Stuck at home amid the slippery, icy streets? Make the most of the cold day off by powering through some easy-to-execute home improvement projects. A little elbow grease today will get sellers’ home staging efforts underway and jump start spring cleaning for the rest of us.
Wipe down baseboards
When was the last time you took a good look at your baseboards? Chances are they could use a good wipe down (or two). Get out the vacuum cleaner to suck away loose dust and dirt that has collected in the baseboard grooves. Next, bring out a sponge and soapy water to tackle the remaining residue. A few wipes and a clean water rinse should leave your baseboards gleaming once more.
Swap out air filters
Can’t remember the last time you replaced your air filters? Do it today. A clean air filter will help your HVAC system run more efficiently and ensure that dust, pollen, and other contaminants aren’t recirculating back into your home.
Dust light fixtures and fans
Grab an extendable duster, get out the vacuum arm extension, or set up a stepladder; it’s time to take on those dusty ceiling lights and fans. A microfiber cloth or fuzzy duster head will quickly capture and contain the dust and spider webs that have collected in glass grooves, on fan blades, and wiring.
Sanitize switch plates and doorknobs
Rid your rooms of sickies by sanitizing switch plates and doorknobs. Spray Lysol or another effective antibacterial cleaning spray on a dry cloth and start wiping away germs and grime.
Raid the refrigerator
Old salad dressing? Expired ketchup? Mystery meat? In the words of Elsa, let it go! Rid your fridge of outdated condiments and inedible leftovers to gain extra space. Go shelf-by-shelf and drawer-by-drawer to wipe away spills and stuck on gunk. You’ll be amazed at the sparkling space your efforts leave behind.
Reorganize your closet
Get to work on your cluttered closet. Sift through ill-fitting clothes and unwanted shoes to fill a few bags full of items to be donated. Sort shirts and pants into groupings and organize by type—short or long sleeve, dress or everyday—or color, whichever you prefer.
