January might have felt endless, but February brings the promise of spring. This month, take some time to pamper your home with a thorough cleaning.
While February is often associated with love, it's also a perfect time to focus on cleaning various areas of your living space. From tackling your glassware to sprucing up your grill, every effort you make will pay off, whether you're entertaining or just relaxing.
Our cleaning specialists shared their insights on what to prioritize this month.
1. Closet Refresh
When was the last time you organized your closet? If it's been a while, now's your chance, according to Will Cotter, COO of a leading cleaning service.
'Deep clean the shelves,' he suggests. 'Clear out clothing and shoes to dust and wipe down surfaces, then put everything back neatly.'
Will recommends using a microfiber cloth paired with a reliable multi-surface cleaner, such as an affordable all-purpose cleaner. Alternatively, you can create a homemade spray to keep dust at bay.
Also, consider sorting through your wardrobe to donate or sell items you haven't used in the past year.
'This creates space for new spring purchases and helps you regain clarity on what you need for the coming months,' says Will.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Method Pink Grapefruit All Purpose Surface Spray
This eco-friendly cleaning spray is cruelty-free and suitable for most non-porous surfaces, but avoid using it on porous materials like marble.
2. Carpets and Rugs
One of the most common mistakes is overlooking the cleaning of carpets and rugs. Like the rest of your home, they require regular maintenance.
Josh Miller, CEO of a carpet cleaning company, emphasizes the importance of addressing winter grime. 'Foot traffic leaves behind salt and dirt. A thorough clean can rejuvenate your home and extend the life of your carpets.'
Whether you opt to wash rugs in a machine, sprinkle baking soda on carpets, or use a cleaning machine, be cautious of common carpet cleaning errors that can lead to mold and dampness.
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
If you're considering a purchase, this powerful, portable cleaner is a solid choice. However, cleaning without a machine is also an option.
3. Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance
If your fireplace has been in heavy use this winter, it's time to clean it out. Karina Toner, a cleaning expert, advises addressing any soot buildup to maintain both aesthetics and safety.
'A clean fireplace and chimney enhance your home's appearance and reduce potential fire hazards,' she explains. 'Taking care of this in February prepares you for the next cold spell or upcoming spring weather.'
If you need guidance on cleaning a fireplace, our expert guide offers tips for various materials, along with advice for polishing tiles and glass.
4. Wine Glasses and Stemware
If you played host during the holidays, your glassware could probably use some attention. Will recommends, 'When serving wine, use glasses that are spotless.'
For the best results, hand wash your wine glasses to avoid breakage, using a quality dish soap like Method Dish Soap.
After washing, rinse thoroughly, allow to air-dry, and buff them with a dry microfiber cloth like HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth to eliminate spots.
If needed, you can use vinegar to remove cloudiness and achieve a sparkling finish.
5. Dining Room and Chairs
After hosting several gatherings, your dining area likely needs some TLC.
Karina suggests, 'Whether you're planning a cozy Valentine's dinner or a small get-together, your dining area will be the focal point.'
Begin by cleaning your dining chairs, then wipe down the table and dust any décor. A damp duster effectively removes dust, but a dry microfiber cloth works well, too.
'This not only enhances your space but also creates a warm atmosphere for guests,' she adds. 'February is an excellent time to refresh your dining area ahead of celebrations.'
Scrub Daddy Damp Duster
Chiana Dickson, a content editor, describes this handy sponge as 'life-changing.' It captures and traps dust effortlessly.
Non-slip handle
This microfiber duster is perfect for delicate items like picture frames and light fixtures, and its head is machine-washable.
Pack of eight
These lint-free cloths are ideal for streak-free cleaning, ultra-soft, and won't scratch delicate surfaces like glass.
6. Bathroom Care
Whether you're deep cleaning your bathroom like a pro or have a quick 30-minute routine, Joseph Passalacqua, CEO of a cleaning service, emphasizes the need for this task in February.
He points out, 'Bathrooms see a lot of use during winter, especially when people stay indoors.'
'Make time for a deep clean, including scrubbing shower grout, wiping mirrors, disinfecting surfaces, and descaling faucets.'
A reliable all-purpose cleaner, such as Lysol Power Foaming Cleaning Spray, can be very effective.
Alternatively, consider using household items. For instance, shaving foam for mirrors or toothpaste on faucets can yield great results.
7. Outdoor Furniture and Grill Prep
While it may not be warm enough to spend extended time outside, February is perfect for cleaning your patio furniture and grill, according to cleaning expert Karina.
'Wipe down tables, chairs, and cushions to clear away winter dirt and prepare the grill for spring cookouts,' she advises.
'This proactive approach helps you get ready for outdoor entertaining as the weather warms up.'
Our guides on how to clean a charcoal grill and alternative cleaning methods can provide useful tips – and yes, you can clean a grill with an onion, but using a lemon is often more effective.
