Spring is in the air, which means that it is time to throw open your windows and prepare the traditional spring cleaning. Those two words may inspire groans, as you may look at your dusty house, be unsure of where to start, and throw your hands up while mumbling that you will take care of it tomorrow.

When you are confronted with such a major task, the best thing to do is to break it down into smaller, manageable chunks and clean with the right tools. This will turn spring cleaning from a days-long chore to an easier process which produces better results. Here are some simple ways to accomplish this.

Destroy Dust with the Right Tools

One of the main goals of spring cleaning should be to create an environment which lowers the risk of allergies. And while many of us rightfully worry about pollen, we should not forget that inside the home, dust and dust mites are some of the biggest causes of allergies.

Vacuuming and sweeping can sometimes help, but the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology warns that “symptoms often worsen during or immediately after vacuuming, sweeping and dusting. The process of cleaning can stir up dust particles, making them easier to inhale.” Sweeping in particular is problematic as it often just spreads dust around instead of cleaning it.

Dust cloths, particularly microfiber cloths, are useful for absorbing and holding dust, but I would recommend getting a static duster to use in the living room and the bedroom. A thorough cleaning would go after all the walls and surfaces, while removing all objects from each room so that you do not have to pry into every nook and cranny. But if you lack the time or motivation, your prime targets should be curtains, drapes, and electronics.

Decluttering Time

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to start tossing all the clutter you do not need. Clutter collects dust, and makes you feel helpless as you look at a pile of stuff and feel too afraid to throw it out as you may need it later. According to US News, mental health experts have noted how decluttering can be a major step towards living a healthier lifestyle.

Decluttering is not something which can be handled quickly. Your first step should be to prioritize one room, preferably your bedroom and closet. Clothes are some of the biggest sources of clutter, as almost everyone has that one dress or pair of jeans which they will wear someday or after they slim down a bit. The reality is that you will not wear it. Toss it.

In each room, categorize objects which you want to keep, those which should go in storage, and those which should be thrown out or given to charity. Once you make that decision, do it immediately. Do not decide that you will throw out or donate clutter tomorrow, do it today. Once you make a habit of putting things off, that habit will stick.

Use Green Products

I do not recommend being one of those people who becomes terrified upon hearing the word “chemical,” but there are real advantages towards using certain natural products.

Baking soda is probably the most well-known natural cleaning product as Arm & Hammer proudly lists a few uses, and it is effective for a reason. As a base chemical, baking soda easily absorbs odors because most odors are acidic. The classic baking soda and vinegar combination can cut through grease and dirt, and baking soda’s abrasive qualities help it dislodge particles and stains.

You can combine baking soda with various combinations of vinegar, water, and lemon to create a cleaning solution for your bathroom and kitchen which will work just as well and be less dangerous than other cleaning products. As another natural solution, consider taking the time to spruce your home up with plants like aloe vera which can help keep your air clean. This should be part of an overall eco-home strategy which includes installing solar panels. Considering this is encouraged by the federal government through tax breaks, it’s well worth pursuing. You can learn more about these and other tax saving tips on the internet.

Don’t Forget your Electronics

When we consider how much time most of us (including myself) waste staring at screens, spring cleaning should focus on cleaning those devices as well. Dust can be a nuisance in the home, but it can outright affect various devices’ ability to function.

Smartphones and tablets can be wiped down with a solution of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water. Lightly spray your device with the solution and wipe it down with a cloth. Computer keyboards should be cleaned with a can of compressed air you can find at any electronics store.

While you are cleaning your devices, this may be a good time to take the time to delete any unwanted files or apps, as those things are clutter as well. If you have not used a program in at least two months, you should delete it.