Many cultures practice an annual spring clean – the act of shaking the house out to refresh stuffy rooms and let the fresh air in with the change of season. But what about winter cleaning or autumn cleaning? If you live somewhere that experiences at least two of the seasons, you know that each season brings new activities, messes and weather to worry about. So, why should our cleaning routines stay the same all year round?
(Check out our Free Printable Cleaning Checklist, which includes quarterly, semi-annual, and annual cleaning).
Breaking down your cleaning by season not only takes advantage of the season, but breaks up all that cleaning into doable bits.
Spring For a Wet-Dry Vacuum
As everything comes back to life and the earth sheds its winter coat, it’s obvious that spring is finally here! The flowers are in the bloom which means so are allergies. It’s a great time to give your home a good dusting and vacuuming, from your carpets to your curtains. That and after all of those snowy boots and shoes, the carpet in some areas will need some extra attention. Consider shampooing your carpets in addition to vacuuming. A wet-dry vacuum cleaner could be the perfect option for your spring cleaning routine with the right attachments.
Summer Spray Down
The days get longer, the nights get shorter, and the weather gets warmer… It’s summertime! The sun is shining which means open windows and sliding doors, so it’s a great time to give insect and pest control the spotlight. Be sure to regularly check your home for any insect infestations this season. Bees, wasps, hornets, termites, and ants are nobody’s best friend, so make sure that none of them take up residence in your home or garden this season. This summer season, try using natural remedies that you can usually find around the house. For example, you can use vinegar to address ant infestations, and you can use peppermint oil to ward off various pests – mice, fleas, ants, spiders, etc.
Freshen Up This Fall
The leaves have started to fall, the nights are crisp, and football season in full effect. But it’s not just football season that autumn brings us, cold and flu season is upon us as well. This is a great time to give your home a deep cleaning (read: disinfecting) and add regular countertop, doorknob, and remote control wipe downs to your list of chores for the season. Just make sure that you do your research on the types of cleaning products that are the right fit for your home and your family. Next, disinfect your refrigerator. Toss out any expired or unnecessary products, and clean your shelves and drawers. And while you’re at it, go ahead and defrost your freezer. You’ll thank yourself later!
Washing in a Winter Wonderland
Hot cocoa with marshmallows, cozy nights gathered by the fireplace, building snowmen, and having snowball fights – all the trademarks of the winter season. But with cozy nights by the fireplace comes lots and lots of pillow and blanket use. Your couch pillows and throw blankets may get more lovin’ than they would in other seasons, so you’ll want to add regular washes to your list of chores. Try using reusable wool laundry balls and essential oils instead of dryer sheets. It’s a win-win because you’re using a more sustainable and natural alternative that also saves you money.
It’s safe to say that you’re going to be ahead of the game if you evaluate your household needs and cleaning routine every time the season changes. By using these easy tips, you won’t just be a spring cleaner, you’ll be an all-season cleaner. Happy cleaning!
~~~Thanks to Jennifer O’Neil for this contribution to the site!
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