Some types of cleaning must be done on a regular and consistent basis, such as vacuuming, dusting, mopping, washing the dishes and cleaning the toilet and bathtub. But there are other cleaning jobs that do not need to be done nearly as often. I consider these to be seasonal types of cleaning chores. So what can you do above and beyond the everyday kind of cleaning tasks?
Window treatments
Take down your curtains and either have them professionally drycleaned (if they require it) or throw them into the washing machine. While you have your curtains down, clean your windows inside and out and also wipe down and around all of the windowsills. Another option is to use a product called Dryell, which allows you to dryclean your curtains at home.
Carpet cleaning
If a professional shampoo cleaning for your carpets is out of your price range, then take the time to do it yourself. Do a room per day or, if you are feeling very energetic, do one room during one part of the day and another during the other. Try to avoid walking on your carpets as they dry, and if you have pets, do your best to keep earnest paws off of them as well. Make sure not to be heavy handed either with the shampoo or with the water. If you overdo either it will take even longer to dry. Always vacuum a carpet to remove loose dirt before you begin to shampoo it.
Wall washing
Wipe down walls in your apartment with a mixture of ammonia diluted in water so that you can kill any bacteria that has started to grow. Give the walls of your shower a good going over and remember to clean the dust from the fan in your bathroom. A great deal of apartment fires originate from dirty bathroom fans. Don't let this happen to you!
Refrigerator cleaning
Clean out your refrigerator and wipe it from top to bottom, inside and out. Always have a box of open baking soda (or a bowl filled with it) to absorb odors.
Oven cleaning
It's not enjoyable whatsoever, but if your oven needs a cleaning, put on your gloves and get to spraying! Always wear a mask to cover your mouth and nose so the fumes won't bother you. It's also a good idea to open a window for fresh air as you go about this frustrating task. If you don't want to open a window, then use a fan to circulate air.
Now off you go to start your heavy-duty spring-cleaning chores!
 | With the arrival of spring, it's time for a top to bottom cleaning of your home. Now that you can get outdoors and open some windows, tackling the dust that's accumulated all winter will leave you feeling refreshed and accomplished. Spring cleaning is a snap, if you take a moment to get organized and focus on finishing one room at a time. |
 | The most affordable way to give your home a pick-me-up is to start spring cleaning and give it a good old top to bottom going over. You really can't start redecorating in a cluttered or dingy space. It's time to get the junk out, get the cobwebs down, throw the windows open, let some fresh air in and get busy. |
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