The warmer weather and longer days of spring may inspire us to throw open our windows and admire the blossoming of new life, but they also invite a wave of allergens, pests and home maintenance worries.

“Spring maintenance is less about tackling major renovations and more about refreshing what you already have, both inside and outside your home,” says Cathy Teague, a lifestyle and home experience advisor at KB Home, a home construction company. “A few simple steps now can help prevent costly problems later and make your home feel renewed for the season ahead,” she adds.

This makes spring an ideal time to reassess your cleaning habits and start new home maintenance routines. From tackling the clutter that traps dust to cleaning out your gutters, a spring clean-up can make a meaningful difference in how your home feels.

One of the easiest ways to prep your home for spring is to clean your windows.

“Letting in more sunlight will make your home feel larger and fresher,” explains Marisol Rivera, a cleaning expert and professional organizer at Sparkly Maid Austin.