Checklist For How To Spring Clean

Spring is most certainly in the air, and for some that means blooming flowers and buzzing bees, and for others it means deep, detailed cleaning and taking inventory of one’s abode. Yes, it’s that time again for spring cleaning.

The spring cleaning tradition, whether or not you’re on the messy or neat-freak side of the spectrum is always a good annual practice. Spring is all about fresh starts and rebirth, so your apartment should mirror that. Besides regular chores like putting clothes or dishes away, sweeping and cleaning the bathroom; this is your chance to pay attention to detail and store, sort or get rid of extraneous clutter.

Use this guide as a checklist for items that aren’t usually on the cleaning to-do list:

• Wipe down walls, ceilings, fronts of cabinets and the refrigerator to scrub off any old residue
• Reseal grout lines between floor and the wall or cabinet that have become dirty or stained over time
• Vacuum and shampoo rugs with an industrial shampoo machine
• Wax wooden furniture with paste wax after cleaning surface with a damp cloth and dish washing liquid
• Change batteries in smoke detectors and make sure all units are thoroughly dusted
• Ensure clean window treatments by machine washing draperies or curtains and wiping down wooden blinds
• Clean the freezer by turning off the power to defrost it, clear out all contents and wipe interior with a solution of two tablespoons baking soda per one quart hot water
• Clean washable pillows to get rid of any lingering odors or bacteria
• Discard old cosmetic or hygienic products
• Clean monitor screens and keyboards of computers
• Wash windows
• Clean out unwanted or unused items in the basement, attic or shed
• Wipe down outdoor furniture
• Change all burned out light bulbs
• Wipe off dust on ceiling fans with a damp cloth or paper towel

If you accomplish all these tasks, you’ll be well on your way to being completely spring cleansed! Other than looking shiny and new, your living space will be rid of dirt and dust that you may have not even been aware of that can make you and your guests sick. So tie your hair back, put on those yellow gloves and spring into action!

---