Spring cleaning may not be everyone's favorite task, but it heralds the arrival of a fresh season and a cleaner, healthier home. From clearing out closets to dusting blinds and giving your patio furniture a good hose-down, there's much to be done. Creating a checklist is your secret weapon to stay on track. A clean house is not only visually appealing but also crucial for your well-being. In addition to banishing clutter and dust, it's imperative to be vigilant for the presence of mold.
Demystifying Mold
Comprising minuscule organisms that thrive in damp, shaded areas, mold is a persistent foe. Basements and bathrooms often play host to mold, and it's equally at home in woodpiles and places where decomposing leaves and vegetation abound. Inside your abode, mold can take root on nearly any surface provided there's moisture, oxygen, and organic material—releasing tiny, airborne spores in the process.
Mold spores, deprived of nutrients, lie dormant until warmth and moisture revive them—frequently occurring in spring. In cooler climates like Portland's, mold can even infiltrate your home's walls due to the cozy indoor temperatures that encourage fungal spore activity.
Outdoors, proper lawn care is your armor against mold expansion. Overwatering can oversaturate your grass, inviting mold and diseases to set in. A pile of wet leaves on your lawn is an open invitation for mold and disease.
Mold's Impact on Health
Mold-related health issues encompass coughing, skin rashes, eye irritations, sinus problems, allergies, and breathing difficulties. If you suspect mold during your cleaning endeavors, it's wise to enlist the services of a professional mold tester.
Indoor Endeavors
Dust is an inevitable presence in homes, but decluttering can minimize its hideouts. Sort your belongings into four categories: discard, donate, recycle, and keep. This organized approach streamlines your cleaning process.
Frequent vacuuming is a must, especially if you have pets, as it keeps dust and dander at bay. Opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap particles effectively. Maintain a pest-free environment by promptly disposing of food scraps and crumbs and ensuring that dirty dishes and leftover food don't linger in the sink.
Navigating Cleaning Products
Many cleaning products like sprays, polishes, and waxes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are gases emitted by paints, adhesives, aerosol sprays, varnishes, upholstery, formaldehyde, and cleaning agents, which can negatively impact your health with prolonged exposure. When using such products:
Increase air circulation by opening windows.
Follow label instructions and heed warnings.
Seal containers tightly after use.
Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Avoid mixing household chemicals.
Consider eco-friendly cleaning alternatives, readily available in stores and online.
Outdoor Pursuits
Spring is the ideal time to tackle outdoor chores. Rake up dead leaves, clear away tree limbs, dirt, and debris from your yard and patio. Power wash the driveway and front steps to eliminate dirt and grime. Don't forget to scrub the lawn chairs and porch swing, wash outdoor furniture cushions, and clean window screens. If you notice chipped paint on the deck, railings, shutters, window frames, or light poles, it's time for a fresh coat or two. Additionally, inspect for foundation cracks, asbestos, and potential hazards.
After a harsh winter, your roof and gutters deserve attention too. Remove thickened mud, decaying leaves, bird droppings, and debris from gutters, and run a garden hose through the spout. While it's advisable to hire a professional for a thorough roof and gutter inspection, you can do a preliminary check yourself—just ensure you have appropriate footwear and updated disability insurance. Look for loose or missing shingles and assess the chimney for deteriorating mortar, loose rubber, or damaged flashing.
Spring cleaning transcends mere tidying; it involves essential home improvements. Tackling these tasks in spring grants you more leisure time to savor a laid-back summer. Should you require assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Building Performance Solutions!