Don’t worry, we’re not talking about a horror film! As the weather warms up, it’s time to tackle your spring cleaning checklist — but after nearly a year at home, “purge” might be a better description. We’ve compiled a handy list that you can reference as you work your way through these annual chores.

We’ve also added bonus projects that offer the best cost vs. value return on your investment. If you’re hoping to list your home soon, these tasks will boost your curb appeal and even add thousands to your asking price. Check out Remodeling’s regional breakdown of most valuable home improvements for even more ideas.

All Rooms

Wipe down baseboards, window sills, doors, walls

Vacuum and wipe down vents

Wash window treatments and dust blinds

Dust light fixtures and lamp shades

Wash windows inside and out

Dust and shine overhead lights

Replace burnt-out light bulbs

Store all winter items, including clothes and any leftover holiday decorations

Dust curtain rods

Bonus: Upgrade or install ceiling fans. Fans are among the most-requested home features, according to a recent National Association of Home Builders survey.

Laundry Room

Clean washing machine

Clean lint trap

Clean dryer vent

Bonus: If you don’t have a dedicated laundry room, you might want to think about creating one — 91 percent of buyers say it’s a must.

Bedroom

Wash bedding, including throw pillows

Flip or rotate mattress

Vacuum under bed and throw out anything you find that you don’t need

Bonus: Add a walk-in closet or install an organization system to attract first- and second-time home buyers.

Living Room

Dust/polish furniture

Wash slipcovers

Wash throw pillows

Clean ceiling fans

Sanitize remote controls

Shampoo rugs or carpets

Vacuum sofa and chairs

Bonus: If you have an oversize living room, consider partitioning some of it to create a dedicated home office, one of the top trends of the past year.

Kitchen

Clean out pantry and wipe down shelves

Wash outside of kitchen cabinets

Deep clean the oven

Vacuum and mop behind fridge and vacuum coils

Deep clean fridge inside and out

Toss out expired food

Defrost freezer

Degrease backsplash

Dust range hood

Clean microwave inside and out

Wash dish rags/sponges

Bonus: A walk-in pantry is a must-have, especially during a pandemic that has curtailed restaurants visits. In fact, it’s the no. 1 most requested feature in a recent homebuyers survey.

Appliances

Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Check all electronics and make sure they’re in working order

Organize plugs and cords

Check expiration date on fire extinguisher (or buy one if you don’t own one)

Wipe down computers

Bonus: Energy efficient appliances are a big selling point for home buyers, so if you’re in need of a new dishwasher, for example, you can expect to get a solid return on your investment.

Outside

Sweep front porch and back deck

Clean door

Clean doormats

Bonus: Time to upgrade that patio and rebuild those retaining walls! Manufactured stone veneer is one of the best investments you can make in our region, and outdoor spaces have become especially valuable during the pandemic.

Bathroom

Clean tub/shower

Wash bathmats

Clean mirrors/vanity

Wash shower liners and curtains

Clean toilet

Clean showerhead

Scrub tile grout

Bonus: Time to break up with your tiny tilework. Homeowners are shunning them for larger tiles that are much easier to clean.

Garage

Declutter tools

Donate unused sporting equipment

Air out space

Clean garage door and frame

Replace batteries for garage door

Bonus: Replace your garage door for a boost in curb appeal and recoup 96.1 percent of your investment. Or add or upgrade storage space to reduce clutter — 85 percent of homebuyers love this feature.

If you’re looking for even more checklists and ways to get inspired, check out Breakthrough Broker. It’s your go-to for everything from marketing templates to social media tips. We’re happy to help you get started — just call your sales rep and we’ll give you a walkthrough.