Freshen your home this spring by putting a new twist on your spring cleaning traditions.
Designate junk before you dump.
Spring cleaning is a great time to get rid of the “can’t use/doesn’t fit/doesn’t work” things in your life. But did you know you can donate not only clothes but also office supplies, old computers, used furniture, books, pet supplies and even cars to charities and get a tax deduction? Making the decision to toss is hard for everyone, but knowing in advance where you might donate the objects can help you let go of them more easily. Start by marking a Ziploc® brand Big Bag (XXL size) with the name of each organization you plan to give to. When you sort through your unneeded items, place the appropriate goods in the assigned bag. When you’re done, make a pick-up call to your designated organization(s) or drop off your bags. It’s such a simple way to make a difference—and a terrific way to free up much-needed space!
Multitask like an expert.
Do you groan at the thought of lugging multiple cleaning products around or waste time deciding which to use? Lighten your cleaning load by using one product for multiple chores. For instance, Windex® Antibacterial Disinfectant cleans and sanitizes not only countertops and windows but also appliances, chrome fixtures, mirrors and more—and all without leaving a dull residue behind. Plus, the Windex® Outdoor All in One Glass Cleaning Tool is a great way to simplify outdoor window washing. So schedule a “Windex® Day”, and bring out the streak-free shine on all your surfaces.
Read the labels.
Mixing certain cleaning products can be dangerous, so make sure you read labels on all products before using them. For instance, never, ever mix chemical cleaners: Bleach and ammonia, for example, create a dangerous gas called chloramine that can injure your eyes and the deep tissues of your lungs. Combining bleach with acid, which is found in some toilet-bowl cleaners, produces a similarly dangerous gas.
Upgrade your cleaning cloths.
Windex® Multi-Task Wipes are perfect for shining stainless steel appliances, countertops, glass and mirrors, and even your car windows!
Add a fresh scent.
Try something different this spring by choosing a refreshing new scent for your home. It will make the cleaning experience so much more enjoyable! Lavender & Vanilla, a warm wave of fresh spring scent, is available in Glade PlugIns® Scented Oil.
Pick it up—don’t kick it up!
Have you noticed that most dry-dusting efforts tend to just redeposit the dust in a different spot? Pledge® Multi-Surface Duster is the only duster with Allergen Trappers® and a Multi-Surface Spray built right into the handle. The dust-grabbing and dust-trapping fibres on the duster help remove dust, smudges and smears in a flash and leave all your surfaces with a beautiful, clean shine.
Enjoy a new cleaning outfit.
I have a friend who can’t bear to wear old sweats when she does her spring cleaning, so each year she buys herself a funny apron. (Last year’s had a flamenco dancer on it!) I, on the other hand, prefer my comfy old sweats! Whatever your fashion tastes, it’s important to protect your clothes and skin. Wear rubber gloves from start to finish, and if you’re allergic to dust or mould and mildew, consider wearing a surgical mask. Keep hair out of your eyes with a bandanna or an elastic hair band.
Reward yourself.
I am a firm believer that every challenging job must be followed by something you love to do. For instance, my mom loves to take a relaxing bath, so she schedules one right after cleaning the fridge. I enjoy treating myself to my favourite takeout dinner on stressful cleaning days.
