As Hoosiers, we’re accustomed to being tricked by Mother Nature. Even this year already, we’ve had a good handful of warm-enough sunny days that smell of spring. Even though we know we’ve got a good six more weeks of winter according to Punxsutawney Phil, this time of year always makes me want to get a jump-start on my spring cleaning. Below, I’ve compiled a short list of tips to help get started on spring cleaning.

Organize your closet

Your closet is one of the first places you see every day and it’s one of the easiest places to get overfull and unorganized. Try going through your clothes and donating the ones you don’t wear. When you’ve cleaned out the extra clothes, organize your closet by putting shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, etc. all together. Re-fold your folded clothes and make sure everything fits how it should.

Cleaning walls and overlooked places

Walls and floorboards are often overlooked areas of the home when it comes time to clean. While you’re doing over-and-above jobs around the house, take a warm, soapy sponge to the stains on the walls – look especially around the trashcan, along the stairs or in heavily trafficked hallways. It’s also a good idea to give your dining room table chairs and barstools a wipe down while you’re at it. For more information on cleaning walls, click here.

Clean carpets and furniture

After a long winter of cozying up on the couch and finding things to do inside, your carpets and couches have likely taken a beating. By either renting equipment or hiring a service to come clean your carpets and upholstery, you’ll breathe new life into your living spaces – along with a clean, fresh smell and look.

For more information and tips on spring cleaning, check out House Beautiful and Reader’s Digest.