The key to spring cleaning is to declutter first, organize what you decide to keep, and only then begin your spring cleaning projects. Here are my four steps to success as you start the spring cleaning process:
1. Divide the Clearing Out and the Cleaning Up into two entirely different projects as you begin.
To begin the spring cleaning process round up a pen and notebook. Walk through your home and make a list of 3 spaces that need your attention as you begin the spring cleaning. Of those 3, begin in the room where you spend the most time. That room will give you the greatest satisfaction. Decluttering is ALWAYS the first step. Why deep clean things you will not end up keeping? Round up 3 large labeled boxes or bags, Label them 1) Give away, 2) Put away, 3) Throw away. When you run across things you are not sure about, ask yourself these two questions: “Do I truly love this?” and “Is this item useful to me in my current life?”
2. Organize What’s Left before you begin your spring cleaning. Purging is the 1st part of my formula. Organizing what’s left is the other half. There are 3 key elements in maintaining your newly organized spaces:
■ Store your kept items where they will be used.
■ Label the container and/or the space so others know where to return the used items.
■ Adopt the something in/something out philosophy.
3. Now you can begin spring cleaning once the purging and organizing are completed. Professional organizers are not professional housecleaners; none-the-less I have learned some cleaning tricks in my years of working side by side with my clients. Here are a few spring cleaning suggestions:
■ Use the North to South approach or you will sabotage your efforts. Start at the top and work down to the floor.
■ Schedule blocks of time to clean and then be sure you honor those appointments with yourself.
■ Get others involved in the project. At my home we understand the “If you live here, you work here” philosophy. Those large projects become very doable when others join in and help.
4. I have made a list of some of my favorite spring cleaning products. Click here to view my spring cleaning recommended products.
Decluttering, organizing AND spring cleaning, are about being aware of your surroundings. Because you lead a complicated and pressure filled life, clutter and grime build up. Grab a notebook today and begin your week of decluttering. It will make your spring cleaning a breeze. When our surroundings are organized and newly cleaned, your life feels at peace. Now isn’t that’s refreshing?
To listen to my online podcast dealing with this topic, click here and look for show number 035 titled Organize your Spring Cleaning.
To view my 6 minute Spring Cleaning Video, click here.