Windows
No one likes to clean windows, but it definitely makes the view better outside when you have a clean pane to look through. In addition to cleaning your windows with a glass cleaner, also dust blinds, and consider dry cleaning drapers.
Stainless Steel
Fingerprints and grime builds up on stainless steel, but what is the best way to clean it? Spray with a bit of vinegar and using a soft cloth or paper towel, wipe off in the direction of the grain.
Countertops
Clear clutter off of countertops daily as it will help to keep them clean. The less clutter you have, the easier it is to spray and wipe away bacteria.
To deep clean, spray with a cleaner that is okay for your particular countertop type and wipe away with a soft cloth that will eliminate streaks. For hard-to-reach places, use a clean toothbrush.
Dishwasher
Open your dishwasher and make sure all food debris is gone, wipe it clean, and run the dishwasher (without anything in it) through a cleaning phase.
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Refrigerator
We suggest removing everything from your refrigerator and freezer and giving it a deep clean. This will deter bacteria from growing and keep your food and your family healthier.
Floors
For carpets and rugs, either rent or buy a steam cleaner or hire a professional to come in and clean them. For wool carpets and rugs or anything delicate, enlist a professional. For low traffic areas, this can be done every few years.
For hardwood floors regular cleaning should be done, but this time of year give them a deep clean and wax.
Oven
Give your oven a good scrub, and utilize the self-cleaning function.
Tiled Surfaces
Spray tiles with a tile cleaner and let set while you clean other areas of the home. Rinse with water and then go back with a soft cloth to wipe away grime and dry.
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Your Closets
Go through each of your closets and get rid of anything you (or you family) has not worn for at least a year. Donate what is in your “give away” pile then go through and tidy up what is left.
Washing Machine
After every dry cycle or every few wash cycles, you should be cleaning the lint trap and running the self clean function, but ensure you do both and have a repair man out to do an annual check up to keep machines running smoothly.
Mattress
Although we should wash our bedding every one to two weeks, our mattress is oftentimes overlooked. Now is the time to strip down the bed and break out the vacuum cleaner to ensure your mattress is as clean as can be. Now is also a good time to turn and flip your mattress to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
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Walls, Cabinets, Baseboards, and Woodwork
Grime can build up on these surfaces over time and they are often overlooked. Wipe down and clean painted walls, cabinets, especially in the kitchen where grease can build up, and baseboards and woodwork that can collect dust and are often overlooked.
Bookshelves
Just as you did with the refrigerator, clear off all of the contents from your bookshelves and give them a good dusting and cleaning.
Your Cleaning Supplies
You may not think that the very supplies and tools that help you clean need their own cleaning, but they do! Take a vacuum to your broom and mop (or replace both if it is time), and give your vacuum a good cleaning as well. Clean out the filter and wipe down all of the accessories. Also, now is a good time to restock your cleaning supplies if you are running low.
Patio Furniture and Grill
As the weather is warming up, you will want to get outside and enjoy the new season, but before you do, give your outdoor furniture and grill a good cleaning. Wipe everything down, burn off and clean any residue on your grill, and get ready to enjoy the spring and summer months.
Ceiling and Light Fixtures
Ceiling fans and light fixtures collect a lot of dust over time. Get up on a step stool or ladder to dust ceiling fans, bulbs, and fixtures. If need-be remove the light fixture and wash with soap and water to get rid of residue that has built up.
