Rachael Ray

Depending on where you live, Spring is here, or at least just around the corner. The change of seasons is a great time to do some basic maintenance around the house, tackling easy-to-overlook housework that we all often ignore - or avoid - most of the year. These relatively easy tasks are above and beyond the weekly vacuuming, dusting, bathroom cleaning, floor washing, etc. you are (hopefully) taking care of, but once completed, you will notice your house will be brighter and fresher.

Pick one room at a time (each day, every few days or even each week) to break down spring cleaning into manageable tasks. Give yourself a finite amount of time so you stay on task - one room really shouldn’t take more than an hour if you stay focused. To try and make it somewhat enjoyable (ha), listen to music, a book on tape, or ask a friend to help and you can return the favor at her house. Make a checklist (or print out this one) - there are few things as rewarding as crossing a “to-do” off a list.

Spring Cleaning Check List:

Wash walls in rooms that require it (espcially kitchens, bathrooms, entry ways and mud rooms) and dust corners of walls.

Dust and clean all fans (especially ceiling fans) and vents.

Clean light fixtures.

Dust/clean light switch plates, door knobs, telephones, baseboards, molding, window sills, and other woodwork (even the tops of doorways).

Clean windows/window treatments - take down curtains and follow directions on tag (dry clean or machine wash), clean blinds, wash inside and outside of windows.

Dust/clean all framed art work and photographs.

Vacuum all furniture - yes remove the cushions and take a look (pennies, barrettes, barbies, food - you never know what you’ll find) prior to vacuuming. Launder slip covers or have upholstered furniture professionally cleaned if necessary.

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Have carpets cleaned or rent a cleaning machine and do it yourself.

Dust/clean lamps and lampshades (use a vacuum attachment for shades).

Remove all items from bookshelves - knick knacks, books, etc. - dust down shelves, edit and replace items (clean items if appropriate).

Wash all bedding - even mattress pads - and flip mattresses prior to making bed with clean bedding.

Clean and vacuum under the beds - scary but necessary.

Clean the insides of oven and refrigerator (includes vacuuming the coils underneath fridge - they can get really gross). Take this time to go through all the food in the fridge - including condiments - and toss anything expired, spoiled, etc.

Take all the magnets off the fridge, clean fridge surface, edit and replace items (or not).

Wash inside of kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers - remove items, wipe down and re-line with shelf paper if necessary prior to replacing items.

Launder shower curtain and replace liner if you have one.

Take a huge break when you are done and enjoy your hard work and sparkling house!

Next time the Cleaning Lady will tackle Spring Cleaning your closets, attic and basement. Happy Spring!