Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Weekly home tips

We’ve spent the last few weeks getting ourselves in order for the new year, but now it’s time to recenter — starting with our surroundings. Here are some things you can do in your home every week as “tune ups”: things that will keep your home fresh and maintained without having to do a massive clean.

Look for small fixes. Every week take a long look around your home, inside and outside, and make a list. Any paint looking worn and scuffed? Put it on the list. Is a window or door caulking letting cold air in? List! Is that faucet in the bathroom leaking? Every time you notice something, add it to your list. Of course, you won’t be able to complete everything at once, but the list will let you plan on what you can do now and what can wait. It keeps these tasks from becoming overwhelming. 

Clean out your “drop zone”. We all have one: that place where things end up and create clutter. Everything seems to end up there, mail and other clutter especially. Often, it’s a bedroom chair. Mine happens to be the dining room table. Wherever it is, clear it out weekly before it becomes a harder beast to tame.

Clean your stove vent. We don’t often think of this, but cleaning it will remove grease and food residue. It could actually prevent a fire, and it might make your kitchen smell better. Spray with some Dawn platinum spray, let sit for a few minutes then rinse in hot water. It’s also a great “small task” that can help you feel accomplished in an otherwise chaotic day!

Throw out 3 to 5 things every week. Decluttering the entire house is overwhelming for most of us, but tossing or putting away just a few things a week can really make a difference. You can start with junk mail, old receipts and expired food. Even take a look in that junk drawer.  bet there’s at least 10 things that can be tossed from there. 

Vacuum. You are of course removing dust, dander and pet hair, all allergy triggers from your floors. But regular vacuuming also helps out your HVAC system. If you neglect to vacuum enough, all those particles can build up in your system and cause expensive repairs down the line. (Also remember to change those filters monthly). 

Pick a room to sweep the surfaces. Take a trip around the room to remove easy to grab clutter from tabletops and shelves. Put them away in their proper places or get rid of them. Go over all these cleared surfaces with a microfiber cloth with dusting spray or simply slightly dampen it. 

Go over the bathroom quickly. In-between deep cleanings grab your widow cleaner and a handful of paper towels. Clean the mirrors and spray the sink, faucets and toilet top. Wipe down with the rest of the towels. 

Check your houseplants. One day a week, check in on your green babies. Water if needed, fertilize monthly. Make sure to carry scissors with you to snip off any brown or dried leaves. Even homeowners without a green thumb can keep their houseplants healthy with just a few minutes of care every week.     

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago