Outdoor Spring Cleaning Guide: Fresh Start for Your Home
The grass is coming back, the trees are budding, and your rake is finally free of cobwebs – it’s time for outdoor spring cleaning! As the Midwest thaws (often mid to late April) and promises warmer days, now is the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your landscaping, clean outside your house, and set the stage for a vibrant, healthy outdoor space.
Declutter & Remove Winter Debris
After a long winter, your outdoor space may be littered with leaves, branches, and remnants of snow. Start by removing any leftover debris, which not only freshens up your space but also minimizes mold growth and pest issues. Clearing these away sets a clean foundation for the rest of your spring cleaning efforts.
Clean and Inspect Gutters
Gutters often collect leaves, twigs, and dirt during the colder months. Cleaning and inspecting them early in the season prevents water damage, ensures proper drainage, and protects your home’s foundation. Make sure your gutters are free-flowing to handle spring rains.
Revitalize Landscaping & Mulching
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your landscaping. Remove any dead or damaged plants, prune budding trees, and replenish your mulch. A fresh layer of mulch not only enhances your garden’s look but also helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weed growth.
Lawn Care & Weed Management
Your lawn begins its awakening in the spring. To ensure a lush, green space:
- Rake away winter debris and leaves.
- Apply pre-emergent herbicides to reduce weed pressure.
- Check for any damage or bare spots and consider light fertilization.
These steps promote healthy grass growth and reduce weed competition as the season advances.

Step Into a New Chapter
Start your next chapter in one of our beautifully crafted homes. Browse our subdivisions and move-in ready homes to see how we turn visions into reality.
Exterior Cleaning: Siding, Windows, and Driveway
Give the exterior of your home a fresh start with a thorough cleaning. Power-wash your siding, scrub windows, and clean the driveway to boost curb appeal. This process prepares your home for any upcoming landscaping projects and highlights its beauty.
Outdoor Furniture & Decor Refresh
Your outdoor living areas deserve attention too! Clean and arrange patio furniture, refresh outdoor cushions, and add new decor to create inviting spaces for spring gatherings and relaxation.
Tips for New Construction Homes
If your new construction home was built during the winter months, you’re starting with a blank slate. At Bear Homes, we’ve seen firsthand how early spring maintenance can transform an undeveloped outdoor area into a welcoming oasis. Once your lawn is established, the creative possibilities are endless. We’re here to see your new home through to fruition—after that, it’s all up to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start spring cleaning outside?
In the Midwest, spring cleaning typically begins in mid to late April once the weather consistently warms and winter debris is cleared.
What does a spring cleaning checklist for the exterior include?
A comprehensive checklist covers decluttering outdoor spaces, cleaning gutters, refreshing landscaping, managing lawn care (raking, weeding, pre-emergent treatments), and cleaning exterior surfaces like siding and windows.
Is spring cleaning necessary?
Yes. Spring cleaning not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also promotes a healthy lawn and garden by reducing mold, pest issues, and weed pressure that can accumulate over winter.
How do I effectively spring clean my yard?
Start by removing winter debris and cleaning gutters, then focus on lawn care by raking and applying pre-emergent herbicides. Finish by cleaning exterior surfaces and refreshing outdoor furniture to complete the process.
When should I perform spring lawn care?
For many Midwest homeowners, spring lawn care should commence in mid to late April—once the grass begins to grow, this is the ideal time to address weeds and promote healthy turf development.
Interested in Building a New Construction Home in SE Wisconsin? Talk with Our Team Today!