Spring is finally here and it’s time to throw back the curtains, sweep dust off the shelves and let in some fresh air. Below are some of our best spring cleaning tips and tricks.
Start with dusting - don’t forget the ceiling fans, top of doors, window sills, the tip-top of the bookshelf and even the lowest shelf that may go unnoticed. When dusting make sure to pick up a microfiber cloth to wipe down delicate items including framed pictures and art pieces. While you are at it try a new orientation with your furniture to give it a fresh new look. After all that you’ll want to take a damp cloth to less fragile items and give it a little freshening up. Keep paint and tooth brushes handy to get into small crevices and grout lines and don’t miss a spot.
To get your tubs and sinks sparkling try mixing together white vinegar and baking soda with a pinch of lemon essential oils, roll up your sleeves and scrub!
If your microwave is in need of some TLC - fill a mug with 1 part water and 1 part white vinegar and toss it in the microwave for 5 minutes this little trick will make cleaning off any leftover pasta sauce or whatever mystery item is sitting in there a breeze.
Wipe down your fridge with a bleach and Tide mixture to get your refrigerator looking brand new. Start by soaking towels in a mixture of warm water, powdered Tide and a splash of bleach.
Did you know that vodka has more purpose than making that delicious Lemon Drop? It can help keep those fresh cut spring flowers fresher longer, deodorize a room or even freshen up your sheets (just add a few drops of chamomile and lavender essential oils for a little something special).
Purging the home of unnecessary items, whether you are doing a simple tidying up or dabbling in KonMari, you’ll need a few places to donate or get rid of some things. To throw away larger items, check out Oakland Waste Management’s “Bulky Pickup Program” that offers free junk haul once per year for single-family homes and multi-unit buildings alike. You can donate furniture to Habitat for Humanity's Restore - all you have to do is take a picture, submit it, and they’ll confirm pick up if they have use for your item. Hilton House in Orinda allows you to consign furniture, silver, art, jewelry and more. The Contra Costa County Waste Reduction and Recycling Program created a long list of thrift stores in the region including Good Stuff Thrift Shop and Turnabout Shop in El Cerrito. Trying to get rid of old paint, toxic cleaning products, spray cans, etc.? Take them to Alameda County Hazardous material drop off. For unused books, you can give them to Friends of SFPL or even Prime 1 Books.
Reorganizing can be an overwhelming task. Try working with an organizing professional to take the pressure off of you. A few of our favorites include The Joy Filter, Let’s Make Room and C. King Solutions. They can help turn your home into an organized sanctuary.
If you need a serious deep clean and can’t find the time or energy to do it, tidy up your surfaces and have a housecleaner comb through your home. The Cooperative Cleaning Co., One-Connection Cleaning and Handyman, and Melanin Maids are just a few to note.
We know the East Bay - from the housing market to some of the best resources that help you maintain your home. Reach out to us if you ever need a recommendation or if you simply need some real estate advice.
