10 ways to save money on spring cleaning
Spring cleaning can be time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be money-consuming too.
As you set out to renovate, refresh and re-energize your home, use these tips and tricks to save money on your spring cleaning checklist.
Score discounted cleaning supplies
You may already have many cleaning products, but need to make a purchase of other necessities. April is one of the best times to buy a vacuum. We’ve already spotted deals happening at places such as Amazon and Shark.
» MORE:The best vacuums
Rent equipment
If you’ll be using your cleaning supplies only for a limited time, consider renting your equipment. You can rent floor equipment — such as sanders, polishers and carpet cleaners — from home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. Or, when possible, borrow equipment from a friend or neighbor for an even more affordable alternative.
Sell your old stuff
Once you’ve gone through your closet and found more than a few pairs of jeans that no longer fit, make a pile of things you can sell. Consigning your closet is as easy as snapping a pic and listing an item for sale via an app. Some of our favorite apps for selling include ThredUP, Poshmark and Vinted. With these, you can sell (and buy) secondhand clothing and accessories.
Use homemade tricks
The Internet is full of hacks for making homemade cleaning supplies — and even cleaning solutions. Before you buy, try out a homemade trick or two. The folks at Molly Maid, for instance, shared a few of their tips: Clean stainless steel with baby oil, repurpose used dryer sheets as dusting rags, and use charcoal briquettes in your car as a substitute for air fresheners.
Refresh what you already have
In some cases, it doesn’t have to be out with the old and in with the new during spring cleaning season. Rather than buying new decor and supplies, try refreshing what you already have first. Add a stain to that old wooden table. Paint your dresser a bold new color. Updating your existing furniture will cost considerably less than replacing it.
Hold a yard sale (and shop one)
Take all of those clothes and electronics that you’d ordinarily just throw away and hold a yard sale instead. Expect lots of garage sales to pop up this time of the year. After you hold your own, use your earnings to shop someone else’s and get discounted apparel, furniture and more.
Donate to charity
For everything you don’t sell or throw away, make another pile for items to donate. Pick a nonprofit or local charity and give away some of your excess to those in need. Not only will you feel good, but you can also write off your donations on your taxes. Remember to get a receipt of your donation for your records.
Wait to buy new
If your spring cleaning uncovers a major leak, dent or other defect that cannot be fixed, it may be time to invest in some fresh furniture and appliances. But don’t spring for them just yet. If possible, push off your major household purchases until May. We’re likely to see big deals (we’re talking easily 60% off) on home furnishings, mattresses and more over Memorial Day weekend.
Utilize credit card rewards
If you’ll be making any major purchases this spring (or anytime, for that matter), remember to shop with the right credit card. Matching your credit card to the store you’re shopping at or the product you’re purchasing can help you maximize savings and increase potential cash-back rewards. In some instances, you can register your purchase for price protection in the event the price drops after you buy.
Clean up your wallet
Finally, while you’re cleaning everything in your home, don’t forget to clean up your wallet too. This means getting rid of expired coupons, but it can also mean adding new rewards cards. Registering for free loyalty programs — especially from stores you shop at frequently — can help you save big in the long run. The My Best Buy program, for instance, gives members one point for every $1 spent. Points can eventually be redeemed for rewards certificates toward the electronics store.
Need help knowing where to start? Check out our list of the seven best spring apps that can help you do things such as stay on task and find instructions for home improvement projects. Once you create a list of everything you need to get done and decide which chores you can tackle yourself, you’ll be ready to start cleaning — and saving.
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Courtney Jespersen is a staff writer at NerdWallet, a personal finance website. Email: courtney@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @courtneynerd.
This article originally appeared on NerdWallet.