09 Apr The Sweet Smells of Spring Cleaning

What is it about that first break from cold weather….sun shining down  melting the ice and snow, increased choir of chirping birds at daybreak, kids venturing out again on bikes and the promise of warmer weather to come, that sends us all into ecstatic feelings of passion and energy every year?

We wait the entire winter and are so overjoyed when the first hints of Spring show themselves!!

With Spring approaching, there are all kinds of other activities that come to mind that we all know we need to prepare for, in order to enjoy the approaching outdoor play-days.

One of these events is what is commonly referred to as “Spring Cleaning”, two words that I don’t think should ever be paired together😊

Nevertheless, it is always a tremendous feeling of accomplishment to make and check off those “lists” of chores that we need to get over with, in order to eventually relax and take advantage of what lies ahead. What a relief as we knock off the tasks,  knowing we are now all ready for more pleasurable events.

Everyone of us have our own routines….well, those of us that actually do Spring Cleaning ha ha…

Here are a few lists that may help launch you into your own “Sweet Smells of Spring Cleaning “Action Steps:

INDOORS

Sweep and mop floors; Wipe walls and baseboards throughout home

Clean doors and doormats. Organize boots / shoes and hang wayward jackets

Clean stovetop, microwave, and oven dishwasher and refrigerator inside and out

Defrost freezer and clean thoroughly and discard old or expired food

Clear countertops and de-grease cabinet doors  and remove items from cabinets and thoroughly clean inside

Dust the tops of high surfaces …fridge, microwave/range hood and cabinets

Deodorize and de-grease the kitchen drain

Dust and polish furniture; Vacuum or spot clean chair cushions and dust blinds and curtain rods and clean window sills

Wash windows inside and out and Wash or vacuum curtains

Wash bedding including sheets, pillowcases, duvets and bed skirts & donate unused clothing and organize closets

Clean ceiling fans and dust or clean lamp shades and dust electronics, décor

Test and replace smoke alarm batteries, Replace air filters and Clean air vents/registers and light fixtures

OUTDOORS

Declutter tools, sporting equipment and toys in garage

Open up garage door to air out the space and wipe down walls, sweep floor and clean garage door and frame

Replace batteries in garage door openers and clean windows and Inspect roof shingles and clean your eavestroughs and downspouts

Clean and service your air conditioner. Rake around the unit and cut back branches to allow for proper airflow.

Pressure wash the siding and inspect the decks and patios.