It's time for for the post holiday cleaning
This is the time of year for deep cleaning that you don't have time for on a regular basis. If the task seems too large, why not break it up into several weekends so you don't become overwhelmed?
First, a few rules: Never mix cleaning products. Bleach plus with ammonia can equal death. Start at the top and work your way down. Inventory your cleaning supplies and products and make sure you have enough--garbage bags, vacuum bags, paper towels, rags, rubber gloves, etc. Take them with you in a bucket or other container so you won't have to go searching for what you need. Have plenty of cold water and high-energy snacks on hand (nuts, dried fruit, cheese, vegetables) to fuel your endeavor. Here we go!
Kitchen
- Clean your stove.
- Steam clean your microwave.
- Clean dishwasher.
- Remove grease from your kitchen cupboards and backsplash.
- Empty and clean the refrigerator thoroughly.
- Sweep and mop underneath the refrigerator.
- Clean the baseboards in the kitchen.
- Purge expired or empty spice bottles.
- Sort utensils, get rid of any that you don’t use.
- Empty and organize the kitchen junk drawer.
Living Areas
- Take down and wash all the curtains throughout the house. Dust the blinds.
- Move furniture to vacuum.
- Spot clean couches.
- Spot clean carpets.
- Clean windows, mirrors and picture frames.
Bedrooms
- Clean bed skirts.
- Clean and sort under beds.
- Sort kids toys & reassess storage. Involve your kids in deciding what items they don't pay with anymore and help them see that another child might enjoy them.
Outside the home
-Take the Christmas lights down.
- Clean & service your vehicles.
- De-clutter loft & storage space. Discard/donate used decor.
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