One of the surest signs that spring has arrived is the urge to throw open the windows, break out your supplies, and start cleaning! A good spring cleaning, whether taking on all of the work yourself or getting some professional help from house cleaning Atlanta experts, leaves you ready to welcome the warm weather and get a fresh start. But how thorough is your spring cleaning chore list? To get the job done right, you need to go beyond the usual tasks and tackle those forgotten areas that haven’t been touched since last year (or longer.)
Go Deep in the Kitchen
When it comes to cleaning the kitchen, you’re just scratching the surface by wiping down the countertops. Once a year, pull out your appliances — the refrigerator, dishwasher, range, and microwave — and clean both inside and behind them. Pay attention to coils and filters which often attract dust or grease. Next, empty out the cabinets, clean the interiors, and toss any expired pantry items.
Go High and Get Low
If you have baseboards, wipe them down with a simple solution of soap and water. Visit each room and dust the crown molding or the corners where the walls meet the ceiling. Take vacuuming a step further by washing the floors, paying attention to details such as grout lines and corners, and shampooing rugs and carpets.
Give Your Windows the Treatment
To fully appreciate the blooming trees and flowers outside, you need clean windows. Give them a good wash and rinse both inside and out. If you have hard water, use a vinegar solution to remove old spots and prevent new ones. Don’t forget to dust the blinds, taking the time to get between each slat. Wash and dry the curtains and use an iron or steamer — follow the instructions on the label — to get any wrinkles out.
Show Your HVAC Some Love
Changing the filters in your HVAC system will help it function efficiently and improve the air quality in your home. Depending on the size and design of your system, there may be several filters, and they can be inside or outside. Some external system components should be cleaned off with a spray from the hose.
It’s a good idea to get a tune-up from an HVAC technician once a year. The tech can give you tips on how to keep the system clean and make sure everything is working the way it should.
Replace Batteries
While you’re stepping back to admire your sparkling-clean house, change the batteries in each smoke and carbon monoxide detector throughout the house and give them a test to make sure they’re working. Change the batteries in garage door openers, remote controls, and other everyday devices as well. By doing it now, you’ll save yourself the hassle of jabbing at the alarm with a broomstick to get it to stop beeping a few months from now.
Spring cleaning takes some work, but the satisfaction and peace of mind are worth it. Add these frequently neglected chores to your list and take pride in knowing your home is cleaner than ever and ready for whatever spring has in store.