Housecleaning doesn't seem like anything you have to "learn." The truth is that there are specific techniques that work best to keep your Springs luxury apartment home looking spotless.
Here's a handy guide to the best methods for some of the more common household chores. Which tips will help you the most?
Dusting
- Feather dusters are passé. Use a microfiber duster or soft, damp cloth for best results.
- Work from the top down to avoid stirring up dust.
- Dryer sheets remove pet hair and other debris from baseboards while creating a static barrier that minimizes build-up.
- Natural-bristle paint brushes and makeup brushes are perfect for hard-to-reach crevices and corners.
- Always unplug TVs, computers and other electronic devices before dusting.
- Old socks and pillowcases are perfect for tricky ceiling fans and window blinds.
Vacuuming
- Before you start, check the carpet for coins, toys and other items that could end up clogging or damaging the vacuum cleaner.
- As you run the vacuum cleaner back and forth, slightly overlap each pass to ensure that debris on the edges doesn't get missed.
- Take your time. Rushing is counterproductive, as the vacuum isn't in contact with an area long enough to thoroughly remove dirt.
- Every now and then, go back over the carpet in the opposite direction for a deeper cleaning.
- Use the hose and attachments to remove dust from walls and ceilings.
Cleaning the Bathroom
- The night before, fill a plastic shopping bag or freezer bag with white vinegar. Secure it to the shower head so that the vinegar completely covers it. Let sit overnight and rinse in the morning.
- For an extra-glistening bathtub, fill it with hot water and let it drain. Apply bathroom cleaner and let sit 15 minutes before washing.
- Our granite countertops are low-maintenance, requiring nothing more than a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Be sure to avoid vinegar, bleach and other acidic or abrasive cleaners.
- Toothbrushes and dental floss work wonders on the scummy build-up around faucets and handles.
- A cup of baking soda is an inexpensive and eco-friendly toilet bowl cleaner. If some spots remain, use a pumice scouring stick to remove them.
- Don't forget to clean the toilet brush! Place the handle between the bowl and the seat so the brush extends over the water. Pour bleach over the bristles, let stand for a few minutes then rinse with clean water.
Washing Windows
- Choose a time of day when the sun isn't shining directly on the windows. Cleaners will dry before you can wipe them off, resulting in streaks.
- Use a brush to remove cobwebs, dust and other debris from the frame and windowsill.
- If you'd rather not use commercial cleaners, a spray bottle filled with one part white vinegar and two parts water works well.
- Wipe dry using a clean, lint-free towel or crumpled newspaper.
Ready for more? Members of our on-site management team share their favorite tips for cleaning the kitchen!
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