By Robin Wilson
As we weather both the pandemic and Winter weather by spending more time indoors the time for Spring cleaning is now. This year instead of starting our cleaning process on the floor it’s time to start at the ceiling fan instead. Eco- designer Robin Wilson recommends that we all review “how” we clean our spaces – and reverse how we do it. How many times have you cleaned the table surface and then cleaned the ceiling fan?
Robin recommends using CLEAN DESIGN protocols which focus on a top-to-bottom cleaning method, which can be a huge time-saver and healthier solution. Instead of just sprucing up our homes this year, you can ensure they are healthy, well-designed, clean spaces. Wouldn’t you prefer a living space free of germs, wheezes and sneezes?
Here are some recommendations for Top-to-Bottom cleaning begin with:
– Ceiling Fans & Light Fixtures are first because they are the highest. Use a microstatic dust cloth on a handle to attract dust and remove, allowing excess to fall.
– Walls, Cabinets & Bookcases are some of the largest surfaces in our spaces that are often overlooked. Use a microstatic dust cloth or a damp cloth to run over the surfaces
– Tables, Window Sills & Countertops: Use a non-toxic cleaner with paper towels or a reusable cloth to clean flat surfaces. Make sure to remove electronics and decorative items; dust those items and clean underneath.
– Window treatments: “Dust collectors” is a good phrase to use for heavy draperies or curtains that are cleaned infrequently. Consider side panel curtains made of washable linen or cotton, or mechanized window shades that can be vacuumed. Some options can be recessed into a soffit for a clean look. Also consider shutters, blinds, or pull-down shades made of natural materials.
– Closet Clutter: To keep pollen and dust buildup to a minimum, keep belongings in covered boxes, bins, drawers and keep one closet as a daily closet and one as a storage closet. Remember, start on the top shelf of the closet, and then work your way down until you vacuum the floor.
– Bedding: Make sure you follow the rule of threes: wash zippered pillow covers every three weeks, wash actual pillows every three months, and replace your pillow every three years. You can limit inflammation if you protect your body from excess dust mites given that we all spend one-third of our lives sleeping.
– Entry Foyer. Always take off your shoes before going indoors, and keep all outdoor tools and toys in a garage or shed. If not, you could be dragging in the outdoor germs, dirt and pollen into your living area, and provoking allergies and asthma.
– Beware of mold. Be sure to check refrigerator pans, dishwashers, drains, basements and other spaces where mold can accumulate. Monitor your home’s humidity, ventilate well, manage moisture in the basement and be on the lookout for standing water.
– Flooring. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter with a self-contained canister to prevent dust from being expelled back into the room. Rugs, tile and hardwood floors are a much better choice than wall-to-wall carpet, but all flooring surfaces must be vacuumed or cleaned regularly to eliminate dirt and dust. Shake out area rugs regularly.
A top-to-bottom approach is the most effective way to disinfect, clean and protect your environment.
To learn about the products Robin Wilson offers visit her website
CLEAN DESIGN HOME is #1 for hypoallergenic sheets and home goods
If you need support with your organizing project so that you can stay on track check out my New Facebook Group Living Life Totally Organized which is a community of women who want to live a life that is organized.
