Patterson-Schwartz Real EstateA Spring-Cleaning Game Plan
While spring-cleaning projects are often aimed at refreshing the look and feel of your home in preparation for the warm weather season, the annual task plays an important role in creating a healthy environment for your home as well. According to smart-home appliance firm Tineco, the following game plan will help maximize your spring-cleaning efforts:
Declutter first.
Before you start deep cleaning, take time to declutter your living space. Begin by tackling larger items that take up space, such as old furniture or unused appliances. Sort through other items room by room—like books, clothes or kitchenware—and donate what's still in good condition, while disposing of broken or unusable things. In the living room, clear countertops and surfaces of items that create unnecessary clutter. In the bathroom, remove expired products and tidy up toiletries to make your cleaning routine easier. A clutter-free space not only looks better but also makes cleaning more efficient by removing obstacles and reducing dust accumulation. For better results, consider working in sections, focusing on one room or area at a time, starting with the biggest items and finishing with smaller things.
Take a top-down approach.
Always clean from the highest points in the room—such as shelves, ceiling fans and light fixtures—before working your way down. This prevents dust and debris from settling on already-cleaned surfaces.
Refresh floors.
Floors take the most wear and tear in any home, so giving them a deep clean is crucial. For hard floors, consider a wet-dry vacuum that removes dust and spills while drying floors quickly to prevent streaks. For carpets or rugs in your living room or bathroom, a thorough clean is essential, especially in spring when germs and mold can thrive. Hire a professional or use a professional-grade cleaner that can easily remove embedded dirt, pet hair and stains with ease.
Focus on high-touch areas.
Frequently touched areas—such as doorknobs, light switches and remote controls—can harbor bacteria and allergens. Use a gentle disinfectant or wet wipe to clean these surfaces regularly.
Tackle hard-to-reach areas.
Dust and allergens tend to build up in overlooked spaces like under furniture, behind appliances and inside vents. You'll be able to reach these with a vacuum that has a "lay-flat" design. You can also use an extendable duster that can get into nooks and crannies.
Keep it up.
Spring cleaning doesn't have to be a once-a-year event. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule throughout the year helps keep your home fresh and reduces the effort needed for deep cleans.
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