With the weather outside a bit of a challenge, why not take advantage of this indoor time by cleaning out the house bit by bit? After hosting a Swap and Shop evening in my home, I realized just how much stuff I have! For some reason I held onto clothing that no longer fit and then I moved about the closet to find shoes that were now considered ‘vintage’ and wouldn’t be worn on these feet! Soon I realized that my living space had items that needed to find a new home as well. All of a sudden I was spring cleaning.

When I walk into my home I want to find a sense of calm (have it be a reflection of us). Memories can be held in items purchased or those that were given, that when glanced upon make me smile. All other items, unless of practical use, could now go. Many were given to the homeless, Good Will and friends. Other items were just tossed.

I felt accomplished. I felt proud but there was still much to be done. I made a checklist of those items that are less noticeable that still need to be addressed and I made a game plan. Each week I try to  address an area of the house (top to bottom). Once complete it’s nice to be  able to enjoy the spring weather and a clean, calm home.

Here’s a sample of those items we often forget as part of our spring cleaning that still need our attention:

Vacuum and dust all window treatments.  Shampoo all carpets and rugs.   Wash baseboards, doorjambs, windowsills, doors and walls.   Clean oven, fridge and ceiling fans.

Check your attic fan as well.   Inspect caulking around the subs, showers and sinks.   Test your ground circuits by hitting the ‘test’ and ‘reset’ buttons.  Change your batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.  Lubricate door hinges and hardware.  Replace your light bulbs with energy saving bulbs.

As the weather allows, start on the outside.  Wash your outdoor furnishings, clean your grill and pressure wash the decks and siding.  Clean and inspect all gutters and downspouts.  Don’t forget the light fixtures that will need some cleaning and the umbrellas and awnings that will need to be freshened as well.

Be slow yet steady. Be in the moment as you face each task and then you’ll be grateful as you sit and relax in your beautiful clean and comfortable home.