Spring Cleaning

As we approach the end of February, March is just around the corner, bringing spring with it.  So it is time to start your spring cleaning.  My first suggestion to you is not to get overwhelmed with the thought of spring cleaning.  Here are a few tips and suggestions for spring cleaning.  Preparing for Spring Cleaning:

Prepare a spring cleaning checklist:

• Determine your priority
• Break down the list into small manageable sections
• Lump like items together (i.e. while you have the vacuum out to vacuum the carpets, change the attachment to clean the ceiling fan)

 The Kitchen

• Empty everything out the refrigerator and the freezer.
• Vacuum under the fridge, around the coils and behind the grill.
• Wash all the shelves and trays (TIP:  line the shelves with vinyl placemats, to catch spills in the future:
• Wipe down all of the seals around the doors (TIP:  inspect seal to make sure door is sealed tight, place a dollar bill in door when closing and if it stays, you have a tight seal, if it does not, time to replace the seal).
• Clean the inside of the microwave.  TIP: ~  To make the cleaning easier…Heat up a cup of water and a half of lemon for a couple of minutes to build up some steam first.
• Clean out the all catching junk draw(s).  If you are like me you have several junk draws in your kitchen.  Time to take that space back.
• Wash windows and window seals.
• Wipe down base boards and walls.

The Bedroom

• Clean out the closets.  Be realistic…if you have not worn it in a few years, you probably will not. Take everything out of the closet and thoroughly vacuum the far corners.
• Flip over and turn your mattress. Vacuum the mattress and spray with febreeze.  Move the bed frame out of the way and vacuum or dust under it.  
• Take the comforter or bedspread to the cleaners or wash if your machine is big enough.
• Throw out all those old or broken toys your kids have not played with in years.
• Get cedar blocks keep the moths away and things smelling fresh.
• Clean out the chest of draws.  Following the purging you did for the closets.
• Wash windows and window seals, clean ceiling fan and wipe down the walls and base boards.

The Bathroom

• Remove all items from draws and cabinets.  Discard any products that you will not use or just do not fit your need anymore.
• Discard old worn towels, wash cloths and hand/face towels (TIP:  These items can be used to clean your car).
• Deep scrub tub, sink and toilet. Making sure your wash the outside and around the bottom of the toilet.
• Wash window and mirror.
• Replace shower curtain and floor mates to update the bathroom a little.

The Rest

• Dust and wipe down all of the rest of the ceiling fans in house.
• Remove the screens down, hose them off outside and wipe them down with warm soap and water.
• Wash storm doors inside and out.
• Dust lampshades.
• Remove all of the cushions and pillows from your couch and chairs and vacuum this out.  You might even find some money!
• Clean your windows inside and out.
• Wipe down the tops of all door frames.
• Test all of your fire alarms and change the batteries if needed.
• Change the filters on your air conditioner.
• Get new entry mats at every entrance.
• Use a magic eraser to get scuff marks off of walls.

Reminders:

• Start at the top and work your way down.  Vacuum the dust that has settled from your marathon dusting session.
• Donate anything you do not want or cannot use.  (TIP:  If you are saving items for a yard sale, make sure you have your yard sale within 2 weeks of your cleaning). 
• If you come across items you have not seen in years or forgot you had…chances are you do not need it.

Clean home is a healthy house.  Once your house is clean, you can breathe easier, literally.