Spring Cleaning Time!
8 Mar
I woke up this morning to a sunny day, complete with birdies chirping outside my window. A morning like that can only mean one thing, spring is here (well almost). I really like the spring; the sights, the sounds, the smells, the amazing way everything springs back to life after what seemed like a LONG, COLD winter.
With the spring, comes the spring cleaning. I have some inexpensive ways to get your house clean and smelling fresh.
Chore number 1: Washing the walls
First things first, make sure your painted walls are washable before you start. Pick a small spot to test the cleaning solutions and let it completely dry before doing a larger area. Make sure there are no streaks or water marks and that no paint came off on your sponge. Once you’ve tested, vacuum the walls with your dust brush attachment. Dilute an all purpose cleaner according to the directions on the bottle. I like to use a piece of a Sham-Wow, starting at the top of the wall and working down a few feet at a time. Make sure your cloth is not dripping wet. Cleaning your walls will help freshen the room and give your walls a renewed sheen.
Chore number 2: Wood polish
Here’s an easy recipe to make your own wood polish to use on furniture or for anyone like me who has wood cabinets. I like this one because it has that fresh, clean sent. Mix 1 part lemon juice and 2 parts olive oil (don’t use the good EVOO you cook with though). Use a soft cloth to apply, then use another clean cloth to wipe dry. If you don’t like lemons or don’t have any lemon juice, use 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts olive oil.
Chore number 3: Windows
Don’t bother with the Windex anymore. Mix a capful of ammonia in two gallons of water and a teaspoon of rubbing alcohol. Put your mixture in a spray bottle and get to work. Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to wipe clean. Try using vertical strokes on the inside and horizontal stokes on the outside so if you have any streaking you can easily tell which side it’s on.
Chore number 4: Appliances
I think I’ve given you this tip before, but it is worth repeating. Baking soda works wonders on your glass cooktops, pots, pans, and stainless steel appliances. Put some baking soda in a shallow bowl. Using a damp dish rag (or a piece of a Sham-Wow), dab the rag in the baking soda and wipe the area (with the grain). Use another damp cloth to wipe the excess away. With very little effort you can have a clean cooktop in no time. The best part, it’s not going to scratch your expensive appliances.
I think by far baking soda is my favorite cleaning product. First of all, it’s dirt cheap, I picked up a 2 pound box for under $2. Baking soda is super versatile. Not only can you use it to clean in your kitchen, sprinkle it on your carpets to freshen them up before vacuuming. Have a cat? Sprinkle some more in your little box to help keep the smell under control. Are you a mommy too? If your baby has diaper rash, sprinkle 2 tablespoons in baby’s bath water. Those are just a few of the many uses for baking soda.
I don’t know about you, but I am more than ready for spring to be here already, even if it means some extra cleaning.
Happy Monday!!
