Health Effects of Spring Cleaning

Health effects of spring cleaning. Spring is a time of refreshing, rejuvenation and rebirth. Even after our light winter we are looking forward to warmer days and spring blossoms.

Spring is the perfect time to get a jump start on your health. A recent survey conducted by the IICRC found that more than 8 out of 10 U.S. homeowners feel their family”s health is directly related to the cleanliness of the flooring in their home.

Scientific studies have shown that carpet is an effective filter in trapping dust and allergens; keeping them from becoming airborne in your home.

We all have a Spring Cleaning regiment. All winter long visible clutter accumulates and soil collects in the nooks and crannies of our homes. At the same time unseen dirt, salt, dust, dander and allergens are being captured by our carpeting. Spring Cleaning CANNOT be complete without cleansing your carpets!

8 Tips to Prepare Your Home For Spring

1. Change Outdoor Bulbs – Clean all light fixtures, and replace burnt-out bulbs with energy-saving CFL bulbs.
2. Give Your Door Some Love – Restore the luster of your door by polishing the hinges and knobs. Paint or stain the door with a color that stands out, yet also complements the trim and siding. Put out a clean, new welcome mat — and make sure the doorbell works.
3. Repair the Walkway – Snow and cold can wreak havoc on your walkway. With warmer weather approaching, take this time to patch cracks and replace loose bricks and pavers. Rent a power washer or purchase a chemical treatment to clean up embedded stains in concrete, stone or asphalt.
4. Plant Foliage and Shrubbery – Strategically placed plants can conceal unattractive aspects of your house or yard. Place large pots or hanging baskets around the stoop or porch. Bushes or hedges can hide air-conditioning units or propane tanks, and flower beds and window boxes will stylize a stark facade.
5. Prune and Mulch – Prune dead branches, trim back overgrown shrubbery and remove any obstructive plantings. Spread mulch or bark around trees, shrubs and flowers for a weed-free, well-kept look.
6. Freshen Up Furniture – Spray a fresh coat of paint on furniture and replace the cushions. Fill an empty spot on the porch or stoop with a modern bench or porch swing. And get your outdoor space ready for summer!
7. Keep It Clean – Sweep the sidewalk and stoop, clear away cobwebs, tighten wobbly railings, and repaint posts and supports.
8. Clear Gutters – This can save you a lot of money on repair costs. Inspect your downspouts and gutters just before the spring rains start to be sure they’re clear of leaves, tree limbs and other debris that might cause problems later on. Clogging usually occurs at the elbow in a drainage system, where the downspout connects to the gutter. Since this elbow is relatively easy to remove, take it off and inspect for clogging you’re selling.