Spring Cleaning
Grab a bag, walk through your house and clean out the clutter! Get rid of any items collecting dust and either donate it or toss it in the trash. Once you have rid your home of all the junk, its time for some deep spring cleaning. Eliminate those cobwebs and dust that have built up over the past few months and get your home sparking clean again!1. Open Windows
Opening your windows will help rid your home of toxins built up from cleaners, heating and cooking trapped inside during the colder winter months. You will eliminate any of the stale, stuffy air and that burst of sunlight will get you energized to start cleaning. Note that if you have allergies you will want to check your outdoor air ratings to avoid triggering or worsening any symptoms.
2. Washing Windows
3. Test Emergency Systems
Make sure that your home alarm, smoke/fire alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide alarms are all working properly. Most home owners forget to test these regularly; spring and fall maintenance time is the perfect opportunity to ensure everything is in good working condition.
4. Check HVAC Systems
The spring and fall are the two most important times to check your home's major heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, right before the harsh climate changes occur. Clean or even replace your air filters and stock up on new filters if you use the disposable kind. Make sure your air conditioner is working properly before the summer heat hits. Air conditioners draw moisture from interior air, called condensate, which must run off outside. If sediment and algae clog the drains, water may back up, making your home more humid or creating water damage. If you need a professional to take a look at it, now is the time to do it; if you wait until summer, you will end up spending a lot more money on a service call.
5. Dusting
Clean off any areas that attract dust, such as the tops of cabinets and other furniture and don't forget the ceiling fans. The last thing you want to do is turn on the fans to watch a thick layer of dust being dispersed into the air your breathing.
6. Deep-Cleaning
Carpets and Curtains are both huge dust collectors and require a deeper cleaning at least once a year. If you have pets, you should do some deep-cleaning more often. Pull out your vacuum and start on the upholstery and draperies to remove any dust, pollen or dander that may have accumulated throughout the winter months. If your drapes are heavy, you may want to store them and temporarily replace them with some lighter ones. Then move on to tackle the carpeting and any large rugs. If you have a steam cleaner, now is the time to drag it out of storage. And if you don't, consider renting one. Using a rug cleaner can help remove residual pet odors and dust mites that can cause allergic reactions and make your home smell less fresh.
7. Clean Out Dryer Vent
Even if you empty out the lint trap each time you do a load of laundry, lint that you can't reach accumulates over time. Its especially likely if snow got in the way of the back-draft damper over the winter. A clogged vent can not only reduce the efficiency of your dryer, but can also be a fire hazard, so be sure to clean it out thoroughly.
8. Prepare for Insects
Be more vigilant about storing and discarding food because the warmer weather that comes with Spring attracts more insects. Follow these tips to help keep the bugs away: use airtight food containers, pick up pet food dishes immediately, always rinse bottles and containers before recycling, and make sure your trash can is still in good shape with a tightly-fitting lid. You will also want to consider calling a pest control company to come spray your home to help keep the insects out.
9. Clean Out Kitchen
Spring cleaning isn't all about your house, its also a time to look at yourself and your habits. Look in your cabinets and throw out that junk food! Clean out and organize your refrigerator too. Try to find a way to add healthier foods to your diet. Consider planting a garden this spring to grow your own vegetables.
10. Rearrange Furniture
Once your home is clean and de-cluttered. Its time to rearrange the furniture to give your home a new feel. Start with the room you use the least, spin some beds around and add or remove some pieces of furniture. Then move on to the rest of the house from the living room to the office giving each room a refreshing look.
This week we focused on getting the interior of your home ready for Spring and next week we will provide you with tips for getting the exterior of your home ready for the warmer weather as well. Spring is nature’s fresh start – make it your fresh start too!
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