Spring has arrived. Hard to believe right? Whilst we’re cosied up at home for the foreseeable, it’s the perfect time to roll our sleeves up, don some Marigolds, and get cleaning. After all, a tidy home means a tidy mind. Here are some tips to get your Spring clean underway.
Spring has arrived. Hard to believe right? Whilst we’re cosied up at home for the foreseeable, it’s the perfect time to roll our sleeves up, don some Marigolds, and get cleaning. After all, a tidy home means a tidy mind. Here are some tips to get your Spring clean underway.
ESSENTIALS
Before you begin, you will need some essentials. Organise smaller items in a cleaning caddy to carry from room to room.
Rubber gloves (marigolds)
Rubbish bags
Face mask (for dust)
Vacuum cleaner
Dustpan & brush
Bucket & mop
Multipurpose spray
Microfibre cloths
Paper towels
NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCTS
If you don’t like using harsh toxic chemicals in your home, you can make natural cleaners using common household products:
White vinegar to equal parts water, and your choice of essential oil for fragrance makes an all-purpose cleaning solution
Lemon juice and water will clean a microwave. Place in a bowl, heat on full power for 2 minutes and wipe down
Mix 4 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with 250ml warm water for an effective cleaner and deodoriser – good for the fridge!
Vodka with essential oil can be used as an effective disinfectant. Clean surfaces first, then let it sit for up to 10 minutes before wiping down to kill germs
Steam can remove bacteria, germs, and dust mites from surfaces and fabrics
Castile soap can be used to clean dishes, baths, and other surfaces
SET ASIDE SOME TIME
It doesn’t matter if you have 30 minutes or 3 hours, set aside time to focus on getting the task done. Set a timer on your phone and see how much you can get done in that time. You’ll be surprised what you can manage.
FOLLOW A PLAN
You may prefer to tackle one room at a time, or something needing attention such as your rubbish bin, the windows, or your shower. Whatever method you choose, it helps to have a cleaning checklist. Tick off tasks as you go to help you stay focused. Also, clean from top to bottom. Use vacuum attachments to remove dust from high shelving before tackling surfaces then flooring.
DECLUTTER
Remove unnecessary objects from tabletops or shelves. Get rid of old paperwork, expired food, medicines, or clothing. If an item has not been worn or used in a year, chances are it can be discarded. Create a sorting system. For example, bags for keepsakes, items to donate, the bin or recycling centre.
TIDY
Find space for keepsakes in drawers, cupboards, or files. Vacuum seal seasonal clothes and store under your bed or the wardrobe. Fold clothes and stack vertically in drawers so you can see them more easily. You should leave only items on display which ‘spark joy’ for you.
PLAY MUSIC
Choose your favourite playlist to clean to and pass the time. Something upbeat and motivating should help!
Finally, when it comes to cleaning, doing a little each day will prevent it from becoming a mammoth task.