Have I mentioned how glad I am that Spring is here? Finally some sunshine, longer days, and warmer temps. We had been in full fledged cleaning mode the past few days. Family was coming in for a visit, so our place really, really needed cleaning. This winter has been cold and rough. Housework has fallen to the wayside, so many, many things needed to be done.

But with help from the whole family we got lots accomplished! I feel a huge weight has been lifted. This week is starting off great – the floor is mopped, the dishes are done, and the clutter is cut way down. Clutter really does get in the way of things. With a clear head not on my messy house I can concentrate on other activities – like blogging and crafting.

We have been wanting to encourage our 4-year-old to do some light chores around the house for an allowance. Now we have a good starting place with a clean house. She can pick up her toys and can take them to her room or make her bed. Yes, a clean floor and uncluttered house makes a world of difference. It’s time to stop living like a college student and grow up. I knew it would have to happen someday.

I normally don’t re-post news or press releases but found this one to be quite interesting. Hope it helps as we all prepare to do spring cleaning.

Spring cleaning tips for dirty dilemmas
Fast and simple solutions

It’s spring and the experts at Molly Maid come to the rescue with some fast and easy tips to make your house shine.

* For grease stains on your carpet, pour a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch over the grease and brush lightly over the soiled area. Leave on overnight and vacuum the next day.

* A wad of chewing gum on your carpet comes off with ice. Freeze the chewing gum and when it becomes brittle, shatter it and vacuum up the broken pieces.

* For cleaning stubborn spots, exfoliating gloves are helpful when surfaces need scouring and rubbing to remove caked on dirt.

* Don’t throw out an old toothbrush or denture brush. They come in handy for cleaning around sink faucets and grout.

* To dust blinds, wear a clean pair of cotton gloves or an old sock, and run your fingers along each slat to pick up dust as you go.

* Keep kids’ plastic toys clean. Wash them in warm, soapy water.

* Put salt on spills while the oven is hot. When cool, brush off the spill and clean up anything that remains with a damp cloth.

* Always tidy up before any major clean. Take dirty dishes to the kitchen, pick up toys and put newspapers in the recycling bin.

For more cleaning tips, visit www.mollymaid.ca or call 1-800-663-6243.