5 spring cleaning tips that make Birmingham better

As spring rolls in, it’s a great time to tidy up your space, your schedule and even your city. The good news: spring cleaning is way more fun when it’s local, purposeful and a little adventurous. From local donation spots to ways to freshen your home and mind, here are a few ways to make Birmingham sparkle this season.

1. Declutter your closet

Been hiding from what’s lurking behind that closet door? Spring is the perfect time to conquer your fears, turn that knob, and learn to let things go—like those three waffle irons you never use or the box of mystery cables you’re convinced might be important someday.

Let someone else put your unused items to good use. Here are a few ideas on what and where you can donate your closet finds around Birmingham:

• Animal shelters + rescues—donate blankets, unopened food and gently-used items
• Public Libraries—donate gently-used books, magazines, puzzles + games
• Thrift stores—gently-used clothing, shoes, accessories, books, toys + small furniture

Pro tip: Call ahead! Don’t let your generosity turn into a game of “Will they take this?”

2. Purge your pantry

Been side-eyeing that unmarked can since the last Birmingham snow day? Consider this your sign to say goodbye—and hello to a calmer kitchen.

Even a few cans can make a big difference, plus you might just see your pantry floor again. Just make sure anything you donate hasn’t expired. 

Local spots to donate canned and nonperishable items range from food banks to local churches and community centers.

3. Detox your mind + try something new

Dusting shelves is great, but what about dusting off your brain? Spring cleaning is about self-care, and what better way to feel your beset than by trying something new like a local class or hobby?

There are tons offered around the Greater Birmingham Area, whether you’re interested in art and ceramics or pickleball and rock climbing.

Here are 30 hobbies to try in Birmingham.

4. Volunteer + beautify Birmingham

Who needs a gym when picking up litter counts as cardio? Not only is it a solid excuse to get your heart rate up and enjoy some fresh air, but you’ll also feel good doing some environmental good around our city.

Here are a few cleanup + recycling events to check out this spring:

• Ruffner Mountain Garden Workday
  • What: Lace up those work boots for a hands-on day tending to Ruffner Mountain’s native habitat gardens. You’ll learn how to identify native plants, weeds and more—while giving back to the community in a meaningful way. Note: Wear protective clothing and bring a water bottle, gloves and pruners. 
  • When: Thurs, Mar 12 | 9AM–12PM
  • Where: Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
  • Details

• Electronic Drop-Off and On-Site Paper Shredding:
  • What: Looking to clean out that clutter? Do it the safe way at this event that lets you recycle old electronics and shred sensitive documents on-site for free. 
  • When: Sat, Mar 14 | 9–11:30AM
  • Where: Jefferson County Village Water Reclamation Facility 
  • Details

• Birmingham Litter Cleanup – Black Warrior Riverkeeper + All Saints UMC
  • What: Get outside and give the Black Warrior some love! Black Warrior Riverkeeper and All Saints UMC are joining forces to clean up our local waterways and watershed. Grab your family and friends and show your support. Note: Wear comfortable clothing, preferably long pants + closed-toed shoes and bring water.
  • When: Sun, Mar 15 | 1-3PM
  • Where: Tom Bradford Park
  • Details

5. Hire local cleaning experts + support local

Some things are just too big, dusty, or awkward to handle solo—and that’s okay! Support Birmingham’s small businesses by hiring local pros for deep scrubs, carpet refreshes, or finally tackling that dreaded garage or basement.

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore! Keep it fun, social and local, and give a little back to Birmingham.

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