The key to a great spring cleaning is organizing your approach. Write everything down on a list, preferably with a time allotment and time line included. Then tackle a few steps each day to break a big project down into manageable smaller ones.
Spring Cleaning is a Top Down Endeavor
Always start at the ceiling level and work down to the floor in each room. Vacuum the cobwebs if you have the right attachments, or purchase an extendable Swiffer duster to reach those out of the way corners.
The walls can be washed with a mild soap and a sponge. Very stubborn stains can be retouched with the appropriate paint color as needed. Dust, polish and vacuum every lamp, table, chair and knickknack.
Vacuum, wash or dry mop the floors last. On wood floors, oil soap or other cleaners should be done after the dust and dirt is removed.
Enlist the Entire Family in the Spring Cleaning Process
Even small children can learn to pick up and put away the toys. Middle school age kids can work on the dusting and wood furniture polishing. The tallest family member is the obvious choice for the corner cobwebs.
Teens can clean the windows as a tag team, one on the inside and one on the outside. Have each clean in a different direction, one horizontal and one vertical so streaks can easily be redone as needed. Some kids are better suited to the details of cleaning. However, anyone can learn how to do the job right with practice.
Spring cleaning is a great way to get out from under the winter doldrums. Read this for more information on the topic: Beat the Winter Blues.
Be Thorough in the Spring Cleaning Project
If you have a large collection of ceramic pigs in the kitchen, now is the time to take each one down and clean it off. Remove all dishes from the china cabinet and give them a soapy washing, then dust the shelves before returning anything. Change things up a bit for visual interest, it will feel like you have accomplished more if you redecorate a bit as you go.
Use green cleaning products and protect the environment. Substances like vinegar, baking soda and chlorine bleach have exceptionally good cleaning powers and are very inexpensive too. Use washable rags and sponges instead of paper towels and conserve forest land. Be sure to put your damp sponges in the microwave for two minutes to disinfect after a good cleaning.
Always make safety a first priority by wearing gloves, eye protection as needed and exercising care around ladders. Never allow a young child on a ladder or let him use any dangerous cleaning products. Flush the eyes immediately if a cleaner causes an irritation even if transferred to the eye indirectly by a rubbing hand. Seek medical attention for any falls, sprains or strains.
Relax and enjoy the sparkling cleanliness when you are finally finished. It is a great feeling of accomplishment to get the work finished and be able to enjoy your home at its best.
Therese Haberman - With a MS degree and 25 years in HR mgmt, in 2005, Ms.Therese began a writing career specializing in children and HR.
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