It’s almost Springtime. And you know means? Spring cleaning! It’s probably one of the best/worst times of the year. It’s great because you finally are clearing out and getting rid of all the junk you hoarded over the winter, but on the other hand you have to...well, clean. I for one will be starting with my garage. Between the kids’ sports gear, my husband’s tools he never uses (but somehow wind up all over the place), and all the dirt and slush the cars brought in daily, it’s in sore need of some TLC. But I’m not going to just jump in there with a broom and start sweeping. No, no. I’ve learned from past experience that when it comes to Spring cleaning you need to have a winning plan, or it will beat you down. Trust me. So here are a few of my helpful hints for some good old-fashioned SC that will have your entire family thinking you’re Wonder Woman.
First things first, get the family out of the house. Trust me, you’re better off without them. You may think you want them to help you, but five fights, four spills, and more tantrums than you count later, you’ll be wishing you’d taken my advice. Have your partner take the kids to the park, out to movies (if you’re able too with COVID), or better yet, to the in-laws. Once they’re gone, you’ll have the quiet and time you need to get things done.
Secondly you want a list. Now, I’m sure I don’t need to tell you the importance of a to do list. But I’m going anyway. Have your list, check it more than twice, and prioritize. Tackle the most important jobs first. Then maybe, if your mind is still set on it, have the kids and spouse help with the little things later.
Always have extra boxes on hand. I somehow still have a bunch of cheap moving boxes laying around in our attic from our move of about 6 years ago. (Some of them have yet to be unpacked.) So, grab those and keep them handy. They’re perfect for storing winter clothes or items you won’t be needing for a while. Or even keeping things organized in the attic or garage. Just remember to label. Always label.
On that note, learn how to throw (or give) things away. Trust me, you may say you’re going to wear that blouse again, but you won’t. Just rid yourself of it and simplify your life. Also, don’t be afraid to get rid of your children’s things. Most times they won’t even notice. But, if you’re worried about their wrath, just make sure that before they leave the house you have them set aside their most valuable possessions.
Finally, find a good jam, put your headphones on, and go get it! The house is now your oyster to clean and organize at your will. Have fun with it and enjoy your time alone dancing around the house and you clear the clutter from your life. Just make sure you look where you’re going, or you may trip over one of those cheap moving boxes you thought would be so handy. (Not that it ever happened to me.) Happy Spring cleaning!
