Kick spring cleaning into high gear, with lengthening days and milder temperatures, April is a wonderful time to freshen up your home inside and out. 

Things to Check Off Your List In an Hour or Less

Keep Mosquitoes At Bay 

Having warmer weather and longer days means we’re entering mosquito season. Take preventative measures by regularly checking your property for standing water and emptying it. Any open containers empty flowerpots and saucers, a wheelbarrow can become mosquito breeding grounds when filled with rainwater, so store items like these upside down or in a shed.

Inspect Paths and Driveway 

Repeated freezing and thawing can take a toll on asphalt and concrete. Check your driveway and paths for cracks, scheduling repairs as needed.

Clean Out Trash Cans and Recycling Bins 

Take empty cans outside and spray them with a hose to start. Spritz inside and out with the cleaning spray of your choice. Let the bins sit for a few minutes before scrubbing them with a stiff-bristle brush. Rinse with the hose and leave them upside down to dry.

Check Safety Devices 

Test batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing them as needed. It’s also a good idea to periodically check for recalls of your home safety products.

Tackle These Tasks Over a Weekend

Clear Clutter

Create more space in your home by clearing out unloved items. If you have a lot to get rid of, hold a yard sale or contact a local charity to schedule a pickup — some will send a truck free of charge if you’re donating large items like furniture. If you have a lot of one type of item (for example, books or baby clothes), look for a consignment shop in your town where you may be able to sell them.

Schedule Cooling-System Maintenance

If you have central air conditioning, be sure to schedule professional maintenance before the start of summer. A properly maintained system cools better, uses less energy and lasts longer.

Spruce Up The Front Porch

Clean the patio floor, exterior windows, windowsills and front door. Wipe cobwebs from the ceiling and high corners, plant a pot of flowers. If you have patio furniture, clean it off and wash the cushions.

Test Sprinklers and Irrigation System

Take the time this month to test each part of or sprinklers or irrigation system, adjusting or repairing as needed. And if you don’t already have drip irrigation for your garden, consider putting it in — a properly installed system can save time and water.

Wash Windows

Welcome the spring sunshine by clearing dirt from windows inside and out. Take an extra moment to wipe the window frame and sill.

Clean and Inspect Screen Doors and Windows 

Pollen and dirt can also build up on window screens, so it’s a good idea to clean them once a year. For a quick cleaning, leave screens in place and vacuum with a dusting attachment. For a deeper cleaning, remove screens (mark which is which if cleaning multiple windows) and gently scrub with warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.

Before putting up window screens and screen doors, inspect each one for holes and rips — even small tears can let in mosquitoes. If you find any holes, repair them with a screen patch kit.

Clean Out The Garage

Can you park your car in your garage? If not, it may be time to make some more space.

Clear out the junk, and schedule time to take unused paint, motor oil and other hazardous items to a recycling center that accepts them.  Once your garage is cleaned out, consider adding wall-mounted storage to keep things neat and off the floor.

Wash Siding

Using a garden hose, attach a siding cleaning kit to clear away winter dirt from your home’s siding. If your siding could use a really deep cleaning, it can be tempting to use a pressure washer to get the job done quickly. But if you do, use it with care: avoid any pressure washer that comes with a 0-degree nozzle, because it can be too dangerous and wider nozzles can get the job done just as well.

Maintenance and Extras to Budget For

Clean Gutters and Downspouts 

Having your home’s gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired if necessary is one of the important tasks to schedule this season. Clogged gutters during a rainy spring can cause water to pool, potentially damaging the roof and siding.

Boost Curb Appeal

Spring is a great time to make upgrades to your home’s exterior, and even small changes — like putting up bold house numbers and a shiny new mailbox — can make a big impact.

Maintain Wood Decks and Fences

Keep outdoor wood in top shape by staining or resealing it each spring. Check gates, fencing, decks, railings, pergolas and other outdoor structures, and make repairs as needed.

Keep An Eye Out For Termites

Lookout for termites in May and June. If you notice any, call a pest-control company.