#imoverwhelmed

It’s almost that time of year...the christmas decorations are back in the boxes and stuffed away in attics and garages and storage units...We’ve all had enough ham and turkey to last a lifetime. As we put away our coats and sweaters and wonderful winter memories, we would do well to look ahead to the new spring season and all of its benefits.

They say prior proper planning prevents poor performance…

One of the first things that we should focus on in this transition of seasons is that often dreaded, but necessary *SPRING CLEANING*

Of course, before this all begins, having a well organized plan will be the first step toward success. Developing a plan will help minimize the stress and create a more efficient cleaning system. For any first-time spring cleaner, it certainly feels like an overwhelming task, but with these seven simple tips below, you’ll be spotless and ready to relax in practically no time at all.

REMOVE CLUTTER

Make sure you de-clutter right away. This will clear the space and make it easier for you to actually see what needs sweeping, dusting, or to be taken to the dry cleaners. Use Post-its to label “keep,” “store,” and “trash” piles. You may not think this is a necessary task, but a major part of spring cleaning is getting rid of those old items that are taking up space or just don’t work with your newest themes.  After you’ve marked everything, make piles and either bag or box the giveaways, rehang (maybe on new, color-coordinated hangers) and fold the items you want to keep, and store your winter clothes in plastic bins, either tucked away in the closet or under the bed.

CREATE CLEANING KIT The first step to starting and keeping a home or apartment clean is buying the right supplies. Basic checklist: an all-purpose cleaner, disinfecting wipes, safe bleach products, rubber gloves, glass cleaner for showers and windows, carpet spot cleaner, microfiber cloths, a sponge, and a small duster. Then store all of your most-used supplies together in a container like a shower caddy or basket, so it’s easy to carry them around with you to any room in the house.

ONE ROOM AT A TIME

Believe it or not; multi-tasking isn’t always the most efficient method to get things done.  We often spread ourselves too thin in an attempt to be an overachiever. Trying to do everything all at once will set you back, or you’ll end up not cleaning as much as you thought you’d cleaned. Addressing one room at a time will help keep you focused and effective in your cleaning efforts. You might begin with the bedroom, spend an afternoon there, then the next morning take on the living room or office. Space things out if this is your very first spring clean. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, right?

GET THE RIGHT VACUUM

Now that you’re really getting into the spring-cleaning swing, you’re going to need more than that small DustBuster left over from your single days. Invest in a slim, bagless vacuum—models with disposable bags can be harder to clean and stop suction and airflow as they get full. Any vacuum over 200 air watts will have ample suction, and look for one with a spinning brush to give rug and carpet fibers a deeper clean. Once you finish vacuuming the top of your rugs, be sure to fold back the corners and edges to get the undersides. Lastly, don’t rush it. Moving the vacuum very slowly will result in the removal of up to 85 percent more dust and allergens.

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Vacuuming and dusting should be done on a regular basis, but there are lots of pesky little spots around the house that tend to be overlooked when it comes time to clean. For tiny crevices that need a scrub, like the tracks of your windows and behind the toilet, use an old toothbrush and some vinegar. Once you’ve vacuumed the floors, use the nozzle attachment to get under your couch cushions and suck up everything hiding there. And when you’re dusting, don’t just dust around things—remove all of the items so you can clean the actual surface of the shelf. Extra points for those who wipe their remotes down with antibacterial solution and remember to clean their toothbrush holder—one of the places in the home where bacteria can spread very easily. A great trick here is to fill the holder up with water and drop an Alka-Seltzer in.

LOOK IN THE FRIDGE

Even if you’re pretty diligent about throwing away expired food or drinks in your refrigerator, there are bound to be condiments in there that haven’t been used since you moved in. Clear out the entire fridge, check expiration dates, and toss. The same goes for the piles of forgotten leftovers in the freezer. Before putting everything back in, wipe the bottoms and lids of the containers you’re keeping to get rid of any drips or gunk, then spray the inside of the fridge with some vinegar and water and wipe it down. If you really want to go all out, take the shelves completely out and wash them down with soap and water. Once everything is ready to go back in, organize the contents: The door—the least cold area—should hold condiments; the bottom drawers—with higher humidity—should hold the veggies and fruits; and the middle shelf—the coldest—is best for perishable items.

BRING IN THE FEELING OF SPRING

By now, you’ve completed your very first spring clean, and it’s time to reward yourself! Buying some fresh flowers or a beautiful new plant will add a nice finishing touch to your refreshed space. Not only will they look lovely, they will also improve your general well-being—plants can improve indoor air quality, brighten your mood, and potentially boost your creative energy. Not a bad way to start the new season.

Here at Haul & Move-Movers, we know that the home is the center of family life.  It’s where we all come together in the name of love and experience the triumphs and tragedies of life TOGETHER.  As household movers, we know how important ones possessions are to them, and we also know the place where one keeps those possessions is near and dear to them.

We will continue to offer great tips that help lower stress levels and create more time for you and your loved ones.

If you are planning a move in the near future, or if you’d like more tips on how to be efficient and effective in your daily home life, contact us TODAY.  As a leading provider of quality service in the household moving industry, Haul & Move-Movers LLC looks forward to serving you and your family soon.