Spring has sprung and now you have the urge to sweep up every dust bunny and sort the clutter piled in your room. This feeling is not new to modern society. In the 19th century, families spent the cold months inside, inhaling piles of soot, dirt, and dust from the winter, giving them an excuse to clean during the spring.

If you’re having trouble staying productive and need to regain the motivation you once had before the winter season, tidying your home is a routine that can help. Giving away items that no longer hold value in your life can open up your mind and let you appreciate other areas you may have been ignoring.

Researchers at Philadelphia’s Chester County Hospital, have learned that some of the 77% of Americans who suffer from symptoms of stress could find some relief from decluttering. Researchers from Acenda Health have also found that people living in tidier homes tend to be in better health than those who live in messier environments.

Although winter snow melts away, dust doesn’t, and spring, and the pollen that comes with it, is approaching. In a messy home, your physical and mental health can suffer because of these lingering particles. Cleaning is not just a chore to complete before guests come over – it’s self-care.

Are you ready to start your own spring cleaning? Here is a step by step guide. Have a vision for what you want to complete, turn on some music and get ready to begin.

1. Clear everything out — and this means everything — off of shelves, desks, and all other surfaces, then place them on the floor. Spray down everything with vinegar then use a cloth or duster to wipe away any stains and dust.

2. Begin sorting everything you took off the shelves. Label a box for donations and another for trash. For items that do not go into those boxes, organize them into piles such as stationery or trinkets. Now put everything away where it belongs.

3. Check your goals and see if you’ve accomplished everything that you wanted. Is there a pet cage you still have to wipe down? Maybe your plants need to be watered. Whatever it might be, complete it now.

4. Vacuum or sweep the floors with a broom. Clean up all the dust and debris you just cleared off those shelves. If you’re cleaning on hard floors, consider mopping them down too.

5. Repeat this process if you have other rooms to clean. Be sure to rest before you tackle another room; cleaning can be draining, and it can be beneficial to take breaks.