SPRING CLEANING TIPS

1.Check Appliances We expect our appliances to perform whenever we need them, but sometimes their care can be neglected. Each spring take the time to inspect your major appliances for wear and tear. The coils of the refrigerator should be vacuumed, and the drain pan should be cleaned out. Accumulated lint needs to be cleaned from the dryer vents. Clean out accumulated gunk from you oven and refrigerator. Clean dishwashers, disposals, and washing machines. Heating and cooling units need maintenance as well.

2.Clutter Control Spring is the perfect time to remove clutter and excess from the home. Try the 4 container clutter method to help figure out items that need to be kept, sold, given away, or trashed. If paper clutter is one of your problems, find out how to reduce paper piles around the home. You'll see a huge difference in how easy it is to clean your home after you've reduced your clutter.

3. Patios and Outdoor Areas Spring is a great time to get the outdoors ready for entertaining. Clean the patio and outdoor furniture. Do some basic landscaping repairs on the lawn, shrubbery, and plants. The exterior doors and windows of the home may need some attention. Check for fence and exterior repairs. Lawn maintenance or pest prevention may need to be performed as well. Don't forget that outdoor cleaning projects are great to involve the whole family. With a little effort this spring, outdoor areas will be ready to entertain throughout the summer.

4. Ceiling Fans Winter is over and warmer temperatures will be arriving soon. Take a few minutes to spring clean the ceiling fans in your home. An entire season of dust and buildup will need to be cleaned away before we can enjoy these fans.

5. Grills Warmer temperatures may mean it's time to fire up your outdoor grill.  But if your grill has spent the winter sitting in silence, it may need a little tune up to be ready for spring and summer fun.

*tips from an article on About.com