10 Tips to Keep Your Home Fresh and Clean This Summer!
We all know summer is the season of sunshine, beach outings, and lazy afternoons. But along with this comes a unique set of cleaning challenges. So, here are 10 tips to keep your home fresh and clean this summer.
Beat the Dust and Pollen Invasion
Summer usually means open windows and doors, inviting in fresh air, and, unfortunately, a lot of dust and pollen. To keep indoor air quality high, make sure to dust and vacuum regularly, and if feasible, invest in a high-quality air purifier. Pay extra attention to window sills, ceiling fan blades, and air vents where dust loves to accumulate. A good vacuum with a HEPA filter can trap even the smallest of particles, leaving your home smelling and feeling fresher than ever.
Tackle Outdoor Grime
With more time spent outdoors, your home’s exterior and entryways can take a beating. Take some time every week or so to sweep and hose down your front porch, deck, or patio to keep dirt and debris at bay. Don’t forget to wipe down outdoor furniture and shake out cushions to remove any accumulated dust and dirt.
Freshen Up Fabrics
Summer heat can make fabrics, especially curtains and upholstery, absorb odors quicker than the cooler months. Give them a refresh by washing or dry cleaning curtains (make sure to check your fabric care labels!!) and vacuuming upholstery. The sun is also a great natural deoderizer, so for those fabrics that can’t go in the wash, simply lay them on a clean surface outside and let them absorb some vitamin D. A couple of hours should do it - you don’t want the sun to fade any colors.
Stay Ahead of Mold and Mildew
High humidity levels in summer can create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially in bathrooms and basements. Keep these areas well-ventilated and use a dehumidifier if necessary. Regularly clean and dry shower curtains and bath mats to prevent mold buildup, and ventilate your bathroom before, during, and after each shower.
Embrace the Power of Citrus
Citrus not only smells amazing but can also work wonders as a natural cleaner. Use lemon juice to remove stains from cutting boards, vinegar mixed with water for streak-free windows, or orange peels soaked in vinegar for a DIY citrus cleaner that’s effective and eco-friendly.
Keep Your Refrigerator Fresh
With summer comes lots of local fresh fruits and vegetables, but it also means your fridge might need a little extra attention. Check expiration dates regularly and toss out any expired or spoiled food to make way for the good stuff. Give shelves and drawers a wipe-down every couple of weeks or on demand when you notice a spill to keep everything smelling fresh.
Prep for Unexpected Guests
Summer often brings unexpected guests dropping by for a visit, especially if you have a pool. Keep your home guest-ready by having a quick cleaning routine in place. Focus on high-traffic areas like the entryway, living room, and guest bathroom. A few minutes spent tidying up can make a world of difference. No need to get into the nitty-gritty here, but having everything organized will make your home more inviting and take some stress off your plate.
Don’t Forget the Air Conditioner
Your AC works hard in summer, so show it some love by changing filters regularly. Clean the vents and ducts to ensure efficient airflow and prevent dust from circulating throughout your home.
Declutter Regularly
Summer is a great time to declutter and organize your living spaces and even make some extra cash by setting up a garage or street sale, or making use of local buy and sell groups. Get rid of items you no longer use or need, and find storage solutions for summer gear like beach towels and outdoor toys to keep them from cluttering up your home.
Stay Hydrated and Stay Safe
Last but not least, remember to stay hydrated and stay safe while cleaning. Take breaks, especially during the hottest parts of the day, and wear sunscreen if you’re working outdoors.
Happy cleaning!