Spring Cleaning Hacks

1. Only have one sponge for multiple tasks? Don’t cringe just yet. Ring that sucker out and microwave it on high for one minute. That cleaner’s best friend will be good as new!
2. Did you know the term “dishwasher safe” does not apply exclusively to dishes? Feel free to throw in your child’s plastic toys, makeup and hair brushes, and even your shower head for a deeper clean.
3. Out of toilet bowl cleaner? A non-toxic and citric-acid-filled alternative is everyone’s favorite childhood beverage: Kool-Aid! Other alternatives include a can of Coke or Pepsi. Simply pour the contents of any of these options into the bowl at night, and flush it away in the morning!
4. Want to finally rid your home of that smell of winter funk? Sprinkle baking soda onto the carpet prior to vacuuming for a fresher, cleaner fragrance.
5. Cleaning grime out of your microwave? Loosen it up first with a steam bath. Mix white vinegar and water in a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave it on high for 5 minutes. You can even add some lemon juice or essential oils to create a fresh fragrance.

Spring Cleaning Safety

1. Don’t get overzealous when it comes to moving large furniture. Understand your limits, outsource to friends or family if necessary, and make slow, calculated movements. Lift with your legs, and wear sturdy shoes to avoid hurting your toes.
2. Avoid standing on furniture to reach up high, and instead opt to use a footstool or ladder. Furniture that isn’t intended to hold a lot of weight or does not have a sturdy foundation could give or topple when used for an unintended purpose.
3. Take trips up and down stairs. Avoid carrying large piles of household items or cleaning supplies up and down stairs, as trips and falls are much more likely to occur. Make sure you can clearly see the path in front of you and that you aren’t over-exerting yourself.
4. Make sure you have at least one fire extinguisher, and ensure it is located in an easy-to-reach place. Check that expiration date to make sure it is still good.
5. When turning your oven on high for a quick clean or spraying copious amounts of disinfectant and other cleaning chemicals, take advantage of that springtime breeze and crack open your windows. Airing out your house will be both good for your help and beneficial in ridding your home of that winter funk. Consider skipping the harmful chemicals altogether by making your own cleaners that are even safe for kids to use.