Is it time for your spring cleaning? Avoid making these 6 common mistakes
The arrival of spring also means embarking on a traditional cleaning operation - aptly called "spring cleaning" and involves thoroughly cleaning the home from top to bottom.
Most of us do a spring cleaning, but some may make a few common mistakes whilst doing so. Below, we list 6 of the most common mistakes made (and which you should, obviously, avoid):
1. Pay attention to your cleaning tools
You may be tempted to use just one multi-purpose cleaning product throughout your house. But by spending a bit more money for task-specific products will save time, resources and unwanted expenses in the future.
Before embarking on your spring cleaning, take inventory of all your existing tools and cleaning products, replacing any damaged, expired or missing items: remember, inefficient tools make for ineffective cleaning.
2. Cleaning methods
As with anything done properly, spring cleaning also requires a methodology to be execute effectively: avoid jumping from one room to another in a non-systematic manner. Plan in advance all the things you need to do to allow you to complete the cleaning of one room before moving on to the next.
Organize your time by setting aside periods dedicated to cleaning as, for sure, you won't be able to complete all the cleaning in a single day.
Always remember to proceed with your cleaning from top to bottom and not vice versa (to avoid repeat cleaning).
3. Don't miss anything
Try not to miss cleaning anything: door and window handles, light switches, fixtures and handles on wardrobes, drawers and even some pieces of furniture can often be missed out during a spring clean. A soft cloth moistened with white vinegar will be sufficient for general cleaning. For more stubborn grime, you can use a paste of baking soda and a little water (which will have a light, abrasive cleaning action).
The shower curtain is often neglected, but the constant humidity of the bathroom leads to mold and bacteria appearing on it: wash your shower curtain regularly in the washing machine, and start this new habit with your next/upcoming spring cleaning operation.
4. Decluttering time
Spring cleaning is the ideal time to dedicate yourself to decluttering your home: take advantage of cleaning the entire house to get rid of all broken, worn-out or useless objects. Eliminate the superfluous and donate whatever can still be used. Dividing up all your possessions by category will make it much easier to maintain order.
5. Taking on difficult cleaning chores
The temptation to skip doing the most difficult and tiring cleaning chores can be really strong, but failure to do so could even end up affecting your health and well-being. Take advantage of spring cleaning to tackle these difficult chores: cleaning the oven, the tops of cabinets, the shutters and the blinds (to name just a few).
6. Closed windows
Springtime allows you to open your windows to let the sun's rays in and to air out your home: keep all the windows in your home open when you are doing your spring cleaning - the increased illumination and fresh air will energize you!
Now, you are ready to start your spring cleaning!
