Spring Cleaning for Procrastinators

Does the phrase “spring cleaning” strike fear and loathing into your heart? Does it seem like the Mt. Everest of housekeeping – something that only a few can ever claim they attempted and succeeded? Don’t fear. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be so scary, but it is something we should all do. It’s also not just about cleaning blinds and sweeping baseboards, though that is good too. Instead, you can use spring cleaning as a great way to remember to schedule maintenance and service checks on your house that will prevent problems down the line. So, pull on a pair of your cutest rubber gloves and get to work.

Sarah on “scheduling spring cleaning”

“It is really easy to think of spring cleaning as an overwhelming task. My husband and I have been known to turn spring cleaning into summer cleaning because we conveniently “forget” to do it, or in other words, just put it off. This year, I picked a day in the calendar and called my in-laws to spend time with the kids so we can really focus on the tasks at hand. It’s a win-win, since the kids get a day with the grandparents and we get a solid block of time to get it done.”

Alicia on “a perfect reason for a party”

“I am the first one to admit that I am better about cleaning my house when I know someone is coming over. Thus, to motivate myself to get moving on the spring cleaning, I have been holding a Welcome Spring party for the last few years. Because I want a sparkling environment for the party, my house gets the attention it deserves. I kill two birds with one stone: spring cleaning, and catching up with dear friends.”
Here are some tried-and-true tips for tackling this task:

1. Make the Big List.

There really is nothing better than seeing a laundry list of everything that needs to get done and then being able to cross it off, one by one. Make a big list of all the seemingly small tasks and chores and as you’re knocking them off, you’ll get a little thrill each time you check something off.

2. Break it Down.

Look at your house room by room. If you think of everything that has to get done in your entire house, you’ll feel defeated before you even begin. Start with one room and map out the critical tasks for whipping it into shape. Doing so also makes it easier for you to figure out how accomplish step 3.

3. Divvy It Up.

Don’t be a martyr and try to tackle the project by yourself. If you live with others, they should pitch in as well. Make sure to sit down with your roommates or family and decide who should do what. You can let them pick which tasks they want, delegate based on age and ability, or give them the luck of the draw. If you choose the latter, write down each task to be accomplished on a scrap of paper. Put the pieces in a bowl and have each person pick a chore to do from the bowl.

4. Get Started.

It sounds simple, yes, but it’s true. Once you get the ball rolling, it’s much easier to keep it rolling. If you’re procrastinating, start with something small. For example, grab a bottle of glass cleaner and go to town on one mirror or window. You’ll get some instant gratification, which will make you more likely to just keep on going.

5. Give Yourself a Break.

Nobody said spring cleaning had to be perfect, or be done in one day. Start small. Consider devoting one hour a week for five weeks, rather than picking one “doomsday” day for spring cleaning.

How do you Spring Clean; all at once or in installments? What tips do you use to make this seemingly overwhelming job easier? Let us know!