<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBy the time June rolls around, your kitchen has probably seen a lot of action. Whether it’s been the hub for family gatherings or the site of quick meals on the go, it deserves a deep clean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Checklist for a Deep Clean that Includes Appliances and Hard-to-Reach Areas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n \n\t\n\t\tDeclutter<\/span>\n\t<\/span>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n\nRemove items from countertops and go through your pantry. Dispose of expired goods and donate non-perishables you won’t use.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\tAppliances<\/span>\n\t<\/span>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\nTackle each appliance one by one:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nRefrigerator: Empty it out, clean the shelves and drawers with a mild detergent, and wipe down the exterior.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Oven: Use oven cleaner or a baking soda paste for a non-toxic option; don’t forget the racks and the oven door.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon inside to loosen grime, then wipe clean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Dishwasher: Clean the filter and run a hot cycle with a specialized cleaner.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Small Appliances: Crumbs in the toaster, coffee build-up in the machine\u2014give them all a thorough clean.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Sink and Garbage Disposal: Scrub the sink with a baking soda paste and use vinegar and baking soda to freshen up the disposal.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nJuly: Attic and Basement Clear-Out<\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nMidsummer is an excellent time for a clear-out; it’s far enough from the chaos of the holidays and the change of seasons to allow for a thoughtful review of what to keep and what to let go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Safe Practices for Sorting and Storing Items in Attics and Basements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nSuit Up: Before you start, dress for the occasion. Long sleeves, gloves, and a dust mask can protect you from insulation, dust, and cobwebs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Ventilate: Open windows or bring in fans to keep the air moving, especially in the basement, to avoid musty and stale air.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Sort Systematically: Create zones for “keep,” “donate\/sell,” “recycle,” and “trash.” Be decisive\u2014holding onto items you haven\u2019t used in years can contribute to clutter.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Inspect for Damage: Look for any signs of water damage or pests. These issues are best dealt with immediately to prevent further damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Elevate: Keep items off the floor on shelving units, especially in basements, to avoid water damage from potential flooding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Safety First: Don’t overload your space. Ensure there’s a clear path for walking, and if you\u2019re in an area prone to earthquakes, secure shelving units to walls.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nAugust: Technology Detox – Clean Your Electronics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nAugust brings the end of summer and the start of a new school year. It’s the perfect moment for a technology detox\u2014not just from the constant connectivity but also a literal clean-up of the devices themselves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guide to Safely Clean and Maintain Various Electronics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nGather Your Tools: Soft microfiber cloths, isopropyl alcohol, distilled water, cotton swabs, and compressed air are your best friends here.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Power Down: Before you start, make sure all devices are turned off and unplugged. Remove any batteries if possible.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nSeptember: Refresh Your Bedding and Mattresses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nChange to warmer bedding for autumn’s cooler temperatures, enhancing comfort and sleep quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clean Bedding and Mattress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nWash Bedding: Strip sheets, pillowcases, and covers; wash as per label instructions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Air Out Duvet\/Pillows: Place outside or fluff in dryer for freshness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Mattress Care: Vacuum surface and clean spot stains. You can also deodorize with baking soda, then vacuum again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Mattress Protector: Wash or replace to protect the mattress.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Clean Bed Base: Vacuum or wipe down to prevent dust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Reassemble with Layers: Layer blankets for adjustable warmth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Add Final Touches: Introduce new comforter, and throw pillows for a seasonal update.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nOctober: Clearing Vents and Replacing Filters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs the crispness of October heralds the approach of winter, it’s crucial to prepare your home for the heating season. A key aspect of this preparation is ensuring your vents and filters are clean. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step-by-Step on Cleaning Vents and Replacing Filters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nGather Your Supplies: These supplies include, a screwdriver to remove vent covers, a vacuum, cleaning cloths or a soft brush, replacement filters for your HVAC system, soapy water, or mild cleaning solution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Turn Off Your System: For safety, ensure your HVAC system is off before you begin working on the vents and filters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Remove Vent Covers: Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the vent covers. Some may simply lift or slide out without the need for tools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Vacuum Vents and Ducts: Use the vacuum hose to clean inside the ducts as far as you can reach. A brush attachment can help loosen any debris stuck to the sides.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Clean Vent Covers: Wash the vent covers in soapy water to remove all dust and grime. Allow them to dry completely before replacing them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Schedule a Maintenance Check: Consider having a professional HVAC technician come for a seasonal inspection. They can ensure that everything is in top working order and handle tasks that are beyond DIY maintenance.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nBy taking these steps, you\u2019re not just preparing for a cozy winter indoors, but you’re also looking out for your family\u2019s health and the efficiency of your home heating system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
November: Deep Clean Floors and Baseboards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs November ushers in the holiday spirit, deep cleaning of floors and baseboards can significantly enhance the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of your home. This month, it\u2019s about giving your floors some tender loving care before the season’s festivities bring in more foot traffic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Techniques for Cleaning All Types of Flooring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\nStart with the Baseboards: Dust them off with a dry cloth or use the brush attachment on your vacuum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Hardwood Floors: Use a hardwood floor cleaner or a mixture of water and a mild detergent, and apply with a damp mop.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Laminate Floors: mop with a solution specifically made for laminate flooring or with a very mildly damp mop using a 1:3 mixture of vinegar and water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Carpeted Floors: Start with thorough vacuuming, using crevice tools to reach under furniture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Luxury Vinyl and Cork: Sweep or vacuum without a beater bar to avoid scratches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Stone Floors: Sweep or dust mop to remove any abrasive debris.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nMaintenance Tip<\/h3>\n\n\n\n