Spring-Cleaning: 11 ‘To-Do’ Tasks We Sometimes Forget.

Spring weather is starting to peak out! This means it’s time to get the yard in shape, cook on the grill, and spend quality time outside with family and friends. It is also the time of year to start from the ground up and get the house in order. With so many things to do, it’s no wonder we can often overlook important tasks to put on our spring-cleaning list. Here is a list of 11 chores that may slip your mind when making up that spring to-do list:

1. Gather Unwanted Items

   The first step is to get rid of clutter around the house. Collect and separate unwanted items to either donate or throw away. Keep in mind that donating items to organizations such as Goodwill can be tax deductible if you obtain a receipt.

2. Dust From Top to Bottom

   Begin your cleaning tasks by dusting absolutely everything. From the ceiling fans to entertainment centers and all flat surfaces, dusting first will ensure that no excess dust will fall onto areas you have already cleaned.

3. Wipe Down the Walls

   Use a damp cloth with a mild cleanser to wipe down all painted walls and remove dust, dirt, handprints, etc.

4. Wash All Linens

   Bed sheets, comforters, pillowcases, mattress pads and even cushion covers on couches should be washed and sanitized to remove built up germs and bacteria.

5. Clean the Blinds and Curtains

   Washing windows is easy to remember, but blinds and curtains are often overlooked. Use a cleansing cloth to wipe blinds; Check to see if the fabric of your curtains is washing machine friendly and wash accordingly.

6. Clean and Disinfect Trash Cans

   Use a hose (preferably outdoors to prevent a wet mess) and a disinfectant soap to wash the interior of your trash cans to eliminate odors that can accumulate and linger over time.

7. Shake and Beat Rugs

   Shake your rugs outside and then wash with a scrub brush and stain remover appropriate for rugs and carpets. Hang them on a clothesline or banister to get a fresh, clean scent.

8. Clean Out the Fridge

   Remove all expired food. Wipe down all interior shelves and storage bins with a sanitizer that is safe for the fridge. Insert a new and full box of baking soda to keep food odors to a minimum.

9. Replace Batteries

   This task should be conducted YEAR-ROUND. Replace all of your fire and carbon monoxide alarms with fresh batteries and test them every month.

10. Organize Documents

    All important documents should have a designated filing area. Any files or documents that are no longer necessary to keep must be shredded to prevent someone from obtaining your personal information.

11. NEVER Mix Cleansers

    Combining cleaning substances doesn’t make them more effective, it can actually make them more dangerous! Mixing cleansers without proper knowledge of their contents could result in combustion or even illness.

We all have our “laundry list” of tasks that we automatically prepare for every spring season, but we hope that the list above has helped you think a little outside of the box. These are just a few suggestions for ways to freshen up your living space as warmer weather is finally among us. For additional information on healthy living, insurance inquiries, everyday safety and much more, check out our Facebook Page!