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Spring Cleaning Checklist for Ottawa Homeowners

Blog by Geoff Walker - RE/MAX Absolute Walker Realty | April 30th, 2025

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Ottawa Homeowners

As the snow melts and tulips start to bloom, it's time for Ottawa homeowners to shake off the winter blues and get their homes spring-ready. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up—it’s a great opportunity to maintain your home, improve air quality, and prepare for Ottawa’s humid summer months. Here’s your ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist tailored for homes in the Nation’s Capital.

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Indoor Spring Cleaning

1. Deep Clean Floors and Carpets

  • Vacuum and shampoo carpets to remove salt and dirt tracked in over the winter.

  • Mop hardwood and tile floors with appropriate cleaners.

  • Check for any signs of water damage from melting snow.

2. Windows and Screens

  • Wash windows inside and out—Ottawa winters leave behind a film of grime.

  • Repair or replace torn screens to keep bugs out during the warmer months.

  • Clean out the window tracks, which often collect grit and debris.

3. Dust Everything

  • Wipe baseboards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents.

  • Ottawa's heating season sends dust into every corner—use a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment.

4. Check the HVAC System

  • Replace furnace filters (or clean reusable ones).

  • Consider a professional HVAC inspection before turning on your air conditioning.

  • If you use a humidifier during winter, clean or store it until fall.

5. Declutter Room by Room

  • Donate unused winter gear, clothes, and toys.

  • Reorganize closets with a focus on spring and summer wear.

  • Recycle old papers, magazines, and expired pantry items.

Outdoor Spring Maintenance

6. Inspect the Roof and Gutters

  • Ottawa’s freeze-thaw cycles can damage shingles and clog gutters with ice and debris.

  • Clear out leaves and test downspouts to ensure proper drainage.

7. Clean the Siding and Windows

  • Power wash siding to remove salt and dirt buildup.

  • Check caulking and weatherstripping for damage from winter storms.

8. Patio and Deck Prep

  • Sweep and wash decks and patios.

  • Re-stain wood if needed and inspect for loose boards or nails.

  • Set out patio furniture and cushions (but wash them first!).

9. Yard and Garden Care

  • Rake leftover leaves and debris.

  • Edge your lawn and add fresh soil or mulch to garden beds.

  • Start planning for planting—Ottawa’s last frost date is usually early May.

10. Check Exterior Faucets and Hoses

  • Reconnect and test outdoor faucets—check for cracks caused by freezing.

  • Replace damaged hoses and test sprinkler systems.

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Bonus: Safety and Energy Efficiency

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

  • Check your sump pump to prepare for spring thaw and potential basement flooding.

  • Replace light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs—especially if you're springing for outdoor fixtures.

Final Tip: Make It a Family Affair Spring cleaning is a great time to involve the whole household. Assign age-appropriate tasks to kids and turn on some music to keep the energy up.