HOME MAINTENANCE AND SPRING CLEANING

HOME MAINTENANCE AND SPRING CLEANING

Home maintenance along with spring cleaning is something most people strive to do once annually. Usually, the goal is to clean out winter debris and chief a clutter-free and comfortable environment.  According to Medical Science, annual spring cleaning isn’t only good for our homes but also for our mental and physical health as well.

Mental and Physical Health and Spring Cleaning

A messy home can induce stress. Have you ever walked into a cluttered room and all of a sudden you can feel your stress level rise? Cleaning out the clutter and spring cleaning can “uplift” your mood, as reported by Cleveland Clinic.  Also as we perform chores, such as vacuuming, mopping, or cleaning the mirrors, our bodies act as if we’re exercising and release feel-good endorphins.  Cleaning helps release anxiety or depression symptoms.

Plan Spring Cleaning for your Home

The prime focus for spring cleaning should be that it involves the whole house, not just one or two rooms.  It could take a week or even two to complete the spring cleaning but it will be well worth it to do it before the hot season ahead.  You can use the following checklist to make sure you’ve completed all necessary tasks to complete your Spring Cleaning:

Kitchen

Every kitchen needs a good spring cleaning each year as kitchens harvest germs and bacteria. Turn on some music and grab you a sponge and follow these checklists.

Microwave: Reheating and defrosting foods like raw meat can accumulate germs and pathogens, such as E.Coli.   Make sure to use sanitizing spray and wipe down the inside and outside of the microwave.  If you have any food that is stuck or any hard-to-clean areas, just take a lemon slice and put in a microwavable bowl and fill halfway with water.  Heat in microwave for four minutes. You’ll find it easier to wipe down and smells nice.

Refrigerator: Remove all items from the refrigerator. Be sure to wipe down and sanitize all trays, shelves, and drawers.  Remember also to clean the freezer vents, fridge coils, and ice maker, and change the water filter.

Freezer: Be sure to empty out and discard any freezer-burned items.  Most manufacturers suggest completely defrosting your freezer once annually.

Toaster: Wipe down the outside of your toaster and clean and sanitize the crumb tray.

Small Appliances: Disinfect all small appliances, such as the can opener, coffee maker, mixed, etc.

Oven/Stove: Be sure to wipe down and sanitize your stovetop and oven.  For a cheap and easy Do-It-Yourself paste, mix vinegar and baking soda. Let it sit for a few hours or even overnight then wipe down with a wet sponge or microfiber cloth.

Clean out the cabinets: Take everything out of your cabinets so you can wipe down the shelves.  Be sure to discard anything that is expired.

BEDROOMS

Bedding and Pillows: Wash all bedding and pillows, comforters and duvets.  Pillows can harbor harmful bacteria and germs.  It might be worth considering changing out your pillows annually,

 Mattress: Rotate your mattress to keep it worn equally and prevent from premature damage.

 Drawers and Closets: Spring is a great time to go through drawers and closets.  Consider donating any items that haven’t been used in the past year.

 Toys: If cleaning kids rooms, be sure to disinfect all toys with hard surfaces to reduce germs,  Also wash any stuffed animals to reduce harmful germs/bacteria.

 BATHROOMS:

-Wash shower curtains and replace liners

-Wash floor mats-floor mats can harbor bacteria so be sure to wash them regularly.  Spring is a good time to replace if needed.

Declutter drawers- organize your cabinets and throw out and old items, including cosmetics and medications.  Be sure to check with your local pharmacy on how to dispose of medications.

-Refill first aid kit- be su case re to have gauze, bandages, antibiotic cream and over the counter pain relievers so they are at hand in of emergency.

OTHER ROOMS:

-Rugs and carpets- consider hiring a professional to steam clean any carpets and rugs

-Clean upholstery- either hire a professional or use a commercial upholstery cleaner.

-Pest prevention- Spring is the perfect time to seal any cracks or areas pest could make their way in. Fix any leaks and seal holes/cracks. Also consider hiring a pest control professional to spray around your home.

Now that you’re finished spring cleaning your home you’ll notice your environment feels much more comfortable.