While spring is still officially several weeks away, now is a great time to get a jump on cleaning projects to prepare your home for the warmer months ahead…especially if you're putting your home on the market in the coming months.

Tackling these larger, more cumbersome cleaning projects now will help you focus on lighter, more enjoyable spring cleaning projects down the road…and get you out of the house and enjoying the fresh air!

Clean the drapes and curtains. While your winter window coverings are still up, get your spring curtains cleaned and ready to go, whether that means simply popping them in the washing machine or taking them to the cleaners.

Get outdoor cushions ready. As soon as the first nice day arrives, you'll want to take advantage of it by heading out to your deck or porch. With that in mind, take care of cleaning or washing your outdoor furniture cushions now. Then tuck them away in a closet so they're ready as soon as the weather's ready.

Prep the grill. If you haven't been using your outdoor grill throughout the winter, take some time now to get it ready for warmer weather. Investigate to see if it needs any repairs or new parts, then take the necessary time to thoroughly clean the grill racks and other components. This will help you avoid the disappointment of an unusable grill when that first nice day for outdoor dining arrives. 

Wash the windows. If the threat of a big winter storm has passed in your area, then go ahead and tackle one of the most time- and labor-intensive chores, cleaning the windows. A cloudy day is the optimal time to tackle windows, and be sure to use a streak-free solution, either store bought or a homemade recipe, such as equal parts white vinegar and hot water.

Start tackling the yard. You'll be way ahead of the game for planting season if you take some time for yard clean-up now. Get rid of twigs and branches littering the lawn and garden beds, and rake away any remaining leaves. You may even have some weeds starting to come up—do away with them now while they're still small and manageable. While you're outside, take the opportunity to clean out your gutters as well. 

Taking the above steps now will make spring cleaning less time-consuming and overwhelming by the time nicer days come around, giving you and your family more time to enjoy the change of seasons.