Spring Cleaning!!

What comes to mind when you hear “spring cleaning”?  Do you feel dread about cleaning things you’ve been putting off for a while; or excitement about the opportunity to reorganize your home?  No matter how you feel at the beginning the end result is the same- RELIEF!  There’s nothing better than coming home to a clutter free and well-organized home that your family can relax in.  Getting started can be tough so here are a few suggestions to help get you going.

Figure out Your Why

Why are you taking time to complete a thorough cleaning? What’s your purpose and goal? Discuss as a family what areas of the house need cleaning and how you can stay on top of them year-round, before they get messy again. Signify how cleaning their rooms and folding laundry is responsible and will help with future endeavors. These actions are likely to help kids understand a good work ethic and appreciate what they have.

Create A List

Create a detailed checklist and prioritize everything inside and outside that needs cleaning. Be specific and write how you intend to get the job done.  Visualize how you want your house to look and plan accordingly.  Delegate responsibilities to each member of the family and work as a team!

De-clutter!!

Clothes & Shoes

Separate your clothing into three categories: keep, donate, and sell. If you can’t remember the last time you wore a shirt, pants or pair of shoes then donate or sell. You’ll be amazed at how many items you are able to get rid of!

Kitchenware & Food

Check your pantry and refrigerator for expired food.  Combine matching cereals, bars, snacks or sauces to save space.  Get rid of identical utensils such as spatulas or serving spoons.  If there’s china or cups you never use, get rid of those too.     

Bathroom

Chunk anything that is empty or has expired such as shower or make up products.  If you have 2 of the same products, combine them into one container.  If you realize that you have stocked up on lotions or body sprays, consider giving some away or selling them if you have a full bottle.
Deep clean your toilets and showers.  These can get messy!!  You will feel much better knowing you are sitting on a sanitized toilet! 

Garage

If your garage is used as a storage area for a variety of things including holiday décor, seasonal clothing, or tools, use stackable boxes to save space.  Make sure to label your boxes and keep with in a safe reaching height.

 

Go Celebrate!!

 You will love your good-as-new clean home.  Celebrate at your favorite restaurant and talk about the interesting things you found from sentimental memorabilia to the embarrassingly dirty things!