April showers bring May flowers…
and a sudden urge to clean up – your body, your diet, your routine, your house!
Jane Steele, fellow Funky Buddha Yogi, professional maven of organization and cleanliness, and owner of Oh So Clean, has shared some of her rockin’ (and practical) spring cleaning advice with us:
Dear Funky Buddhas,
I am here to tell you that you should NOT feel overwhelmed by spring cleaning. You have all of the tools you need right in front of you.
Before we even discuss ACTUAL cleaning or strategy, there are a few ground rules that we need to discuss:
1. Do not purchase anything for your spring cleaning session! Often people, when they feel a good spring cleaning coming on, run to the nearest store to buy new throw pillows and blankets, air fresheners, and a Real Simple magazine. It never fails. I have said it before, and I will say it again: NO cleaning or organizing session begins with a shopping trip! Hastily-made decisions over purchases from Target or Home Goods usually result in excess throw pillows . . . and a house that is still not “spring ready.” In case you did not hear me the first time – NO PRE-CLEANING SHOPPING SPREE.
2. Do not overthink spring cleaning! I want you to know that even if you do not clean your house regularly, it is not magic, and it is not a trick. There is no “right way” to clean. There is, however, a method to the madness – or more like you need Method to control the Madness. Make a simple list, and stick to it.
Do not let your mind wander to some magical spring cleaning land, where they are doing spring cleaning tricks that you will never know about, have never heard about, and will never do. Spring cleaning is not a secret, and it is not hard. It is systematic, and then it is done.
3. Planning is essential for success. Schedule your cleaning, and stick to that schedule! Whether you plan to clean alone or enlist help, it is important to check the weather ahead of time, and schedule your cleaning on a clear, dry day. It will be hard to find energy and motivation if you quickly decide to spring clean your home without preparation. You should not delve into a cleaning project when you are tired, hungry, or unprepared. Plan ahead, and map your plan of attack. Plan an adequate amount of time for this project. Drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy snacks as you go to stay fueled for this rewarding work, and take breaks as needed.
And finally – the list. I have found many spring cleaning checklists, but this list nails it with this practical guide to spring cleaning. I especially love the room-by-room instruction – it helps break it down to an achievable goal.
XO,
Jane Steele / Oh So Clean
HAPPY CLEANING!
Jane Steele created Oh So Clean as a way to empower and aid others to simplify their lives by taking control of their clutter. As a registered nurse and mother of three, she found that observing an organized lifestyle made for a happier and healthier family.
Jane has been organizing for family and friends for many years – it has been a natural evolution to extend her passion beyond her own realm. Oh So Clean allows clients the ability to find more personal time, family time, and structure within an otherwise hectic world. Oh So Clean is dedicated to finding simple and maintainable living solutions for your busy lifestyle.
