Spring cleaning the obvious stuff is easy. Windows, carpets, oven. But there's a whole list of things people never think about - until they become problems.
Appliance Maintenance
Behind and Under the Fridge
Why it matters: Dust on condenser coils makes your fridge work harder, costing more to run and shortening its life.
How often: Once a year minimum
What to do:
- Pull fridge out carefully
- Vacuum the coils (usually at the back)
- Clean underneath (probably grim)
- Check the drip tray isn't gross
Tip: Some fridges have coils underneath at the front - remove the kick plate to access.
Washing Machine Drawer and Seal
Why it matters: Black mould builds up in the rubber door seal and soap drawer. Eventually it gets on your "clean" laundry.
What to do:
- Remove soap drawer, soak in hot soapy water, scrub
- Wipe inside the drum seal with antibacterial cleaner
- Pull back the rubber to check hidden folds
- Run a hot empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner
Dishwasher Filter
Why it matters: That filter at the bottom is catching all the food. If it's clogged, your dishes aren't getting clean.
What to do:
- Twist and lift out the filter
- Rinse under hot water
- Scrub with an old toothbrush
- Check the spray arms aren't blocked
Extractor Fan Filters
Why it matters: Grease-clogged filters stop working. Fire risk in worst cases.
What to do:
- Remove filters (usually slide or clip out)
- Soak in hot water with degreaser
- Scrub, rinse, dry
- Wipe the hood while they're off
HVAC and Heating
Radiator Gaps
Why it matters: Dust between radiator fins insulates the heat. You're heating dust instead of the room.
What to do:
- Use a radiator brush (long thin brush on a stick)
- Or vacuum with crevice attachment
- Wipe down fronts while you're there
Vent Covers and Grilles
Why it matters: Bathroom vents, airbricks, kitchen extractor outlets - all collect dust and grime.
What to do:
- Remove covers where possible
- Vacuum or wash
- Check the vent itself isn't blocked
- Replace any damaged covers
Boiler Service Check
Why it matters: Annual servicing keeps warranties valid and catches problems early.
What to do: Book it. Spring is a good time - before you need heating again and after the busy winter period. Engineers are more available.
Windows and Doors
Window Tracks and Seals
Why it matters: Dirt in tracks stops windows sealing properly. You lose heat and may get draughts.
What to do:
- Vacuum out debris
- Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent
- Clean the rubber seals
- Apply silicone lubricant to moving parts
Door Hinges
Why it matters: Squeaky hinges are annoying and can get stiff if ignored.
What to do:
- WD-40 or similar on all hinges
- Wipe off excess
- Work the door back and forth
Threshold and Door Bottoms
Why it matters: Exterior door bottoms collect debris and can rot if not kept clean.
What to do:
- Clean threshold strips
- Check draught excluders are intact
- Clear any debris from corners
Forgotten Surfaces
Top of Kitchen Cabinets
Why it matters: Grease and dust combine into a horrible sticky layer. The longer you leave it, the harder it is to clean.
What to do:
- Line with newspaper or contact paper after cleaning (makes next year easier)
- Use degreaser for heavy buildup
- Consider covering with decorative paper
Light Fixtures
Why it matters: Dust on shades dims your lights. You might not need brighter bulbs - just cleaner ones.
What to do:
- Remove shades, dust or wash
- Wipe bulbs (when cool)
- Clean ceiling rose/fitting
Safety: Turn off at the switch first. Let bulbs cool.
Skirting Board Tops
Why it matters: That little ledge collects dust that's visible when you're sitting down.
What to do:
- Damp cloth wipe
- Include door frame tops
- Picture rail tops too
Under Beds and Sofas
Why it matters: Prime dust bunny territory. Also where lost items go to die.
What to do:
- Pull out furniture
- Vacuum thoroughly
- Check for anything that needs attention (pet accidents, mould from spills)
Outside Jobs
Gutters
Why it matters: Winter debris blocks water flow, causes overflows and potential damp.
What to do:
- Clear out leaves and debris
- Check downpipes run freely
- Look for sagging sections
Airbricks
Why it matters: Blocked airbricks reduce ventilation under floors, potentially causing damp.
What to do:
- Clear any debris or soil buildup
- Check they're not painted over
- Ensure plants haven't grown across them
Outside Drains
Why it matters: Leaves from autumn, debris from winter. Blocked drains cause flooding.
What to do:
- Lift drain covers
- Remove debris
- Flush with a bucket of water
- Consider drain guards
Textiles People Forget
Pillows (Not Just Cases)
Why it matters: Pillows collect dust mites, sweat, skin. The covers protect them but they still need cleaning.
What to do:
- Check label for wash instructions
- Most synthetic pillows are machine washable
- Dry thoroughly before use
- Replace if lumpy or flat
Mattress
Why it matters: Same issues as pillows, but bigger.
What to do:
- Strip all bedding
- Vacuum mattress surface and edges
- Spot clean stains with upholstery cleaner
- Sprinkle with bicarb, leave, then vacuum (freshens)
- Flip or rotate if possible
Curtains
Why it matters: Heavy curtains trap dust all winter. You're breathing it every time they move.
What to do:
- Take down and shake outside
- Vacuum on low suction
- Wash if possible (check care label)
- At minimum, steam clean
The Spring Maintenance List
Beyond cleaning, spring is the time for:
- ✅ Test smoke alarms
- ✅ Check fire extinguisher expiry
- ✅ Service lawnmower (before first cut)
- ✅ Inspect garden furniture
- ✅ Clear shed and garage clutter
- ✅ Check outdoor tap isn't frozen damaged
Need help with the heavy jobs? Moving appliances, cleaning high windows, clearing gutters - I can help with the spring maintenance across Exeter. Call 01392 964094 or get a quote.
Sam Hembury
Sam is the founder of Hembury Contracting, providing professional handyman services across Exeter and Devon. With years of experience in property maintenance, he shares practical tips to help homeowners tackle common tasks.