Spring cleaning tips

Now that we’ve got a little more sunshine in our days most of us have a little more energy, too, so the urge to start your spring cleaning may be upon you.

So where do you start?

Professionals suggest the first thing to do is to create a schedule for spring cleaning that can be done over a period of time rather than trying to do it all in a single weekend. Separating your cleaning into different rooms lets you focus on one area at a time to keep on task.

First things first, de-clutter.

Studies have shown a disorganized home adds to your stress level, so de-cluttering makes you feel better about things right away.

Take the time to organize your closets, dust and organize your home office, even rummaging through that dreaded junk drawer and tossing things will eliminate a little of that clutter caused stress and give you the jump start you need to tackle the bigger things.

There is a right way and a wrong way to clean, too.

Always start at the top and work your way down. Get those cobwebs out of the corners of the ceiling and clean up the ceiling fans and ceiling lights. This will force the dust downward so you don’t have to re-dust.

If you or your family suffers from allergies, a high-quality HEPA vacuum is your best friend. It not only pulls up all the dirt and dust you can see, it traps pet dander, allergens and all the household particles in your home.

Look for a vacuum that has attachments, too. The tools make it simple to clean ceiling fans, cobwebs in corners and tight spaces behind furniture. And speaking of furniture, don’t forget to move it and clean under it as well.

If you do suffer from allergies, all natural cleaning products are probably the best for you. A steam cleaner uses only hot water vapor, so they are 100% natural and chemical free, but keep in mind, not everything can be steam cleaned.

One of the best natural cleaning combinations is white, distilled vinegar, baking soda and water. They’re not only non-toxic, but affordable, too.

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. If you divide things up over several days or even a few weekends, you won’t feel overworked or stressed about getting it all done at once. Toss some music on to boost your energy and you’ll find yourself dancing your way through your spring cleaning.