Now let’s be sure to say this from the start — we absolutely love our winter out here in the Durango area. Skiing is something we wait for the whole rest of the year. Snowshoeing through the great outdoors is a sublime pastime that is perfect for hikers and nature lovers. We love getting our fireplaces going for cozy, lazy winter days and nights spent listening to the crackle and watching the flames lick the logs.

But springtime isn’t too shabby either! Durango comes alive right around every vernal equinox with beautiful wildflowers flourishing, the return of hibernating critters, and the sounds of streams melting back into their regular flow. Warm weather brings back the circle of life, and folks find new reasons to get outside and enjoy everything Durango has to offer — except the snow!

What we also know about the coming of spring in the Durango area is that it’s not just about the great outdoors. Our great indoors need some attention as well. Spring cleaning isn’t just a necessity in this corner of Southwest Colorado — it’s a pleasure.

Because when you do it right, you can enhance the already elevated lifestyle and luxury we enjoy here throughout the year. Sure, it takes a little effort, but once you get it all done, you will be happier for it. And don’t be surprised if your entire community gets in on the action.

Here are some great spring cleaning tips for Durango residents.

Let the Sun Shine In

If you enjoy living in the Durango area, part of the reason is almost certainly what you’re seeing out your windows — whether you’re looking at the lovely La Plata Mountains, the sprawling groves of pine trees, or even the downtown area.

Whatever the case may be, springtime is the time to clean your windows. Blizzards can do a number on glass, piling on grime and clouding that perfect view outside. Now that all those piercing winds are gone, it’s time to clarify things and let that sun come on in!

Cleanliness for Sanity and Sanitation

Now that the days are getting longer, you want to start thinking about getting out of the gloom and bouncing back to life. While we all enjoy the winter skiing season, the long nights can leave us longing for spring’s shining light. It’s been proven that more sunlight leads to mental well-being — and so does a good spring cleaning.

Deep cleaning can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Sweeping away allergens and dust can help you breathe better and feel better. Decluttering can lead to a calmer state of mind. And addressing high-touch items like light switches and doorknobs can even deter disease transmission. Spring is the perfect time to get back into wellness, and a good cleaning is a great way to kickstart it.

Where There’s Smoke

Now that the winter chill has left the air, it’s a no-brainer that you no longer need to get the fireplace going. The thing is, all that smoke creates thick clogs of soot you will almost certainly smell if you don’t address it. Not only that, you want the fireplace prepped and ready to go on the first cold day of the year, so clean it out and have it ready.

But it’s not just the inside that needs a good fire-related cleaning. Check out your property for overgrowth and scrub that could be cut back. By clearing out some of the dead and encroaching vegetation from your home’s proximity, you can spare it any potential fire damage in the warmer months. Employ the same fire-prevention practices you would at a campfire site.

Getting Rid of Gear

Ready to free up some storage space in your Colorado home? Whether you’re looking at old skis or books you’ll never read again, it’s time to clear out some of your stuff. You can give it to charity or give it away; just declutter those areas for peace of mind. Spring is the perfect time for a spatial reset.