As the flowers bloom and the sun returns to Spokane, Spring Clean Week is the perfect time to celebrate the fresh start of the season and to do our part to keep Downtown Spokane vibrant, welcoming, and clean for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a downtown business owner, we all have a role to play in reducing waste and preserving the charm of our city.

Here are 5 tips for visitors and 5 tips for businesses to help make downtown shine this season.

5 Tips for Downtown Visitors: How to Enjoy Spokane & Leave No Trace
1. Bring a reusable water bottle or coffee cup.
Skip the single-use plastics! Many downtown cafes and coffee shops are happy to fill your reusable containers.

2. Use the recycling and trash bins.
Look for blue and grey bins throughout downtown — these are labeled for recycling and trash. If you’re not sure where to toss something, ask a business or check signs for guidance.

3. Say no to freebies you don’t need.
We all love swag, but take only what you’ll use. Flyers, pamphlets, and freebies often end up in the trash (or worse, on the sidewalk).

4. Dispose of waste responsibly.
Can’t find a bin? Hold onto your trash until you do. Litter left behind not only looks bad, it also harms the Spokane River and local wildlife.

5. Join a clean-up event!
Volunteering for just an hour during Spring Clean Week makes a huge difference. Bring a friend, meet locals, and help beautify downtown.

5 Tips for Downtown Business Owners: How to Support a Clean & Welcoming District

1. Refresh and Maintain Your Storefront
A clean, welcoming exterior encourages foot traffic and shows pride in our shared downtown space. Sweep daily, clean windows, remove litter, and consider adding planters or seasonal displays to brighten the block.

2. Switch to Reusable or Compostable Supplies
Reduce single-use waste by offering compostable containers, utensils, and straws. Encourage customers to bring their own mugs, bags, or containers — and offer small discounts as an incentive.

3. Reduce Packaging Waste
Minimize unnecessary packaging for products and to-go orders. Choose bulk supplies with minimal wrapping and prioritize recyclable or biodegradable materials wherever possible.

4. Work with Sustainable Vendors
Partner with local suppliers and service providers who share your sustainability goals — such as those offering low-waste packaging, locally sourced products, or green-certified services.

5. Track and Share Your Progress
Set measurable sustainability goals, like cutting waste or switching to eco-friendly materials. Celebrate and share your milestones with customers to build engagement and inspire others to follow your lead.

Let’s Keep Spokane Sparkling!
Downtown Spokane is a reflection of all who live, work, and visit here. With just a little effort, we can make a big impact. Let’s work together this Spring Clean Week to protect the beauty, vitality, and sustainability of our city — and keep downtown shining for the season ahead.

Want to get involved? Visit downtownspokane.org to sign up for volunteer events.