Spring Cleaning Tips

*Thanks Bounty for sponsoring this post.

I don't know about you, but I have a hard time getting excited about spring cleaning.   

Sure, I want the house to be all sparkly, but as someone who doesn't love to clean (I wish I had that gene), the project can seem daunting.  Plus, when the weather is beautiful, all I want to do on the weekend is get outside.

Over the years, I've developed a routine that makes spring cleaning more manageable.

Today I thought I would share some of my best spring cleaning tips!

Stock Up on Supplies

One of the first things you need to do is identify all the products you will need.  Make sure to have the basics like trash bags and paper towels on hand.

If you are like me and like to make most of your cleaners, you will want to stock up on vinegar, baking soda, Castille soap, borax and washing soda. Otherwise, make sure you have all of your favorite cleaners on hand.

Make a List

I find that with spring cleaning, it is beneficial to start by making a list of everything that needs to happen.  It is a great way to make sure you don't forget anything, and also hold yourself accountable.

I start by walking through the house, taking notes of everything that needs to be done. Once I have a comprehensive list, I like to prioritize it and then plan out the order everything should be done in.

Remember, when you are cleaning you should take a top-down approach! This prevents surfaces you have already cleaned from getting dirty again.

Things to Remember:

• Ceiling Fans
• Baseboards
• Vents
• Tops of Picture Frames
• Vacuuming Under Furniture
• Mattresses Pads & Bed Covers
• Curtains
• Windows
• Blinds
• Refrigerator Coils
• Coffee Maker
• Trash Cans
• Stove Knobs
• Dishwasher

Get The Family Involved

It is time to get all hands on deck!

I have a habit of trying to do everything myself, but this is the one time of the year when that strategy isn't sound.  There is just too much that needs to be done. I let the family know ahead of time that we are going to be spring cleaning and everyone - even Skye - is expected to help.

While I am not big on rewarding my kids for basic responsibilities, spring cleaning can tend to bring on more tasks that do deserve rewards ☺. The deal is not just that they have to do everything asked of them, but that they have to do it with a great attitude. It is amazing what a highly motivated teen boy can accomplish.

Tackle Clutter First

Cleaning will be much easier if you’ve got clutter under control. With three kids, clutter is an ongoing battle at our house. I like to tackle clutter control a day or two before our official spring cleaning.

This is a great time to implement some smart storage strategies.

As an example, we keep a basket for shoes by the front door. Not only does it keep me from tripping over shoes left in the middle of the family room floor, but it is also a huge time-saver when we are trying to get out the door. 

Other examples include a small tray in the kitchen for mail and a basket for magazines by my favorite chair.

Windows

It is best to wash windows very early in the morning because direct sunlight can cause them to streak.   Even better: pick a cloudy day. 

Start by dusting them and then mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bucket. Use a sponge to wipe the windows. Then use a squeegee to wipe the glass in a straight stroke.

Screens should be washed in an area with good drainage. Use a wet scrub brush to clean, and then rinse thoroughly with the hose. Allow to dry completely before re-hanging.

Drapes

While sending drapes to the dry cleaners can be a good idea, there is an easier way to freshen them up.  Put them in the dryer for 20 minutes on with no heat. This helps to get the dust out of them. (It works great for throw pillows too!)

Dishwasher

My dishwasher takes a lot of abuse! I like to clean and descale the inside by filling a cup with vinegar and then running it on high heat while the dishwasher is empty. For standard dishwashers (not drawers) the vinegar should be placed on the top rack.

For extra cleaning power, sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and let it sit overnight before the vinegar wash.

Lamp Shades and Light Fixtures

Lamp shades can collect a lot of dust! The easiest way I have found to tackle this on unpleated lamp shades is with a lint roller. (This is an excellent job for the kids.) Pleated lamp shades are best cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.

Removable glass pieces from light fixtures can benefit from being run through the dishwasher.

Don't Forget Outside!

We can get so busy cleaning inside, that it can be easy to forget outside. Clean up your deck or patio floors, sidewalks, and driveway. Don't forget to clean your gutters and soffits, patio furniture cushions, outdoor light fixtures and garage doors. I like to get the kids to help scrub pots before I plant them for spring. 

What are your best spring cleaning tips?

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