Five Easy Tips to Refresh Your Home

Another winter has passed and warm weather is on its way. That means it’s time to say hello to all-things spring: budding flowers, walks to the park and…spring cleaning. While cleaning this spring might not be as much fun as grilling burgers out on the deck, it’s pretty much a necessity. After months of colder weather and closed windows, chances are your house is in need of a serious refresh. But this year’s cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting or scary task. These simple projects can help you get started: CLEAN THE BLINDS. Instead of simply dusting, give your curtains, blinds and drapes a deeper clean. Remove them from the walls and wash them thoroughly — according to manufacturer instructions — before rehanging them. This is also a great opportunity to inspect their hanging apparatus for repairs or for any tightening that needs to be done. RE-CAULK THE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM. Because kitchens and bathrooms are high traffic areas with high exposure to water and moisture, you may have noticed a buildup of mold, mildew, dirt and stains on the caulk. No need to avert your gaze. Simply remove the old material caulk, thoroughly clean the area to remove any dirt or residue, then re-caulk. Backed by a lifetime mold and mildew resistance guarantee, Kwik Seal Ultra is a premium siliconized kitchen and bath sealant that repels water, liquids, soap scum, stains, and dirt so it is easy to clean and will stay looking clean, fresh, and new for many years to come. *CLEAN YOUR REFRIGERATOR'S DRAIN COILS AND PAN Throughout the winter, dust can collect on your refrigerator’s coils and mold can grow in the drain pan. To clean the coils, first identify where they are. In some refrigerators the coils are on the back while other units feature the coils on the bottom. Once you find them, check the kick plate to see if it is screwed on – if so, remove it with a screwdriver. Clean the coils with a vacuum or soft brush and replace the plate. Then, remove the drain pan and scrub it using hot, soapy water and a sponge or brush. Dry completely before replacing. SEAL OUT PESTS, DIRT, AND DRAFTS Unwanted pests and drafts can sneak in through gaps and cracks around pipes, ducts, vents, and baseboards. Be sure to check around your home, both inside and out, especially in basements, attics, and garages. Use a caulk or sealant to seal up gaps half an inch or less. For gaps larger than half an inch in width, use an insulating foam seal. REFRESH YOUR FLOORS Months of bringing in snow and dirt-covered shoes and boots have likely left your floors looking like a battleground! Whether you have carpet, wood or tile, a thorough cleaning will give flooring a much needed refresh. Applying a fresh coat of wax to wood or sealant to tile will help lock-in the new look. If waxing, make sure to match your floor type for the best results. Rather than put off the annual spring cleaning ritual – embrace it! By performing a few basic tasks, you’ll be able to enjoy the season – and your home – in a refreshing style that you and your family deserve.