A Spring Cleaning Schedule that Works

Why waste the gorgeous weather cleaning? Of course, I want a clean and tidy house, but I also want to garden, chat with neighbors and go for a walk in the beautiful warm sunshine. I've learned that a simple spring cleaning schedule goes a long way to simplifying my semi-annual deep cleaning day. Plan a spring cleaning schedule that works for you and save time sprucing up your house this spring ... so you can get outside and enjoy life.

To start your spring cleaning schedule, make a list of the chores you need to accomplish. Divide them realistically among those on your team – hopefully, the whole family is pitching in.

A typical spring cleaning chore list includes:

• Walls cleaned and dusted
• Floors scrubbed, carpets cleaned, hardwood waxed

• Windows cleaned, inside and out

• Closets organized

• Air vents, heat sources dusted

• Stoves polished

• Appliances scrubbed

• Water filters, air filters changed

• Curtains and window treatments cleaned

Assign each chore a day, working around each person's daily activities as needed.

Transfer the Official Spring Cleaning Schedule to a calendar page (you can find printable planner calendar pages online for free) in a prominent location. Make sure everyone is aware of the chore calender.

A few Spring Cleaning Schedule Tips:

• Be Realistic. If your time is limited each day, be happy to accomplish one main chore.

• Stay on Task. Organizing the closet should not result in hours spent looking through old pictures, unless that's part of your goal for the day.

• De-clutter as you go. The less clutter you keep, the less stuff you have to keep clean and the tidier your house will look.

I'm actually looking forward to drawing up my spring cleaning schedule this year. I have a new house to tackle and clutter to kiss goodbye. Even my most-loathed chore, cleaning the windows, doesn't intimidate me as much this spring.

So ... what tasks are on your spring cleaning schedule this year?