The Big Clean Checklist and a Little Giveaway

My friends would probably find it hilarious that I am writing a post on spring cleaning.  1. because I hate housework and  2. because I am a really disorganised person.  However it needs doing, and one of the strategies I use to get things done is write a list and tick things off as they get done.  I love ticking things off!

Last year Apartment Therapy had a January cleaning list that you could sign up to.  I looked at this years which had number 1 as clean the floors, which didn't make any sense to me at all.  By the time you do the rest of the cleaning the floors will need doing again.  So I decided to make my own list and to share it with you I'm sure there are things I've missed so it is only a guide, add your own bits. Believe me I"m not usually so thorough but if we put the house on the market this year I need to get on top of things and get my derriere into gear!



Cleaning - Top to Bottom

 I use environmentally friendly cleaning products including bicarb etc. if possible.  Better for you and the environment.  Recycle, sell or take to a charity shop any items no longer used.

 1.  Use a long handled duster/vacuum to get rid of any cobwebs lurking on the ceilings.  Dust/vacuum the  lampshades and take down the glass light fittings to wash in soapy water. Replace any bulbs or light fittings that need it and change to LED/energy efficient those that haven't already been replaced.

2.  Clean windows, patio doors.  Dry clean/wash curtains and blinds, wipe down curtain poles. 

3.  Clean the shelves/ bookshelves,  sort and take unwanted books to the charity shop.  Clean the  tops of cupboards and wardrobes

4.  Sort through and clean the top kitchen cupboards.  Check all the dates on any food products.  Get rid of any chipped/old mugs and cups, plates etc. (or save them for a mosaic)

5.  Clean the pictures, mirrors and clocks.  Frame some new photos.

6.  Sort through the bathroom cabinets.  Throw out any items that have been there a long time unused. 

7.  Sort through the wardrobes.  Take any items that I haven’t worn for years to the charity shop, give to friends or if really old add to crafting stash for quilts, rag rugs etc.

8.  Give the showers a really good clean with a steamer or good old elbow grease.  Use an old toothbrush on the grout, replace any fixtures that are getting worn.

9.  Wipe down all the internal and external doors,  particularly around the handles, not forgetting the tops.

10. Wash the throws, vacuum the soft furnishings, sofas etc.

11. Strip the beds, vacuum the mattresses and turn.   Replace any mattress and pillow protectors, pillows and duvets that have seen better days. Check spare guest bedding and store in vacuum packs.

12. Polish any wooden furniture, tables etc.

13. Touch up/ wipe any marks on the walls

14. Clean the light switches and plugs sockets

15. Clean kitchen tiles, bathroorm tiles, clean extractor fans and replace filters.  Clean work tops

 16.  Sort through and clean the bottom kitchen cupboards.  Take any items to the charity shop that I don’t need.  Replace any oven trays that have gone rusty.

 17. Clean the sinks baths and toilets.  Replace plugs, bath mats etc as needed.  Sort through any bath products and get rid of any that have been there forever. Sort out towels, any torn, worn towels can be cut up for dusters.

 18. Clean the oven, hob and fridge.  Replace bulbs and filters as needed.

   

19.  Clean the washing machine, dryer and dishwasher.  Remove filters and give them a good clean, run the appropriate products through them.

20. Clean and touch up the skirting boards

 21.Wash floors, vacuum and have professionally cleaned carpets/rugs that need it.

I will be working on the list when I have the time and energy!  Don't worry, I'm not turning into a domestic diva :)

Though she be but little, she is fierce.

I have a 'thing' about stationary, I just love it and buy far too much.  I spotted this note book at a craft fair and couldn't resist.  It has brown unlined pages, is small enough to fit in a handbag and has a lovely handmade cover.   To show my appreciation of all you lovely people who take the time to read my blog I will be giving it away.  All you have to do is leave a comment to say whether you would like to be included.  I will make the draw next week.


Chickpea xx