Personal satisfaction. That, said Peter Walsh, organizational guru and host of TLC’s popular show “Clean Sweep,” is what spring cleaning is all about. It triggers homeowners to revive their home and renew their lives. “Cleaning does not have to be a list of dreaded chores, it can actually be a rewarding experience,” added Walsh. “Spring is the perfect time of year to get your home and life organized.”
Following a simple checklist and using the right products for each job can be key, according to Walsh. According to cleaning experts, “Today’s homes feature surfaces that require special care and protection. From stainless steel to stone countertops, fine wood and leather, each requires a product that will clean and showcase its beauty.” Tackling high-traffic rooms, such as the kitchen, can be a breeze following this simple checklist:
• Start Slowly. It takes months for a home to become cluttered so it’s not realistic to try to organize everything in one day or even a weekend. Instead, start small-one drawer, one cupboard or one shelf at a time. Make a commitment every day to clean sweep another room until it’s done.
• The One-Month Cardboard Box Test. As clutter accumulates over time, the first step to getting clean and organized is to seriously pare down the number of items in each room. Empty the contents of drawers, clean objects under beds and sort through closets. Put everything in a big box. For one month, put back only the items you use. If after four weeks you haven’t used it, you probably don’t need it.
• Tackle High-Traffic Rooms. The kitchen has become the unofficial gathering place of most homes. From overflowing junk drawers to chaotic cabinets, kitchens are a magnet for mess and clutter. First, make sure your kitchen is clutter-free. Next, focus on appliances and flat surfaces. You can remove burned-on food from your stovetop and make the surface shine by using Weiman Cook Top Cleaner or Weiman Cook Top Quick Wipes. To get rid of irksome fingerprints from stainless appliances and create a streak-free shine, try Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish or Weiman Stainless Steel Wipes.
• Use the Right Products. Cleaning an entire house means cleaning a lot of different surfaces. From granite countertops in the kitchen to a leather club chair in the family room, it’s important to use a product that is specifically formulated to nourish and protect that surface in addition to cleaning it.
