8 Tips for Easier Spring Cleaning

Throw open the drapes and roll up the rugs – it’s time for some spring cleaning! Jolene Ewert has helpful ideas to make it easier for you to get started and see results. Read more from Jolene on her blog.

Spring is upon us once again! It’s Time for blooming trees, blossoming flowers and birds singing happily in the sunshine. This also means it’s time for that annual spring cleaning! Oh, the dreaded chores. But, with a few tips on how to make the task a bit less daunting, we can all make it through and get organized.

Start with the Entrance: Clutter can make a house look dirty fast, especially at the entryway. To avoid this, mount a rack or storage keeper near the front door or somewhere on the front porch. Stick hats, gloves, outside toys or extra shoes in there.

Mail Keeper: A great way to keep your mail in order and make wall space pop with style is to use and old window shutter. The slots are perfect for holding all your cherished letters and cards (and those pesky bills). Sand it down and staple or glue (with wood glue) the back of every 3^rd slat so the mail won’t fall through. Paint it whatever color you like and when it is dry, hang it in a central location.

Throw it Out: Most of us have a closet full of clothes that we seldom wear. But, we usually think; I may need that sometime! A good rule of thumb is: if you haven’t worn it in over a year, throw it out (by donating it). Then, you can get to the things you will wear and enjoy.

Maintaining Mattresses: Most newer mattress sets aren’t designed to be flipped. To maintain: rotate your mattress end to end every 6 months. To deodorize: vacuum your mattress with the hose attachment. Sprinkle mattress with baking soda, let it soak 20 minutes and then vacuum again. For stains: spritz on hydrogen peroxide with a spray bottle. Let sit for 10 minutes and then blot stain with a towel until dry. Be sure to use as little liquid as possible when cleaning the mattress as moisture will lead to mold. For tough stains: try rubbing borax into the stain. Allow to dry completely and vacuum away residue.

Freshen the Carpets: After a while, our carpets can really need a refresher. Often, store bought deodorizers contain harsh chemicals. The solution? Make your own! All you need is 1 cup of cornstarch, 1 cup of baking soda and 20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Mix ingredients together, sprinkle on your carpet and let set for 15 minutes. Vacuum up and then enjoy the new scent your carpet will hold. The good news is, this is safe for children and pets as well.

Down with Dust: Did you know you can use a dryer sheet to dust your baseboards? And, it will also prevent future dust and dirt from sticking to them! Dryer sheets work wonders on those venetian blinds too! Liquid fabric softener will also repel dust. Mix 1 part softener with 4 parts water. Place in a spray bottle and use to clean shower doors, glass tables or other hard surfaces.

Microwave Messes: All those food splatters in the microwave can leave the walls full of hardened on gunk. To clean: cut a fresh lemon in half and place into a microwave safe bowl. Fill with water and cook on high for 3 minutes. Now, the food will be loosened up for you to easily wipe away with a soapy washcloth. And, your kitchen is lemony fresh!

Do Those Windows: Switch to a squeegee! In the end, it will save you time and money. And, the windows will turn out much cleaner! First, wipe down the entire window with soapy water. Use the squeegee to wipe the water off. After each swipe, dry the squeegee with a rag. When finished with the window, wipe down windowsills. Clean window tracks with a Q-tip if needed.

So, rather than dreading the spring cleaning this year, view it as a renewal. Once your cleaning is complete, reward yourself by adding some new color, scents and charm to your abode. Bring in some fresh flowers, splurge on some new throw pillows for the couch or refurbish an old table. Once your home is feeling cozy, you will too.