Winter is drawing to a close in Quebec and the return of the warm weather spurs us to put some order in both our daily lives and our homes. It’s the perfect time for the big spring clean. The task seems so daunting, that it is difficult to know where to begin. Here are a few tips to help you perform it efficiently.
Air out the house
As soon as the temperature permits, open the windows to let fresh air in and renew the ambient air. After long winter months, high humidity levels and odours can permeate our homes. Ventilation improves air quality and eliminates odours.
Check your ventilation system
Indoor air can contain harmful substances, such as chemical pollutants, bacteria and mould, which can affect occupants’ health. That’s why it is essential to ensure that your ventilation system is in good working order. Clean the air filters and make sure the ducts are clean.
Clean the carpets
After a whole winter has passed, the carpets can be dirty and dusty. It is important to deep clean them to remove the embedded dirt that can cause allergies or asthma. For a deep clean, you can rent an injection-extraction vacuum cleaner that sprays a mixture of water and detergent onto the carpet to remove dirt. You can also hire a professional, but make sure they use environmentally friendly and non-toxic cleaning methods. Once cleaning is over, remember to let the carpets dry completely before putting them back in place.
Clean the windows
Clean your windows. If you prefer natural and eco-friendly products, white vinegar is both an ecological and economical option. Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of hot water; apply to windows with a sponge, then wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish. If you choose a window cleaner, choose a quality, non-toxic one. To avoid streaking, clean your windows on cloudy days or in the evening when the sun has gone down. Finally, don’t forget window frames and sills, which can collect dust and dirt. Use a damp cloth to clean them and dry them with a microfiber cloth to avoid stains.
Sort through your belongings, room by room
Put items you regularly use on one side, and those you no longer use on the other. Clothes and accessories you haven’t worn in over a year, electronic devices you no longer use, books you don’t want to re-read. You can donate your belongings to charities or sell them on classified websites to give them a second life.
Store effectively
Opt for transparent boxes. They’re perfect for storing items that you don’t use often but need to keep on hand. They will allow you to easily see what’s inside without having to open them. Label each box and specify the contents; this will help you to quickly find what you are looking for.
Use shelves. They’re very useful for storing your items overhead and using the vertical space in your room. Place the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top.
Optimize your space
Use empty spaces, such as under the bed or the corners of the room. You can also use hanging shoe organizers to store shoes and hooks to hang coats and accessories.
Set up a cleaning routine
Once you’ve finished sorting and your space is organized, you can establish a regular cleaning routine to keep it clean and neat. Decide how often you’re going to clean, prepare a list of tasks and be consistent.
Home insurance
Once you’ve done your spring cleaning, check to make sure your home insurance still meets your needs. For example, if you have made any major purchases during the year, such as a pool or a new shed, make sure they are included in your insurance coverage.
Spring cleaning may seem tedious, but it can also be an opportunity to change the atmosphere in your home and get rid of unnecessary items. You can then create a lighter and more harmonious space. This will certainly help reduce your stress and improve your overall wellbeing as you will have a healthier and more pleasant environment.
Take advantage of this time to welcome spring and enjoy the days as they get longer, with total peace of mind.
