Cleaning Your Sanctuary – Tackle & Simplify

Spring cleaning feels amazing when it is complete, but the initial getting started isn’t always as exciting. 

As a way to minimize how much I have to take on when this momentous event arrives each March and April, I am a big believer in cleaning my house every week without fail. However, as we know, there are a handful of things that must be cleaned, but thankfully only a few times a year. Martha Stewart breaks it all down in great detail in her Housekeeping Handbook, but you can also print off the specific list you want here on her blog.

With that said, while I’m meticulous, I also don’t have a house cleaner, so below is the list that works for me.

Daily
*Make the bed
*Pick up after yourself
*File incoming mail
*Clean as you cook (thank-you-for-coming bowl – a la Rachael Ray!)



Weekly
*Launder sheets, towels, bath mats – anything used regularly
*Clean the bathrooms – everything
*Dust – tables, televisions, lamps, etc
*Clean mirrors
*Vacuum and mop floors, vacuum upholstered furniture
*Empty all trash and wipe canister
*recycle old magazines, newsletters, etc
*Go through fridge – take stock and toss if necessary
*Clean all counters, microwave, toaster, sinks, vents, and ovens in kitchen
*Clean hand prints, pet prints from windows and doors
*Add fresh flowers to dining room, coffee tables, bed stands, etc

 
Twice a Year
*clean all windows – inside & out
*flip mattress
*clean pantry
*clean refrigerator
*clean oven thoroughly
*launder pillows
*wipe baseboards and moldings
Yearly
*clean the fireplace

I would love to hear how your approach cleaning your home, what works for you, what tips you’d suggest, etc.  I’m all ears!

Images: (1)  Source (2) Decor Pad