Soul Cleaning

For those who subscribe to “voluntary simplicity”--a 1990s concept--spring cleaning means more than washing windows. It’s ending possession obsession. Sarah Jacobson, a board member for the Glendale-based nonprofit Seeds of Simplicity, says simplicity can create a more satisfying life and a more environmentally sustainable future. “To me, spring cleaning is taking a look at your life, what works, what doesn’t . . . and getting rid of all the superfluous crap.” Information is available on the Internet at www.slnet.com

Tidy Up: House-cleaning services normally see more business at this time of year. But Theda Hogue, co-owner of Special Touch Cleaning Service in North Hills, expects an even bigger boom because of El Nino-related messes, such as muddy carpets and splattered windows. “People like to do a heavy-duty spring cleaning and they utilize professional services,” she said. “I’m already starting to feel it. I ran out of crews this week.”

Put It Away: Brian McDermott, above, has been in the closet organization business for 12 years. His company, Discount Clozet, recently turned a house on Shoup Street in West Hills into a neatnik’s paradise to show how the proper shelves can make a big difference.

Give It Away: Spring cleaning means more charitable donations as people empty their closets, said Dawn Marks, spokeswoman for the Salvation Army, which has 15 drop-off sites in the Valley. The organization will pick up larger items. Call (800) 95-TRUCK.