Written by: TFVstaff • March 23, 2018• In the Community

Clean Scene

20 Hacks and Tips to Make Your Spring Cleaning a Little Easier

Hit your garbage disposal with some sliced lemon to rid your kitchen of stinky smells and add a fresh scent to the room.
DIY a quick cleaning solution with a quart of warm water and four tablespoons of baking soda.
Freshen up pet beds by dusting with baking soda and vacuuming after 15-20 minutes.
Your lint roller can do double duty-use it to give stuffed animals a quick once-over as well roll over a dusty car interior.
You can use a vinegar solution, followed by a dab of olive oil, to clean and shine stainless steel appliances.
Dip a cotton swab in vinegar to give a computer keyboard a quick cleaning.
Clean and deodorize a microwave by placing sliced lemons, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and water in a shallow dish. Place in the microwave for a few minutes then let sit with the door closed for 10 minutes. Wipe with a damp sponge.
Clean a cutting board with just salt and half of a lemon.
Avoid soap scum on shower walls and floors by swapping in glycerin- or vegetable-based soaps.
When in doubt, toss it in the top rack of the dishwasher. Experts say if it’s ceramic, glass, metal or hard plastic it’s a go.
According to the Molly Maid company you can reuse dryer sheets as dusting rags for baseboards, blinds and TV and computer screens. “Their anti-static qualities actually repel dust, reducing the frequency of dusting work in your home.”
Don’t neglect your mattress! Experts advise cleaning it once a year with a thorough vacuuming and wipe down with mild house cleaning solution.
Tackle a big room by clearing out any clutter before you get to work. You’ll eliminate the temptation of wiping around big items.
Speed up bed-making by remembering that tags always go to the bottom. King tags are on the left, queen on the right.
Invest the time to make sure your surfaces are truly clean- most cleaners will do the heavy lifting if you leave them be for a few minutes.
Be prepared by stocking cleaning supplies such as microfiber cloths, rubber gloves, solution and rags under every sink.
Clean during the day with the blinds open and light on, waiting until its dark will prevent you from seeing dirt and dust as clearly.
Do the largest and worst task first. If you put off cleaning a range, shower or toilet to the end you probably won’t give it your all.
Make it interesting. Turn up some music or throw on an audio book to keep things upbeat and motivating. Enlist family to help pass the time.
Give your showerhead a quick upgrade by tieing a baggie of vinegar around it and leaving it overnight. Just rinse in the morning.