Holidays
Cleaning Tips to Help You Deck the Halls
By
Nov 23, 2007, 00:32

(NewsUSA) - For many families, the holiday season is marked by never-ending to-do lists. Amid the cooking, shopping and decorating, it's hard to find time to clean every nook and cranny of your home, but family and friends will soon abound, which means a clean house is in order.

The experts at Merry Maids have you covered this holiday season with tips to help you bring in the season with cheer.

It's all about first impressions. Focus your initial cleaning efforts on those eyesores your guests will notice first. Clear clutter such as children's toys, coats and shoes from the entryway. A quick clearing of any cobwebs and dust from light fixtures, window screens and corners of the front porch, with a paintbrush for hard-to-reach crevices, can add visual appeal. Finish off with a sweep of the front porch and a clean welcome mat.

Follow the crowd. Devote the little time you have to cleaning the rooms your guests will use the most. In the living room, straighten cushions, throws and draperies. Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust from artwork, picture frames and coffee tables. If you have pets, a damp, clean sponge or the bottom of a clean sneaker is great for removing pet hair.

In the bathroom, spray the bath fixtures, mirrors and countertops with cleaning solution and let it sit until after you scrub the tub and toilet. Empty trash, hang clean linens and freshen up the room with seasonal potpourri.

In the kitchen, clear the sink of dirty dishes. Clean countertops, appliances and tile floors with a mild soap-and-water solution.

Set the mood. If you don't have time to dust and polish, adjust the lighting. Candlelight casts flattering shadows and helps create a warm, relaxing setting.

Create a welcoming aroma. Simmer a tablespoon of vanilla in a quart of water or drop cinnamon sticks in a pot of boiling water to add an inviting holiday scent to your home.

Make the most of your time. Using the right tools, such as a cleaning apron or caddy, can save you time as you move from room to room. Additionally, it is important to have a plan. When you begin cleaning a new room, work from the top down to avoid any re-cleaning.

Consider a gift for yourself. Hire a professional home cleaning service such as Merry Maids to freshen your home this holiday season and create more time you can spend with your family.

For more holiday-cleaning tips from the experts at Merry Maids, visit www.merrymaids.com.

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