Spring Cleaning Checklist: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Fresh Start
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and get rid of the dust and clutter that may have built up over the winter months. A thorough spring cleaning not only makes your home sparkle but also improves air quality and creates a more peaceful living environment. To make the process easier, here’s a room-by-room checklist to help you stay organized and efficient.
General Cleaning Tips for Every Room
- Open windows to let in fresh air.
- Dust from top to bottom, including ceilings, light fixtures, and baseboards.
- Wipe down walls, doors, and switches.
- Vacuum and mop floors, paying special attention to corners.
- Declutter and donate unused items.
Living Room
- Dust and polish furniture.
- Wash or vacuum curtains and blinds.
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans.
- Wipe down electronics and remote controls.
- Shampoo or steam clean carpets and rugs.
- Clean under and behind furniture.
Kitchen
- Deep clean appliances (oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher).
- Wipe down cabinets and countertops.
- Discard expired pantry items.
- Scrub sink and faucet.
- Clean and organize drawers and utensil holders.
- Mop and sanitize floors.
Bathroom
- Scrub and disinfect toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower.
- Wash or replace shower curtain and bath mats.
- Clean mirrors and light fixtures.
- Wipe down cabinets and discard expired toiletries.
- Scrub grout and reseal if necessary.
Bedroom
- Wash all bedding, including pillows and comforters.
- Rotate and flip the mattress if applicable.
- Declutter closets and donate clothes you no longer wear.
- Dust and polish furniture.
- Clean under the bed and in corners.
Home Office
- Organize paperwork and shred unnecessary documents.
- Dust and disinfect keyboard, mouse, and desk.
- Wipe down bookshelves and organize files.
- Clean office chair and vacuum under desk.
Outdoor Spaces
- Sweep porches, decks, and patios.
- Clean outdoor furniture and cushions.
- Wash exterior windows and doors.
- Check and clean gutters if needed.
- Tidy up garden beds and trim overgrown plants.
Spring cleaning may seem like a big task, but tackling it one room at a time makes it much more manageable. Use this checklist to stay on track and enjoy a fresh, clean home as you welcome the new season!
There’s something special about Guelph in December. The lights feel a little brighter, the downtown feels a little cozier, and the whole city comes alive with traditions that bring our community together. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together a simple guide to some of our favourite local holiday events — the ones that make living in Guelph feel like home. Spirit of the Season December 5–7 & December 12–14 — Downtown Guelph Downtown transforms into a festive hub filled with twinkling lights, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and warm holiday energy. It’s the perfect place to support local businesses, enjoy a hot drink, and soak in the magic with friends or family. If you’re looking for that “start of the holidays” feeling, this is it. Sparkles in the Park December 13–31 — Riverside Park Every evening, Riverside Park lights up with spectacular displays — glowing tunnels, festive scenes, and whimsical designs that bring out everyone’s inner child. And this year, keep an eye out for The Hudson Smith Group lighting display among the magic — we’re proud to support this beautiful community tradition with the Guelph Rotary Club. Even better? The carousel rides are free, and there’s a fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. Santa Run & Santa Claus Parade Saturday, December 6 - Santa Run 4:55 PM & Parade 5:30 PM One of Guelph’s most beloved traditions. The evening starts with the Santa Run — a quick, fun, festive dash — followed by the parade winding through downtown with music, lights, and holiday cheer. It’s a great way to kick off December with the whole family. Old Quebec Street Christmas Market Dates vary through December A cozy, European-style indoor market right in the heart of the city. Expect local makers, handmade gifts, warm drinks, and the perfect place to finish (or start!) your holiday shopping while supporting local vendors. Market Square Skating All winter long — weather permitting Nothing feels more festive than skating under the lights in front of City Hall. Bring a friend, grab a hot chocolate afterward, and enjoy one of Guelph’s simplest — and most nostalgic — winter traditions. Giving Back This Season If you’re looking to make a difference this year, consider supporting one of Guelph’s incredible community organizations, including: The Guelph Food Bank Royal City Mission Hope House Toys for Tots / local toy drives Rotary initiatives A little kindness goes a long way during the holidays. From Our Team to Yours The holidays are a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the people who make our community special. Whether we’ve worked together this year or you’ve simply followed along with our journey — thank you. Your trust and support mean the world. Wishing you a warm, joyful, magical holiday season from all of us at the Hudson Smith Group.
Have you ever wished you could have more space — without sacrificing connection? Across Guelph, more families are embracing two-family or multi-generational living as the perfect blend of connection, independence, and financial practicality. Whether supporting aging parents, welcoming adult children home, or creating separate living quarters for long-term stability, buyers want homes that can comfortably and naturally support two households. But as demand grows, suitable properties have become almost impossible to find—especially in walkable, highly established neighbourhoods like Old University. That’s what makes 36 Harcourt Drive such an extraordinary opportunity: a true two-family home that offers space, flexibility, privacy, and location without compromise.
When the snow starts to fall, it has a way of transforming everything — streets, parks, and even front yards take on a quiet, magical charm. But for sellers, winter can also mean extra effort to make sure that charm extends to your home. Curb appeal doesn’t hibernate when the temperature drops — in fact, it matters even more. Here’s how to make your home shine this season and capture that “warm welcome” feeling buyers love, even on the coldest day. Light the Way Winter days are short, which means lighting plays a starring role. Swap out dim porch bulbs for bright, warm-toned LEDs and consider adding soft string lights or lanterns along your walkway. A well-lit entryway not only looks beautiful in twilight photos — it instantly feels inviting. Add a Pop of Colour When the landscape is all whites and greys, a bold front door makes a statement. Deep navy, forest green, or classic red can instantly lift a neutral exterior. If you’re not ready to repaint, a colourful winter wreath or fresh greenery can achieve the same welcoming effect. Dress Up with Winter Greenery Who says planters are only for summer? Evergreen boughs, birch branches, and pinecones arranged in large planters add life and texture to your front entry. They photograph beautifully and bring natural warmth to even the snowiest setting. Keep It Clean and Clear Shovel paths, sprinkle salt, and make sure steps are safe and tidy. It’s one of the simplest ways to show care — and it makes a lasting first impression for both buyers and photographers. Bonus: a clean driveway and entryway make your listing photos feel crisp and polished. Set the Scene for “Cozy” Winter buyers are looking for warmth — literally and emotionally. A soft glow from the windows, a hint of smoke from a chimney, or a front door framed by lanterns all help tell that story. These small touches help buyers imagine themselves stepping into comfort after a snowy day. Thinking of Selling This Winter? A fresh layer of snow doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring. With the right presentation, your home can look more inviting than ever. Selling in winter? We’ll make sure your home stands out — even when everything’s covered in snow. hudson@hudsonsmith.ca | 519-821-3600 | hudson@hudsonsmith.ca
