It’s the start of the New Year, it’s cold outside and you may be experiencing a bit of cabin fever…why not put your time to good use and get busy cleaning your home? Maintaining your household doesn’t have to be difficult or overly time-consuming…follow these simple guidelines to give your home a fresh, clean start for 2011:
Create a Household Cleaning Schedule
There are many reasons to create a cleaning schedule for your household but probably the most important one is that when you delay housework, it seems to multiply! For example, if you’re in the habit of stacking dishes in the sink until the end of the day or overnight, chances are you’ll have to soak, scrub and scrape…whereas if you place dishes directly into the dishwasher after a meal, a simple rinse is all that’s needed. Likewise, if you wait until cooking oil, grease and debris builds up on your stove and other kitchen surfaces, you’ll have to spend a decent amount of time scrubbing. However, if you wipe down and/or dust kitchen surfaces weekly, it will only take a few minutes at a time. So make a plan – whether it’s weekly or daily – to maintain frequently used rooms in your home on a regular basis. It will save you time in the long run!
Essential Household Cleaning Supplies
When stocking up on cleaning supplies and equipment, consider investing in the following:
- Vacuum
- Broom
- Dust mop
- Dust pan
- Dust or cleaning cloths
- Wet mop
- Tub & Shower scrubber
- Sponges
- Scrub brushes in varying sizes (for bathtub, shower, etc.)
- Toothbrush (for tile grout)
- Buckets
Additionally, you’ll want to have basic cleaning products on hand: All-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant wipes, a mild abrasive cleaner, chlorine bleach, metal polish (for stainless steel and aluminum) and furniture polish.
Cleaning Safety Tips
Before you begin cleaning, make sure to read the labels on cleaning products thoroughly in order to use safely and effectively. Don’t attempt to mix cleaning products together, as some combinations produce harmful gases/fumes (such as mixing chlorine bleach with ammonia). Keep your cleaning products away from children and pets, because many of them are dangerous if accidentally ingested or if they come in to contact with skin or eyes. Store household cleaners in a cool, dry place and make sure to dispose of expired or used cleaners properly.