Spring Cleaning
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SPRING CLEAN YOUR HOME IN
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Everyone knows spring cleaning
sounds like a great idea. You say you’ll do it, then a few
more weeks go by, then another month, and before we know it
spring cleaning takes a back seat to everything else. By
breaking spring cleaning down into manageable tasks that can
be accomplished over a couple of weekends, you can get the
whole job done without feeling like you’ve missed out on all
the fun. It doesn’t have to feel like drudgery either – put
on some music or listen to an audio book while you work.
Here are 7 ways to make your home feel as fresh and clean as
a spring breeze.
I.
Tackle those windows.
Okay, no one really likes this task, but what a difference
it will make! Windows should be thoroughly cleaned inside
and out – you’ll be amazed how your home will sparkle inside
and out once the dust and dirt are gone. Considering hiring
a professional window cleaning company, especially if you
have a multilevel home. They’ll have the equipment and
experience to do the job safely. If you have screens, now is
the time to wash them and repair any holes or tears. If
screens are completely removable, take them outside and wash
with a scrub brush and mild detergent, then hose off and let
dry in the sun.
II.
Curtain call.
Windows are easiest to clean when the curtains, shades, and
blinds are removed. Use this opportunity to get drapes and
curtains laundered or dry cleaned (check labels first), and
give blinds, shades, and other treatments a good cleaning
and dusting. Some vacuum cleaners have special attachments
that will make cleaning blinds a breeze.
III.
Get all the angles.
Going from room to room, use a long-handled duster to make
quick work of dusting ceilings, moldings, and corners. If
you have ceiling fans, dust the tops and bottoms of the fan
blades and around the motor housing (this is also a great
time to replace light bulbs in fan fixtures).
IV.
Make a grand entrance.
Clean porches, steps, and railings of accumulated dirt and
grime and you’ll have a bright welcome every time you come
home. Replace light bulbs in porch and outdoor fixtures.
While you’re at it, add a colorful potted plant or two to
welcome spring. Keep an eye out for any needed repairs and
make a note to get to them in the weeks ahead.
V.
Under cover.
Gather your heavy winter bedspreads and comforters and have
them cleaned, then store away until cooler weather comes.
Vacuum mattresses and box springs and clean up those dust
bunnies that have hibernated under the bed. Launder mattress
covers, take lighter weight bedding from storage and air out
for a day before using.
VI.
A
better bath. A deep spring cleaning of
fixtures, sinks, tubs, and toilets supplements the everyday
surface cleaning that keeps things looking good. Work from
top to bottom, ceiling to floor, and keep all of your
cleaning products, scrubbing tools, etc. with you in a
bucket so you’ll have everything you need at your side. Use
an old toothbrush to reach into crevices to get things
shipshape, and you won’t have to do it again anytime soon.
Don’t forget to clean bathroom exhaust fans to keep them
working their best.
VII.
Kitchen confidential.
Wrap up your spring cleaning in the kitchen. After regular
use during the colder weather, the stove and oven can likely
use a deep cleaning. Clear countertops of clutter and wipe
down small appliances and cabinets. Wash the walls and
floor, and give the kitchen sink a thorough scrubbing. Now
is also the perfect time to rid your refrigerator of old or
expired items (check those door shelves lately?) and clean
produce bins and shelves following manufacturer’s
instructions. Then reward yourself with a vase of spring
flowers and enjoy your sparkling home! |
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