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Spring has sprung! Warm weather means it is time to open windows, shake out rugs, and spring clean your home. Wait a minute! Before you get started, here are some common slip-ups on house cleaning and tips on how you can be more effective and efficient in getting your home sparkling clean.
Much of what makes a home look messy is the accumulation of stuff you don’t use or need. Clothes you haven’t worn in years, extra knick-knacks that are in the way, books you’ve already read, toys the kids outgrew…the list can go on and on. Why waste time dusting or washing the things that are just taking up space? Spring is a great time to purge, purge, purge. Here are some great ways to unclutter easily.
So, you’ve cleared out the clutter and you’re ready to go. But are you? What about cleaning supplies? Make sure you have the right tools for the job. Some necessary cleaning supplies include:
- All-purpose cleaners
- Chlorine bleach
- Abrasive and non-abrasive cleaners
- Glass cleaner
- Furniture polish
- Vacuum cleaner bags
- Trash bags
You can purchase cleaning supplies or make your own by following recommended recipes. For cleaning supply recipes, contact the Howard County Extension Service and ask for a handout which has several different recipes for making your own “green” cleaners at home.
Do you do your weekly grocery shopping without a list? Would you head out on a road trip without directions? Map out your cleaning tasks and create a schedule. This will make the job run smoother and go faster.
“If you want all the days of your lives to seem sunny as summer weather, make sure when there’s housework to do, that you do it together!” It’s been 40 years since Carol Channing said this on Free to Be You and Me, but it still holds true.
Finally, keep in mind the end reward. A clean house! Think about how much better you will feel and how great it will look once you are finished.
The information for this article was adapted from information from the American Cleaning Institute. Check out their website at www.cleaninginstitute.org for more information or contact the Howard County Extension Office at 870-845-7517. We are located on the second floor of the courthouse.
Here is a money-saving recipe for a window/mirror cleaner that you can make at home. This recipe is just one of several in the free handout available to you by calling the Extension Office.
Mix ingredients together in a jar. Wear gloves, if necessary, because vinegar is a mild acid. It will remove rust or lime deposits on the outside of windows.
Tip: Newspapers leave a streak free shine.
By Jean Ince County Extension Agent - Staff Chairjince@uada.edu