Fall cleaning made easy

Seasonal cleaning is daunting, but everything is easier when broken down into steps.  Check out this list to know where to start:

1. Before deep cleaning, start with organizing.  This will involve an overhaul of all your cluttered cabinets and closets, as well as an investment in organizational supplies.  Start in the kitchen, throwing away anything expired.  Sort your spices and dry goods, then move on to your perishables.  Refrigerator organization is the most important!  You don't want to run into two month old leftovers.

2. Gather supplies.   Make sure your vacuum has all its attachments, your duster is operational, you have plenty of clean rags and brushes, and all the right cleaners.  Household items like borax, baking soda and vinegar are affordable cleaning chemicals, and you can make your own all purpose cleaners.

3. Start high to low, focusing on the more public rooms first as they will need the most attention.  High dust, vacuum drapes and curtains, clean window sills and wells, clean baseboards.  Pick up clutter, spot clean spills, clean electronic screens.  Then make sure you get into the deep cleaning, leaving no cushion unturned.  Don't forget to clean smoke alarms and replace their batteries.  

4. Using the high to low method, move to the less public areas like the kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms.  Go through your closets and dressers and donate unwanted items.  launder any linens that don't get much attention.  Rotate your mattress and put new sheets on the bed.  In the bathroom, clean the toilet basin, sinks, and bath tubs.  Polish mirrors and chrome fixtures.  Put some elbow grease into grout removal and mop floors.  In the kitchen, wash and put away dishes.  Vacuum the coils behind your refrigerator, change stove drip pans, clean the oven, sanitize surfaces and clean your dishwasher.  

5. Clean the outside: remove debris from the lawn, clean gutters, trim tree branches, prune shrubs and bushes, power wash decks, patios, siding, etc.  Dry out hoses, fountains, birdbaths and irrigation systems and store in a dry place.  Aerate the soil, feed the lawn, and protect any cold sensitive plants.

Elizabeth Carter--Office Manager, Country Club Janitorial.