Spring-cleaning can seem like a daunting task to most, but all that hard work is sure to be rewarded. Follow these tips, not just in the spring, but all year long and your home will always be fresh and cozy.
Forgive me, but I am going to make a pretty bold assumption here to start us off: As this is a digital publication, and requires the use of a computer or “smart” device to view, I am assuming that if you know how to access this article then you know the basic tenets of cleaning. For this reason I’m going to skip over the basics and head straight for the tips and tricks!
The 5 R’s
1. Reduce
We all need more storage space in our homes and one way to achieve this is to de-clutter the space that we already have. Start by putting away all those heavy blankets and coats using vacuum-sealed bags. Not only will this save space, but it will also keep your items clean and dry until you need them again. Take a few hours to go through your closets separating all the clothing and shoes that you haven’t worn in the past year. You can donate unused items to a local charity such as the Salvation Army or even a thrift store. Some charities even have a pickup service that will come right to your doorstep, don’t be afraid to call them and find out. You’ll be helping those in need and clearing up space in your closet for that new outfit you’ve been eyeing.
2. Re-Organize
Reorganization will not only make things easier to find, it can also clear up space in drawers and cupboards. Take a trip to the Container Store or Bed Bath and Beyond and look for creative storage ideas. You can purchase drawer separators that will help organize smaller items in your dresser. They even have great kitchen organizing tools that will make your pantry a neater place to store items. While re-organizing, make sure to throw away expired items and even consider making a list of what you already have so that you don’t keep buying the same items.
3. Recycle
During spring-cleaning, you may find items you had forgotten about such as old furniture or toys. Instead of throwing them out or leaving them in the garage to take up space, see if you can find a new use for them. Maybe you can repurpose an old item and find a better use for it. There are many DIY boards on Pinterest.com that are actually easy and affordable to accomplish. Old toys that your kids have become tired of playing with can be handed down to other family members or friends as well as donated.
4. Renew
Once you’ve finished reducing, reorganizing, and recycling, it’s time to renew your home. This doesn’t mean you need to hire someone to redecorate or even spend a lot of money. You can easily revamp the look of a space by adding a few new decorative accessories or accent colors. Introducing a new contrast color to a room can change the entire look and feel. Add some new towels in a festive spring color to brighten up your kitchen or bathroom. Throw in a few new accent pillows to change the look of a couch or bed. Even changing the color of your sheets can make a difference! You might be used to your color scheme because it’s familiar and comfortable, but you’d be surprised at what a simple
decorative accessory can do. If you’re afraid of change or prefer familiarity, make smaller changes that can easily be reversed. Test out the new pillows on your couch and if you definitely can’t stand them, guess what, they’re not permanent! The key is to have fun with it and try new things.
5. Reward
Make sure you reward yourself for all of your hard work, you deserve it! You can buy a new candle and bath salts and relax in a nice warm bath. If taking a luxurious soak in the bathtub isn’t really your cup of tea, try cooking a new healthy dish from all the wonderful recipes available on FoodNetwork.com or Pinterest.com. Or even better yet, just go outside and enjoy spring! The weather is getting warmer and it’s the perfect time of year to grab a blanket, a book, a few friends or family members, and go to the park for a fun afternoon.
At the end of the day, if you follow these tips, you’ll end up with a clean home and a clear head. So put on your working duds and dig in, because life is about being happy; and while I can’t guarantee that a clean home and a clear head are enough to make you happy, I can guarantee you that a dirty home and a confused head are only going to make matters worse!
Happy Cleaning!
Jenny Manukyan is the Transaction Manager here at JohnHart Real Estate, as well as an agent herself. Being the supervisor and "linchpin" in our short sale operations, has endowed Jenny with invaluable knowledge; and here on the JohnHart Gazette she hopes to share that with you all!
GREAT TIPS! I will be doing all 5 R’s! I so agree with you when you say a clean home and a clear head could make you happy because it does! You feel like you have less worries and you feel more comfy relaxing in a clean home! THANX!
Great post! these are very helpful tips….clutter does cause chaos and your 5 R’s will be in full effect starting this weekend! Thank You
Excellent advice!! Ill be sure to share this on my facebook!
Excellent article! Very practical advice.