Think Spring? Think Clean.

By erinloechner

Spring cleaning is like my LEAST favorite thing to do in the entire world. So naturally, it's a good thing the brains over at Real Simple have created the MOTHER of all Spring Cleaning Tutorials. I've listed a few of my favorite tips below, but feel free to check out Real Simple's archives for more fabulous expert advice!

created on: 05/12/08

WALLS
Arrange furniture six inches from walls instead of flush against them so there will be fewer smudges from bumping to tend to later. You’ll also have easier access to dusty corners that need a visit from a dust mop.

FLOORS
Eighty percent of dirt in the home is the dry, tracked-in kind. Set a doormat of toothed, bristly material, such as Astroturf, outside the door to leave dirt and grit where they belong — outdoors. (Muddy shoes can stay out there, too.)

Slice wine corks into disks and glue them to the bottoms of furniture and heavy pottery, or stick on adhesive felt pads. Dust settles into gouges made by furniture on floors and turns into grime, making it tougher to clean.

SINK
Grind the skins of oranges, lemons, and limes in the garbage disposal with a handful of ice cubes. The rock-hard texture of the ice cubes sharpens the blades; the citrus scent of the grated peels clears the air. Or make ice cubes of vinegar instead of water. The vinegar will deodorize the disposal.

TUB
Before you throw away that empty can of peanuts, save the plastic lid and set it underneath a can of shaving cream to prevent rust from forming on the rim of the tub. Or brush clear nail polish on the metal ring around the bottom of the can to ward off rust altogether.

SHELVING
Stack liquid detergents, stain-removal solutions, and anything else that can leak in plastic bins or caddies to contain drips. Because these liquids are highly concentrated, drips can deteriorate the paint on shelves and the finishes on appliances.

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May 12, 2008

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About: Author/founder of Design for Mankind, I'm a small fish from an even smaller town in...