Zannee’s Blog at BargainsLA.com

Spring cleaning done right can make the rest of the years cleaning chores easier. Only problem is it is time consuming. I have hired teams to clean for me before but they can’t do what I will… make decisions.

I tend to tackle one room every weekend. I am methodical and extremely focused often leaving my husband wondering how I can be so consumed. The truth is I don’t want to do it again in 6 months. I want to get it done and done right.

I always start at the top of a room first….brushing away cobwebs, crown modeling, working on shutters, blinds and windows. Vacuuming, cleaning floorboards and washing floors are the very last thing I do. In the middle are drawer, cabinet, shelf and closet cleaning & sorting, oiling and waxing the antiques, brushing off or washing upholstery. The nails are ruined, hands become rough and I end up real dirty.

It’s easy to get off focus during a detailed spring cleaning, especially when you’re at the middle section, into drawers and closets. One of my favorite organizers Chris McKerney has some words of wisdom in his latest newsletter….

This project will be much easier with a little planning.
First- Schedule time for a closet. Once that area is finished you will have a good idea how long other project might take.
Second- Have broom, vacuum, rags, and cleaning supplies at arms reach.
Third- Mark a box for “Donations”, for your clutter that still has life. Have box labeled “Elsewhere”, for items that belong in other parts of the home. This way you can stay focused in the area you are cleaning. Sometimes trash is trash. Have a trash bag ready for filling.

Now that the supplies are ready, completely empty your closet, cabinet or drawer. Make your sort then thoroughly clean the area. If the surface is worn, consider lining with plastic liner.

After cleaning, replace contents by organizing where items are used. Utilizing containers that are labeled will make retrieval of contents quicker when needed”.

Chris runs “Get it TogetherLA”, an organizing company. You can reach him at 323.525.0678 if the task is more daunting than you can handle.

To see how I choose what to keep and let go from what’s in my closet and drawers, you can check a previous Blog entry of mine, Get Organized. BTW… Have music playing, and fun, healthy snacks ready. I also have a nice glass of wine at the end of every day’s cleaning. You should reward yourself.

Once done and done right, your home will be transformed. The closets will have more room and you’ll know what you need to purchase in the future. Dive in and get it done now. Within a few weeks, we’ll have great weather, shopping and great sample sales to enjoy!