No matter the weather where you are, there’s one sign of spring that’s the same everywhere — spring cleaning. It’s an age-old ritual that serves as a marker of a fresh start. But it can also be costly – in terms of both money and time. Take a look at these ways you can save effort, time and money on your spring cleaning projects.
Take Inventory
There’s no need to stock up on all new tools and supplies to get started. See what you already have on-hand that you can continue using. That includes cleaning products, tools and accessories. If you’re running low on cleaners, make your own using ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemons. Low on paper towels? Use old towels or cut up worn-out t-shirts to make cleaning rags. It’s cheaper and better for the environment, too.
Reuse and Repurpose
It’s easy to get into the habit of using a tool for one purpose only. But many things we use for household cleaning have multiple uses. For example: you can use a simple squeegee to clean glass shower doors, wash windows, and gather pet hair from carpets and upholstered furniture. Dryer sheets have a life after they’ve softened your clothes. Save used dryer sheets and use them to remove spots from glass surfaces and chrome fixtures. Slip an old sock on your hand to make the perfect washable, reusable duster. Once you start thinking about it, you’ll find lots of unexpected ways to use what you already have.
Keep it Simple
Many cleaning products are primarily made up of water, so it makes sense that good old H20 comes in handy during spring cleaning. Boiling water poured into sink and shower drains can loosen clogs and remove any gunky buildup. Mix some lemon juice and vinegar in a bowl of water and microwave the concoction on high for several minutes to create penetrating steam that will allow splashes and spills to wipe away easily. Place a cloth soaked in extra-hot water over stubborn spills on granite countertops to loosen them and they will wipe away easily.
Pay Attention to Details
Little things can make a big difference when it comes to cleaning — and saving. Regularly dust lightbulbs to ensure they’re putting out maximum illumination; you’ll have to turn on fewer lights which can help lower utility bills. Place a doormat at every outside entrance to catch dust and dirt before it even comes in – you’ll have to vacuum less, which again, can lead to savings. Remove lime scale build-up on faucets and showerheads to allow them to flow efficiently and waste less water.