That’s right, it is that time of year again – spring cleaning! Well, sort of. The season may be over, but the cleaning continues. Thanks to coronavirus, we are all logging some extra spring cleaning hours this year. So in the spring cleaning spirit, here are some tasks you may not have thought to do this season.
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HVAC Filter
Starting with the thing that is responsible for filtering the very air we breathe, yes, it is time to change that air filter. This is one of those jobs that can be quite shocking when you see just how much dust and particles were left behind on your old filter. And putting in a new filter can help reduce your allergies, and that is always a plus. Just remember to put in the right size filter for your unit, and maybe buy a couple extras to have on hand for next season.
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Outdoor Light Fixtures
It may be no surprise, but cleaning your outdoor light fixtures can make a small but noticeable difference in the curb appeal of your home. Not only will you clean away any dust and cobwebs that might be lurking on them, but you will no doubt allow more light to shine through, making the front of your home look that much more welcoming. All you need is a cotton cloth or scrub brush, a microfiber towel, and a bucket of warm, soapy water. Disconnect your light fixture from the power source first. Then simply dip your cloth or brush into the bucket, then start wiping down all the surfaces of your light fixture. Then dry your fixture with the microfiber towel. If you need to, now would also be a good time to change out the light bulb.
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Mattresses
About a third of our lives are spent in bed. And there is only so much your sheets can protect against. So take a little time and clean your mattress. Start off by vacuuming. This will remove any dust and dead skin cells. Yuck, but it needs to be done. Then sprinkle on some baking soda, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will help with any odors that might be lingering there.
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Rugs
We do not often think about it, but rugs get most of the abuse out of all the surfaces in our homes. And they can really make or break the overall tone of the home with the way they look and smell. So giving them a regular cleaning in essential to keeping your home looking and smelling its best. Take your rug outside, and like generations past, give it a good beating. Really go at it and get all that dust and debris out. Then leave it outdoors to air out.
Optionally, sprinkle it with baking soda to help with odors and loosen up any left over dust or pet fur. Then bring it back inside, give it a good vacuuming, and enjoy your nice, clean rug. If there are any stain, you can use a spot treater, or even just make a paste of water and baking soda to rub on the affected areas. Then vacuum your mattress again, and you are good to go! And if you do not already have one, now would be a good time to invest in a mattress protector.