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MAKE SPRING CLEANING LESS OF A CHORE WITH THESE TIPS

STARTING SMALL CAN HELP KICK OFF PROJECTS

BRILEE SEARS bsears@metroland.com

With warm weather just around the corner, many people may soon find themselves beginning the sometime overwhelming task of spring cleaning.

Alicia Labelle became a certified Professional Organizer through the International Association of Professions Career college after many years of helping friends and family organize and clean their homes and businesses.

"Your environment is a reflection of who you are. Being organized allows you the freedom to focus on what lights you up, all while saving you time and money," explained Labelle.

Here are some of her recommendations to help make tidying up around the house less of a chore this spring:

IS THERE A BEST ROOM OR AREA OF THE HOUSE TO START SPRING CLEANING?

I would suggest the bathroom, it's often the smallest and most used on a daily basis. It's easiest to tackle one small space at a time such as drawers, linens closets or shower space. Accomplishing the smaller areas should leave you feeling more confident to take on bigger tasks.

DO PEOPLE HAVE TO THROW THINGS AWAY DURING SPRING CLEANING?

It's always a great idea and should be the first step to purge the items not used or needed when organizing. Although it is not mandatory to have to throw away your belongings. You can always display, store away, or make a designated space for larger and sentimental items or ones that are not used on a daily basis. It is important when cleaning out pantries, cabinets, and kitchen areas to check and throw away any expired food, makeup, or medicine.

ARE THERE ANY SUPPLIES YOU RECOMMEND PEOPLE PURCHASE BEFORE THEY START SPRING CLEANING?

Spring cleaning can be quite inexpensive. You may need a garbage bag or cleaning products but most items needed for organizing you can usually find around the house like totes or old boxes. Before organizing your shelves and cupboards I recommend vacuuming, dusting the cupboards and windexing mirrors and glass shelves as it's the small details that will make it look complete and polished.

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR PEOPLE WHO STRUGGLE TO START SPRING CLEANING?

If it's a larger task like the garage, start with creating categories such as sports items, lawn care, or tools. Set out to do one category at a time as the whole garage does not have to be completed in one day. Even smaller items such as electronics or pens in the junk drawer that are not working but taking up space can be discarded. These are smaller but necessary tasks that have to be done to complete the project.

ARE THERE ANY INSIDER TIPS OR TRICKS YOU HAVE THAT PEOPLE CAN USE TO HELP SPRING CLEANING GO EASIER?

Writing out a list works for me! This way you can

see what has to be done and stay on track so nothing gets missed. Keep on top of smaller or everyday tasks and chores such as the junk drawer, sorting

through unworn clothes, and unnecessary paperwork if possible. This way it won't add up to seem like a full day's work or a daunting project.

NEWS

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2023-03-23T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-03-23T07:00:00.0000000Z

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