There are few times of year more satisfying than the annual spring clean. For many people however, it may be a dreaded task and some of the most important projects easily forgotten. Spring cleaning will never be effortless, but it can be painless if you follow these helpful tips and tricks:
1. Deck Deep Clean
Tons of fall leaves, packed in dirt and all-around winter grime can leave your deck feeling dull. A once-a-year scrub down will extend the life of your deck and make your summer entertaining space sparkle. First, sweep up dry debris with a large broom. Then, depending on the material of your deck, select a cleaner and dilute according to directions. Use a stiff push broom that’s small enough to dip into a bucket and go to town! Hose down to rinse suds away and let it dry. Enjoy your gleaming outdoor oasis!
2. Curtain Care
Even if your curtains don’t look dirty, they are notorious for gathering dust, pet dander and even mold spores. That accumulation can drastically affect your indoor air quality, as every time a person brushes against them, these nasty debris get disturbed and released into the air. The kind of cleaning your curtains need depends on the type of fabric, but for curtains that are not dry clean only, use the following directions: First, remove all hardware and shake outdoors if possible. Wash two panels at a time using the cold water setting on your washing machine and dry on a low heat setting or hang to dry if the material is delicate.
3. Cabinet Degreasing
Kitchen cabinets get dirty, fast. You spatter grease on them, use dirty hands to open drawers, and all-in-all just pack on the grime. You can fight this mess on daily basis with light cleaning and care, but it’s a good idea to annually give your cabinets a good once over. Vinegar is the go-to natural cleaner when it comes to cabinets. Mix a 50/50 solution of vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Mist on cabinets, let sit for a few minutes, and wipe clean with a soft cloth. Heavy grease and grime may need a bit more effort, but never use any abrasive materials as they can damage the finish or paint.
4. Hardwood Floors Overhaul
Preventative maintenance is the key when it comes to prolonging the life of your hardwood floors, but dirt, oil and grime build up over time and can’t be completely removed by weekly dust mopping. For an annual deep cleaning, use a wood-cleaning product diluted according to the label instructions. Saturate a sponge or rag mop in water and wring it dry. Damp-mop the floor, but be careful to prevent standing water by wiping up excess liquid. If possible, turn on a ceiling fan to speed up the drying process.
A deep clean once a year will go a long way into preserving the quality of your home. Plus, there’s no better feeling than relaxing after a hard day’s work in a freshly cleaned space!
