There's something about springtime and the hopeful days that summer will soon be here that signal us it's time to ready the house! New birth, rebirth, spring cleaning, call it what you may it's time to de-clutter your home, dust, wipe, shine and clean.
Here are some ideas to help you with the monumental task of not adding to the accumulation of your worldly goods. You might even save some money along the way!
- Is it a "need" or a "want"? When you find yourself out on current shopping trips, ask yourself "do I really need it or do I just want it?". With the things you already own ask yourself if you really still need or use that item to help you with the decision to give it up. When you do put items together to give away, give them to a charitable organization and get a receipt for a tax deduction.
- Is it a duplicate? Do you already have something similar to the items you are looking at? If so, is it really that different? If you are replacing something that is worn out or broken, be sure to get rid of the first item!
- Is it a high quality item? I know we all love a bargain, and sometimes that is all that our wallets can afford. But cheap isn't always the best reason to buy something. Try to buy high quality long lasting items when you can. You will be happier in the long run.
- Fashionable today and gone tomorrow? It is hard to stay current with trends and not spend a fortune. Try accessorizing with both your clothing and home decor. That way you can stay smart and chic.
- How functional is it? If something is a good deal, but you will only use or wear it a couple of times you are costing yourself money and adding to your clutter.
When it comes time to cleaning, use some old standbys that are usually common items around the house and probably clean better!
- Vinegar works wonders on washing windows, glass and deodorizing. Do not use it full strength, but dilute it for best results. It also makes a wonderful hair rinse!
- Baking Soda is a gentle abrasive for cleaning counter tops and sinks(test a small area first) and a natural tooth whitener! It is also wonderful for absorbing nasty refrigerator odors.
- Ammonia, diluted, is great for sanitizing and cleaning toilets and man made tile floors. Just don't inhale the odors for too long.
- Go through your linen closet and weed out worn, ragged and old towels. Then use them to clean around your home. You can tear them into a more usable size if you need too. You can dust with them, clean floors with them or sop up ugly messes.
Hope you find some of the tips helpful!
Ta Ta for now...
