreading germs and keeps residents and employees healthy.

In Rental Units

• Disinfect high-touch areas such as kitchen counters, bathroom fixtures, and doorknobs using appropriate disinfectants.
• Prevent mold and mildew buildup in bathrooms by using a daily shower cleaner and ensuring proper ventilation.
• Follow product label instructions to allow disinfectants adequate contact time for effective germ-killing.

In the Office:

• Regularly disinfect shared office equipment, including keyboards, printers, and phones.
• Keep breakrooms and communal kitchen areas sanitized by wiping down surfaces and cleaning coffee makers, refrigerators, and microwaves.
• Encourage employees to use hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes at their desks.

C is for Clutter

Clutter isn’t just an eyesore—it also attracts dust and reduces efficiency in both living and working spaces. Decluttering improves organization and creates a more welcoming atmosphere.

In Rental Units:

• Encourage residents to sort through closets, drawers, and storage areas, removing items they no longer need.
• Suggest donating gently used items to local charities.
• Store frequently used items in labeled bins, drawers, or closets to reduce dust buildup.
• Use an electrostatic dust cloth or furniture polish to wipe down surfaces once they’re clear.

In the Office:

• Declutter desks and filing areas to create a more productive workspace.
• Implement a filing system for paperwork to prevent stacks of documents from accumulating.
• Store office supplies in drawers or labeled bins to keep workstations tidy.
• Encourage staff to take a few minutes at the end of each day to reset their workspace.

A thorough spring cleaning can enhance the health, comfort, and efficiency of any space. By addressing Allergens, bacteria, and clutter, you can create a more inviting and productive environment for residents, employees, and visitors alike. You can find additional spring cleaning tips featured in Navigate’s Knowing More series. Spring officially starts Thursday, March 20, 2025.