Spring is here! The sun is shining, birds are chirping and the feeling of summer is near. What better time to clean out those closets!? Most people have a few items in their closets that are a bit too small or maybe even a bit too big and there are things you might have just purchased but now realise they really aren't your style.

Maybe you've refurnished your home and are looking to get rid of some furniture that is still in pretty good condition but you don't know where to take it.

Spring cleaning is a task that most people do not look forward to -- especially in Bermuda where mould and mildew thrive.

You cringe at the thought of tackling the closet or cleaning light fixtures, cabinets, especially windows. And your house could also use a fresh coat of paint.

The key: set aside a particular weekend and make it a family affair or, get someone else to do it Some of the Island's cleaning companies offer a few tips on how to get your home in tip-top shape.

Chief executive officer of Just Cleaners, Greg Roberts, said the company gets general cleaning calls from husbands and wives who are working and just don't have the time to do their own cleaning.

"The secret really is if they maintain the cleaning it doesn't become such a chore. What generally happens is that when they call us it is always at the last minute when cleaning is a major job,'' Mr. Roberts said.

He added: "Mildew is really a problem in Bermuda because of the humidity and the secret is if you have any spills get them cleaned up as soon as possible.

"Most houses are not air conditioned so people keep windows open which creates dust. Most people right now are wanting to get their windows clean for Easter and a good secret for window cleaning is warm water and dish detergent.

"If you have a squeegy that makes cleaning faster and dish detergent allows the rubber squeegy to glide over the glass much easier reducing the streaks.

People feel that, especially coming into spring, if the windows are clean the rest of the house looks clean.'' Mr. Roberts also said that when cleaning a carpet, people make the mistake of "rubbing it in instead of pressing it out with a white towel''.

"If it is a protein stain and it dries, eventually you will see a brown spot which creates a mildew problem.'' Mr. Robert's final advise: "The real bottom line is try to walk your dog regularly!'' A spokesperson for Island Cleaning Services and Molly Maid said people should clean left to right and top to bottom because it's systematic that way. And "you won't leave anything out. You also do the floors and carpets last because you put all the dust on the floor.'' He added: "Make sure you use the right product for the right thing and get away from things that are toxic and acid based.

"Having a business come and clean your home is a lot cheaper than you think and worry free -- people will tell us what they want done and we do it. If they are not happy with the end product we'll clean it again.'' After doing your spring cleaning and if you have a pile of "good quality'' items you wish to give away there are several thrift stores on the Island that will welcome all sorts of clothing and household items.

The Barn on Devon Springs Lane, Devonshire takes men's, women's and children's clothing and household appliances but they have to be in "very good condition. Appliances also have to be in working order,'' volunteer Mary Morris said.

She added: "We get some things that are not sellable or items that don't work, those are the things we do not need.

"We also take bed linens, cushions, place mats, shower curtains -- all those things provided they are in good condition and they get sold for a moderate price.

"We also take small babies items along with books, luggage, handbags, hats, shoes, children's toys, games, puzzles and we also have a big brick or brick area with china, glasses, silver wear, ornaments, vases, trays, frames, etc.

and school uniform socks.'' The money made from The Barn goes to the Hospital Auxiliary of Bermuda. Drop off days are Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sale days are Thursday through Saturday.

The Bargain Box on Serpentine Road also takes dishes and men's, women's and children's clothing.

They also accept linens, small pieces of furniture, china, costume jewellry and other knick knacks that are in good condition. Money received from the sale of items from the Bargain Box goes to the Committee of 25 in aid of physically challenged children.

Drop off days are Mondays, Tuesday, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Those of you who are looking to get rid of some "designer quality'' clothes can also go to Back on the Rack in Paget.

Owner Margo Dalpoggetto said the clothes and accessories she accepts do not have to be designer labels but "they have to be of quality and in superb condition. They have to be in new condition.'' She added: "I mainly deal with ladies clothing and accessories of all kind, shoes, underwear if new. The clothes must be marketable and in style.''