Cleaning, Check

The Wipe Down Write-Down

By Lifestyle Staff

Spring...break. Spring...showers. Spring...cleaning! If you’re one of the rare breeds that enjoys the work that goes into a well-kept home, congratulations! For the rest of us, read on for a simplified routine that will keep your house clean and prevent your tasks from piling up. Refresh your space, and reap the benefits!

Daily

… Make beds

… 15 minute tidy

… Organize collection piles

… Wipe counters

… Load dishes into dishwasher

… Wash dishes

… Check mail

… Keep a list of to-dos around the house

Weekly

… Wash clothes

… Fold & put away laundry

… Sweep, vacuum, & mop floors

… Wipe down counters & tables

… Wipe down mirrors

… Dust

… Clean bathrooms, toilets, & sinks

… Tidy house, declutter & organize

… Wipe off electronics (including your cell phone)

… Clean out fridge

… Clean out pantry

… Prep food for easy snacking

… Wipe down microwave

… Sort trash & recycling

… Set out trash cans

… Wipe down front door & sweep steps

Monthly

… Vacuum stairs

… Clean oven & other kitchen appliances

… Clean furniture

… Wipe baseboards

… Wipe cabinets

… Clean light fixtures

Quarterly

… Organize junk drawer

… Clean windows & windowsills

… Deep clean cars

… Powerwash exterior areas

… Dust ceiling fans & hard-to-reach areas

… Change HVAC filters

… Deep clean faucets & shower heads

… Spot treat & wipe down wall scuffs

Yearly

… Clean out rain gutters

… Clean out medicine cabinet

… Clean & organize garage

… Clean out closet & donate old clothing to local charities or thrift stores

… Wash walls & do paint touch ups

… Wash blinds & curtains

… Vacuum & rotate mattress

Natural Solutions

Dusting

… 1 cup water

… 1/4 cup vinegar

… 2 teaspoons olive oil

… 10-15 drops of lemon essential oil

Combine in a spray bottle, and spritz a rag to wipe down surfaces.

Floor Cleaner

… 1 cup of vinegar

… 1 tablespoon of castile soap

Add to a bucket of hot water and scrub away.

All-Purpose

… one part water

… one part vinegar

… 10 drops essential oil of your choice

Clean anything and everything–add to a spray bottle and wipe down.

Shower & Tub

… one part vinegar

… one part warm water

Bonus: Use a paste of baking soda + water (or vinegar for extra strength) to get grime off your sink/tub.

Stain Remover

For clothes or carpet

… 1/4 cup white vinegar

… 1/4 cup baking soda

… 1 tablespoon of castile soap

… 2 cups of water

Combine in a spray bottle and shake before use.