Whistle While You Work: 10 Ways to Get Your Spring Cleaning Done in a Snap

1. Before you start, make a detailed list of everything you would like to accomplish for the day. But be realistic when setting your goals. Chances are it will take a few good days to complete your spring cleaning properly.
2. Be sure you have all of the things you will need before you start. Cleaning supplies, rags, paper towel, garbage bags, boxes, broom, vacuum cleaner etc…
3. Select a bunch of your favorite music to play throughout the day.
4. If it is nice enough outside, open your windows.
5. The most effective and professional way to clean is by cleaning one room at a time Make sure that you take everything you will need into a room with you, and that everything is done when you leave
6. Always clean all of the higher places first. Ceiling fans, light fixtures, door frames and blinds can hold debris that you do not want falling onto surfaces you have already cleaned.
7. Spring cleaning time is definitely not the time to get nostalgic with your belongings. If you haven't worn an article of clothing for a year or more; get rid of it! Chances are you will never wear it again anyway.
8. Don't be afraid to multitask. While you are in another room, run the dishwasher filled with your dishwasher safe knick knacks etc… Once you have finished cleaning the rooms that they belong in, dry with a soft cloth and put in their proper places. Wash and dry the bedding and curtains for a bedroom while you are cleaning it. When you are finished cleaning and organizing that room, your laundry should be ready to put back on the bed and the curtains re-hung.
9. Start larger jobs in advance. Spray your oven with oven cleaner the night before you plan to clean it. If you plan to steam clean carpeted areas, remove all furniture the night before so you can begin early in the day. This allows your carpet longer to dry.
10. Plan a yard sale with a twist. Before you start your spring cleaning, decide on a charity to donate the proceeds of your yard sale to. You may be more inclined to purge your home of unnecessary junk if you know that it is for a good cause.

Tips

• If you plan to borrow or rent a steam cleaner, remember that it will also do a nice job of cleaning your window screens.
• Spray cleaner onto your shower walls and tub and let sit while you clean the rest of the bathroom. Scrub grout with a stiff brush and rinse with hot water and buff tiles with a soft towel.
• Spraying and buffing your clean dry tile with dusting spray not only makes them shine, but will repel water, preventing water stains.
• Try to use non toxic cleaners whenever possible. Vinegar and baking soda are both great cleaners.
• Wash windows on a cloudy day or at dusk. If you clean windows while the sun is shining on them, they will be streaky.
• If you have pets you may want to take them to stay with a friend or family member for a day or two, so they won't be in the way or dart out an open door unnoticed.
• Even if your schedule does not allow you the time you need to do a much needed spring cleaning, you can still get it done. Sort through your home over the weekend and pack your car with boxes of unwanted items. Have a professional cleaning company come in Monday morning and do the cleaning. Drop your boxes off at the Goodwill or Salvation Army on your way home from work.