Yesterday we focused on the hidden corners of our homes. Today let’s work our living rooms!
If your house is anything like mine, your living room is getting a lot of use right now. From family movie and game nights to home schooling to craft projects (and, if I’m being honest, father and son video gaming) - our living room is definitely being lived in. But all this living also means that clutter and messes are starting to take over. Today let’s fix that!
Step 1 - A Place for Everything & Everything in its Place
Now more than ever, I’m seeing how everything from our bedrooms, offices, and playrooms is pooling on our coffee table like it’s some sort of clutter black hole. Now is the time to return those Legos, papers, and books to their homes. Finding items to give away - as of right now, Goodwill is still accepting donations 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, but you can always set aside donations to drop-off after the stay-at-home order has been lifted. The Christian Action Guild is only accepting donations of non-perishable food and the ARC Thrift Store is closed as well.
Step 2 - Reaching Every Corner
Start dusting with the ceiling and light fixtures and work your way down. Walls can be wiped with damp microfiber cloths or melamine sponges (careful with your paint). Take time to clean objects on your mantle and pack away Lent decorations to make room for Easter ones. Wipe down baseboards and vacuum/mop in tight corners. Wash vent covers and vacuum reachable ductwork.
Step 3 - Upholstery
My cats love my couch, so I always start by trying to remove pet fur. This can be done with a lint roller, damp rubber glove, or a pet hair squeegee or other device. Then vacuum to remove remaining particles. Be sure to check the label on all upholstery before using a cleaning product and then test in a hidden area. Here’s what the letters on the tag mean:
W — You can clean this material using water.
S — No water. You’ll need to purchase a special solvent-based cleaner.
WS — You can use water or a solvent-based cleaner on this sofa.
X — Vacuum only.
Depending on the fabric you may be able to steam clean your upholstery.
Step 4 - Clean
Wash windows and vacuum window tracks. Wash curtains. Lint roll lamp shades and dust light bulbs. Vacuum or sweep and mop floors. Clean carpets or rugs if you have a carpet cleaner available.
Step 5 - Sanitize
Take a moment to disinfect door knobs, lights switches, or any other place regularly touched.
Safety: Please read all warning on cleaning products, avoid mixing cleaners, be aware of sources of electricity, and wear proper protection when needed. If you have never had your basement tested for Radon, consider booking a test this summer.
Resources:
Tips for Maintaining an Organized Living Room