
When New York winters are finally over, it's hard to resist the urge to throw open the windows and let the sunshine in. But when we do, the light of day reveals a dozen and one chores that need to be done before the house sparkles. It may seem overwhelming initially, but our real estate agents have an easy plan to help you get everything in tip-top condition.
- Week One: Dusting and Polishing
Banish the gloomy effects of winter by dusting light fixtures, ceiling fans, and shelves. Microfiber cloths work wonders to capture dust particles without spreading them throughout the room. Don't neglect the pictures and knickknacks that have lost their shine. Use the hand tools on the vacuum cleaner to reach difficult spaces and freshen upholstery. Washing down walls may not be necessary, but cleaning fingerprints around light switches and doors can make a room look freshly painted. Polish wood to show off its natural beauty. Finally, vacuum under the furniture to get rid of dust bunnies and the random debris they collect. None of these tasks are excessively time-consuming and will make a world of difference to the house's appearance.
- Week Two: Tackling the Kitchen
Some of these jobs are a bit more challenging than the last ones but should take no more than an hour each. Start by cleaning the filter in the dishwasher. Use a commercial cleaner in an empty cycle to remove lime scale and detergent residue. An old toothbrush is a great tool to remove stubborn build-up. Move on to the microwave. Heat a bowl of warm soapy water for five minutes and let it sit for another five. Sponge off the debris and wipe dry with paper towels. Degrease the vent hood filter by soaking it in hot water and baking soda. Let it sit in the mixture until the water cools and rinse it in clear water. Wash the stovetop, cabinets, and countertops with warm water, paying heed to maintenance instructions for special surfaces to avoid etching by harsh chemicals. Unplug the garbage disposal before cleaning the underside of the splash guard with a disposable rag in a gloved hand. Pour your favorite beverage, prop your feet up, and relax; you've earned the right! And look at your pretty kitchen!
- Week Three: Detoxing the Bathroom
Be prepared to use a lot of baking soda and white vinegar because they work wonders on soap scum. In a small bowl, make a paste of baking soda and water. Sponge it onto any surface with a soapy film, particularly the shower walls. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and water and spray the same surfaces. Nasty soap scum will rinse away, leaving porcelain sparkling. Wash shower curtains and liners in the washing machine according to manufacturers' directions and re-hang them to dry. Clean toilets and floors, and voila! Your bathroom looks and smells fantastic.
- Week Four: Managing the Bedrooms
You will be handling the bedrooms much as you cleaned the living room during week one. Take the added steps of washing bedding, testing the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and ensuring the laundry is done. Take care of miscellaneous spaces such as washing machines and dryers. Doesn't your house look amazing?
Spring cleaning for many people is the first step in putting a house on the market. If you are considering selling or buying in a Long Island community, contact us today to talk with the finest real estate professionals.