Hasta La Ideas

Daylight Saving Time in the United States begins on March 10. This is typically the time that people are not only advancing their clocks forward, but also likely thinking about spring cleaning. There are still several weeks before spring actually arrives, so this an oportune time to make plans for what chores you will do around your home.

But, before you dive headfirst into a cleaning frenzy, figure out how you’ll go about cleaning all your living spaces. Create a plan of attack now as you’ll find this very helpful when it’s time to execute it. Keep in mind that you’ll need to unclutter before begin cleaning. It will be difficult to clean rooms that have blocked pathways or a large number of items without designated storage places (especially if you have to move furniture). Once the clutter has been cleared, your plan should include:

1. Priority areas. No matter how small your home may be, it’s very unlikely that you’ll be able to clean it all in one weekend. Start thinking about specific rooms (or appliances) that you’d like to work on first, and focus on one or two tasks per room. That doesn’t mean you can’t work on other things, you’ll just be giving your attention to the most important items first. For example, if something is broken and would need to be used often (like your heating and cooling system), it should go to the top of your list. And, of course, you should immediately take care of issues that prevent a room from being used safely.
2. Specific cleaning days. To stay on top of all your cleaning tasks, try scheduling your spring cleaning activities on specific days and be realistic about how much time you’ll have to work on each area of your home. Use a checklist so you don’t forget to do something. It might also be a good idea to print your list and post it on the door of the room where you’ll be working. This will help you remember the things that still need to get done, and if you assign tasks to others, include names next to specific items so that they know what they’re responsible for.
3. Cleaning supplies. Will you be making your own cleaning solutions or buying something already made? Do you need special cleaners for particular surfaces? Do you prefer green cleaners? Before you go shopping (or create you own special mixture), check your cabinets to see what you already have (check for cleaning cloths, too) and what you’ll need to acquire.
4. Other tools and supplies. You may need to borrow, rent, or buy tools and equipment that you don’t use every day, like a ladder to reach high ceilings, long dusters to reach behind and under appliances, or air filters (be sure you have the right size). As you walk through each room, make notes of things you need to help you get the job done.

Need help getting organized? Buy the DRM-free audiobook version of Erin Rooney Doland’s Unclutter Your Life in One Week today for only $8.99.