Top Spring Cleaning Hacks to Declutter Your Space Beautifully

As the crisp, salty breeze rolls in from the Atlantic and the flowers start to bloom, it’s that time of year again—spring cleaning! Here in the Cape Ann region of coastal New England, we experience the changing seasons in full force, and our homes deserve a refresh to match. Whether you’re a local living in a cozy cottage by the shore or a historic home near Gloucester’s vibrant harbor, spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to declutter, refresh, and reset your space for the season ahead.

Here are some top spring cleaning hacks, with a special focus on the unique coastal charm of Cape Ann homes, to help you achieve a clutter-free, serene environment.

1. Start with the Entryway: Clean Up the First Impression

In coastal New England, we often have a variety of outdoor gear—beach towels, fishing boots, umbrellas, and jackets—that end up cluttering the entryway. Begin your spring cleaning by clearing out any unnecessary items. Create a functional yet stylish mudroom or entry area by using baskets or vintage coastal crates to store things. It’ll keep the space organized and add a touch of nautical charm.
Hack: Use a marine rope hook for coats and hats. It’s functional and brings a subtle nod to the nearby coastline.

2. Embrace the Power of Natural Light: Let the Sunshine In

Cape Ann is known for its stunning natural beauty, and one of the best ways to revitalize your home is to let more of it in. Spring is the perfect time to open windows, clean out dusty blinds, and wash your windows to let the sun shine through. A little extra sunlight can make a world of difference, especially in older homes with lots of charm.
Hack: Use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine. This simple solution helps keep your coastal view looking crystal clear.

3. Declutter the Coastal Collections

Many of us living in Cape Ann have a love for beachcombing, so it’s no surprise that seashells, driftwood, and other ocean-inspired decor can quickly accumulate around the home. While they bring a lot of personality to your space, it’s important to take stock and streamline your collections.
Hack: Select a few of your favorite pieces to display in a tasteful arrangement. Consider using glass apothecary jars to showcase small seashells or sand from your favorite beach. Store the rest in labeled boxes or baskets to keep them organized and accessible for future use.

4. Spring Clean Your Kitchen with a Coastal Twist

In the kitchen, it’s easy to accumulate clutter from pantry items, unused gadgets, and mismatched dishes. Begin by sorting through your pantry and throwing away expired food items. Use coastal-inspired baskets or woven trays to organize your utensils, dishes, and kitchen essentials.
Hack: Install a floating shelf above the counter to store your most-used items in a neat, organized manner. The natural wood will add warmth and texture, a hallmark of Cape Ann’s design style, while also decluttering your countertops.

5. Reorganize Your Bookshelves with a Beachy Theme

Whether you have a collection of maritime novels, coffee table books, or beach-inspired decor, bookshelves often become dumping grounds for various knick-knacks. This spring, take the time to reorganize your shelves by categorizing books by color, size, or genre, and incorporate natural elements like driftwood, sand, or sea glass to bring a coastal vibe to your shelves.
Hack: Stack books horizontally and add small coastal decor elements, like a small lighthouse figurine or a collection of pebbles from a local beach, to create visual interest.

6. Freshen Up Textiles with Light, Breezy Fabrics

In coastal New England homes, soft, breezy fabrics are a must to keep the home feeling light and airy. Spring is the perfect time to swap out heavier throws and blankets for light, linen or cotton options. Be sure to wash all of your throw pillows, slipcovers, and curtains to keep them fresh.
Hack: Use a steam cleaner to refresh your curtains without removing them from the rods. For those with hard-to-reach spots like under your couch, an upholstery attachment can make cleaning your cushions and fabric-covered chairs a breeze.

7. Maximize Storage Space with Clever Solutions

Cape Ann homes, especially historic cottages and seaside retreats, can often have limited storage space. That’s why finding creative storage solutions is key during your spring cleaning. Look for hidden storage opportunities in underutilized areas like beneath the stairs, behind doors, or under your bed.
Hack: Invest in stylish baskets, storage ottomans, or vintage trunks that can double as both functional storage and beautiful decor pieces that complement the coastal aesthetic of your home.

8. Tidy Up the Bathrooms with a Spa-Like Vibe

As the warmer months approach, it’s the perfect time to refresh your bathrooms. Remove old beauty products, outdated toiletries, and anything that’s taking up unnecessary space. Opt for storage solutions that blend with the natural beauty of your Cape Ann home, such as woven baskets or wooden crates.
Hack: Add a few fresh touches like coastal-scented candles, a set of white towels, and a simple sea-glass jar for an instant spa-like atmosphere.

9. Tackle the Garage with Purpose

For many homeowners in Cape Ann, the garage is a catch-all for everything from fishing gear to outdoor tools. Tackle this area by sorting through what you really need and donating or discarding what no longer serves you. Invest in durable shelving units, pegboards, or storage bins to keep your garage organized and ready for those summer projects.
Hack: Label each storage container or bin with its contents, and make sure everything has a designated home. You’ll be surprised how much easier it is to keep this space organized!

10. Don’t Forget the Outdoors: Refresh Your Patio or Porch

Last but not least, spring cleaning isn’t just for indoors. Our coastal New England homes often have beautiful outdoor spaces that need a little TLC after a long winter. Power wash your patio or porch, wipe down furniture, and clean out the outdoor storage shed.
Hack: Add a few coastal-inspired accessories like striped outdoor pillows, woven rugs, and lanterns to create a relaxing space for enjoying the warm Cape Ann evenings.

Spring cleaning is more than just a chore—it’s a way to reset your home for the season ahead, especially in the stunning coastal surroundings of Cape Ann. Whether you’re tidying up your entryway, refreshing your living spaces, or organizing your beach treasures, these simple hacks can help you create a more functional and serene environment. So, roll up your sleeves, open those windows, and enjoy the process of transforming your home into a tidy, coastal-inspired sanctuary for the months to come.

Happy cleaning, and here’s to a beautifully organized spring!