Why has a Fall Clean become the new Spring Clean? The professional residential cleaning experts at MOLLY MAID say that it's simple; we're back from our summer holidays, back to work and back to school. We tend to be more rested and raring to go in preparation for the winter months, which we will spend indoors being warm and cozy. In terms of practicalities, fall is a great time for a deep clean for a number of reasons:
1. Cobwebbing – it is spider season. The spiders are coming in and making themselves comfortable in the corners of your rooms! Ensure you remove cobwebs with an extendable long-armed duster or use an appropriate vacuum attachment.
2. Leaves – Although the trees and fields look pretty with the autumn colours of falling leaves, the leaves themselves can be a pain in the home. It is quite windy at this time of year so leaves are blown in when you open the doors and they will find their way around your home in no time! Sweep them up regularly to avoid them being trampled into carpets and to avoid marking up your floors.
3. Weather – Fall can be a wet season, therefore start imposing a 'shoes off' and a 'wipe your paws' rule for the family to limit mud and debris being traipsed through the house. Where mud is trampled into carpets it is best to wait for it to dry out, taking care not to work it into the carpet further. Then use the vacuum to clear it up. You can try sprinkling baking soda on muddy carpets to help lift the stain to the surface. Leave it on the carpet for 30 minutes and then vacuum it up.
4. Condensation – This can be a big problem, especially on window frames. Wipe all window sills and make sure you clean windows inside and out. However, one of the biggest problems with windows is the condensation that form, which often leads to mould growth. Using essential tea tree oil (mix 10 drops into a cup of water), wipe off the mould with a sponge. The tea tree is anti-fungal so, it should go some way to preventing the mould from returning with such force. However, at this time of year the best form of action is regular maintenance.
5. Upholstery – After much traffic of family coming in out from the outdoors, vacuum your upholstery gently, removing cushions and covers if necessary for cleaning to ensure that you have fresh furniture, free from dirt and spills for heading into the winter season.
6. Bedding – It's important to air your mattress regularly and to turn your mattress (check the instructions on your mattress tag), particularly after the warmer months. Try vacuuming your mattress too. Schedule some time to launder or wash duvets and pillows to prevent dust mites.
7. De-clutter – It doesn't take much for your home to be overrun with summer sport equipment, games and other summer garden paraphernalia. Take the chance to sort through the various toys, equipment and sports shoes within the closet – you will be amazed how much more space you feel you have!
