Despite the tradition of welcoming the new year in winter, the true anticipation of achievements and changes begins to emerge with the arrival of spring. The increase in daylight leads to a rise in energy levels, and there’s a desire for action. As the weather becomes warmer and cozier, most of us start thinking about spring deep cleaning.
People generally fall into two categories: some grab mops, sponges, and wipes and set out to tidy up their homes, while others turn to professionals. However, if you still dream of taking matters into your own hands and tidying up your apartment or house yourself while the cleaners you’ve hired are out enjoying the warm spring days, here are a few tips on how to make cleaning much more effective.
Step #1 – Sorting Out Closets
At first glance, cleaning out closets may seem like a waste of time—after all, what’s the point if no one sees the mess? In reality, cleaning shelves (even in closed closets) is an important step in getting organized. Here, it’s essential to keep a clear head and realistically assess your belongings. Despite the spring sentimentality, decisive action is needed.
For convenience, purchase three spacious boxes, labeling each as follows:
- throw away;
- donate;
- store.
Overall, the purpose of the boxes is clear. Now it’s just a matter of sorting through your things. Boldly distribute items that haven’t been used in over a year into the first two boxes. There’s no point in storing what you no longer need. Parting with the past is not easy, but it’s important to remember that by getting rid of the unnecessary, we make room for something wonderful and new.
Step #2 – Winter Items Cleaning
There are golden rules for cleaning out winter items as summer approaches. It’s not enough to mindlessly pack them away in plastic bags.
It’s important to follow these steps:
- carefully inspect all winter items for damage. Loose buttons or detached fur require repair. It’s better to address these issues now rather than in the fall;
- dirty items should be washed or taken to the dry cleaner’s. Sweaters and warm pants can be washed in a regular washing machine. Padded jackets, fur coats, and leather jackets require “dry” cleaning with professional equipment;
- thoroughly dry the washed items. This prevents the formation of mold and mildew during long-term storage;
- purchase airtight containers with lids. They not only protect your items from dust but also prevent insects from feasting on your winter clothes.
Once the items are packed into containers, store them in a closed closet or another dark, dry place. Now it’s time to move on to the main step – cleaning the apartment.
Step #3 – Deep Cleaning All Rooms and Spaces
Spring deep cleaning doesn’t differ much from the “classic” deep cleaning. By the way, we’ve already written about how to do it correctly, so we won’t describe all the steps in detail. Let’s just talk about an addition – washing windows.
The main steps for washing windows are as follows:
- remove curtains and put them in the washing machine for a delicate wash with low spin;
- wash curtains and blinds. Blinds require effort and cleaning agents for washing plastic;
- remove mosquito nets and place them in the bathtub, where they need to be treated with a soap solution, antiseptic, and running water;
- wash the windows with a special cleaner;
- remove insects and debris from between the frames;
- thoroughly wash plastic frames, window sills, and window frames;
- install dried nets;
- hang freshly washed curtains.
Window cleaning on upper floors can be daunting. Here, it’s necessary to equip yourself with modern gadgets that reduce the risk of falling and effectively clean windows from the outside. Yes, we’ve also written about this – you can read about it here.
Step #4 – Cleaning Light Fixtures, Chandeliers, and Sconces
While you have window cleaning supplies on hand, it’s time to search for mirrors, light fixtures, sconces, and glass chandeliers. All of these also require your attention and thorough cleaning.
Before applying any cleaning solution or touching any electrical appliance, turn off the lights and unplug the sconces from the sockets. If at this stage you realize that you won’t be able to manage the spring cleaning of your home yourself, we remind you that you can always turn for assistance to a professional cleaning company https://hardrockcleaning.com/illinois/house-cleaning-buffalo-grove/. Cleaners will handle everything quickly, honestly, and professionally.
Step #5 – Room Cleaning
During room and inter-room space cleaning, it’s important to maintain order by cleaning from top to bottom. Let’s start with the ceilings, which have gathered dust over the winter despite closed windows.
There’s no universal cleaning method since each room is different — some have stretch ceilings while others have painted ones. The method of washing will depend on this. Ventilation, dusting all surfaces, and floor washing are next on the agenda.
Step #6 – Furniture and Carpet Cleaning
Despite the declining popularity of carpets, some apartments still have them. Cleaning with a household vacuum cleaner doesn’t completely remove dust and debris, so you’ll have to roll it up and take it to the dry cleaner’s or purchase professional equipment.
If you opt for a vacuum cleaner, first check the carpet for stains. Armed with carpet cleaning solution and a stiff brush, apply the solution, wait, scrub, wipe, and vacuum. Repeat the same process for upholstered furniture.
Step #7 – Finishing the Cleaning
The final step is getting rid of the trash. Large garbage bags are either recycled or sent to the landfill, depending on their composition.
Cleaning supplies should be tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and stored in a cool, dark place. Used wipes, sponges, and attachments should be thoroughly rinsed, dried, folded, and stored. Remove the dust bag from the vacuum cleaner and empty it of all contents.
Now, imagine how much time it will take to complete these tasks? Cleaning even a small apartment will take all day. Need we mention large apartments and cottages? Cleaning can drag on until summer. The solution is to call professionals from a cleaning company. Thorough, professional cleaning with minimal effort on your part is the perfect way to welcome spring with a smile.
