The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist for Sauk Valley Homes (2025 Edition)

Written By Tara Castillo

Spring is finally here in the Sauk Valley! That means longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect time to refresh your home with a deep spring clean. Whether you live in Dixon, Sterling, or Rock Falls, there’s something so satisfying about clearing out the clutter and starting fresh.

Of course, not everyone has the time (or energy) to scrub baseboards and clean behind the fridge. That’s where I come in! At Tara’s Essential Cleaning, I provide personal, professional cleaning services using natural products from Norwex and doTERRA—safe for your family, your pets, and the environment.

Before you dive in (or delegate!), here’s the ultimate room-by-room spring cleaning checklist made just for Sauk Valley homeowners.

cleaning living room showing off a healthy fresh space for a family to dwell in and spend time together

A clean living room makes your home feel fresh

Why Spring Cleaning Is So Important

Spring cleaning isn’t just about appearances—it’s about health and peace of mind. Here’s why it matters:

  • Removes allergens like dust and pollen

  • Helps reduce stress and boost your mood

  • Makes your home feel lighter and more organized

  • Clears space for the new season

A clean home is a fresh start—and spring is the perfect time to make it happen.

My Favorite Eco-Friendly Cleaning Supplies

Here’s what I use to get amazing results without harsh chemicals:

  • Norwex microfiber cloths (powerful cleaning with just water)

  • doTERRA essential oil-based cleaners

  • Non-toxic all-purpose spray

  • A quality vacuum with attachments

  • Mop or steam mop

  • Vinegar and baking soda for tough areas

  • Glass cleaner (or a vinegar-water mix)

doTerra essential oils including Wild Orange, Lemongrass, and On Guard

My favorite doTERRA essential cleaning oils

Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning Checklist

Let’s get into it. Here’s what to clean in each area of your home this season:

Kitchen

  • Wipe down cabinet fronts and backsplash

  • Clean inside the fridge and freezer

  • Sanitize sink and garbage disposal

  • Scrub stovetop and wipe appliance surfaces

  • Mop floors and clean grout lines

Living Room

  • Dust shelves, furniture, and light fixtures

  • Wash pillow covers, blankets, and curtains

  • Vacuum under furniture and cushions

  • Clean windows and window sills

  • Wipe down baseboards and switch plates

Bathrooms

  • Scrub showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets

  • Disinfect handles and faucets

  • Clean mirrors and polish chrome

  • Organize cabinets and toss expired products

  • Mop floors and wash rugs

Bedrooms

  • Wash all bedding and mattress covers

  • Flip or rotate the mattress

  • Declutter closets and drawers

  • Vacuum floors, under beds, and baseboards

  • Dust lamps, shelves, and decor

Entryways and Hallways

  • Sweep and mop floors

  • Organize shoes, coats, and bags

  • Wipe down door frames and light switches

  • Clean glass on front doors or storm doors

  • Shake out or vacuum rugs

Optional Areas

  • Home office: dust equipment, organize papers

  • Laundry room: clean machines, organize supplies

  • Garage: sweep floors, tidy shelves and bins

  • Basement: vacuum cobwebs, check for moisture

It’s easy to overlook certain areas during routine cleaning, but giving them attention can make a big difference. Spots like ceiling fans and air vents, baseboards behind furniture, inside drawers and closets, window tracks and door frames, and even trash cans and recycling bins often go unnoticed—but when they’re clean, your whole space feels fresher and more complete.

Not Enough Time to Clean? I’ve Got You Covered.

If your spring schedule is packed, no worries. I provide professional deep cleaning for homes, Airbnbs, and empty rentals across the Sauk Valley. Here’s what makes my services different:

  • Natural, non-toxic products (Norwex and doTERRA)

  • Local, reliable, solo-operated service

  • Deep cleaning that covers every corner

  • Personalized attention to your unique space

Schedule Your Spring Clean Today

If you're in Dixon, Sterling, or Rock Falls (Or the general Sauk Valley area) and need help refreshing your home, I’d love to chat. I offer:

  • Spring deep cleans for homes and rentals

  • Move-in/move-out cleanings

  • Eco-friendly products and methods

  • Friendly, flexible scheduling

Ready to get started? Contact me here or check out my services to learn more.

Make This Spring Your Fresh Start

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re tackling it yourself or looking for a helping hand, this is the perfect time to reset your home—and your headspace.

Let’s make your space shine and give you more time to enjoy what matters most.

Proudly serving Sauk Valley homeowners in Dixon, Sterling, and Rock Falls, Illinois.

Tara Castillo