Spring in Reno arrives in fits and starts. A warm week in March can be followed by snow in April, and late frosts are common enough that many local gardeners hold off on tender plants until mid May. The same patience applies to spring cleaning: start inside early, and save the windows and outdoor work for when the weather settles.
What winter leaves behind in a Reno house is mostly dust, grit, and residue: de-icer tracked in from the driveway, furnace dust on every surface, wood smoke film if you burn, and a static-charged layer of lint and pet hair. Here is a plan for clearing it in an order that makes sense here.
Early spring: start inside
- Entryways first. Wash the entry mats, scrub the white de-icer film from tile and wood near the doors, and clean the bottoms of doors and the baseboards beside them.
- Furnace season dust. Replace the HVAC filter, vacuum supply vents and return grilles, and wipe the wall and ceiling just above vents, where dust streaks build up.
- Wood smoke residue. If you have a fireplace or wood stove, wash the glass door, wipe the mantel and nearby walls, and clean the hearth. Book the chimney sweep for after burning season ends.
- Humidifiers. Clean them thoroughly before storing, and let them dry completely so nothing grows inside over the summer.
- Soft surfaces. Wash curtains, throws, and pillow covers, and vacuum upholstery and mattresses.
Mid to late spring: windows and outdoors
- Wash windows and screens on a calm day. Afternoon wind will dust wet glass all over again, and mornings are usually calmer.
- Vacuum window and slider tracks thoroughly, then wipe them with a damp cloth.
- Sweep and wash the patio and outdoor furniture. A bucket and brush use far less water than a hose.
- Clear dead leaves and debris from window wells, gutters, and along the foundation.
Before the first hot day: cooling
If your home has an evaporative cooler:
- Uncover it and open the vent you closed for winter.
- Clean the reservoir, and replace or clean the pads.
- Check the water line, float, and pump. If you are not comfortable working on the roof, have a professional do it.
If you have central air, have it serviced and start the season with a fresh filter.
Get ready for smoke season
Spring is the calm before summer fire season, which makes it the time to prepare:
- Buy spare HVAC filters, ideally the highest MERV rating your system is designed to handle.
- Make sure your portable HEPA air cleaner works, and replace its filter if it is due.
- Check the weatherstripping on doors and windows, which keeps out both dust and smoke.
- Bookmark where to check air quality: AirNow.gov and the Washoe County Health District.
Kitchen and pantry
- Empty the pantry, wipe the shelves, and toss anything expired.
- Pull out the refrigerator, vacuum the coils, and clean underneath.
- Descale the coffee maker, kettle, and dishwasher, which collect mineral film over the winter.
- Degrease the range hood filter.
Declutter as you go
Spring is a natural time to go through closets and the garage. Before you donate, check what the organization accepts, and take electronics and batteries to a proper recycling drop-off rather than the trash.
Reno spring cleaning questions
When should I do spring cleaning in Reno, NV?
Start the indoor work in March or April, as the furnace runs less. Save windows, screens, and outdoor cleaning for mid to late spring, once the chance of late snow has passed, and do it in the morning, before afternoon winds pick up.
How do I remove wood smoke residue from walls?
Start with a dry soot sponge or a dry microfiber cloth to lift loose residue, then wash with warm water and a mild dish soap, working from the bottom of the wall up to avoid streaks, and rinse. Test a hidden spot first on flat or matte paint.
How do I get a swamp cooler ready for summer?
Remove the cover and open the winter vent, clean the reservoir, replace or clean the pads, and check the water line, float, and pump before the first hot day. If you are not comfortable on the roof, have a professional do it.
What should I do in spring to prepare for wildfire smoke?
Stock spare HVAC filters rated as high as your system allows, test or refilter a portable HEPA air cleaner, check door and window weatherstripping, and bookmark AirNow.gov and the Washoe County Health District air quality page.