Spring Cleaning Tips for a Healthier Home
Spring has sprung! Detox your home by shaking out the dust, clearing out unwanted items, and recommitting to your health. Here are 9 ways the team at Brielle Integrated Healthcare recommends for creating a healthier environment for you and your family this spring.
Organize Your Medicine Cabinet
Discard expired medications, vitamins, supplements, and any OTC drugs no longer in use. Don’t toss them into the garbage or down the drain, as it may be dangerous. Your pharmacist can advise you about the best way to dispose of old medications, or the FDA has guidelines.
Dust Thoroughly
Start at the top on your ceiling fans and window casings, and work your way down. That way dust from higher areas won’t fall on previously dusted areas.
This is also a good time to clean or replace air conditioning and filters; clean all ducts and vents to decrease your exposure to pollens and other airborne allergens.
Clean All Mold and Mildew
Clean bathrooms and other damp areas with non-toxic cleaning products. Going green with your spring cleaning is a great idea. Not only are you reducing your exposure to chemical products, but you’re also helping the planet and saving money at the same time!
Freshen Up Outside
Now that the wintery weather is gone, spring cleaning in the lawn with mulching, weeding, and lawn moving can help you be more active. Clean up your yard and get in better shape at the same time. That’s a win-win.
Organize the Pantry
Get rid of expired food or unhealthy items. This frees up space, but can also help you keep your eating habits on track. Rearrange the items to make sure that healthier foods like crackers, light popcorn, or nuts are in front and at eye level. It’s also a good idea to get rid of any expired food in the fridge or freezer.
Clean Rugs and Carpets
Smaller rugs can be thrown in the washing machine and then air-dried. For larger rugs and carpet, the greenest way to clean them is using steam. Use 1 cup vinegar to 2 1/2 gallons water add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil to the mixture for a fresh scent.
Wash Windows & Doors
Remove dust and cobwebs with a soft brush and then wash windows with a mild solution of white vinegar and water. You can also take down blinds, and wash them with mild soapy warm water and let dry before re-hanging. Give your doors some love too by scrubbing them inside and out.
Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances
Most families practically live in the kitchen so it’s a good idea to make sure it’s on your spring cleaning list. First, run cleaning cycles on the clothes washer, dishwasher, and oven. Then clean the exterior including all seals and handles.
When cleaning out the refrigerator and freezer, it’s again good to work from top to bottom. Once the inside is done, pull the unit away from the wall to vacuum the coils and clean out the dust bunnies from underneath.
Don’t Forget the Furniture
Thoroughly wipe down hardwood and solid-surface furniture with warm, soapy water, then towel dry. For upholstered furniture, remove cushions and vacuum or beat outside to get rid of collected dust and dirt.
A Healthier You This Spring
At Brielle Integrated Healthcare, we care about your overall health and wellness. These spring cleaning tips will help you create a healthier home for your family. Once you’re done, don’t forget to treat yourself to a massage therapy session at our Brielle, NJ studio. Trust us, you’ve earned it. Contact our massage therapists today!