Some tasks only need to be done once or twice a year. The problem is that we forget to do them once or twice a year.
Or else, we tend to save it all for spring cleaning which makes spring cleaning such a daunting chore that it doesn’t occur, either.
The best plan is to break annual and seasonal home tasks down by month and attack them on a scheduled basis.
Nothing gets too backed up and things eventually get done. And without a major life overhaul.
I also found that concentrating on one room each month is more rewarding because you can really see results.
Here’s the schedule that has worked best for me for November.
1 Remember Mother Hubbard:
Clean the kitchen cabinets inside and out. Put in fresh liner paper. Throw out foods that your kids will never eat, no matter how hungry. Check for expired foods.
2 Drawer duty:
Clean, paper and reorganize all kitchen drawers. Bring to the fore utensils you will need for holiday baking and cooking.
3 A self-cleaning stove?
Ha ha! That’s a good one! But seriously, clean the oven.
4 Cold zone:
Clean under and behind the fridge. And while you’re in the neighborhood, strip off the six-month’s accumulation of art and notes from the fridge door. Wash it and leave it bare for a change. (Well, at least till Friday.)
5 Water taste funny?
Change the filter.
6 Make room for guests:
Clean the entry closet and put in extra hangers for winter coats.
7 Floor show:
Clean the carpets before the holiday parties.
8 And while the guys are there:
Get them to clean your upholstery. You’ll probably get a package deal.
9 Got a free moment?
Clean your major appliances – washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, etc. They’ll all function more efficiently.
10 Last but not least:
Update your address books while you’re sending out the holiday cards.
