Open the windows and let the fresh air in, it’s spring cleaning time! We often post Martha Stewart’s tips such as the announcement and giveaway of her new Natural Cleaning Products, 10 Thoughts on Whole Living and Outdoor Entertaining Tips. She always has useful tips, especially for the Busy Mom and here are a few tips to help your Spring Cleaning.
Eight Steps to Perfectly Clean Windows from Martha Stewart
1. Schedule the project Choose a time when the sun is not shining directly on windows. Its hot rays can cause the cleaning solution to dry, which will result in streaks.
2. Clean the surface With a soft-bristle brush, dust away cobwebs and loose dirt from windows and frames. Don’t forget hinges, sills, and tracks. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, especially if the frames are old and splintery.
3. Make the cleaning solution Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part hot water.
4. Prevent a mess Before cleaning the inside of each window, place an absorbent terry-cloth towel along the windowsill to catch drips.
5. Wet the glass Using a sponge, wet (but don’t drench) the windowpane with the vinegar-and-water solution, and rub away the dirt. As much as possible, keep the solution from coming into contact with the window frames.
6. Prime a squeegee Wet the rubber blade; a dry one will skip.
7. Wipe the glass Starting at an upper corner of the pane, draw the squeegee down in a straight, confident stroke. Wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with a sponge or a lint-free cloth. Return to the top and repeat, slightly overlapping the first stroke. Finish by pulling the squeegee across the bottom of the window. Dry the sill.
8. Clean the frames Wipe surfaces using a cloth dampened with a non-ammomia all-purpose cleaner and water. Rinse them thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove cleaning solution, and dry immediately by wiping with a clean, dry cloth.
Wash Your Blinds
Once or twice a year, wipe wooden blinds with a few drops of gentle wood cleaner on a nearly dry sponge. Aluminum blinds can be washed outdoors: Place them on an old sheet on a slanted surface, and scrub with water and a noncorrosive cleaner such as Martha Stewart Clean All-Purpose Cleaner that cuts through grease, grime, and dirt. Use a hose to rinse well, and then dry the blinds thoroughly with a towel to prevent rust.
Protect Wooden Floors
Guard against scratches on wooden floors. Make sure there are surface protectors on the undersides of furniture legs, and replace any that are dirty or worn. (A buildup of grit can mar the floor.) Use thick, padded self-adhesive discs; they come in different diameters and can be found at home stores. Martha Stewart Clean Wood Floor Cleaner maintains the natural finish on all wood surfaces and contains no artificial preservatives or fragrances.
