Outdoor Spring Cleaning Checklist: 10 Places You Won’t Want to Miss

When it comes to spring cleaning, you’re probably already pulling out weeds and mulching the garden. But there are many outdoor areas that can get pretty grimy during the winter months and need some serious TLC come springtime. 

To make sure every corner of your yard is ready for spring gardening and entertaining, follow this outdoor spring cleaning checklist.

1. Gutters

Cleaning your gutters is an important outdoor spring cleaning task that will help prevent damage to your roof and siding from backed-up water. 

• Grab a sturdy ladder (and a buddy to hold it steady), don your work gloves, and scoop out as much of the leaves and debris as you can.

• Follow this with a spray from your hose to take care of anything else in your gutters.

• While you’re up there, give your gutters a quick look for any holes or visible damage. 

• If the idea of the gunk makes you cringe, or if you’re not into climbing ladders, hire a gutter cleaning service for a professional job.

2. Windows

You’re ready to watch the flowers bloom and trees fill out with leaves from your home’s windows, but dust and water spots from wintry weather have left your windows looking dull. Use the checklist below to get your windows spot-free for spring, or hire a local window cleaning service to help. 

• Clean outside windows with the tools of your choice: garden hose, damp cloth and window cleaner, homemade cleaners, or even a mop will do.

• Remove and clean the window screens.

• Squeegee window glass after cleaning to remove any water spots.

• Clean your window tracks and frames for the ultimate clean.

3. Driveway and Sidewalks

No, a good spring rain isn’t enough to give your hardscaping the cleaning it deserves. Don’t forget to clean your driveway and sidewalks to boost curb appeal as part of your outdoor spring cleaning checklist.

• Use a broom to sweep away leaves, dirt, or grass clippings.

• Power wash paved surfaces to remove grime. If you’re unsure how to use a power washer, consider hiring a local power washing company to avoid causing damage.

• Refill pathways with fresh gravel, grout, or sand as needed.

4. Water Features

If you winterized your ponds and fountains, it’s time to get them ready for action in the warmer months. Aside from refreshing the water, you’ll want to check for moss and algae.

• Before adding in new water, use the hose, a power washer, or a scrub brush to clean water features inside and out.

• Check fountain systems, pool filters, and other systems for any damage and make repairs.

• Add fresh water to your water features.

5. Exterior Walls

Even after a mild winter, your home’s exterior walls can look a little worn out from dirt and dust. Fortunately, it’s easier to clean exterior walls and siding than you might think.

• Use a hose or power washer to spray down exterior walls, or hire a pro to handle the power washing. Professional power washing costs about $280.

• You can DIY vinyl siding cleaning with a diluted vinegar solution (30% vinegar to 70% water) or outdoor bleach. Spray, wait a few minutes, then wipe it off. 

• Make a note of any siding that’s looking worse for wear and opt to get it replaced or repaired.

6. Fences

Whether you need to clean a cedar fence or remove rust from a chain-link fence, this outdoor spring cleaning task can make your whole property look fresh for the new season.

• Check fences for holes, sunken posts, rot, or other damage. If you see any issues, hire a local fence repair company.

• Remove rust or corrosion from metal fences.

• Clear away leaves, weeds, mud, and other debris from the base of the fence.

• Use a hose, scrub brush, or power wash to clean off the fence.

• Apply a fresh layer of paint or sealant or touch up worn-out areas.

7. Outdoor Cooking and Dining Spaces

Before you plan your first spring shindig, it’s crucial to clean your outdoor entertaining spaces. Not only do you want dust- and dirt-free places for your guests to sit, but you also need to practice food safety habits by keeping food prep and cooking areas clean.

• Clean your grill inside and out.

• Clean any outdoor kitchen appliances, sinks, and countertop surfaces.

• Wipe down tables and chairs.

• Sweep patio floors and power wash if needed.

8. Garage

With spring comes plenty of days spent gardening, playing catch, mowing, and enjoying other outdoor recreational activities. Make sure your garage is prepared to stow away items neatly after a long day of outdoor fun.

• Organize garage shelves to make finding and putting away garden tools or sporting equipment a breeze.

• Sweep garage floors to clear away debris.

• Donate or sell old items you don’t want or need anymore.

• Power wash the garage door exterior.

• Check that your garage door opener and opening system is working. Make repairs or replace your garage door opener as needed.

9. Furniture

Outdoor furnishings are usually designed to withstand the elements, but they still need some extra care to keep them looking their best. 

• Clear off fallen leaves and other debris with a leaf blower or dry cleaning cloth.

• Clean upholstery, throw pillows, umbrella covers, and outdoor blankets, following the manufacturers’ instructions.

• Clean outdoor area rugs.

• Use warm water and dish soap to wipe down furniture without damaging the finish.

• Remove rust from metal furnishings.

10. Yard Accessories

There are a lot of elements that bring a yard together, from sprinklers that keep plants vibrant green to outdoor lighting that illuminates your walkways and patio. These outdoor spots are easy to forget, but they need spring cleaning to perform their best.

• Check your sprinkler system for any damage, and hire a professional sprinkler service near you to make any repairs before summer.

• Replace any burned-out light bulbs or string lights.

• Wipe down outdoor light fixtures to remove any dirt or cloudiness that can dull the bulb’s shine.