Clean Your Way Through Spring at The Barrel Yards
Friday, March 1st, 2019
After a long, cold winter spent cooped up indoors, opening your windows and cleaning your home is the only way to embrace the spring season in all its glory. For many, this time of year can be daunting — you may have a hard time letting go of certain possessions, or perhaps your living space has never witnessed a legitimate scrub-down. Whatever the case may be, it’s worthwhile to consider getting involved in a real spring-cleaning ritual.
Gone are the days of avoiding the dreadful task of spring cleaning and resenting it for taking over your life. There’s a new wave in town, and it involves owning your clean-up — instead of letting it own you. This month, make it your mission to tackle spring cleaning on your time.
Suitable for first-time spring cleaners and veterans alike, consider incorporating the following tips and tricks into a well formulated plan, so you can get spick and span in no time.
Design a realistic schedule
Creating a plan that you are confident you can stick to is the first key to success when tackling your spring cleaning. Ask yourself: what areas of your home need the most work? Which areas do you tend to skip when routine cleaning? Prioritize room by room — trying to do everything at once will set you back. Establishing achievable goals that fit into your schedule will help you take control of your clean up.
De-clutter
A disorganized home contributes to your stress levels more than you’d think. Before tackling the dirt and grime, set aside some time to clean out and organize your living space. This will make it easier for you to actually see what needs sweeping, dusting, or to be taken to the dry cleaners. Start with sifting through that dreaded junk drawer, going through your closet, and tending to the pile of papers on your desk. You’ll be surprised at how fresh you feel once you eliminate the mess.
Invest in a well-equipped cleaning kit
You can’t start cleaning your living space or work at keeping it tidy without the right supplies. If you’re creating your cleaning kit from scratch, make sure it includes the essentials: all-purpose cleaner, disinfecting wipes, glass cleaner, rubber gloves, microfiber cloths, sponges, a small duster, and a carpet spot cleaner. Assemble your products in a transportable container so you can easily move around your home.
Address forgotten spaces
Your regular cleaning routine may not include the hard-to-reach or insignificant spots of your home that are often overlooked. When spring cleaning, make it your mission to address the forgotten spaces in your house. For tiny crevices, use an old toothbrush and some vinegar to give it a good scrub. Use the nozzle attachment on your vacuum to get under your couch cushions, wipe down your remotes and other handheld items with antibacterial solution, and don’t forget about your toothbrush holder!
Give your refrigerator a reset
A good fridge and freezer clean-out gives you the opportunity to check expiration dates and toss items that have seen better days. Before reassembling, give all of your containers a good wipe down, clean the inside of the fridge with water and vinegar, and scrub each shelf with soap and water. When you’re ready to stock it up again, organize your contents. Condiments on the door, produce in bottom drawers, and the middle shelf for perishable items.
Set a new tone
When all is said and done, bring life back into your home and reward yourself for all of your hard work. Sprucing up your living space with fresh flowers, a new plant, and refreshing decor will add a nice touch to your cleaning masterpiece. Consider going one step further and replacing items like bedding, towels, and table linens for the warm weather ahead.
Whatever you do,
