At the turn of the year, I find a yearning to get down and dirty in my home. I typically make sure that three major cleaning tasks get done, allowing me to feel like I'm starting off with a really clean slate. Even when I don't have time for a full deep clean, if I can manage to accomplish these three things I feel like I'm doing well.
1. Baseboards: Sweeping, mopping and vacuuming happen regularly round my home, and I often sweep the baseboards off (most of the time half-heartedly). But at the start of the year, I like to give the baseboards, windowsills and moldings a thorough wipe down with a wet cloth, and cleaner, if necessary. It makes all of the floors feel spic and span.
2. Closets: I take everything out, sweep and vacuum, and put everything back in neatly. If I have the time, I sort the contents as well. But even If I'm not in my uber-organizational mode, I make sure to clean out the dust bunnies that hunker down in there. The shoes get a good dusting in the process, and it just makes the closet feel rejuvenated.
3. The Master Dusting: I dust regularly. But at least once a year, I conduct a Master Dust. I'm talking about removing every item from the shelves, dusting the shelves, dusting the items and returning them to their place. Starting at the top and working my way down ensures no rogue dust jumping ship to a freshly dusted shelf. I do this all before vacuuming so I can get the last little bits that land on the ground.
Everyone has a down and dirty task that makes them feel that they've accomplished a deep clean...what is yours? Wiping down the front of the cabinets? Cleaning all of the windows? The new year is a great time to get a fresh start. Now, for that gym membership...
Images: Jessica Tata
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