How to Enjoy Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning can be such a major task that we often drag ourselves into doing it. Nevertheless, giving our home a thorough clean after the sludge and doldrums of winter not only ensures a healthy environment for our family, but also ensures that the house is well maintained. If we have to do spring cleaning anyway, might as well enjoy it. Here are some suggestions.

Things You'll Need

• Online access and networking
• Favorite charity

Instructions

1. Make spring cleaning part of your fitness routine. If you go to the gym, run, jog or exercise on a regular basis, consider substituting one of your fitness regimen sessions for a spring cleaning day. Instead of sweating on the treadmill or the power machines, consider sweating on the vacuum cleaner and dust mops.

2. Do it with friends. Cleaning is always fun when done with people you care about. Call friends and family and make spring-cleaning day a fun get-together. Cap it with a barbeque or a home theater movie. Consider scheduling a round robin spring-cleaning arrangement with friends for more fun and enjoyment.

3. Share the experience online. Almost everyone participates in online social networking. Make spring cleaning fun by sharing photos of "before-after" and videos of your housekeeping experience. Post them online to inspire and entertain your friends and contacts. By keeping in mind that you will be sharing a personal experience with all of your online friends, the spring cleaning task won't be such a tedious chore anymore.

4. Donate to charity. Spring cleaning usually involves putting away your winter wardrobe. Why not help the underprivileged while clearing out space in your closet? While you're at it, consider donating furniture, appliances, and equipment that you've been thinking of replacing or getting rid of. Spring cleaning will be more enjoyable when you think about the people who will be happy to receive your donations.

5. Reward yourself. Before even starting your spring cleaning, think about what you will give yourself when you're done. It's best if you can associate the reward with your spring-cleaning efforts; for example, new attire (after you've cleaned and organized your closet), a small appliance (for successfully tidying up the kitchen and garage), a furniture upgrade (for organizing your living room and donating pieces to charity) or new curtains (after washing the windows and screens). Of course, an expensive dinner would be great too, to celebrate a job well done!

Tips & Warnings

• Tasks like housekeeping and spring cleaning are more enjoyable when you work with your favorite music in the background. Choose upbeat and dance music to help keep your energy high.

• Never try to do too many things at the same time. Clean one section at a time so that you don't become overwhelmed and discouraged.

• Stay hydrated. Nothing kills fun quicker than fatigue. Drink often and take breaks for meals and rest.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Real Simple: Spring Cleaning 101