As the temperatures outside warm up, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. Spring cleaning is that annual ritual where you emerge from your hibernation to tidy up around the house. But where is the best place to get started? Here are some ideas for each area of your home:
The Kitchen – When was the last time you cleaned the oven, wiped down the microwave, or washed out the refrigerator? If you don’t know, it might be time to do so. Also, consider wiping down the kitchen shelves and cabinets, getting rid of any expired food items. Don’t forget the places you can’t see like the cabinets below the sink. While you’re at it, wipe down any smaller appliances you have including blenders and toasters.
Bathrooms – Start with wiping down the drawers, shelves, and cabinets. Throw out any expired medications. Give your shower and tub a thorough cleaning and make sure you hit the fixtures. Check the walls for mold and shower scum. Consider replacing the shower curtain and wipe down the blinds or clean the drapes that cover bathroom windows.
The Living Room – Now is a good time to take down the storm windows you have had all winter and clean the binds or drapes. Be sure to wipe down any art or photographs you have on the wall as these can accumulate dust. Hit your ceiling fan and light fixtures. Don’t forget to wipe down your bookshelves and vacuum or dust the furniture. This might also be a good time to give your carpets and rugs a deep clean. Wipe down smaller appliances like your television and lamps.
Bedrooms – Don’t forget to change the sheets and pillow cases on the beds if you haven’t done that for a while. Wash mattress pads and comforters. Wipe down drawers, shelves, desks, and lamps. Go through your belongings for any unwanted clothing. Consider donating items or having a spring yard sale. Consider giving carpets and rugs in bedrooms a deep cleaning as well.
Dining Room – Wipe down furniture, walls, and ceiling fans. Give windows a wipe down and clean the blinds/drapes. Wipe down any art or photographs on the walls and deep clean carpets and rugs.
Outside the House – Go through and organize your garage, getting rid of items you don’t use anymore. Check to see if mowers, weed whackers, and leaf blowers still work. Wash down the outside of your windows and check to see if your gutters need to be cleared. Get rid of debris around the yard.
Your Emergency Kit – While you’re in the spring cleaning mode, check your emergency kit. Replace any items that you have used or have expired.