Spring is a time of renewal, and for many homeowners, it’s also the perfect season to freshen up spaces and tackle pests. Kristen Little, senior merchant of cleaning, and Edson McLean, senior merchant of Garden Chemicals at The Home Depot, share their expertise and what’s exciting for 2025.
What’s exciting about spring cleaning and garden care in 2025?
Kristen Little: There are some truly innovative cleaning products this spring. I’m especially excited about Crocodile Cloth Fierce and the new 30 Seconds 2X formula. Both products make tackling spring cleaning more efficient and effective. Watermelon Fabuloso is another standout; the scent makes cleaning more enjoyable.
Edson McLean: For garden care, I’m all about the Ortho Groundclear Weed and Grass Killer. It gives visible results in as little as 15 minutes and is OMRI-listed, meaning it can be safely used around organic areas like gardens and lawns. It’s the perfect solution for keeping your outdoor spaces pristine for summer.
What’s a little-known fact about your category that customers should be aware of?
Kristen Little: Cleaning is the only category in the store that every single customer buys somewhere. It’s essential to bring innovation and value to our assortments to help customers save time and get the job done right.
Edson McLean: A fun fact about my category is that the average home contains hundreds of bugs at any given time. If you own a pet, that number increases tenfold! Knowledge like that keeps our job interesting and ensures job security for pest control products.
Any pro tips for homeowners tackling spring cleaning and pest management?
Kristen Little: Make cleaning simple by creating a plan. Use multi-functional products like Ryobi’s new Scrubbing Mop to tackle a variety of tasks with ease. Also, consider HDX Microfiber Roll and 200 Count Trash Bags to keep your home neat and environmentally friendly.
Edson McLean: For garden care, proactive maintenance is key. Start early with weed prevention and ensure you’re using effective, eco-friendly products. Tools like Ortho WeedClear and other targeted pest control solutions will make your job easier as the weather warms up.
How do you see your respective roles making a difference for customers?
Kristen Little: My role is all about making sure we provide products that our customers truly need and that fit seamlessly into their lives. These products help create cleaner, more comfortable environments, which is something every home deserves.
Edson McLean: I see my role as a problem solver for customers. Nearly every person who visits The Home Depot is here to fix something or create something better. It’s my job to make sure we’re offering solutions that are tailored to unique needs.
What motivates you in your work at The Home Depot?
Kristen Little: For me, it’s seeing the difference our products make in our customers’ lives, from hurricane relief efforts to everyday cleaning tasks. Knowing that our solutions bring value and efficiency is a huge motivator.
Edson McLean: I love that no two days are the same in this job. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how the products we curate can transform someone’s home or garden. The opportunity to innovate and simplify lives keeps me engaged and inspired.
