Summer is coming to an end, children are heading back to school and the days are getting shorter. However, the days are still long enough and warm enough for you to tackle a few end of summer cleaning projects that can help improve the look of your home. By completing the projects now, you can tackle any issues that may arise while the weather is still warm, despite the fact you would rather lie in the hammock with a cold lemonade.
Window Blinds
There is no question that window blinds are ignored because they are annoying to clean, so include them as part of your end of summer cleaning. The task is not difficult, but it can be time-consuming. Unfortunately, failing to clean blinds allows dust to buildup, dulling the surface. Eventually, the dust will block the light making it difficult for you to clean other things in the room. If your blinds are metal or vinyl, moisten a cloth with warm water mixed with dish soap and wipe each slat individually. If your blinds are wooden, do not use water. Simply wipe them with a dry cloth. Vertical blinds can be removed, laid flat and wiped down.
You Do Windows
As your windows are exposed to the sun, the quality of the glass will deteriorate. Because glass is porous, it expands with the heat of the day and contracts when it cools at night. It is daily dust and grime that gets below the surface of the glass that make them look cloudy. Wash windows and screens with dish soap or white vinegar mixed with water, then use a squeegee to remove excess water. If possible, consider hiring a professional to get your windows sparkling clean.
Scrub Your Cabinets
If your cabinets are fairly clean, a simple mixture of water and dish soap will clean them. However, if they are particularly grimy, which is not uncommon if you have children, use commercial-grade cleaners that contain orange oil for the doors and handles. Remove items from inside the cabinet and give the shelves a thorough cleaning as well. Allow the doors and drawers to remain open for an hour or two to be sure they dry completely before replacing items.
Clothes and Dish Washers
Washing machines are a major source of mold and mildew. If you have a front-loading washer, spray the rubber gasket on the front with white vinegar before wiping with a damp cloth. Pour two cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser and run on the hottest temperature and at the highest setting. Add a half-cup of baking soda to the drum and run a second cycle. Wipe the inside and outside of the machine to dry. For top-loading washers, fill the washer to the highest level on the hottest water setting. Add a quart of white vinegar or bleach and a cup of baking soda. Remove any parts you can, like fabric softener or bleach cups and wash them. Wipe down under the lid and inside any crevices. For your dishwasher, take out the filter and scrub with a baking soda and water paste. Run the machine on the hottest setting after adding a cup of white vinegar.
Refrigerator, Freezer and Oven
Check expiration dates in your refrigerator and freezer, discarding anything that is outdated. Wipe down all interior surfaces with two tablespoons of baking soda mixed with hot water. Vacuum the coil and grill. Wipe down the exterior surface remembering to wipe in the direction of the grain for stainless steel. If your oven is self-cleaning, set it and let it clean. Most self-cleaning ovens recommend removing the oven racks, so be sure to give them a thorough cleaning. Let them soak for 30 minutes in a tub of soapy water before scrubbing with a steel-bristle brush.
These are just a few chores you can complete as part of your end of summer cleaning. Don’t forget to give your barbecue grill a thorough cleaning before you put it away for the winter as well. If you are considering updating your home this year, contact us today to see what options we have available to you. Visit us online or give us a call to set up an appointment if you are in the market for a home remodel.
