How to Make Spring Cleaning Easier

By bizewriter

Spring cleaning tips Spring cleaning tips

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Our homes are something we take pride in, but other demands can get in the way of housekeeping and home maintenance. Additionally, many cleaning methods we learn on our own or from our parents are not the most efficient. Try these tips to make spring cleaning easier and make your home sparkle with less effort.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Cleaning supplies
  • Microfiber towels
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Disposable cardboard boxes
  • Storage bins (optional)
Step1
Examine your spring cleaning ritual. Make a list of what you want to clean, chores that you find difficult, and which jobs may benefit from some advice—removing a carpet stain, for example. Rather than struggle through difficult jobs out of habit, make spring cleaning easier by gathering more tips on your least favored tasks. New products and more efficient cleaning methods may exist.
Step2
Buy effective cleaning supplies which will save both time and elbow grease. Some dollar store items are good, but many generic brands do not work as well. Try a cloth duster with an extension that works well for baseboards, cobwebs and blinds. Use microfiber towels to clean a variety of surfaces safely and effectively, from mirrors to HDTVs. Avoid oil-based products, if possible, and use oil soap or oil-free dusting spray on wood surfaces.
Step3
Acquire a good vacuum cleaner, if needed. It will cut down on airborne dust and dirt, shorten cleaning time and prolong the life of your carpet. Learn more about vacuum cleaners if needed, but know that a decent one can be had for about $100.
Step4
Eliminate items that you no longer want or use. This is a good time to gather a few boxes together and fill them with donation or garage sale fare. Make spring cleaning easier by spending less time shuffling and cleaning items that simply get in the way.
Step5
Delegate chores even if you feel that others will not perform a spring-clean quality job. Clean out closets and storage spaces and add inexpensive shelving or storage containers if desired. Fussing over where to put items takes up time, and without sufficient storage messes return quickly. Hand each family member a box to dispose of items ready for retirement.
Step6
Make spring cleaning easier by working in an organized, efficient direction, such as from top to bottom and left to right. Work from a list if needed. A good rule of thumb is to complete one room at a time, save for dusting and vacuuming, which is easily done in one setting.
Step7
Start with the messy jobs first, such as the oven or bathroom ceramic tiles. This will prevent having to re-clean the surrounding area and will decrease the chance of procrastination. The longer grime builds, of course, the more difficult it is to clean.
Step8
Take advantage of outsourcing work to a local teenager or college student. Windows, gutters, garages and trash removal are some of the areas where a little help makes spring cleaning easier.

Tips & Warnings

  • While shopping, don't forget to add air filters to the list for your air conditioner and furnace.
  • Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, even if you do not normally do so.
  • Read all warnings and usage instructions on cleaning labels and avoid mixing chemical which may produce toxic gases.

Photo/Video Credit

© Marc Dietrich - Fotolia.com, Permission Granted

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eHow Article: How to Make Spring Cleaning Easier

Article By: bizewriter

bizewriter

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Category: Home & Garden

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