11 Ways to Appease Your Inner Clean Freak This Weekend

I don’t hate cleaning. I’m pretty content with a podcast in my AirPods and a good mop in my hands (though I’m usually loath to admit it). Those of us who enjoy not only the end result of a clean space but the the process of getting there tend to have high standards. And when those standards are met (which may not be too often because, honestly, they’re often unrealistic) we get more out of it than the average take-it-or-leave-it I-clean-because-I-have-to Joe.

We’re clean freaks, okay? So here’s a roundup of super satisfying, rarely tackled deep cleaning projects to get you in the mood. Just don’t tell anyone how much fun you’re having.

Start high and get those blades dusted. Seeing how much dust you get off off your ceiling fan — and out of your living space — is its own reward.

Even though no one may know the difference once you get these dust collectors clean, you will.

These are tedious; there’s just no getting around it. But nothing lets the sunshine in like a window that sparkles in all its parts.

Not just the bare ones in the common areas, but the ones behind the furniture, toilets, and doors that stay closed. The ones no one would ever know about. And get those corners and crevices, too.

Especially the silverware drawer. Take everything out and wipe down the drawer beneath any dividers and the the dividers themselves before you replace everything.

Get a yardstick and rubber band a rag around the end to clean under your appliances without moving them. If you’re feeling really thorough, move them so you can sweep and mop beneath them.

Take your books off their shelves and dust their tops. Next, dust the shelves. If you’re so inclined, sift through your collection and only keep the books that speak to your heart.

When was the last time your vacuum cleaner got cleaned or your mop bucket got disinfected? Do this now before you officially begin spring cleaning and you’ll feel extra ready.

This one isn’t fun to do, even for clean freaks. Here are some tips for making them cleaner than ever.

Not your weekly clean-out and swipe-down. Take everything out, wash the shelves and drawers, and wipe down each item before you put it back in the fridge.

Including your oven, dishwasher, toaster oven, microwave, and coffee maker.