The days are getting longer, flowers are starting to bloom, and the weather is warming up! The end of winter is near and Spring is just around the corner. 🐝🌺
Springtime is also known as a great time to deep clean and declutter! By thoroughly cleaning your space, you can reset and enjoy a more comfortable, warm and inviting environment - something much needed after this cold winter. ❄🌨
Here are a few helpful tips that can help you tackle your space whether a house, apartment, or dorm!
1. Make a schedule
If you dread cleaning, you’re not alone! Making a schedule can be the nudge that helps you get started. 📅
Break up chores by scheduling 5-10 minute breaks after 20 or 30 minutes sessions of cleaning. Or, take it room by room.
Living in a bigger space such as a house or apartment? Start with your bathroom, schedule a break, then tackle the bedroom. You can also divide bigger spaces up so it’s not too overwhelming to clean it all at once, such as your dining room or kitchen.
If you have a smaller space like a dorm room, you can also use this method to divide and conquer! Begin with your bed and drawers, then move to your desk and floors.
Once you get started, it’s easy to keep going. You'll feel great and accomplished afterwards. 🙌
2. Reduce and Reuse
Decluttering is major when it comes to Spring cleaning, and cleaning in general! Donate all of the clothes and items you no longer need. It can be hard to say goodbye to things that have been with you for a while, but it is a great way to create even more space for what matters most to you.
Visit getthrifty, the thrift store on campus or thrift stores around your neighbourhood and drop your items off! Not only are you decluttering for yourself, you’re also being environmentally friendly. ♻
Another option is checking out the “Free Store” at the AMS nest room 2102. You’re welcome to donate any items here including books, furniture, etc., while picking up any finds you need!
3. Make your own all-natural cleaner, or purchase cleaning soaps from Soapstand
Purchasing multiple cleaning products can take up a lot of space, and create lots of plastic waste. Create your own all-natural cleaner suitable for cleaning your whole house, apartment, or dorm room!
Combine ¾ cup water, ¾ cup rubbing alcohol, 5-10 drops of essential oil (optional for a nice scent), and 1 squirt of natural dish soap. Throw it all together in a spray bottle and shake! ✨
To save money and reduce your carbon footprint, head to the AMS Nest and get your laundry detergent, hand and dish soap from Soapstand, an affordable and eco-friendly soap refill station.
4. Think Green
Recycle all of your beverage containers! If you don’t have an alternative use for it, such as using it to plant vegetables, check out the Express & GO on campus!
Did you know that when you purchase beverages, there is a deposit you have to pay? The Express & GO is a convenient drop-off station at UBC where you can get your beverage container deposit money back. For more information, check out our amazing team member Paul’s fun Neighbourhood Nugget! Log in to your Minivillage account to watch it. 🤗
5. Brighten up your space
While dropping off items at the places mentioned above, take some time to find brighter items for your space that match the new season! Of course, only take what you really think you’ll value.
For smaller spaces like dorms, look into frames or items you can hang on the wall to keep floor space free. A good tip would also be looking at buying mirrors as decor as this can brighten and give the illusion of more space in a small area.
Think about bright and light colors to introduce in your space. 🎨 If your space has been mainly monochrome for awhile, consider decor with warm tones that could make your space even more homey.
We are so excited that a brighter season is coming and that the sun is out for longer. We hope these tips can help with your spring cleaning adventures and look forward to you welcoming a cleaner and brighter space.🌱🌷
For more UBC gems, and community updates, check out the Minivillage Community Content page.