Hello 2018!
Some people like to start their new year by hitting the gym or ditching the snooze button. Me? I get a head start on my Spring Cleaning! Actually, I don't even have to do much spring cleaning because I love kicking off the new year with a squeaky clean home! It's a great way to boost productivity and really kick any other resolutions you may have made into high gear (who doesn't feel more productive in a fresh, clean house?)!
Since New Year's Cleaning involves a lot more than a quick straighten around the house, I thought I'd share with you a simple--and printable!--cleaning checklist that makes scrubbing every long-neglected nook and cranny a breeze! I promise you'll feel like a whole new person once you've finished this list!
KITCHEN
Dump those drawers and sort your silverware! Even your sink will shine (and smell lemony fresh!) with a quick disposal scrub (I like the lemon method found here). My grandma always taught me to use warm water mixed with vinegar and an old rag to wipe down the cabinets. It stinks, but it works!
LIVING ROOM
Thanks to my super messy toddler twosome, my couch cushions get washed on the reg, but it's always a good reminder to wash the throw pillows and spot clean the rest of the sofa, too! Pro Tip: if you were an idiot like me and bought an OFF WHITE, FABRIC ottoman, cover it with a blanket at all times to keep sticky fingers from leaving stains. Remove when guests are over or blog pictures need to be taken.
BEDROOMS
I hope you're washing your bedding more than twice a year.....but every few months is a good time to wash the actual pillows and throws! The new year is also the perfect time to sort through all the kids' toys. Donate what they're done with and you'll have an easier time putting away all those new Christmas gifts, too. Oh, and don't forget to rummage through your own closet for any possible consignment or donation items--if you haven't worn something in the last year, it's probably time to toss it.
LAUNDRY ROOM
It's always a good idea to wash your appliances regularly to keep them running efficiently, so I'll definitely be doing this before my next wash cycle!
BATHROOMS
If you have shower curtains, wash them! They get dirty, too! It's a good idea to bleach your curtain liner to remove and prevent any mildew. Loofahs and toothbrushes should be replaced about every 6 months. By starting new at the beginning of the year, you'll have an easier time remembering when you last replaced them. P.S.: if you leave your toothbrush out in the open (like in a holder cup on the counter), make sure you're always CLOSING the toilet lid when you flush....flushing releases microscopic particles of fecal matter into the air when the lid is left open--particles which will land on your toothbrush. Gross.
ENTRY WAY
The entry is the welcome center of your home. Make sure it's sparkling for your next guest by scrubbing the sidelight and any entry furniture you may have.
MISCELLANEOUS
Use my previously mentioned water/vinegar mixture to wipe clean any baseboards and door frames in your home, at least once a year. Use a magic eraser to remove any scuffs or scratches. The new year is a great time to disinfect door knobs, light switches, and any other frequently touched items (think telephones, tv remotes, etc) since flu season is in full swing. When spring comes, you'll breathe easier having a fresh air filter (replace it as often as the packaging requires) and clean return vents.
Obviously, my home gets cleaned much more regularly than this, usually. This list is more of a biannual cleaning plan to ensure that every little detail gets cleaned at least once or twice a year. I even clean a lot of the items on this list every month or more! It's totally up to you, but there's definitely no harm in starting off the new year with a sparkling home and fresh sheets!
I'm working on a post to share my everyday cleaning plan with y'all, soon, so stay tuned! Do you have any special cleaning tips or tricks? I'd love to hear them!
