Spring-Cleaning

We have some helpful tips to assist you with your spring-cleaning this year. So open your windows, crank up your favorite tunes and break out those cleaning supplies for an annual spring-cleaning!

• Make sure to replace your furnace filter(s). This will help reduce your energy bill, as well as improve the airflow throughout the house.
• Replace batteries in all smoke detectors every six months.
• Check expiration dates on all cosmetics, suntan lotion, medicines and other products throughout the house. If it is over a year old, it is time to throw it out.
• Wipe down baseboards since dust is collected quickly here and is often over looked.
• Flip/rotate your mattresses; and while you’re at it, update the bed linens. This gives the room a quick makeover, and it gives a refreshing/relaxed feeling when lying on new sheets.
• Unscrew light bulbs and polish them with a damp microfiber cloth; avoid the metal screw bases. Cleaning your light bulbs will help with the brightness of the lighting throughout your home.

• Once or twice a year your window treatments should be cleaned.
• Wood/faux wood window treatments can be cleaned with wood polish and a dust cloth.
• Vinyl or aluminum window treatments can be cleaned with a noncorrosive cleaner and then dried with a cloth or towel.

• Rotate the ceiling fan blades to spin counterclockwise. During the winter, clockwise is used to help bring heat to the lower levels in the room; for the warmer months, have the blades going counterclockwise so the cooler air is pulled down.
• Don’t forget to dust the blades of the fan as well.

• Throw out any old or outdated food in your refrigerator.
• Combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water to help get those sticky spills and stains off the racks. Use an old toothbrush to help clean off spills, if needed.
• Combine baking soda with warm water to wipe down the interior of your dishwasher. Some newer models may have a “clean” cycle that can be used as well.

• Rent or buy a shampooer/extractor to clean your carpets and rugs.
• Call a professional for cleaning, if your carpets or rugs are made from wool or other valuable/delicate material.
• Open the windows and place a fan near the carpet/rugs to help speed up the drying process.

• Attach a hose to your vacuum cleaner and then use it to clean out the lent tray in the dryer.
• Similar to cleaning the dishwasher, use a cloth and baking soda mixed with warm water to clean the interior of your washer. Newer models may have a “clean” cycle that can also be used.

• Go through your closets and dressers and bag up any clothing you no longer wear.
• Every house has a junk drawer or two. Go through them and get rid of that junk!
• Clean and empty out cluttered garages, attics and basements; then bag up all of these items and donate them to a local charity or have a yard sale.

Spring-cleaning also includes the regular chores throughout the year, such as: vacuuming, dusting, checking/dusting corners for spider webs and cleaning bathrooms. Taking on the task of spring-cleaning will also help you be prepared for your next renovation project! Happy Cleaning!