In the winter, we tend to close windows and even weather-seal them, and this can feel a little stifling, especially when it is time to clean. But, when mud, dirt, snow, and salt get tracked in, avoiding cleaning can become a messy problem. How do we deep clean when the winter hits? A big part is: be proactive.
Set yourself and your space up for success by building a regular pre-winter routine, and then maintain it through the winter. Squirrels store nuts, and bears pack on the pounds for the winter; here’s what you can do to get ready for your winter hibernation.
Clean the Chimney. If you have a fireplace or stove, be proactive in cleaning it before the cold requires it to be used. Test the fireplace and flue to make sure everything is in good condition and working order so you aren’t put into an emergency situation when you need heat and can’t get it. (Or when you are ready to cuddle but can’t get the flames going.)
Change Your Furnace Filter. Likewise, test your furnace before you need it to be sure it is working properly. Change the filter and be ready for the cold nights. A tune-up is always a good idea.
Cycle Your Storage. While you have the longer daylight and pre-snow days, cycle your spring and summer clothes into storage and pull out your fall and winter supplies. If bedding and clothes need to be washed, take care of that now as well.
Clear the Entrance. Make space for wintery clothes at the entrance to your home. Use rubber-backed mats, runners, and shoe trays to catch the snow and mud before it is tracked into the house. Maintain the area with regular checks and floor care to reduce tripping hazards and dirt.
Clean Green. Because you don’t have as much airflow in the home as you would in other seasons, consider using cleaners with less fragrance or toxicity. Indoor pollution can be a bigger problem in the winter, so consider air purifiers or filters for less dust, mold, and allergens that aren’t able to escape out a window.
Channel Your Creativity. Deep cleaning in the winter is possible and is even preferable when outdoors is too unpleasant to enjoy. Winter is a great time to work on detailed projects such as cleaning grout, baseboards, door jams, lighting fixtures, refrigerators, or other large appliances (without the use of harsh chemicals).
Get creative and hunker down into a deep cleaning project you’ve been putting off. Organizing and sorting through clutter does wonders for your mental health as well. And a nice clean space is a great way to kick off the new year with a sense of accomplishment.
Celebrate Togetherness. Winter holidays are a time many people connect with others. Whether hosting or joining family or connecting with friends or organizations, it is the season of giving and receiving. This can be a great excuse to do some holiday cleaning or volunteer to help another person with deep cleaning tasks.
How do you normally prepare for the winter? What annual winter tasks bring you joy? Which do you wish to relinquish this year? How do you celebrate togetherness?
If regular, ongoing cleaning tasks don’t bring you joy, consider letting them go into the professional and competent hands of A Cleaning Service. An award-winning cleaning company serving the Greater Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland areas, contact us today for a quote and spend your time on the relationships and tasks that matter most to you.