The flowers are blooming, the birds are serenading, and our house still feels like it's stuck with winter blues. Spring cleaning is a tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. I love the smell of rain and wet roads. I decided to redecorate my entry way with Spring like colors to brighten up the house.

One of the biggest parts of spring cleaning is getting rid of clutter that you don't need. Cleaning will be a lot easier if the clutter is gone. Kick off your spring cleaning by getting organized:

1.Pick up and eliminate clutter in each room before you start cleaning. Try placing a cardboard box and two or three garbage bags in each room you're decluttering. Then, fill them as you sort through your shelves, cabinets, and closets.

2.Donate old books, magazines, toys, and clothes that you don't wear to charity
3.Rotate and flip mattresses. Wash blankets or comforters or take them to be cleaned. Wash mattress pad and bed skirt.

4.Wash baseboards and flip sofa and chair cushions.

5.Dust or wash window blinds, and replace bent or worn miniblinds.

6.Replace worn bath mats, shower curtains, and liners, or wash and dry shower curtains and liners.

7.Take time to clear out your pantry, kitchen cabinets, and drawers. Wipe out and install fresh shelf paper.
Store or donate equipment you don't use, such as small appliances or cookware. Discard stale spices or dated items such as baking powder. Clean the refrigerator and freezer. Vacuum the cooling coils under or behind your refrigerator.

8.Wash your windows inside and outside. Use a commercial glass spray, or try a homemade solution of two tablespoons of ammonia or vinegar and a quart of water. Then use lint-free cloths, strong paper towels, or crumpled newspapers to rub away streaks. Don't forget to clean storm windows and screens.

9.Assess the state of your storage areas, whether you have an attic, basement, garage, or storage shed.
Add shelving units and containers to create order.

10.Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Perform all required safety checks.If you don't own a fire extinguisher, purchase one. Learn how to use it and keep it in the kitchen.

Better Home & Gardens