It’s time once again for spring cleaning.  There is sooo much to do, I don’t know where to start.  I found a great website article entitled streamlining spring cleaning that will give me some guidance.  I know the basics of spring cleaning, but having a list and a deadline to complete the task makes things much easier.  I also signed up for CPO’s 28 day boot camp challenge for decluttering and I am in the process of making up a “sparkle kit” of my own.  Great job Cara on your sparkle kit!

Making your own sparkle kit

Below is a list of tasks I will be working on in the next month.  I’m giving myself plenty of time!   

Step 1: Cleaning Windows 

Save this job for a cloudy day (the sun’s rays cause streaking) and start indoors. Just spray the panes with water and wipe clean with one of the versatile new microfiber cloths, which work by trapping dirt between the fibers. When the cloth looks dirty, rinse it in warm water. (If your water is hard, substitute distilled water.)

We have a pressure washer which works great for cleaning the exterior of the house.  Our house is white, so you can really notice the dirt.

 Step 2: Cleaning Blinds and Drapes

Begin by dusting the valance and frame, then vacuum top to bottom, using the upholstery attachment for drapes, the brush attachment for blinds (close them first). 

Our blinds are very dirty, so I am going to soak them in the tub with a bit of vinegar and then wipe clean with a cloth.

Step 3: Cleaning Kitchen Cupboards

Start by emptying the contents onto a cleared table. Wipe the shelves with a damp micro-fiber cloth or, if they’re extra-dirty, attack them with a multipurpose cleaner and a scrubber sponge.

If you use liners, fit food shelves with a washable, strippable liner; for shelves holding glasses and dishes, try a resilient plastic mesh liner, to reduce breakage. Wipe down the cupboard exteriors with a microfiber cloth and you’re done.

This will allow me to reorganize everything in the cupboard also.

Step 4: Cleaning Upholstered Furniture 

If you’re dealing with mostly superficial dirt, home cleaning can work a big improvement. Remove all cushions and, with the crevice tool, thoroughly vacuum nooks and crannies; use the brush attachment to clean and smooth any fabrics with a nap; use the flat attachment for smooth fabrics.

I put blankets/covers on our couches.  A trick I learned from my mother.  If there is an accident, I just take the blanket, wash it and put it back on.  A blanket will definitely help protect your furniture, especially when there are kids and pets in the house.

 Step 5: Cleaning the Computer

First, shut the computer down and unplug it. With a standard mouse, unscrew the bottom and remove the ball; blow dust from the casing and wipe the ball and interior with cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol. Let dry, replace the ball, and close.

Now turn over the keyboard and gently shake it; clean between the keys with a special computer vacuum or a few blasts of compressed air, then wipe with a microfiber cloth moistened with all-purpose cleanser.

Give the same wipe-down to the computer exterior, and finish by wiping the screen with a cloth moistened with plain water.

You can purchase cans of compressed air at your local Walmart in the stationary section.

Step 6: Cleaning Bathroom Grout

Ordinary cleansers won’t make a dent in mold or mildew. Spray with a specially formulated mildew treatment, then scrub with a grout brush or a toothbrush. Let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse and repeat if needed. When the walls are dry, give the grout a final misting with the mildew formula for prolonged protection.

You can prevent mold buildup in damp bathrooms or those in humid climates by running a squeegee over the tile after a shower. The same trick will eliminate soap buildup on glass shower doors.

The biggest challenge we have is getting rid of hard water stains on the tub and sink in our bathroom.  If anyone has any suggestions, please feel free to send them my way!

 :)

___________________________________

So there you have it! My spring cleaning plan is underway.  It’s a pretty simple guide and will hopefully help to put me into”springcleaning” mode.  If you haven’t signed up already, be sure to check out CPO’s 28 day boot camp ~ a guide to decluttering.  

HAPPY CLEANING/DECLUTTERING EVERYONE!!

Leave a Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.