Home Ideas and Trends • May 2, 2023

Cleaning Tasks That Homeowners Forget to Do

by Judy Ciora

Spring is the perfect time to deep clean and declutter your home. While you might have a general idea of what needs to be done, there are some tasks that homeowners tend to overlook. Here are nine spring cleaning tasks that you might want to add to your to-do list:

One that seems to skip everyone’s mind? The vacuum cleaner: Unplug Your Vacuum: Before you start cleaning your vacuum, be sure to unplug it from the wall to avoid any electrical hazards. Empty the Dustbin: If your vacuum has a dustbin, empty it into a garbage bag or bin. Use a brush or a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris that’s stuck in the dustbin. Clean the Filters: Most vacuum cleaners have one or more filters that need to be cleaned periodically. Check your owner’s manual to see where your vacuum filters are located. Remove the filters and gently tap them against a hard surface to remove any loose dirt and dust. You can also wash the filters in warm water and mild soap if they’re washable. Let the filters dry completely before putting them back in the vacuum. Check the Brushroll: The brush roll is part of the vacuum that rotates and agitates the carpet fibers to remove dirt and debris. If the brush roll is clogged with hair or debris, use scissors or a seam ripper to carefully cut away the tangles. You can also remove the brush roll and use a comb or a brush to remove any hair or debris. Check the Hose: If your vacuum has a hose, use a long, thin object such as a coat hanger or a pipe cleaner to remove any blockages. Clean the Exterior: Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior of your vacuum cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish. Replace the Bag or Filter: If your vacuum cleaner uses a bag, replace it with a new one. If your vacuum uses a filter, replace it with a new one according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. By following these steps, you can keep your vacuum cleaner running smoothly and effectively. Regular maintenance can also help extend the life of your vacuum cleaner, saving you money in the long run.
Clean your washing machine: Your washing machine may be used frequently, but it still needs cleaning. Over time, dirt, grime, and soap residue can build up and affect its performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean your washing machine and keep it running efficiently.
Dust your ceiling fans: Ceiling fans can accumulate a lot of dust and debris, and it’s easy to forget about them. Use a duster or a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean them thoroughly.
Deep clean your refrigerator: Your refrigerator needs more than just a surface wipe down. Take the time to remove all the shelves and drawers, and clean them separately. Use a solution of water and vinegar to wipe down the interior, and don’t forget to clean the seals around the door.
Clean your blinds: Blinds can be challenging to clean, but it’s essential to remove the dirt and dust that can accumulate on them. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to clean each slat, or you can take them down and soak them in warm, soapy water.
Organize your pantry: Spring is a great time to go through your pantry and toss out expired food items. Use storage containers or baskets to keep your pantry organized and make it easier to find what you need.
Clean your baseboards: Baseboards can easily collect dust and dirt, especially if you have pets or children. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and remove any grime.
Clean your light fixtures: Dust and dead bugs can accumulate in light fixtures, making them look dull and unclean. Remove the light fixtures and clean them thoroughly, and don’t forget to change the bulbs if they’re burnt out.
Dust your books and shelves: Books and shelves can accumulate dust and debris, making them look dirty and unkempt. Use a duster or a microfiber cloth to clean them, and consider rearranging your books for a fresh look.
Clean your dishwasher: Like your washing machine, your dishwasher needs cleaning to remove any buildup that can affect its performance. Use a dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean the interior.

Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but by tackling these often-overlooked areas, you can have a home that’s fresh, clean, and organized for the season ahead.

Home Ideas and Trends • April 28, 2023

Give Your Home a Refresh Using This Spring Cleaning Checklist

by Judy Ciora

Spring is the perfect time to give your home a deep clean and refresh after a long winter. With an ultimate spring cleaning checklist, you can ensure that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned and organized. Here’s a comprehensive checklist for every homeowner.

General Cleaning:

Dust all surfaces, including furniture and decor
Sweep or vacuum floors, including under furniture and in corners
Mop hard floors
Clean windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces
Dust and wipe down baseboards and molding
Vacuum furniture and upholstery
Wipe down ceiling fans and light fixtures
Declutter and organize closets, drawers, and cabinets

Kitchen:

Deep clean the refrigerator, including shelves and drawers
Clean the oven, stovetop, and microwave
Wipe down cabinets and drawers
Clean and disinfect countertops and sinks
Wash or replace dish towels and sponges

Bathroom:

Clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, shower, and tub
Scrub grout and tiles
Wipe down cabinets and drawers
Wash or replace shower curtains and liners
Organize bathroom products and towels

Bedrooms:

Wash bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters
Vacuum and rotate mattresses
Dust and organize nightstands and dressers
Declutter and donate clothes or accessories that are no longer needed

Outdoors:

Sweep or power wash walkways, patios, and decks
Clean outdoor furniture and cushions
Prune bushes and trees
Plant new flowers or plants
Check and clean gutters and downspouts

As you tackle each task on this spring cleaning checklist, remember to take breaks and enlist the help of family members or friends if needed. Don’t forget to enjoy the fresh and clean feeling of your home once you’ve completed everything. By following this ultimate spring cleaning checklist, you can ensure that your home is ready for the warmer months ahead.

Home Ideas and Trends • April 28, 2023

Cleaning Ideas to Remove Hard Water Stains on a Glass Shower

by Judy Ciora

Hard water can wreak havoc on your shower glass, leaving behind unsightly stains and build-up that can be tough to remove. Luckily, with a few simple steps, you can remove hard water stains from your glass shower and prevent future build-up from forming.

Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a few supplies to get started, including a spray bottle, white vinegar, baking soda, a scrub brush, and a squeegee.
Mix Your Cleaning Solution: Fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and white vinegar. For tough stains, you can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture.
Apply Your Cleaning Solution: Spray the cleaning solution onto the glass shower and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The vinegar will help break down the hard water stains, making them easier to remove.
Scrub the Glass: Use a scrub brush or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub away the hard water stains. For tougher stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste and apply it to the affected areas.
Rinse and Squeegee: Rinse the glass with water and use a squeegee to remove any excess water. This will help prevent future build-up from forming.

Preventing Future Build-Up

Now that you’ve removed the hard water stains from your glass shower, it’s time to take steps to prevent future build-up from forming.

Here are some tips to help:

Squeegee After Each Use: After each shower, use a squeegee to remove any excess water from the glass. This will help prevent water spots and build-up from forming.
Use a Water Softener: Consider installing a water softener to help reduce the amount of hard water that flows through your pipes. This will help reduce the amount of build-up that forms on your shower glass.
Use a Cleaning Solution Regularly: Use a cleaning solution regularly to keep your shower glass clean and free of build-up. You can use a mixture of water and white vinegar or purchase a commercial cleaning product specifically designed to remove hard water stains.

By following these steps, you can remove hard water stains from your glass shower and prevent future build-up from forming. With a little effort, you can keep your shower glass looking clean and clear for years to come.

Cleaning Tasks That Homeowners Forget to Do

Spring is the perfect time to deep clean and declutter your home. While you might have a general idea of what needs to be done, there are some tasks that homeowners tend to overlook. Here are nine spring cleaning tasks that you might want to add to your to-do list:

Clean your washing machine: Your washing machine may be used frequently, but it still needs cleaning. Over time, dirt, grime, and soap residue can build up and affect its performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean your washing machine and keep it running efficiently.

Dust your ceiling fans: Ceiling fans can accumulate a lot of dust and debris, and it’s easy to forget about them. Use a duster or a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean them thoroughly.

Deep clean your refrigerator: Your refrigerator needs more than just a surface wipe down. Take the time to remove all the shelves and drawers, and clean them separately. Use a solution of water and vinegar to wipe down the interior, and don’t forget to clean the seals around the door.

Clean your blinds: Blinds can be challenging to clean, but it’s essential to remove the dirt and dust that can accumulate on them. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to clean each slat, or you can take them down and soak them in warm, soapy water.

Organize your pantry: Spring is a great time to go through your pantry and toss out expired food items. Use storage containers or baskets to keep your pantry organized and make it easier to find what you need.

Clean your baseboards: Baseboards can easily collect dust and dirt, especially if you have pets or children. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and remove any grime.

Clean your light fixtures: Dust and dead bugs can accumulate in light fixtures, making them look dull and unclean. Remove the light fixtures and clean them thoroughly, and don’t forget to change the bulbs if they’re burnt out.

Dust your books and shelves: Books and shelves can accumulate dust and debris, making them look dirty and unkempt. Use a duster or a microfiber cloth to clean them, and consider rearranging your books for a fresh look.

Clean your dishwasher: Like your washing machine, your dishwasher needs cleaning to remove any buildup that can affect its performance. Use a dishwasher cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean the interior.

Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but by tackling these often-overlooked areas, you can have a home that’s fresh, clean, and organized for the season ahead.

Give Your Home a Refresh Using This Spring Cleaning Checklist

Spring is the perfect time to give your home a deep clean and refresh after a long winter. With an ultimate spring cleaning checklist, you can ensure that every nook and cranny is thoroughly cleaned and organized. Here’s a comprehensive checklist for every homeowner.

Cleaning Ideas to Remove Hard Water Stains on a Glass Shower

Hard water can wreak havoc on your shower glass, leaving behind unsightly stains and build-up that can be tough to remove. Luckily, with a few simple steps, you can remove hard water stains from your glass shower and prevent future build-up from forming.

Preventing Future Build-Up