For many, springtime and warmer temperatures seems to inspire to-do lists that feature many cleaning tasks, from clearing out closets to doing a deep sanitizing of the entire home.
Who doesn’t love walking into a clean home at the end of the day?
It’s time to open the windows, let in some fresh air (before the pollen sets in) and shake off the winter doldrums.
If you’ve been thinking about it, you’re not alone. The fourth Sunday in March kicks off National Cleaning Week and it’s the perfect motivation to jump in and clean, clean, clean.
Where to start?
Here’s some checklists for cleaning your home, and to help you get started.
If you dread deep cleaning like most people, it may be hard to think of where to begin. Don’t try to tackle the whole house in one day. If you set the goal of doing everything at once, you may feel overwhelmed and decide not to do it at all. So, why not start with the least favorite room or area first and go from there.
Many experts say start with dusting.
Just about every surface in your home collects dust and allergens, even the fabrics and soft things like sofa cushions. Ever walk into a sunny room and see little particles floating in the beam of sunshine from your favorite chair? Yep! Dust.
Grab a cloth or duster, and some of your favorite cleaner (or, make your own cleaner). Start high and work your way down.
Get light fixtures, ceiling fan blades, etc. The dust will land on the smaller items in the room. Then, move to shelves, knick knacks, etc. Lastly, vacuum the soft surfaces and then the floor or carpet. Step back and inhale.
Nice, right?
Repeat this with each room in your home. Top to bottom. Don’t forget curtains and the tops of doors. Run the vacuum brush attachment over your air vents, too.
The bathroom and kitchen are also considered the two least-favorite rooms in the home because of germs, build up and all the surfaces that require attention. When was the last time you looked behind your toilet? We don’t judge. It’s one of the most overlooked places in the home.
If you’re not able to clean on your own, there are local cleaning companies and possibly even a neighbor or two who may want to help. You could possibly even make it a cleaning party – invite your friends for support.
After you are done, sit back and enjoy your clean and fresh home.