Preparing for Spring Cleaning
Just a few days ago, February 2, 2020, the world’s most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, emerged and failing to see his shadow, predicted an early spring. And whether the infamous Phil’s prediction comes true or not, spring is now only weeks away, which means now is the perfect time to make your preparations for spring cleaning. Let’s get your spring cleaning checklist started, divvying up the work you want to do and preparing to book the professionals for the cleaning chores that need the cleaning experts.
Decluttering – No doubt, you read a lot about decluttering your home – from closets to attics to garages – and it should definitely be on your spring cleaning checklist. A decluttered and organized home means easier cleaning all year long! And as a bonus, you can start this step now, purging throughout the house and organizing your belongings. Start by gathering boxes or containers for tossing worn/broken items, donating still useful items, and storing the items you need to keep.
Window Treatments – Blinds, curtains, and drapes should be next on your list. Blinds will likely need to come down in the spring, heading to the tub or outside for a thorough wash. Some curtains and drapes can be laundered in the washing machine, and some even dried in your dryer, but others will need the special attention of your favorite local dry cleaner. Check the manufacturer’s labels and make your plans accordingly.
Windows and Screens – Spring is the ideal time for cleaning windows and screens, a job which is both labor-intensive and time consuming. If you decide to do-it-yourself, you will need a low suds cleaner, sponge, squeegee, and lint-free cloths for the windows, as well as garden hose for your screens. Of course, an easier approach would be a call to Signature Maids to get the job done well by the professionals, which also makes it easier for you.
Carpets and Rugs – You’ll want to make plans to deep clean your carpets and rugs this springs. Whether you chose to DIY the job or hire professionals, your carpets and rugs should be steam or dry-cleaned annually.
Bed Linens, Pillows, and Mattresses – Those heavy bed linens, like comforters, quilts, and blankets should be cleaned according to manufacturer’s directions regularly. Bed pillows should be washed twice a year, spring and fall, using your favorite laundry detergent and dried using dryer balls to restore fullness and fluffiness. And finally, your mattresses, should be rotated, flipped and vacuumed on the same schedule as your pillow washing. (If possible, taking them outside in the spring sunshine for a few hours can help kill dust mites within.)
Upholstered Furnishings – As you are probably aware, your unholstered furniture should be vacuumed regularly. But did you know it should be deep cleaned annually? Yes, it is true. And, like other fabrics, you should always follow manufacturer’s cleaning directions whether you DIY or call on the professionals to get the job done.
Bathrooms – In the bathroom, in spring, you’ll want to address slow drains, wash or replace mildewed shower curtains, clean exhaust fans, and attack soap scum and hard water damage on showers and baths.
Vents, Ducts, and Flues – You’ll want to hire the professionals for these spring cleaning tasks. They will inspect and professional cleaning your air vents and ducts, as well as your chimney flues, ensuring they work at maximum efficiency for you all year long.
Walls and Floors – Last but not least, like windows and screens, cleaning walls and floors takes time and effort. For cleaning your walls, you will need a small ladder, as well as pH-balanced cleaner, water, and clean, absorbent cloths, as well as plenty of time and patience. Depending on your floor surfaces, you will likely need deep cleaning which can include stripping, waxing, and resealing which you may just want to let the professionals at Signature Maids handle for you (along with the wall washing).
