SIMPLIFY SPRING CLEANING PART TWO

Photo courtesy of surasakiStock at FreeDigitalPhotos.Net.

Last week, we shared four tactics and tips to help simplify the spring cleaning of your new home’s fixtures, windows, walls, floors and more.  Remember, top-to-bottom interior cleaning may take a few days, so it’s best to tackle tasks in groups to pace yourself.

Here are five more tips to help you tackle spring cleaning more quickly and efficiently.

1. Focus on the fridge. Allowing dust to accumulate may ultimately cause your refrigerator to overheat and shut-down, so don’t skip this step.  If it’s possible to pull your fridge out, use a vacuum cleaner attachment hose to remove lint and dust from its back side and condenser coil which is usually located behind the toe grille.  Then wipe it down with a damp cloth.  On the inside, toss any expired foods—especially if you have any jars with unidentifiable objects.  Next, use an all-purpose cleaner or solution of baking soda and water to thoroughly clean all shelves and drawers.  If you can remove, soak and wash the shelves with dish detergent before putting them back, even better.

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2. Address kitchen appliances. If it’s possible, move appliances out so that you can clean or vacuum underneath them.  Use a cleaner that is appropriate for the surface, e.g. use a stainless steel cleaner on those surfaces, and put a few drops of vegetable oil on a paper towel to shine them up.  Be sure to scrub all knobs and clean underneath stove burners if you have them.

3. Clean cabinets. Over time, dust, crumbs and debris build up inside of cabinets.  To thoroughly clean cabinets, go one-by-one.  First, remove all of the cabinet’s items and wash the interior.  Be sure to toss or recycle any items that have expired or you know you’ll never use nor eat.  Next, put everything back.  Then wash the outside of the cabinets including the very top and very bottom.

4. Refresh bathrooms. If you haven’t already, use the soft nozzle vacuum attachment to clean the ceiling fan.  Grab an old toothbrush and a bathroom cleaner to scrub around sink, tub and bath faucets, and the showerhead.  Be sure to remove all soap scum and mildew first.  If you have a shower curtain and liner, take them both down and wash them in a stationary tub.  If they are really dirty, soak them for a few hours so it’s easier to remove the scum.  Wash all bathroom rugs and decorative towels if you don’t on a regular basis.  Toss any expired medication, cosmetics and/or hygiene products before wiping interior shelves of the cabinets.

5. Clean all bedrooms. Wash all of the bed linens including comforters and bed skirts.  Vacuum the box spring and mattress.  While you’re down there, you may want to spray a fabric freshener such as Febreze.  Rotate the mattress unless it is specified as a ‘no-flip’ mattress.  If you haven’t already cleaned your closets and drawers, now is the time to do it.
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When you’re done, sit back, relax and enjoy your dream home!

Article by: Jennifer Elkow