Spring Cleaning Tips For Inside and Outside

If you’re like most of us, the winter months mean a closed-up house and a neglected yard. Now that there’s a hint of spring in the air, it’s time to clean up, spruce up, and get ready for summer. Here’s a few tips for your spring cleaning list.

Tackle the Big Stuff First

Get the daunting tasks out of the way right up front. It’ll not only give you a feeling of accomplishment, it’ll make it easier to finish up with the smaller tasks.

Outside

There’s leftover litter from fall and the grass is looking pretty scruffy. You might be tempted to dive into that first. But resist and decide on what bigger jobs need to be handled first.

Is there an ailing tree that has to go? While their calendars are still open, call a reputable tree trimming and removal company. That costs more than doing it yourself, sure. But there’s no risk of damage to your body or your property. And they’ll make quick work of that eyesore. Bonus: you might even end up with some firewood for next winter!

Got an unused car sitting around? You can get cash for cars that you no longer need. Or if it’s in such bad shape that it’s not saleable, there are scrap cars removal services that will haul it away for you. Either way, you’ll be rid of the ugly old hulk, and maybe put a few dollars in your pocket for another project.

Is this the year for painting the house? For most of us, this is one that’s a great DIY project that can save you a lot of money. The key is to plan ahead, have the right tools and ladders, and give yourself enough time to get the job done right and without rushing. How long will it take? Plan on two or three weekends for a 2000 square foot house.

Inside

If you’ve spent the winter looking at the parts of your house you desparately want to remodel, now’s the time to get it done, before you clean everything. Remodeling is typically messy and dusty. And whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a contractor, remember this: there’s almost always surprises that make the job take longer than expected. Allow plenty of time and avoid the stress of wanting it done “yesterday.”

Thinking of new appliances? Often, appliance don’t get moved very often. That means there’s a big ugly mess lurking under and behind them. And just changing them out will likely result in a mess of its own. If you’ve got plans for new appliances, arrange to get them before you do your spring cleaning.

Don’t Forget The Details

Once the big stuff is handled, you’re ready for the general spring cleaning. But don’t forget these details:

• Clean or change HVAC filters
• Vacuum out drawers – especially in the kitchen
• Disinfect/deoderize the washing machine and garbage disposal
• Wash out garbage cans both indoors and outdoors
• Lubricate garage door rails, tracks, and hinges

Set your goal to have all the spring cleaning chores done by early May. With all the work behind you, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmer weather with a smile – sipping your favorite beverage, and watching your neighbors spend their summer working!