It's that time of year to give the house a good clean, throw out the old, and hopefully only fill up the new found space with only the most carefully selected things that make one happy each day. And if you're one who isn't accustomed to throwing things out, this can be one of the most harrowing times ever!
So here are some things I've learned in my weekend of spring cleaning:
1. Never spray window cleaner when a breeze is blowing because a couple of seconds later, it's all flying back at you. Learnt this the hard way, and several times over whilst cleaning the windows. Along the way I learnt it's best I not be singing along to Matchbox 20, at least whilst spraying.
2. Whilst cleaning the windows, I also realised cleaning takes some thought and planning, a concept I've only begun to grasp. Don't tell Mum I only figured out how to reach some parts of the windows after I was done with about half of the windows. There is no way I'm going to get the ladder and start all over again just to get those spots I missed.
3. Get stuff you want to get rid of out of the house. Immediately. I finally threw out about 8 pairs of shoes. Don't gasp at me like that! Let me explain! Six of the eight pairs were indeed in various states of damage and were marked for disposal ages ago. They just never made it out of the house. One of the remaining two was a very disappointing pair of Hush Puppies shoes that turns my big toe purple after a tad of walking, and the other a pair of Tiamo flats that lost the embellishments after my second wear. Never trust embellishments that can't withstand a night at a club! So there, shoes that all needed to go.
4. Sometimes, you just need to part with clothes that can still be worn, but you know you're never going to wear again. Admittedly, I've only managed to clear out two bags (shopping bags, at that, and not bin bags) of clothes. In my defence, that's because I don't buy all that many clothes to begin with. I've also resigned myself to the fact that I am somewhat of a hoarder, and if going slow is what it takes to get rid of stuff at all, then go slow I shall. I now have a go out if I haven't worn this by the next time I'm in the mood to clean pile. The good thing about clothes, unlike shoes, is that there's no shortage of charities that are willing to take them. Ranging from those that will take torn clothing for fabric recycling, to thrift shops that obviously require clothes to be in perfect condition, you can rest assured your clothes are going to a worthwhile cause or a good home. Alternatively, you can give some of them to your baby sister, eh, Mac?
5. A lightweight but sturdy step ladder is a girl's best friend, at least at spring cleaning season.
Alternatively, never have anything above the height at which you can reach standing on tiptoes. Up to you. I actually prefer the latter. But we all know that isn't always possible.
6. Disposable gloves are also your next best friend, especially if you're paranoid like me. You know, chemicals from cleaning products, bird poop from windows, and dust that could contain just about anything the wind blows.
So there you have it, six super random tips on spring cleaning that you probably already knew.
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