The holidays are full of magic but if you are not careful you can quickly become overwhelmed. All the meals and gifts can quickly turn into clutter and mess and both of those things translate to a whole lot of stress!
Some simple steps before you get too deep into the holiday season can keep your home cozy and clean and make it a safe haven from all the craziness. Here are eight tips to help you keep your holiday cleaning in check:
Tip #1: Declutter early
You know the holidays mean lots of gift exchanges and new items coming in and out of your home. Before all the gift-giving starts, take some time to clean out your closets, your refrigerator, your freezer and any other space that feels cluttered. The less you own, the less there is to worry about picking up later. A decluttered home is easier to keep clean and organized.
Tip #2: Keep cleaning supplies handy
You never know when messes may hit, especially when you have guests over. Make sure you have rags and cleaning supplies handy. It may even be a good idea to get a simple basket to keep all your supplies in so you know exactly where they are and they can easily be transported to wherever they are needed. Take time to test out your spray bottles to make sure they are functioning well and don’t need to be replaced and that every bottle is full.
Tip #3: Use natural scents
Lavender has a calming effect on the body but a few drops of peppermint or pine essential oils in your cleaning supplies can make your home feel extra festive.
Tip #4: Keep the fridge in check
On a weekly basis, take time to clean out your refrigerator. It’s easy to let leftovers pile up but that will make things difficult when it is time to prepare for a party or large meal. This is not the time to let the fridge get away from you!
Tip #5: Make your bed
Something as simple as making your bed each day can set the tone for your day and give you one clean and cozy space to come back to at the end of the day.
Tip #6: Clean as you go
If you are the one entertaining you don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen cleaning up while your guests are present. As you are cooking or baking, clean any dish you’re not using while the oven is heating or you are waiting for a pot to boil. Save yourself some time later on in the evening by cleaning as quickly as you can.
Tip #7: Don’t let the dishes sit
It’s tempting to make the dishes wait but the longer they wait, the harder the mess is to clean. If possible, clean your dishes right away and place them into the dishwasher to run during the night. You can empty the dishwasher each morning while your coffee brews and be ready for a new day!
Tip #8: Set a timer
Each night before you sit down to relax, set a ten-minute timer and pick up the house. Use that time to finish up and leftover dishes and wipe down counters or fold even a few pieces of laundry. You will be amazed what can be done in just ten minutes and the impact it has on your home.
Tip #9: Schedule your laundry or dry cleaning with Legend Cleaners
There is no reason to fall behind on getting your clothes or household items to the dry cleaner. You can schedule your free pickup and delivery through Legend Cleaners and have one less item on your holiday to-do list!
Legend Dry Cleaners has been serving the community of Ahwatukee since 1999, and has expanded into the Phoenix communities of Chandler, Maricopa, Mesa, Tempe and coming soon to Gilbert! We offer exceptional eco-friendly dry cleaning, laundry, wash/dry/fold, wedding dress & gown cleaning, and alterations in Arizona. Our East Valley locations have free pickup & delivery and 24-hour drop boxes. For more information call: (480) 460-5343
