6 things people with clean sunrooms always do – expert tips to make the most of your sunroom this spring

As spring arrives and the sun shines longer each day, sunrooms become the perfect spot to relax and bask in natural light. But with all that exposure to the outdoors, these spaces can quickly gather dust, pollen, and humidity-related issues.

People with spotless sunrooms follow a few key habits to keep their space fresh, bright, and inviting all season long.

From dusting the tracks to rotating fabrics, these top cleaning tips will have your sunroom sparkling all season.

1. Clean windows often

Since windows make up most of a sunroom, streaks, dust, and grime can quickly make the space feel dull and unkempt.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Sunrooms rely on natural light, but dust, pollen, and grime can quickly dull windows and screens, making the space feel less bright and airy.

'People with clean sunrooms typically use a streak-free glass cleaner or a DIY vinegar-and-water solution for windows. For screens, remove them and gently scrub with soapy water, rinsing thoroughly before reinstalling.'

Toner recommends 30 Seconds Outdoor Window & Screen Concentrated Cleaner for Glass, which is available from Amazon. It's safe for use around plants, so you can use it on your exterior glass with peace of mind.

Our light-filled sunroom ideas that bring the outdoors in all rely on clean windows. Regularly wiping down both the interior and exterior glass ensures maximum light flow and a crystal-clear view.

2. Keep tracks clear

Window and door tracks collect dust, dirt, and even small debris that can affect air quality, as well as how smoothly they open and close.

Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, says, 'It's no secret that sunrooms attract a lot of dust and pollen, as these can build up quickly due to the open-air exposure.

'To avoid this, dust the window and door frames – and along baseboards – every few days, as well as wiping down surfaces like tables, furniture and window sills.'

Using the right tools, such as a Damp Duster from Amazon, is among the key tricks for keeping dust at bay, and a quick vacuum is another great option. The Loheer Handheld Cordless Vacuum from Walmart is lightweight yet powerful, and has all the brushes and nozzles you need to get at tricky corners.

3. Keep floors debris-free

Since sunrooms are usually connected to a home's outdoor spaces, dirt, leaves, and pollen are easily tracked inside. Regular sweeping or vacuuming prevents buildup, especially during peak pollen season.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'I advise using a broom or vacuum weekly, and mopping once a month. For vinyl or tiled surfaces, you want Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner, available in a pack of two from Amazon.'

For hardwood floors, opt for a wood-safe solution such as Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner from Walmart, which is free of ammonia or parabens.

Adding a doormat at the entrance and encouraging guests to remove their shoes can also help keep floors cleaner for longer.

4. Refresh and rotate fabrics

Cushions, rugs, and curtains in sunrooms are more exposed to direct sunlight, which can lead to fading and fabric wear over time.

Toner says, 'Sunlight fades and wears out cushions, rugs, and curtains over time. Dust and allergens also build up in fabric materials. Rotate cushions and wash removable covers frequently. Use UV-resistant fabrics or sprays to prevent fading, and consider swapping in lighter, breathable textiles for spring.'

Though knowing how to wash couch cushions is important, it's the aftercare, that ensures that consistently fresh look.

5. Control humidity

With all the natural light, sunrooms can become humid, leading to condensation, mold, and even damage to furniture.

Ye says, 'High humidity creates mold and mildew, which breaks down the sunroom's construction and harms its air quality. To keep humidity at a healthy level, install a high-quality dehumidifier and set it to a level of around 30-50%, which should keep good airflow through the room.'

Adding humidity-absorbing plants, like ferns or peace lilies, can also help maintain a balanced environment while enhancing the space’s aesthetic.

6. Keep it clutter-free

A sunroom should feel like a light, airy retreat, and clutter can quickly disrupt that atmosphere.

Toner says, 'Sunrooms should feel open and relaxing, but excess items can make the space look messy. I advise using decorative yet functional storage solutions to keep books, plants, and accessories neatly arranged – and to store seasonal items in baskets or cabinets.'

People with tidy sunrooms make a habit of limiting unnecessary decor and keeping surfaces clear. Adding your sunroom to your decluttering schedule can help you reap the rewards of a clutter-free space meant for relaxation.

Meet the experts

Karina Toner

With extensive contributions in Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, The Spruce, and many more, professional cleaner Karina has extensive knowledge of both commercial and residential cleaning.

Lina DaSilva

Lina DaSilva is the founder of the award-winning Toronto Shine Cleaning. With over five years of industry experience, she specializes in residential cleaning and home organization.

Wells Ye

Wells Ye is founder of cleaning company, Fresh Tech Maid, which has been sprucing American homes for 25 years. The company's trusted technicians complete a rigorous 10-step evaluation process to ensure exemplary service.

FAQs

How do I prevent my sunroom getting too hot in the summer?

Being in direct sunlight all day is one of the key reasons your home feels hot. But though sunrooms can quickly overheat, using light-filtering curtains, UV-blocking window film, or retractable shades can help.

Installing a ceiling fan or keeping windows open for ventilation can improve airflow and keep temperatures comfortable. Some homeowners also use tinted glass or exterior awnings to reduce heat buildup.

How can I keep bugs out of my sunroom?

Ensuring all screens are intact and properly fitted can prevent insects from sneaking inside. Regularly cleaning window and door seals and using natural repellents bugs hate, such as citronella candles or essential oils, can also help deter pests.

If bugs persist, adding a fine mesh screen door can provide extra protection while still allowing fresh air to flow through.

What's the best way to clean sunroom furniture?

For fabric cushions, vacuuming regularly and spot-cleaning with a mild detergent can help maintain their freshness. Just be sure to learn how to vacuum furniture without damaging upholstery.

Wicker or rattan furniture benefits from a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth, while metal or glass surfaces can be cleaned with a basic all-purpose cleaner. To protect outdoor-friendly furniture, applying a UV-resistant spray can help prevent fading and weather damage over time.

So there you have it – six things people with clean sunrooms always do. As the weather warms up, your sunroom can become a favorite spot to relax – but only if it's clean and well-maintained. With a little effort, your sunroom can remain bright, welcoming, and clutter-free all year long.

This is the perfect time for learning the things people with nice-smelling sunrooms always do.