Spring cleaning is more than just dusting and decluttering—it’s an opportunity to refresh your home and, potentially, your relationship. However, when couples tackle spring cleaning together, disagreements can arise. One partner may want to declutter aggressively, while the other prefers to hold on to sentimental items. Navigating these differences requires communication, respect, and compromise. Here’s how to make spring cleaning a smooth, team effort.

Start with a Shared Vision

Before diving into cleaning and decluttering, discuss your goals together. Are you trying to free up space? Create a more organized home? Make room for new things? Having a shared vision helps set the foundation for teamwork and ensures you’re on the same page. Start by setting aside time to talk about what you both hope to accomplish. Make a list of priorities together, and agree on what areas you’ll tackle first.

Respect Sentimental Attachments

One of the biggest sources of conflict during spring cleaning is when one partner wants to throw something out that the other finds meaningful. While you may think that old college sweatshirt or stack of books is just clutter, your partner may feel differently. In order to avoid conflict, it is important to change your language and communication style. Instead of saying, “You never use this; just get rid of it,” try, “I’ve noticed you don’t use this much. Do you still want to keep it, or would you feel okay letting it go?” Make sure to allow space for emotions, be patient, and listen to your partner’s perspective. A great compromise can come from suggesting alternatives, such as taking a photo of the item before letting it go.

Compromise on Decluttering Decisions

It’s unlikely you’ll agree on every single item, so compromise is key. Set up some ground rules, such as each person gets a certain number of “non-negotiable” items that they can keep, no questions asked. Or if one partner is unsure about letting go of something, place it in a “maybe” box and revisit it later. Try to find a balance between keeping items that bring joy and making room for a cleaner, more functional space.

Divide and Conquer

Not all cleaning and organizing tasks need to be done together. If you find yourselves arguing over every little thing, try dividing up tasks. Each partner can be in charge of decluttering their own belongings while working together on shared spaces. Start by assigning areas, like one partner tackling the kitchen while the other focuses on the closet. If you prefer different cleaning styles, work separately but on the same schedule. And most importantly: make it fun—turn on music, set a timer, and challenge each other to see who can get more done.

Be Mindful of Tone and Approach

It’s easy to get frustrated when you feel like your partner isn’t decluttering enough or is being too pushy about getting rid of your things. Remember that tone and wording matter. Avoid criticizing such as “You keep too much junk.”, or ordering around like “You have to get rid of this.” Instead, try encouraging with “The way we have set up this space now feels perfect, I would love to keep it this way” or asking “Would you be open to letting go of a few things so we have more space?”

Set Boundaries and Be Fair

If one partner is more minimalist while the other tends to collect things, it’s important to respect each other’s boundaries. Instead of forcing the other person to conform to your cleaning style, find a middle ground. For example, each person gets their own space (such as a shelf or drawer) for personal items they don’t want to part with. If one partner feels overwhelmed by clutter, agree to keep shared spaces more organized while allowing some flexibility in personal areas.

Spring cleaning as a couple isn’t just about tidying up. It’s an exercise in communication, compromise, and teamwork. By approaching the process with mutual respect and a willingness to listen, you can navigate the challenges of decluttering without unnecessary conflict. Remember: The goal isn’t just a cleaner home: it’s a happier, more harmonious living space that reflects both of you. And don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate your hard work! A clutter-free, refreshed home benefits both of you, and working through disagreements together can strengthen your relationship.