Make May Count: Your Pre-Summer Checklist for Home, Fun, and Fresh Starts

Make May Count: Your Pre-Summer Checklist for Home, Fun, and Fresh Starts

When May rolls around, there’s a certain kind of buzz in the air. It’s not quite summer, but the days are warmer, the flowers are blooming, and everything starts to feel a little lighter. May is the month that quietly prepares us for the fast-paced, sun-soaked days ahead. It’s the perfect time to reset, refresh, and ready your home (and your mindset) before summer arrives in full swing.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you can do in May to make the most of the season’s energy and opportunities. From deep cleaning and home maintenance to fun prep and intentional planning, here’s how to make May count.

1. Why May Matters: The Calm Before the Summer Storm

May is the perfect middle ground. Spring has settled in, but summer hasn’t yet hit full speed. It’s when the pace is still manageable, the days are longer, and you can feel the transition happening. That’s exactly why May is such a powerful month for productivity and preparation.

Whether you’re gearing up for travel, entertaining, home projects, or just trying to stay cool, doing a little extra work now pays off big time in June, July, and August.

Use May as your planning zone. Take stock of what needs refreshing, what needs replacing, and what could use a little attention before you’re fully booked for summer weekends and beach days.

2. Spring Cleaning with a Purpose (Inside and Out)

Forget the generic to-do list. Your May cleaning should be strategic and focused on getting your home ready for summer living:

• Outdoor furniture: Wipe down chairs, tables, and umbrellas. Inspect for wear and consider adding cushions or shade for comfort.

• Grill & gear: Deep clean your grill, sharpen BBQ tools, and stock up on propane or charcoal.

• Garage & sheds: Clear out clutter and make summer gear (like bikes, beach chairs, and sprinklers) easy to access.

• Windows & screens: Clean windows and check screens for tears. Let that May sunshine in!

• Pantry and fridge: Toss expired items, clean shelves, and start making space for summer staples like fresh fruit, popsicles, and cookout condiments.

A fresh, clean space helps you feel more in control and ready for whatever the warmer months bring.

3. Maintenance You’ll Thank Yourself for in July

One of the biggest stress-savers is taking care of home systems and equipment before the heat hits.

Here’s your May maintenance checklist:

• Have your A/C system inspected: Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure everything is running efficiently before summer hits. Change filters, check for airflow, and listen for odd noises.

• Test ceiling fans: Clean the blades and make sure fans are rotating counterclockwise (to push cool air down).

• Inspect your roof & gutters: Look for signs of damage or debris that could cause leaks during summer storms.

• Seal up leaks: Check windows and doors for drafts or gaps where cool air might escape. Caulking and weatherstripping can make a big difference.

4. Fun Finds & Fresh Starts: Organizing for Outdoor Living

Summer fun starts with smart setup. Use May to get organized:

• Set up your outdoor hangout zones: Whether it’s a patio, porch, or patch of lawn, make your space inviting and ready for spontaneous gatherings.

• Create a grab-and-go summer basket: Sunscreen, bug spray, towels, sunglasses, and reusable water bottles all in one easy spot.

• Restock your coolers and tumblers: Make sure your drinkware and ice packs are clean and ready for weekend use.

Even something as simple as designating a bin for beach toys or outdoor games can save time and reduce stress later.

5. Prepping Your Cooling Systems Like a Pro

We touched on this above, but it bears repeating: if your cooling system is on its last leg, now is the time to replace it – not in the middle of a heatwave.

A new installation in May ensures your home stays comfortable when temperatures rise. Plus, some local contractors offer extended warranties or special deals this time of year (wink, wink).

While this isn’t a promo post, we’d be remiss not to remind you that proactive prep leads to a better summer experience.

6. The Family Calendar Flip: Summer Camps, Trips & More

The end of school is just around the corner, and things will get hectic quickly. Use May to:

• Register for summer camps, lessons, or daycare

• Finalize any travel plans or family getaways

• Coordinate summer sports schedules

• Book pet sitters or house sitters early

Getting ahead of the rush helps avoid disappointment or last-minute stress.

7. Don’t Forget to Recharge: Simple Ways to Enjoy May

Amid all the prep and planning, don’t forget that May is beautiful and worthy of enjoyment.

Here are some low-key, high-reward ways to soak up the month:

• Have dinner outside once a week

• Plan a weekend hike or day trip

• Visit a local farmer’s market for seasonal produce

• Take a walk after dinner

• Plant flowers or herbs

These small moments of mindfulness help you transition into summer with energy and intention.

Make May Count – You Deserve a Smooth Summer

May is more than a filler month. It’s your opportunity to align your home, habits, and calendar before the summer whirlwind begins.

By using these few weeks to prep intentionally, you’ll set yourself up for more ease, more fun, and fewer emergencies when the sun is high and the days are long.

Take a deep breath, check off that list, and make May count!