When winter melts into spring, it’s time to shed a few layers in the house as well. Spring cleaning is no fun for anyone, but the entire household will feel a lot better once it’s done. Here are a few tips to remember to get you started on the right track and keep the tasks simple.
1. Assemble your tools for the job. Before you begin anything, make sure that you have all the supplies. The usual cleaning supplies include: broom, mop, dusting cloths, disinfectant cleaner, bathroom cleaner, bucket, gloves, mask, and vacuum cleaner.
2. Pick a room. If you have no place in particular to start, the job will get stressful really quick. With a room in mind, you can get down to business. For example, if you start in the kitchen, stay there. Don’t walk through and pick up papers in the living room while the dishwasher is running.
3. When you dust a room, dust before you vacuum. If you vacuum the floor first you will just have to vacuum again once the dusting is finished. Use a damp cloth to dust bookshelves and walls. A duster with an extension arm will clean ceiling fan blades and window blinds.
4. Remember to start at the top and work your way down. This method keeps you from having to revisit areas of the room that have already been cleaned. Clear cobwebs from the ceilings and the walls.
5. Use a mop with a wringing mechanism. This type of mop will put less strain on your back especially if you have a lot of flooring. To avoid a load of bubbles on your mop head, add the floor cleaner to a bucket of water and not directly to the floor itself.
6. Clean windows and mirrors last. Vacuuming and dusting can throw tiny dust particles in the air that can cling to your still drying windows and mirrors. When you clean them, apply the window cleaner to a cloth and not to the window or mirror. If you are concerned about chemicals, use a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1) in a spray bottle.
7. Save repairs until the cleaning is complete. Even small repairs can take more time than anticipated and throw off the rest of the spring cleaning you need to do. Once all of the major work is finished, then other concerns can command your attention.
Spring cleaning is a right of passage for your home. Getting rid of winter’s clutter can also keep spring allergies at bay at least as far as your home is concerned. Start with a checklist of what needs to be done and mark off each room as it is completed.
Grab your Mom’s Talk Guide to Organizing Your Life – Step-by-step guide to getting organized, increasing your free time and having way less stress.
About Kelly
