Why Wait Until Spring to Clean?

Nowhere in the Good Housekeeping cleaning schedule does it say you must wait until warm, spring breezes blow before picking up those cleaning gloves. In fact, regular cleaning and maintenance can help make those days breeze by with less attention to cleaning and more to rest and relaxation. What better way to push away those winter blues than cleaning out, storing away, and planning for what’s to come?

Start with a plan. Every project deserves a good plan. Walk around your house and jot down all the things you know you want to tackle. Do you need more storage? Want to organize better? Need to repair furniture? Go through room by room to see where you can and want to make improvements and rank them by priority (this will help with budgeting if projects come with a cost). Be sure to include projects from other family members, too, so they can help when the work begins. Include a timeline for each project, too, so you know what needs to happen first and what can wait. Once you have walked through the house, take a lap around the outside and make a separate list of outdoor projects. Note where you will need outside help for lawncare, pressure washing, and pest control.

Clean with purpose. Outlining a regular cleaning schedule will help you stay ahead of those dust bunnies. In addition to vacuuming, dusting, and bathroom cleaning, set regular schedules for cleaning specific areas, such as baseboards, attics and closets, rugs and carpets, and refrigerators and pantries. Check expiration dates on condiments, cleaning supplies under cabinets, and laundry room closets. Replace air filters regularly and wipe down ceiling fans and AC registers. Setting alerts or writing on the family calendar when to repeat each task will help you stay on top of your schedule. Assign a project leader so you know who will be handling the task.

Projects with a Price Tag. For larger projects with a price tag, prioritize them by the most significant need. Get quotes from at least three vendors (many can be found right here in the STROLL magazine) to ensure you get the best deal from a reliable source. After getting quotes, decide how best to proceed: start saving for the project, purchase on a credit card, or apply for a home equity loan or line of credit. Do not rush into projects and be prepared for ‘bumps’ that could slow your timeline or budget.

For each project, check for opportunities to recycle, donate, or sell. Just because something has lived its life with you does not mean it cannot go on to have a new life with someone else. As you complete projects, mark them off your list, and adjust projects that may need more time or attention as the month goes along. Soon, you’ll be able to throw those spring-cleaning gloves aside and fill your days with time well spent with family and friends.